8 Common Diseases of Dogs: Vet Approved Treatment & Prevention

Bringing a puppy into your life is always an exciting feeling. It is like extending your family, and when you bring a puppy to your home, you bring a lot of responsibility along with that.

Yes!

Pets are like kids; you need to take care of little things, like feeding them in a timely manner and, most importantly, keeping them safe and away from harmful diseases.

Most of the time, pet parents do not educate themselves about the problems and diseases that their pets can face, and this is a good thing. 

That is why, to bring your attention toward this, we have curated a list of a few diseases that can harm your pet. Also, we will discuss treatment and prevention, so let’s get started!

8 Common Problems in Pets

1. Diabetes: Diabetes is not solely a human affliction; it also affects our beloved pets. In dogs, diabetes can stem from either an insufficient production of insulin, hindering the transportation of glucose to cells, or an inadequate response to insulin.

When a dog’s system fails to generate or effectively use insulin, their blood sugar levels surge, leading to hyperglycemia. And if left unattended, this condition can trigger a cascade of complex health issues for the animal.

Treatment: The treatment for diabetes in dogs is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each diabetic dog is unique, responding differently to therapy. The method of treatment hinges on the severity of the disease’s symptoms and any potential complicating health factors.

In more severe cases, insulin injections become the primary solution. However, an essential part of managing diabetes in dogs involves implementing a consistent and moderate exercise routine. This exercise helps in averting sudden fluctuations in glucose levels, aiding in the overall management of the condition.

2. Canine Distemper: Canine Distemper: This highly contagious viral disease can be caught through airborne germs or contact with contaminated items like shared food bowls and toys. It earns the nickname 'Hardpad disease' because it affects a dog's noses and footpads. Symptoms include watery eyes, vomiting, paralysis, coughing, and fever.

Treatment: Unfortunately, there's no known cure for canine distemper, making it a fatal illness. The best defence against it is vaccination. Boosting your pet's immune system can also help; supplements like Omega 369 for Dogs might be beneficial in protecting your pet from diseases.

3. Heartworms: These are transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Heartworm larvae develop into worms that inhabit the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of infected pets, causing severe and potentially fatal health issues. 

Treatment: The typical treatment involves administering a series of adulticide injections into the dog's muscles, often requiring hospitalization, with a high success rate. This treatment usually works well, but they have to be careful and not do too much exercise for a few weeks, and there are some risks involved. It's safer to prevent the problem by giving them medicine beforehand

4. Leptospirosis: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted through contact with urine-contaminated water or soil, causing potential kidney and liver damage. 

Treatment: It typically involves a two-week course of antibiotics, often doxycycline, coupled with initial hospitalization for IV fluids and electrolyte balance. Additional therapies might include medications to protect the gut, manage nausea and pain, offer nutritional support, and regulate blood pressure.

5. Rabies: A fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system of pets. It's usually transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. 

Treatment: There's no specific cure for rabies once symptoms appear. Prevention through vaccination is crucial. Vaccination is the most effective method to prevent rabies, and immediate medical attention is necessary if a pet is bitten by a potentially rabid animal.

6. Diarrhea: A common problem in pets often caused by dietary indiscretion, stress, or infections. Maintaining a balanced diet, providing clean water, and swift veterinary consultation can help manage and treat diarrhea in pets.

Treatment: Treatment focuses on identifying the underlying cause. It may involve dietary changes, medication (including antidiarrheals for dogs), and supportive care

7. Parasites: Various parasites such as fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms can affect pets, leading to discomfort, disease, and in severe cases, even death.

Treatment: Regular preventive medication and proper hygiene are vital in managing and preventing parasite infestations. Treatment protocols vary based on the type of parasite.

8. Ringworm: This fungal infection can affect the skin, hair, and sometimes the nails of pets. It's contagious to other animals and humans.

Treatment: Prompt treatment with antifungal medications and strict hygiene practices can contain and manage ringworm infections in pets. Veterinary guidance is crucial for the appropriate treatment plan.

Prevention Measures

Prevention is key, especially when it comes to caring for pets, who, like kids, have a vulnerable immune system. Taking care of your pet involves timely feeding with a nutrient-rich diet, including sufficient protein, fats, and essential vitamins.

Supplements like Multivitamin Syrup for dogs can complement their diet to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients they need, readily available in the market.

Regular exercise is vital too; taking your dog for morning and evening walks and allowing playtime in the park are great ways for them to stay active and have fun.

Regular vet check-ups are equally important. These visits ensure your dog's health and happiness. Moreover, if any issues arise, early treatment becomes possible, ensuring your dog's well-being.

Summary: Being a pet owner requires vigilance in looking after your beloved furry companion. To ensure their well-being, provide a happy and healthy life by incorporating nutritious food into their diet, scheduling regular vet check-ups, and staying informed about potential health issues that may affect your pet. We've highlighted some diseases above for your reference. For further information, you can explore more about these conditions. If you're seeking reliable supplements and quality pet food, consider visiting Remediovet, where you can find all your pet's essential needs.