Dog

Are you concerned about your canine friend? Both seasoned and new owners often have some dog health questions. Here are some of the most commonly sought after subjects.

What types of vaccinations are necessary and how often should they be done? When you get a puppy, it should start a series of vaccines. Around six to eight weeks of age, it should start receiving shots against distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza. These diseases can all kill a dog. Law requires a rabies shot. Grown canines should receive boosters every three years for these diseases, rabies every year, and bordatella if it is at risk for kennel cough.

What do you do if you think your pet has worms? Well, if you have noticed your pet having diarrhea or moving objects in the stool, they likely have worms. Get them to your vet for a de-worming. In puppies, this should be done regularly because they are born with them. Your dog can pick up hookworms, tapeworms, roundworms, and many others. Some of these can be passed to humans. Heartworms are deadly and should be prevented by heartworm pills given monthly.

How can you control fleas and ticks? The best way to keep your pet free of parasites that feed from them is a topical preventative that is applied monthly. It goes right onto the fur. Should your dog be incessantly scratching or you see fleas on them, give them a flea dip. Ticks carry diseases and should be removed promptly and carefully and flushed. Use a flea killing spray throughout your home to rid them from the premises as well.

Is your dog flea-free but still itching? If he is constantly scratching and you are positive it is not fleas, it could be one of three things. First, he could have allergies just as humans get to something in the immediate environment. Next, it could be that he has ear mites that are causing him pain and irritation. For either of these issues, see your veterinarian. Lastly, it could just be dry skin, especially in fall and winter. Going out and finding a shampoo consisting of oatmeal or tea tree oil to bathe him in should help.

What food is best for your pet? Always choose a dry food for your dog. They have a very high nutrient percentage and contain very little water. Canned foods are mostly water and cause problems with the teeth and gums and can also make your dog obese. Make sure when you buy the kibbles that you read the nutrition label. The food needs to contain real meat and not wheat or byproducts as its base.

Does your senior pet have trouble rising? If you have an older dog, arthritis is a major issue. If he seems stiff and has trouble walking and jumping, that is most likely the problem. It is caused by the friction created in the joints by disappearing cartilage that acts as a cushion. Also, if you own a breed genetically predisposed to hip dysplasia, your vet should test for that.

Did these answer any of your dog health questions? You should always see a vet before starting any type of treatments. Protect your furry friend!

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