Common Dog Illnesses

For pet lovers, it pains us to see that our pets sometimes experience sickness and pain. It may become apparent in the amount activity that the animal displays or how happy he or she appears to be in various moments.

There are a few common sicknesses that afflict dogs in particular. They are as follows:

1) Worms

There are generally three types of worms: Round Worms, Tap Worms, and Flat Worms. Round worms are tapers on both ends and are almost impossible to see with the naked eye. Making regular trips to the veterinarian who has specialized equipment will help in find and eradicating round worms. Tap Worms have a head and a tail. Dogs usually get them by eating rodents that have eaten fleas. Flat worms attach themselves to the dog's intestines, liver and lungs before they start to cause problems.

2) Arthritis

Arthritis in dogs is actually much more common in dogs that we believe. Dogs instinctually hide pain so as not show weakness. So, if they actually do show pain, it is very serious. There are two types of arthritis in dogs: Degenerative Joint disease and Inflammatory Joint disease. Degenerative joint disease affects the joints, hips, shoulders, back and neck; much like arthritis affect human victims. There are surgical treatments for arthritis though. Inflammatory Joint disease is causes by an infection stemming from bacteria, ticks or fungus.

3) Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the most common mouth disease among dogs. It is preventable though, believe it or not, by brushing your dog's teeth, just like humans do. If you do not do this certain symptoms may occur, like bleeding gums, discolored teeth, tooth loss, and bad breath.

4) Canine Cough

Canine cough is caused by several different things, depending on the dog and its specific situation. However, coughing can also be a symptom of much more serious diseases like tuberculosis, heartworms, distemper and coccidiosis. For this reason, it is very important to take not of when your dog coughs and also how often. Discuss these things with your veterinarian so that you may find the source of the problem.

5) Addison's Disease

Addison's disease is a condition in which the dog's body is unable to regulate sodium levels in the blood. This can have far-reaching side effects and can even cause heart failure, which can be fatal. Symptoms include reduced appetite, bodily tremors, muscle weakness and pain in the hind quarters. At times the dog may collapse for no reason.

Remember everything on this list, though common, is treatable. For more information, visit www.newyorkveterinarianclinics.com.