Heartworm
When parasites attack the chambers of the heart, and the lung arteries, a
vibrant dog can be reduced to a sickly companion facing eminent death.
Heartworms are parasites that quickly grow and multiply, causing a dog to
become tired, sluggish, and emit a soft cough. When not treated, the
condition is fatal. Heartworm can be prevented through a variety of
prescriptions and over-the-counter products, such as HartGard.
Parvovirus (Parvo)
Parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that inflicts adult dogs, but
mostly concentrates on puppies. The disease is so serious that it could take
the life of a dog within 48 to 72 hours after they are exposed. If owners
see their dogs are suffering from depression, loss of appetite, severe
diarrhea, and vomiting, parvo might be the cause. Vaccinations against this
virus are important with booster shots in the future.
Kennel Cough
When dogs reside in kennels and shelters, they are at risk for contracting
the respiratory disease that comes in the form of an array of virus strains.
When a dog exhibits a dry hacking cough, accompanied by an inflammation of
the larynx, trachea, and bronchial tubes, there is cause for concern. Dogs
should be vaccinated as often as every six months.
Leptospirosis
The symptoms associated with this bacterial disease include lethargy,
inflammation of the kidney, low-grade fever, vomiting, as well as reddening
of the mucous membranes. Abnormal blood clotting may also arise. Luckily,
this health concern can be treated with antibiotics.
Infectious Canine Hepatitis
If a dog is stricken with this disease, mild symptoms such as sluggishness
and a slight fever may appear. In some cases, death may occur, but
recovering dogs will show signs of improvement in a short period of time. It
is often recommended to have your dog vaccinated against this disease.
Coronavirus
Since diarrhea and vomiting are associated symptoms with this dog disease,
it is often confused for parvovirus. A dog may also show signs of decreased
appetite, a foul-smelling diarrhea, lethargy, and dehydration. To treat this
condition, lost fluids should be replaced and measures taken to control
vomiting and diarrhea.
Obesity
Just like their owners, when a dog carries around excess body weight,
serious health ailments may develop. This preventable and treatable concern
can be corrected with food intake limitation, eliminating human food, and
increased exercise.
