Dogs can bring so much love and happiness to family life, and once your family has shared their home with a canine companion, they will not ever look back. However, taking on responsibility for a canine requires a level of commitment from all the family, and you must know the warning signs to look out for should your dog encounter any of the more common health ailments.
The good news is that looking after a dog and attending to its needs are great for your kid’s personal development and health. Kids who grow up around dogs tend to have a stronger immune system and suffer less from allergies. You must include your children in the day-to-day care of the family dog and teach them not only how to attend to the dog’s welfare, but also how to recognize the warning signs that your beloved pet is under the weather.
Skin Complaints
It is common for dogs to suffer from skin conditions at some point. Excessive scratching would indicate that your dog is experiencing discomfort, and while this may not be life-threatening in the short term, it can cause a lot of irritation and distress to your animal. A common cause of skin complaints is due to parasites; however, easyvet Veterinarian Frisco will be able to prescribe your dog with preventative medications to stop this from happening. There are several other causes for excessive itching, and if you have already treated your dog for parasites, it would be advisable to pay the vet a visit to rule out other causes.
Ear Infections
Ear infections are common and can lead to deafness, so it is essential to act quickly when you suspect an infection. Look out for itchy, painful, smelly, red ears and seek medical advice quickly if you suspect an infection.
Vomiting
It is not uncommon for your dog to vomit, and often this does not require a trip to the vet. However, there are occasions that vomiting can indicate toxicity, gastrointestinal blockage, or other sinister diseases. Observe your dog carefully when they vomit to ascertain whether a trip to the vet is necessary. Ensure that your dog is still eating and drinking frequently and look out for any other signs that your dog is unwell.
Obesity
Obesity is one of the more common health concerns plaguing our dogs today. It is also one of the most preventable, so it is essential that you know the proper nutrition for your dog and ensure that they get plenty of exercises daily. When left unchecked, obesity can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, diabetes, and orthopedic problems.
Arthritis
Arthritis affects a large proportion of senior dogs and is a painful condition that causes inflammation of the joints. If you notice that your dog limping, or having trouble getting in and out of bed, or even notice a decrease in activity, then it is advisable to seek the advice of your vet. Happily, arthritis can be managed, so do not let this condition go unchecked.