Common Health Issues In Dogs To Watch Out For

When you adopt a dog, you are responsible for your pet’s well-being. Unfortunately, unlike children, a dog can’t tell you where it hurts. You need to be observant and attentive. Indeed, every year, pet owners make emergency appointments to the vet to deal with dramatic health issues. Not all dogs can be saved, despite the experience of the veterinary team. More often than not, failing to notice small problems can have significant consequences for your furry friend. Here are the four most common health issues that are misdiagnosed by pet owners. Keep your eyes open for these:

2 healthy belgian dogs outside

Common Health Issues In Dogs To Watch Out For

 

#1. Ticks are not just itchy; they can cause Lyme disease

Most people know that ticks can be a source of risk for human beings, as they can cause Lyme disease. If it’s left untreated can have health consequences. Even with treatment, several patients develop a sharp pain in their arms and legs, as well as memory problems, extreme tiredness, and joint aches. The classic bull’s eye rash is one of the most common symptoms in human beings.  But the disease can also affect your dog.

Ticks are the number one common health issues in dogs you should watch out for. Ignoring tick bites and failing to protect your pet can put them at risk of contracting potentially fatal diseases. You can find preventive treatments to protect your animal. Additionally, if you suspect an invasion in your property, you can get in touch with a professional pest control team to eradicate ticks and fleas from your home. You can also discuss chemical-free services.

tick
Ticks can cause Lyme Disease.

#2. Bad teeth keep your dog from eating

Dogs can’t brush their teeth. They rely on you to maintain their oral hygiene and prevent plaque and tartar buildup. You can find helpful chewables and dental sticks that help to clear your dog’s teeth. You can also buy enzymatic toothpaste that has been designed for dogs and cats.

With a chewable brush or even with your finger you should spread the paste on your pet’s teeth to remove dirt and avoid inflammation. Poor oral hygiene can affect your dog’s behavior, appetite, and overall immune system. To avoid this common health problem, keep a close eye on your dog’s teeth regularly.

canine teeth

#3. Your dog doesn’t know it’s cold

You only need to check the weather app to know whether you should put a coat on or not. Your dog, however, doesn’t know when it’s cold. While it doesn’t mean that dogs can’t feel cold – they can –, they are unable to process the information. As a result, your dog can’t protect itself from hypothermia.

However, you can make sure your pet stays warm all year long. Simple gestures can keep your dog healthy, such as towel drying your dog after they’ve jumped into a cold river. Remember to protect their paws from cold surfaces to avoid any damage to the tissues. Hypothermia is one of the deadliest common health issues for your dog.

beagle dog swimming
Make sure to dry your dog after getting wet.

#4. The clue is in the garden

Every year, pet owners put their animal at risks with their garden landscaping projects. You might need to wave goodbye to your favorite flowers to keep your dog safe. Hyacinths, tulips and cyclamen flowers are poisonous to dogs and can be deadly if you don’t take your pet to the vet immediately.

cyclamen flowers
Cyclamen flowers are deadly to a dog.

Pet owners need to educate themselves about the dangers that lurk inside their homes. The life of your beloved dog relies on your ability to recognize the first signs of troubles and act quickly. Try to keep an eye out for the common health issues mentioned above. In turn, you will be rewarded with a long-lived, and healthy dog.

 

 

When you adopt a dog, you are responsible for your pet’s well-being. Unfortunately, unlike children, a dog can’t tell you where it hurts. You need to be observant and attentive.

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