Monday, July 26, 2010

Dealing With Common Dog Symptoms

By Geraldine Dimarco

Dogs are perhaps the animals most people would get for a pet. As such, intensive studies regarding dog health problems have been done to help dog owners from all over to understand the nature of the various diseases; and more than that - to provide the correct treatments for the specific sickness.

There is a long list of dog diseases that canines are susceptible to. Many are brought upon by infected organisms or parasites that latch themselves on the dogs system, disrupting its regular functions. There are several medicated soaps and shampoos that can combat external parasites like fleas and ticks.

Tapeworms, hookworms, heartworms and intestinal worms are internal parasites that merit more concern because they do not manifest immediately, instead work inside and do even more damage. These parasites cause our pets severe pain especially in the latter stages. Avoid this by providing a clean environment and a healthy diet for your dog every day.

Rabies is a viral sickness that has long been associated with dogs. Dogs catch rabies when they have been bitten by another infected animal like a raccoon or bat or another dog. This is easily preventable by having your pet regularly vaccinated for rabies. Other viral diseases include herpes virus, distemper, parvovirus, canine hepatitis and influenza.

Any change in the dogs behavior should be monitored closely. Unless it is brought about by natural circumstances like the atmosphere, environment or having a new visitor, you must watch out for any changes because this will be indicative of canine sicknesses he already has. Correctly reading dog symptoms will help your dog immensely.

Some of the changes you should watch out for are depression, anxiety, sudden weight loss, excessive trembling, frequent loss of balance, fatigue and sleepiness. When these symptoms occur, monitor their behavior for a few days and ensure that no further stressful factors enter into the equation. If there are no improvements after a few days, have him checked up. Take note when the changes started and the pattern of it for the record of your veterinarian.

Canines cannot adequately communicate whatever discomfort they may be feeling. Some breeds in particular have a high threshold for pain so finding out the source of their problem is challenging to their owner. Other than crying and yelping that dogs do, see their posture and how they carry themselves. If they are stooped forward and lick at parts of their bodies, it is most likely the cause of the pain.

Some other dog symptoms you must be aware of are hair loss, loss of appetite, discoloration, lumps and crustiness in the skin, coughing and vomiting. Sick dogs strain to urinate and when they do, it is only in small amounts so look out for this. Inspect the canines eyes and nose for discharge and foul smell.

Dog health problems are a cause of concern but can be addressed easily once the correct prognosis has been confirmed. Take regular trips to the vet to make certain that any infection is determined early on so your pets well-being is protected and safe guarded at all costs.

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