Basics Of The Most Common Dog Illnesses

by Symptom Advice on November 30, 2010

There are many types of dog illnesses. Early treatment and proper care by the dog owner holds the best hope for the infected dog. Pets occupy an important place in our lives and we have to worry about their wellbeing permanently. There is signs which show us if they are healthy or not, it’s better to be able to recognize them, to prevent illnesses, treatments or even surgery as much as possible.

Canine Distemper is one of the most common types of dog illnesses. It is a viral disease. the symptoms include a runny nose or eyes. the dog can also begin to vomit or have diarrhea. In extreme cases the dog may have a seizure or become partially paralyzed. Loss of appetite is also a symptom. Loss of appetite is often a sign of sickness in dogs anyway. Treatment for this begins with extra care at home. Make sure the dog is eating. Further care is needed if the dog begins to have seizures.

One of the most contagious illnesses is hepatitis. Its main effect is on the liver. However, it starts out in the tonsils. It then spreads to the lymph nodes and into the bloodstream. Symptoms of hepatitis include discharges from the eyes or nose, coughing, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Hepatitis and distemper have similar symptoms. Hepatitis can proceed rapidly in some cases and cause sudden death. Care for this may include IV fluids and medicine.

Leptospirosis is also very common in puppies and adult dogs. Its affect is on the liver and kidneys. It is bacterial in nature and spread through infected urine. Beginning case symptoms find the dog losing its appetite, being lethargic, and having a fever. more severe cases result in jaundice and dehydration from urinating more often. Make sure your dog stays hydrated. If it is detected early and the dog is put on antibiotics it can lower the seriousness and length of the illness.

Rabies is one of the first dog illnesses that are thought of by people. most people know of the stereotypical symptom of foaming at the mouth. It is fatal to both humans and dogs. It has its affects on the nervous system and the brain. It is spread through saliva. one detects it through noticing changes in behavior. Dogs often become extra aggressive. They may also change from being friendly to shy. They may also become uncoordinated and lose the ability to walk. Sadly it is always fatal. There is no treatment that can keep it from running its course.

Bordetella is a dog illness that affects the respiratory system. It is bacterial by nature. another name for it is kennel cough. It is highly contagious. the symptoms are a runny nose, coughing and sneezing. this is also how it is transmitted. It can result in secondary infections like pneumonia. like many dog illnesses it starts out with care at home unless it becomes severe.

Discover the Ultimate Dog Health Guide…Read it Now!!!

Dog illnesses: If you want to go further…

  • Symptoms of Heartworm in Dogs (brighthub.com)
  • Guide to Preventing Dog Bite Rabies (brighthub.com)

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