Dogs are lovable members of our families, and their health is very important to us. To keep our furry friends happy and healthy, it's essential to be aware of common diseases that can affect them.
Let’s explore some common dog diseases, their signs and symptoms, and preventive measures to ensure a dog's well-being.
1. Rabies
Rabies is a deadly disease caused by the Rabies lyssavirus that attacks the nervous system and kills tens of thousands of people yearly. It is mainly transmitted by dogs in countries where dog vaccination programs are not sufficient. The virus is secreted in saliva and is usually transmitted to people and animals by a bite from an infected dog.
Signs involve fearfulness, aggression, excessive drooling, difficulty in swallowing, staggering, paralysis, and seizures. Vaccination programs have been effective in preventing rabies in dogs.
2. Canine Parvovirus (Parvo)
Parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that primarily affects puppies and unvaccinated dogs younger than four months. Dogs that are ill from canine parvovirus infection are referred to as "parvo." The virus affects dogs' gastrointestinal tracts and is spread by direct dog-to-dog contact. It also spreads through contact with contaminated faeces (stool), environments, or people.
Symptoms include severe diarrhoea, vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Prevention involves timely vaccination and avoiding contact with infected dogs and contaminated environments.
3. Canine Distemper
Canine distemper is caused by the Paramyxovirus virus. This can affect a dog's respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Puppies and dogs most often become infected through airborne exposure such as sneezing or coughing.
Symptoms include fever, coughing, nasal discharge, lethargy, and neurological signs. Vaccination is crucial in preventing distemper, as there is no cure.
4. Lyme Disease
Lyme disease (Lyme borreliosis) is an illness that affects dogs and humans. It is one of the most common vector-borne illnesses in the United States. The bacterium that causes Lyme disease is called Borrelia burgdorferi. It is carried and transmitted primarily by the tiny black-legged tick popularly known as deer tick.
Lyme disease can lead to joint pain, fever, lameness, and lethargy in dogs. Regular tick prevention measures, such as tick collars and topical treatments, can help protect dogs. It is always advisable to check for ticks after outdoor activities.
5. Canine Heartworm Disease
Heartworm disease is a fatal, but preventable, infection caused by a worm parasite, Dirofilaria immitis. The organism is transmitted by mosquitoes, which carry the heartworm larvae from an infected animal host to a new animal host. When the larvae arrive in a dog, they grow into adult worms in several months. They live in the blood vessels of the heart and lungs.
Signs of heartworm disease may include mild persistent cough, fatigue after moderate exercise, decreased appetite, and loss of weight. As heartworm disease progresses, dogs may develop heart failure and may also accumulate excessive fluid in the abdomen leading to a swollen belly.
6. Canine Kennel Cough
Kennel cough in dogs is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis. Dogs that are frequently boarded, visit dog daycare, compete in canine sports, or otherwise are exposed to groups of dogs may benefit from the vaccine.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough include a strong cough, often with a “honking” sound (the most obvious symptom), Runny nose, Sneezing, Lethargy, Loss of appetite, and Low fever. Vaccination and good hygiene practices can help prevent it.
7. Canine Epilepsy
Epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder seen in dogs, affecting approximately 0.75% of the canine population. It is characterized by the presence of recurrent seizures due to an abnormality of the brain. The condition can be inherited genetically or can be from an unknown cause.
Symptoms can include collapsing, jerking, stiffening, muscle twitching, loss of consciousness, drooling, chomping, tongue chewing, or foaming at the mouth. Dogs fall to the side and make paddling motions with their legs. Sometimes they poop or pee during the seizure. They remain aware of their surroundings.
Observing a seizure is very important for dog owners to keep a record of details and information such as:
Affected body parts
When seizures occur
How often do seizures occur, and
How long do they last
Veterinarians and owners should pay close attention to how dogs behave immediately after a seizure. Some animals might quickly return to normal, while others will experience difficulties standing or moving. Some may show blindness, sedation, anxiety or other changes in behavior. These symptoms last for varying amounts of time and affect treatment choice.
8. Canine Arthritis
According to the Arthritis Foundation, one in five dogs suffers from canine arthritis. Excessive weight causes extra strain on a dog’s body and joints. Although exercise may be difficult, especially if the arthritis is severe, a veterinarian’s advice to find appropriate activities might help.
Arthritis can cause joint pain and stiffness in dogs, especially as they age. Signs include limping, reluctance to move, and changes in behavior. Weight management, joint supplements, and regular exercise can help prevent and manage arthritis.
9. Canine Diabetes
Diabetes in dogs can result from obesity or genetics. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to devastating effects on the dog’s body, which is why early detection and proper treatment are crucial.
Effects of diabetes on the dog’s health include, cataracts sometimes even leading to blindness, Enlarged liver, Seizures and Kidney failure. Feeding a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular vet check-ups can help prevent diabetes.
10. Canine Allergies
Food allergy is one of the most common hypersensitivities that affect dogs. The most common food allergens in dogs are proteins, especially those from dairy products, beef, chicken, chicken eggs, or wheat. In a dog with an allergy, the immune system overreacts and produces antibodies. Each time a dog eats food containing these substances or allergens, the antibodies react with the antigens, and the symptoms occur.
Signs include itching, skin inflammation or redness, and shows digestive problems. Identifying and avoiding allergens, as well as providing appropriate treatment at the right time, can manage allergies effectively.
Common canine diseases involve a wide range of health problems that affect dogs. Dog owners must stay informed about these diseases and keep a close follow-up with the veterinarians. This will help to ensure appropriate care and protection of the furry members of their house.
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