The Five Most Typical Health Issues That Dogs Face
The unfortunate truth is that health issues in our dogs may impact all ages, including the very young and very old. Even while most pet owners make every effort to keep their animals in good health and happy, sometimes things happen far beyond their power.
Particular breeds are more prone to specific health issues, such as flat-faced dogs with respiratory issues. However, any dog might experience several different health problems. It would help if you were on the lookout for the following five common health issues in your dog:
Teeth and Gum Issues
Like us, your dog may acquire dental disorders due to extensive plaque accumulation. Your pet may have dental problems if they exhibit several symptoms. These include gastrointestinal issues, tooth or gum bleeding, loose teeth, and foul breath.
Since dogs’ mouths are more alkaline than people, they are five times more likely to get gum disease. Additionally, most dogs don’t brush their teeth daily, which allows plaque-forming bacteria to grow. Check out this dentistry page for your dog’s dental needs.
Ear Infections
Dogs commonly get ear infections, especially those with large ears, and spend a lot of time outside. A grass seed or other foreign object may sometimes become stuck in your dog’s ear, irritating it and leading to an infection. If your dog shakes its head and constantly paws at its ears, it may have an ear infection. Ear infections can cause a discharge or odor and be red or crusty.
Cataract
Cataracts are a severe health concern, especially for elderly dogs, since they can significantly impair vision. A cataract is an opacity or cloudiness of the lens that reduces light’s ability to reach the retina, impairing vision. Cataracts can develop slowly or quickly, affect one or both eyes, and result in vision problems or even blindness. Asking a veterinarian ophthalmologist for advice will prevent future injury to your pet. Book an appointment with reputable facilities like Memphis Veterinary Specialists for any eye concern.
Obesity
Your dog’s quality of life may suffer; allowing them to grow overweight may drastically shorten its lifespan. Allowing them to gain even moderate amounts of weight can shorten their longevity. Overweight dogs can develop the same health issues as overweight people, such as diabetes and heart disease. Carrying additional weight may strain the dog’s joints and back, which can be unpleasant and cause arthritis.
Skin Problems
Dogs are prone to various illnesses, but one of the most prevalent is skin disorders, which have many causes. Some of these skin conditions are contagious to humans and other animals and can range from moderate to severe. Itching is among the most blatant symptoms of a skin problem in your dog. Rashes, redness, dry skin, lumps, pimples, skin sores, dandruff, and hair loss are signs that your dog could be experiencing a skin issue. Click here for more info on veterinary dermatology.
Importance of Routine Veterinary Care
Regular examinations ensure everything is for your pet’s well-being and can be a preventative measure for any potential future illnesses. A routine exam allows your veterinarian to assist you in providing care for your animal. One of the best methods to ensure that your pet has a long and healthy life is to ensure they keep a healthy weight and receive lots of exercise. Of course, call a vet clinic immediately if you suspect your pet may have a problem.