Owning a dog is a big responsibility, and as a dog parent, it is important to understand your pet’s needs and the specific conditions associated with their breed. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of common illnesses is crucial, as this will enable you to promptly seek veterinary care for your dog.
There are certain diseases that are considered very common, and the following can impact dogs:
Cancer
This is a frightening ordeal, and learning that your dog has cancer can be very sad and confusing. Visiting a veterinarian clinic is a must, as the vet will provide you with different possibilities regarding treatment and the procedures that would be most effective. It wouldn’t hurt to get a second opinion from another veterinary clinic to be sure of the diagnosis and the options being presented.
Diabetes
This is another common disease many dogs will experience and is caused by a lack of the hormone insulin or caused by an inadequate response to insulin. After dogs eat, their digestive system will break food into different components, including glucose, which is then carried into their cells by insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas. If a dog does not produce insulin or cannot utilize it normally, their blood sugar levels will rise, which will result in hyperglycemia. If left untreated, this can cause several health complications for a dog.
Heartworm
This is a parasitic worm transmitted by mosquitoes, that lives in the heart and pulmonary arteries of an infected animal, and the worms will travel through the bloodstream, during which time they will harm arteries and vital organs, including the brain, as they go. The worms will complete their journey to the vessels of the lung and the heart chamber roughly about six months after the initial infection, and several hundred worms can live in your dog for up to seven years.
Kennel Cough
This term refers to both viral and bacterial respiratory infections and can cause inflammation of a dog’s voice box and windpipe. It is a form of bronchitis, and you will have to take your dog to a veterinary clinic for medication or treatment.
Rabies
This is a viral disease that can affect the brain and spinal cord of all mammals, including dogs. It is a very serious disease that is fatal, there is no cure. Your dog will need vaccinations to prevent this disease. In Ontario, rabies vaccinations are required by law for all domesticated pets, even if they are indoor only.
Ringworm
Despite the name, this is caused by a fungus that can infect the skin, hair and nails and is highly contagious. It can lead to patchy areas of hair loss on a dog and can spread to both animals and humans.
Conclusion
Are you worried that your dog might be suffering from a disease or concerned about the risk of your dog developing one? In either case, it’s important to seek veterinary assistance. The professionals at Animal Clinic of East Durham are here to provide you with the help you need.
We will ensure that your dog receives the necessary care and discuss any treatments or procedures that could potentially cure their illness. Our veterinary clinic in Bowmanville will treat every pet with care and respect, and you can contact us anytime at (905) 697- 7771 or email us at [email protected] to schedule an appointment.
