You must be watchful and vigilant as a dog parent, considering canines are prone to a wide range of diseases and illnesses. Because our furry animals cannot speak and often don’t display symptoms until they are worse, it is essential to understand common dog illnesses. In this post, let’s talk about a few of them and when you should see a Brandon veterinarian.
Cancer
Dogs are at risk of different types of cancers, including skin, bone, blood, and breasts. Cancer risks increase significantly when the canine is in their golden years. Other risk factors include genetics and environment. Sadly, early signs of cancer are rare, but you should worry when there are evident changes in the animal’s behavior and body. Watch out for unusual lumps, abnormal bleeding, and wounds and injuries that don’t heal. You may also see that the dog is less active than usual. A qualified veterinarian can offer the right treatment plan, which may include removing tumors. Survival largely depends on early treatment, and that’s one of the many reasons why your pet needs regular wellness exams.
Parvovirus
Simply called parvo, parvovirus is more common among puppies. This contagious viral disease usually spreads through infected feces of other dogs or virus particles in the environment. While there is a vaccination for parvovirus, infections can still happen. Symptoms include sudden changes in appetite, dehydration, vomiting, bloody stools, and weakness. Parvovirus can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, heart disease, and damage to bone marrow, and in many cases, pets just die in no time. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for the disease, but your vet can help with supportive treatment, which may help. Make sure your puppy gets parvovirus shots and subsequent boosters.
Canine Distemper
Another contagious disease in dogs is canine distemper. The canine distemper virus affects the central nervous system, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems, and common symptoms include high fever, coughing, changes in appetite, and nasal discharge. In advanced cases, it can even lead to seizures. Typically, the canine distemper virus spreads through airborne exposure or by sharing food/water with an infected animal. The best way to prevent canine distemper is through vaccinations, and the first vaccination should be given to a puppy at six months. Adult dogs should continue to get booster shots.
Diabetes Mellitus
Like humans, even dogs and cats can get diabetes. Diabetes Mellitus occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, inability to contain the urine, and sudden weight loss despite having a good appetite. Check with a veterinarian if you see any of these signs because diabetes is manageable. Your vet can recommend lifestyle and diet changes along with options such as insulin therapy. 
Dental Disease
Unfortunately, many pet owners don’t pay enough attention to their dog’s dental health. Plaque buildup is a serious concern, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. In advanced stages, gum infections and inflammation can lead to severe discomfort and tooth loss. Your dog may have dental disease if they have persistent bad breath, cannot eat properly, and evidently swollen and bleeding gums. If you don’t know how to care for your puppy’s teeth, talk to the vet. They can also recommend the right products to use. When the dog already has signs of teeth and gum problems, visit the clinic and get prompt care.
Final takeaway
There are several other conditions that affect dogs, such as obesity, Lyme Disease, Kennel Cough, and tick fever, and each of these can impact the health and well-being of your pet. Keep the number of veterinarians in Brandon handy at all times.
