If you have a dog, you will know that they are prone to getting many different illnesses and disease just like us. It’s important to know that different breeds tend to carry different problems, that’s why you should always do your research before getting a dog. Read about breeds, and if you already have an idea of what you want, make sure you learn as much as you can, because this will all come in handy when you have your companion.
Springer Spaniels, for example, tend to have problems with their joints overtime, while Basset Hounds can have problems with their ears. So know all you can about the pup that you’re getting so you know the risk of things to come in advance, preparing you for possible vet bills and treatments.
Ear infections
An ear infection is very common that your dog can have more than once in its life. They can be brought on by certain allergies to foods or the environment, as well as being a hereditary thing within a breed from the likes of a buildup of moisture and wax because of how the ear canal is shaped. You should be able to notice pretty quickly if your dog has an infection because the area will be red and swollen with discharge from the ear. Your dog may also be scratching a lot around that area, and even whining a little as they do. Most of the time it can be treated with ear drops that your vet prescribes you. So just make an appointment as soon as you can.
Arthritis
Dogs are prone to getting arthritis just like we are, and it tends to come with old age. This can be a rather frustrating thing to deal with because you may be seeing your dog in quite a bit of pain if it goes untreated. They won’t be able to do things as they once did with ease, like jumping in and out of the car, or even walking as far as they once could. Fortunately, there are quite a few options that you have to ease any discomfort your dog is experiencing, as well as helping the issue itself. Giving your dog glucosamine is a brilliant supplement that aids the growth and repair of the cartilage and synovial fluid that is used to protect all the important joints.
Intestinal worms
Worms are a horrible problem because they not only affect your poor pup, leaving them with a lot of discomfort, but you and your family are at risk of having them too. They start out in young pups, and if they go untreated, your dog may begin to suffer from vomiting, diarrhoea, and overall loss of appetite, and in some rare cases even death. This is why you need to constantly be on the lookout for any changes to your dog’s behaviour. Keep an eye on their eating habits and bowel movements. Also see if they’re still as playful as they were, or if they have seemed to get more lethargic and sleep a lot more than they used to. If you notice anything, you need to take them to your vets as soon as possible.