Common Dog Health Questions
Common Dog Health Questions
Common Dog Health Questions
All pet owners go through health related issues with their dogs at some time. Common dog health questions will provide answers to the following health topics: constipation, healthy weight, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Erlichiosis, flea infestation and when your pet dies. Having answers to these common questions should help all dog owners to prepare and take corrective action if they observe their pets experiencing any of these health problems and what to do when their pet dies.
What Can I Do When My Dog Is Constipated?
If your dog is straining to move his bowels or has hard stools, he's probably constipated. Give your veterinarian a call. There are many reasons why dogs can become blocked up dehydration, a lack of fiber, or an enlarged prostate may play a role. But constipation can also indicate a more serious condition such as a blocked intestinal tract, hypothyroidism, tumors, or a neurological disorder.
So if you think your canine is constipated, try taking him for an extra walk and make sure he is drinking plenty of water. If that doesn't relieve the problem, take him to the veterinarian for a thorough exam. Treatment will depend on the cause, but may include medication, a stool softener, or a high fiber diet.
How Do I Control My Dog's Weight?
Dog owners can take several different steps to help control their dog's weight and here are some suggestions:
The first is to cut back on treats and snacks. These are generally high in calories and may contribute to weight gain.
The second step can be to feed less of the regular dog food. This usually means measuring the amount of food that's put into the dog's dish to prevent the serving size from increasing over time. Remember that the suggesting serving amount on the package of dog food is just a guideline based on average dogs. An individual dog may need less, or more, than the average amount depending upon his breed and metabolism.
Third, owners can increase a dog's exercise with additional walks or playtime each day. This may help the owner as well as the dog, and has the additional benefit of increasing the amount of time the dog and owner spend together.
Finally, a dog owner could consider switching to a low-calorie food. These products are designed to allow an owner to serve a nice-size portion while still reducing the calories the dog eats. It is always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian before putting a dog on a weight-loss program. The veterinarian can help tailor a weight-loss program for an individual dog and can track progress and help troubleshoot along the way.
What are erlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and why are they a concern?
Dogs are susceptible to a number of microbial diseases that are carried by infected ticks. Two of the most worrisome are erlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. If detected in the early stages, these diseases can often be treated successfully with antibiotics. But success is not always a sure thing.
Susan Little, Professor of Veterinary Parisitology at Oklahoma State University, says that certain strains of erlichiosis in America's Southwest progress very rapidly: "sometimes, with those severe caseswe will have fatalities."
Little says the later phases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever can be equally devastating. The best way to protect your dog from these diseases is to use tick-control products all year-round.
What Are The Impacts of Canine Flea Infestation?
Fleas are common canine pests that can spell big trouble for your dog's health and well-being.
It's no secret that flea bites breed itching and discomfort, but woe is the dog that's allergic to any of the fifteen substances in flea saliva. These irritating allergens can cause a reaction that spawns a nasty skin condition called flea allergy dermatitis. Constant biting and scratching can then lead to hair loss and infection.
Fleas can also transmit tapeworms and diseases, and in extreme cases, cause anemia, particularly in very young or weak animals. So treat a flea invasion as soon as you spot it, before the pesky critters can turn your pet's peaceful life upside down.
What Are My Options When My Pet Dies?
There are a number of ways to dispose of your pet's body when it dies. Here are some suggestions:
If you have the necessary real estate and the law allows it, you may choose to bury it under a tree, or on a high hill with a sweeping vista.
You could also opt for cremation instead, and ask the veterinarian to dispose of the ashes. Or you may decide to spread them yourself in a wooded area or in a special area in your garden. Ashes can also be saved in a memory box or vase.
Another possibility, although it's quite expensive, is to have your pet buried in a pet cemetery, with a special headstone.
Talk to your veterinarian about your options. Whatever your circumstances, there's a way to dispose of your pet's body that will fit your individual needs. Decide which is best for you.
Conclusion
Common dog health questions hopefully has provided some answers to the most common health related causes found in dogs. In any case, anytime you should notice any sudden change in your dog's behavior, always consult your veterinarian.
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