Friday, July 24, 2009

Preventing Common Dog Illnesses

By Moses Wright

Many common dog illnesses can be prevented. Some common dog illnesses are prevented by vaccinations that dogs normally receive. Other common dog illnesses can be prevented by the dog owners vigilance.

Vaccines and responsible dog ownership cannot prevent all dog illnesses. However, getting the dog properly vaccinated can prevent some potentially fatal dog illnesses. Some of the common dog illnesses that are prevented by dog vaccines are rabies and parvovirus.

Rabies can infect humans if the person is bit by an infected dog or other infected animal. The viral infection rabies has become less common since vaccines are routinely given to puppies.

Parvovirus is another potentially fatal viral infection. Parvo, as it is commonly called, is highly contagious. It attacks the gastrointestinal system causing bloody diarrhea and may attack the heart in a young puppy.

Diarrhea in dogs can be caused by other illnesses besides the parvovirus. Ingesting rotten food or other viral infections can cause diarrhea. By eliminating a dogs access to garbage, the dog owner may prevent some causes of diarrhea in dogs.

Vomiting is another common cause for a veterinary appointment. Vomiting can be caused by the same things that can cause diarrhea in dogs. If the dog has both vomiting and diarrhea, has blood in either one, or if either persists for more than a day, the dog owner should contact the veterinarian immediately.

Ear infections are another common cause for dog veterinary visits. Prompt treatment of any ear mites can reduce the risk of ear infections. Also, keeping the ears clean can reduce the risk.

Periodontal disease is one of the most common dog diseases that can be prevented. Many dog owners neglect their dogs oral health. If a dog owner does not brush the dogs teeth daily and take the dog to the veterinarian for regular cleanings, tartar builds up on the dogs teeth and causes infections.

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