January 4, 2010

Common Dog Diseases and Symptoms to Watch For

by Jennefer Poultson

Canines are great pets to have and for the most part, we all enjoy the fun and carefree times with them. However, as responsible pet owners, we must be aware of common dog diseases that may cause discomfort and even death to our dogs when left untreated for long. Here are some dog diseases and symptoms to watch out for.

Heartworm is a common ailment that besets canines, especially puppies. It is primarily caused by mosquitoes and the infection it brings is transmitted in the bloodstream and enters the vital organs like the heart and lungs. When this is left untreated, it could eventually lead to congestive heart failure. Watch out for unusual cough and lethargy in the animal.

Parvovirus is one of the most terminal and common dog diseases you must be aware of. Dirty and unsanitary living quarters are to blame for this ailment that attacks the intestines of the poor animal. When they come in contact with contaminated feces, virus sets in and the disease quickly escalates. Symptoms of decreased appetite, vomiting, intense diarrhea and lethargy will show right away. Because this disease is dangerous as it is fast, death will occur after a few short days when appropriate treatment is neglected.

Another extremely harmful disease caused by unsanitary surroundings is distemper. There is no cure found for distemper yet and there is only a fifty percent survival rate for adult dogs that catch this ailment. Symptoms that follow distemper include diarrhea, coughing, chest congestion and abnormal discharge from the eyes and nose of the dog.

Rabies is a viral disease commonly associated with dogs although raccoons, cats and bats are also carriers of this disease. It hits the nervous system of the dog and is spread through the saliva of the infected animal. Initially, the dog will have slow eye reflexes and be feverish. Aggressive behavior and a breakdown of the canine’s motor movements ensue after the first phase. When the animal is found to have rabies, he needs to be euthanized immediately.

The canine disease bloat is the result of the canine’s overeating. When this happens, their stomachs become twisted and it cuts off the vital blood supply as well as trapping gas. This is extremely painful for the animal and will typically lead to a quick death. Be watchful when your pet eats his meals that he doesn’t consume his food too fast. Indicators of bloat are depression, restlessness and dry heaving.

Findings show that a majority of dogs are inclined to be obese as they grow older. While obesity is not really fatal in itself, it is a complication to many medical conditions. Dogs that are too fat will suffer stress in their heart, liver and lungs. They will also be a high risk during surgery. A nutritional diet will benefit their over-all health.

The above dog diseases and symptoms will help you arrest whatever condition your dog may have but establishing preventive measures is better. Keep them healthy and strong with exercise, a good diet, a clean environment and regular trips to the vet.

About the Author:

Being aware of common dog diseases is essential to keep your pet as healthy as possible. Discover important information on dog diseases and symptoms that can help save your dog’s life one day.