Despite our hopes, our beloved pets are not invincible. Dogs, much like humans, can suffer from various illnesses and injuries, albeit with different treatment options. Fortunately, many common dog illnesses can be prevented and treated, allowing our furry friends to quickly return to their joyful activities.
Given that dogs can’t communicate verbally, it’s crucial for us, as their caretakers, to be vigilant. Recognizing signs and body language and understanding their meanings can help us detect any potential health issues early, ensuring our dogs remain healthy and safe.
Ear Infections
Ear infections are one of the most common illnesses that dogs can experience, and they can occur in indoor and outdoor pets. There are many factors that can cause your pup to have an ear infection, including ear mites, bacteria, yeast, hair growth in their ear canal, allergies, and colds.
If your dog has an ear infection, they will likely display the following symptoms:
- Excessively pawing at or scratching their ear
- Shaking their head
- Crying out or sensitivity when their ear is touched
- Redness of the ear canal
- Swelling of the outer areas of the ear
- A strong odor or unusual discharge coming from their ear
Dog ear infections can pose a serious threat to your dog’s health and can even result in hearing loss. It’s important to visit your vet so they can examine your dog and prescribe antibiotics.
Luckily, it’s possible to prevent ear infections from occurring in the first place. Infections may occur when water gets into your pup’s ear while they’re swimming, so placing cotton balls in their ears beforehand is a great way to prevent moisture from getting in. You should also gently dry your dog’s ears with cotton balls after they get wet.
Digestive Problems
Isolated cases of vomiting or diarrhea aren’t always signs of a larger issue; however, if your dog frequently experiences those symptoms, it is time to seek professional help from a trusted Jacksonville veterinarian.
Your dog may have a gastrointestinal issue if they are displaying the following symptoms:
- Blood in their vomit or stool
- Black or dark diarrhea
- Loss of appetite and lethargy
You can do things to comfort your pup and potentially resolve the issue before going to the vet. Dehydration is a common concern with digestive issues, so make sure to give your dog plenty of water. You can also give them rice water to drink by boiling one cup of rice in water, straining the rice out, and letting it cool. Sometimes, feeding your dog a small amount of yogurt can help their intestinal bacteria get back on track.
Canine Influenza
Humans have been subject to influenza, commonly known as the flu, for ages, but the disease only recently became a health concern for dogs. While some canine influenza symptoms may sound familiar, the treatment takes much longer than it does for humans and can last up to 30 days.
Here are the symptoms of canine influenza to look out for:
- A moist or dry cough or bloody cough
- Runny nose and sneezing
- Fever
- Breathing problems
- Ear infections
Ask your vet if your dog should receive the canine influenza vaccine. If you suspect your dog is sick, visit a vet for anti-inflammatory medication. While your dog is recovering, keep it in a calm and cozy environment—now isn’t the time to visit the dog park. Make sure to keep your pet hydrated, and ask your vet about incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into their diet.
External and Internal Parasites
Many dogs suffer from parasites, both internal and external. Fleas, ticks, and mites are common pests that like to reside in your pet’s fur, especially in Florida. There are various topical and oral medications that can keep your pet safe from external parasites – consult your vet to see which one is right for you.
It’s easy to spot external parasites – your pet will frequently scratch themselves, and in some cases, you can even see the offending pests on your pet – but internal parasites aren’t as easy to spot. Worms present a huge danger to your dog’s heart health, making it extremely important to prevent them in the first place by using the proper medication. Talk with your vet if you’d like to protect your dog from heartworms and hookworms.
Dental Diseases
Proper hygiene is important for dogs, and that includes oral hygiene. Protecting your dog’s teeth is especially crucial, given how much they use their mouth and teeth to play and interact with their world. Teeth issues can also be a sign of bigger health problems, like diabetes, kidney disease, or heart disease.
Signs your dog may be suffering from a dental disease:
- Smelly breath
- Difficulty eating or chewing
- Head shaking
- Swollen mouth
Luckily, you can care for your dog’s teeth in a variety of ways. Teeth-cleaning treats are an easy and enjoyable way to keep their teeth clean. You can also brush your dog’s teeth with dog-specific toothpaste – make sure not to use human toothpaste, as it is highly toxic to pets. When in doubt, you can also schedule a dental cleaning with the Jacksonville Community Pet Clinics.
Heat Stroke
Florida is known for its sunshine and warm weather, which makes it easy to get outside and enjoy nature but can also harm you or your dog. Heat stroke is fairly common among animals and humans, but dogs are especially susceptible because they aren’t able to regulate their temperature by sweating.
Your dog may be experiencing heat stroke if they display the following symptoms:
- Excessive drooling
- Excessive panting
- Abnormal gum color
- Weakness and lethargy
If you suspect your dog is having a heat stroke, gently move them inside or into the shade. Apply a damp towel to their neck, armpit, or groin area to help cool them down. Do not put them in a cold bath or use ice-cold towels. Seek veterinarian care as soon as possible.
No matter what common injury or ailment your pet is dealing with, Jacksonville Community Pet Clinics is prepared to help you address it. Contact one of our clinic locations to schedule a routine checkup.
