In the United States of America, the majority of people prefer dogs as pets because they are more loyal and create strong bonds.
But in return, you have to ensure that your dog is being provided with the best commodities that enhance their health.
Proper veterinary care has become a perfect way to avoid common and severe diseases in your dog. You can also consult with a DVM (Doctor of veterinary medicine) to ensure your dog stays healthy and happy.
Here, we are going to explore the most common diseases affecting dogs and learn how veterinary care can ensure a healthy, happy, and long-lived dog.
7 Common Dog IIlnesses
Veterinarians and pet owners should be familiar with common canine diseases so that veterinary attention will be provided appropriately henceforth.
The following are seven typical dog illnesses you must know, these include:
- Parvovirus (Parvo)
- Kennel Cough
- Canine Distemper
- Ear Infection
- Hip Dysplasia
- Diabetes
- Heartworm Disease
Let’s explore them in detail.
Parvovirus (Pravo)
If you have a puppy, you should know this disease because it occurs mainly in puppies around six to two weeks. However, there are fewer chances that it can also appear in older dogs.
It is an extremely contagious viral disease. If it runs unchecked, it may kill the pet in 48 to 72 hours, even when treatment is being given. However, survival chances may be bright if treated earlier.
Symptoms of Parvovirus
Some common symptoms are listed below:
- Gastrointestinal Issues
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- bloating
- Lethargy
- Depression
- Weakness
- Lack of appetite
- Dehydration
- Fever or Hypothermia
- High body temperature
- Low body temperature
Veterinary Care
If you feel any of these symptoms in your puppy, you must take them seriously and provide them with early veterinary care to save their lives.
- Intravenous fluid to combat dehydration
- Antibiotics to prevent secondary infections
- Hospitalization for critical monitoring and support
Any intervention might be required to address the complications related to parvo for the management of this disease.
Marketplace Veterinary stocks all the required veterinary supplies and equipment from different companies to enable veterinarians to get what they need quickly.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a very contagious disease and usually spreads among dogs in crowded places such as boarding facilities.
Bacterial and viral infections can cause kennel cough.
Symptoms:
- Persistent, dry hacking cough
- Sneezing and nasal discharge
- Mild fever
Veterinary Care:
- Cough suppressants and antibiotics
- Vaccination to prevent future infections
A DVM advises that annual vaccinations for your dog are essential if your dog goes to the kennel or the dog park.
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Prevention Tip Kennel cough is usually preventable by vaccinating your dog annually; social dogs that use dog parks or those in kennels are vulnerable to getting the disease. |
Canine Distemper
Distemper is one of the most severe viral diseases that affects the respiratory system, gastrointestinal system, and even the nervous system in dogs.
It is often deadly, especially in:
- Puppies
- Unvaccinated dogs
Symptoms:
- Coughing and nasal discharge
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Seizures and paralysis (in advanced stages)
Veterinary Care:
- Supportive care
- Fluids
- Anti-seizure medication
- The only best treatment is vaccination to prevent this fatal disease.
Regular visits to DVM can ensure timely vaccinations, preventing this fatal disease.
Ear Infections
Ear infections are prevalent in dogs, particularly floppy-eared dogs. They hold onto moisture, where bacteria love to grow.
The following listed things often cause this condition:
Symptoms:
- Head shaking and scratching at the ears
- Foul odor from the ear
- Redness and swelling in the ear canal
Veterinary Care:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics
- Ear cleaning solutions to prevent recurrence
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the joint of the dog’s hip does not fit properly into its socket. This leads to arthritis and mobility problems.
It is common in larger dog breeds like:
- German Shepherds
- Labradors
Symptoms:
- Limping or difficulty standing
- Decreased mobility and reluctance to exercise
- Stiffness after resting
Veterinary Care:
- Weight management and physical therapy
- Pain relief medications and, in severe cases, surgery
Diabetes
A diabetic dog’s body fails to regulate blood sugar.
This illness is more common in:
- Older Dogs
- Overweight Dogs
Symptoms:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Weight loss despite everyday eating habits
- Lethargy and weakness
Veterinary Care:
- Insulin injections to regulate blood sugar
- Dietary changes to control weight and manage the disease
Heartworm Disease
Heartworm disease affects over 250,000 dogs annually in the U.S.
It is caused by the parasitic worms in the heart and lungs.
It is transmitted through mosquito bites.
Symptoms:
- Coughing and fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Weight loss
Veterinary Care:
- Heartworm preventatives (oral or injectable)
- A treatment plan involving medications to kill the worms
Graph: Incidence of Common Dog Illnesses in the U.S.
Relative to the chart above, these illnesses can be understood easily as a factor in why preventive veterinary care is important.
Importance of Regular Veterinary Care
These common diseases can be detected or diagnosed in routine veterinary check-ups.
- Annual check-ups
- Heartworm preventatives
- Tick and flea preventatives
- Vaccinations
Reports suggest that these have helped dogs live longer and healthier.
Other responsibilities include:
- Giving recommendations concerning diet
- Feeding
- Exercise of the pet that determines the dog’s health
Why Marketplace Veterinary Is Key to Better Care
Marketplace Veterinary offers animal health products showcased by different sellers to help clinics/owners simplify their purchases.
These stores are the go-to source for all equipment, from vaccines and medications to diagnostic equipment and surgical tools.
Consumers also benefit because instead of visiting one shop to another to find their desired veterinary supplies, they see all the best products under one platform from different vendors.
Conclusion
Long story short, if the signs for the general diseases of dogs are known and veterinary advice sought, your dog will have a healthy, joyful, and long life.
It should be brought to mind that the progression of most diseases can be avoided.
It is important that veterinary care includes every 12-month health check, immunization, and proper nutrition.
DVM Central is a more reliable source for veterinary professionals, where they can get the supplies they need to guarantee optimal animal health.
Visit and enjoy exciting discounts on different products!
FAQs
Is the veterinary marketplace beneficial?
Yes, a marketplace veterinary can be advantageous because it is convenient and easily accessible by DVMs or even pet owners since it offers numerous veterinary products.
Can canine parvovirus be deadly?
Parvovirus in dogs is fetal, especially when puppies and dogs are not vaccinated against it.
The disease is highly communicable, and primarily involves the gastrointestinal region, though if not treated early, it may lead to major cases of:
- Dehydration
- Malnutrition
- And even death
