It can be frustrating to see your beloved pet start to suffer from health problems, especially when you want to give them the best care. However, there are steps you can take to prevent the onset of illnesses. If you follow these steps, your dog’s health will stay on the path of good health for a long time.

Arthritis

When it comes to treating dog arthritis, there are plenty of options. Your veterinarian will recommend the best plan for your pet. In addition to medications, your vet may also recommend supplements, water therapy, and simple lifestyle changes.

The first step in the treatment of canine osteoarthritis is catching it early. This will prevent further damage and discomfort to your canine. Once your pet has been diagnosed, it will be important to monitor the effects of treatment.

X-rays are a good way to determine if your dog has arthritis. A veterinarian will take a thorough history, perform a physical examination, and may recommend blood work and lab tests.

Using supplements to increase mobility and reduce pain is a good idea. Natural supplements such as glucosamine can stimulate the body to produce more cartilage. Also, massage can help decrease stiffness.

Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a common problem among dogs. It is often caused by an underlying medical condition, but can also be caused by anatomical defect or behavioral issues.

If you are concerned that your dog may be suffering from incontinence, you should visit your veterinarian to rule out an underlying health issue. Your vet can check the urinary tract to determine if there are any stones or infections, and can test your dog’s blood for illnesses.

Urine leakage can cause a lot of trouble for the pet and for the family. The pet’s owner must clean up the mess, and the carpet can become very expensive to clean.

Many veterinarians use medications to treat incontinence. Some pets will respond well to therapy and medication, but others will not.

Anxiety

Anxiety can have a major impact on dog health. The best way to help your canine pal is to understand why they are anxious in the first place.

Many dogs become anxious because of environmental factors, traumatic experiences or even simple lack of attention. Some of these problems are easily rectified while others require a bit more work on the part of the owner.

One of the first steps is to talk with your vet about your pet’s history. He or she can also tell you if there is a physical illness or condition causing your dog’s anxiety.

If the symptoms are more minor, your veterinarian can prescribe medication and advise you on ways to manage the disease. They may even have suggestions for treatments or alternative therapies.

Periodontal disease

If your dog’s teeth have been eroding, he or she may be suffering from dental disease. This can cause pain, constant discomfort, and the loss of teeth. You can keep your dog’s teeth and gums in good condition by taking him or her to the vet for regular checkups.

Periodontal disease in dogs is a common and serious health problem. It’s important to recognize it early on to avoid complications and potential issues.

Bacteria in the mouth can travel to the bloodstream and lodge in the heart or kidneys. As the infection worsens, the gums will become inflamed. The body’s immune system will try to fight the bacteria. When it does, the gums will bleed and appear red.

Dogs with periodontal disease may also show signs of chronic pain. They may hide their mouths or refuse to have their head touched. In severe cases, extraction of affected teeth may be necessary.

Cancer

Cancer in dogs is a devastating disease that can leave your pet miserable. But early detection can give you an advantage in saving your dog’s life.

Some signs of cancer in dogs are more subtle than others, so it’s a good idea to pay close attention to your pet’s behavior. If your dog starts sleeping more, is losing weight or is showing signs of discomfort, you should see a veterinarian right away.

Cancers in dogs are classified into two stages: the preclinical stage and the clinical stage. Your vet will likely perform a series of blood tests, urinalysis, and a biopsy to determine the exact cause. A fine needle aspirate, for example, involves a thin needle inserted into the tumor to collect a sample.