Health Issues about Dog
There are several health-related issues in a dog that an owner needs to be aware of when possessing a canine. If the conditions are not managed in a timely manner, it can be costly and emotionally draining. Instead of waiting for a problem to arise, learn ways to avert the situation prior to it happening. Doing so allows for a healthy and happy pup.
Potential Health Problems
Just like a human body experiences problems, the pup also needs regular check-ups to prevent illness. Dog’s cannot speak or verbalize that something is wrong. This leaves the canine to agonize in pain until the discomfort has passed, and further treatment is not warranted. It is important to know what to look for and how to address these concerns.
Infections are a common complaint in a dog. Bacteria can collect in ears, skin, eyes, and teeth. Ear infections are the most prevalent and usually stem from a lodged object or germ invading the canal. The master should look for red spots, swelling, wetness or dirt on a regular basis. Contagions are the simplest to thwart. Frequent grooming of the eyes, brushing teeth, and combing hair will prevent unnecessary residue.
Allergies are a constant irritant when owning a pup. Fleas inhabit directly above the skin, causing sores and discomfort. Medicated powder and collars are available for a reasonable price at grocery and pet outlets. Visits to the vet will assure that the dog is free from allergens. A more complicated matter is food sensitivity. This requires immediate attention.
While diabetes is often seen in humans, owners should watch for similar symptoms in a dog. Avoid using cookies and candy as treats. The pancreas cannot digest it properly. To deter diabetes allow minimal quantities from the table and eliminate large amounts of nutrients. Labrador’s diagnosed with this disorder needs to have injections administered.
Canines are at a higher risk for arthritis because of distant and constricted joints. Pups’ need adequate vitamins and minerals daily. Owners should have the dog checked once a year for degeneration of the surrounding tissue.
Obesity in a pup is the most reported and fatal health problem. It is related to overeating and lack of physical activity. Mortality is not caused by being obese directly, but can correlate with heart disease, tumors, liver complications, and skin irritation. If lesions fester it can develop serious fungi, resulting in amputation or death. Keep an eye on dietary and fitness habits.
Teaching the canine proper exercise, a balanced diet, and grooming can eradicate severe impediment. An annual visit to the vet will delay the affliction before it has a chance to progress.
Just because a dog is not human does not mean a possessor should neglect the health and well-being of a cherished pet. It has been proven that animals suffer from some of the same ailments that humans have. This includes but is not limited to arthritis, diabetes and cancer. The cost to have the pup free of pain is worth any amount of money. While an owner may not be able to save it from disease forever, it can be delayed by many years.