How To Keep Your Dog Healthy And Happy

Our dogs have been the source of many great times, much love, protection, and companionship. It is our job and they look to us to make sure that they are cared for, fed, and kept as healthy as we possibly can. The health and happiness of your dog is very important to you, therefore, we have provided you with the following information to help you understand different aspects of a dogs health and you can keep them protected from accidents and health related issues.

Fleas & Ticks

We've all had contact with them. Fleas and ticks. What you may not know is that they can pose a serious health risk to your dog and to you. Fleas have been known to carry a wide variety of other parasitic organisms, for example, tapeworms. They can also cause a host of other problems including anemia, hair loss, infections and allergic reactions. Ticks, next on our list, can carry a deadly disease known as Lyme disease. So be sure to check regularly for external parasites to keep your dog healthy and happy.

Internal Parasites

Worms are one of the most common infestations of dogs, next to fleas. Tapeworms, whipworms, hookworms, heartworms, and roundworms are all internal parasites to watch for. Worms can cause a great deal of harm to your dog include, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss, anemia, and perhaps even death. The worst thing about worms is that most are not noticeable without some sort of stool examination or blood tests. An annual check for worms is necessary for all dogs; this will help in controlling or preventing any infestations.

Dog Illnesses

Just as with people, our canine friends can be prone to illness. Some breeds may be more prone than others. It's a good idea to know which diseases may affect your breed and keep an eye out for any of the symptoms. Often, just as with humans, early detection is best for helping to keep your dog healthy and happy.

Diseases to look out for

Canine Distemper - effects the nervous system and organs. There is a vaccination for this disease and it is usually recommended as this disease can be fatal or cause severe impairment.

Rabies - also preventable through vaccination. This disease is generally transmitted by the bite of an infected animal to non-infected animal. It is almost always fatal and can be transmitted to humans.

Kennel Cough, Leptospirosis, Hepatitis, Coronavirus and Parvo are also diseases that you need to be aware of. If you see any signs such as labored breathing, coughing, fever, weight loss due to lack of appetite, stomach issues such as vomiting or diarrhea, as well as stiffness or weakness, take your dog to the vet for a check up.

Vaccinations

A lot of diseases these days can be prevented through vaccinations. If you are starting out with a puppy, be sure to get their first shots done as soon as recommended and follow up as necessary to keep your dog happy and healthy.

Diet

Keeping your dog on the right diet, eating the right foods, will keep them active, healthy, and getting the proper nutrition. It is important that you feed the right foods for puppies and adults, as each has a specific make giving the dog exactly what they need during their growing period. You should also make sure you are feeding the dog the right amount of times per day. For example, a puppy will need to be fed more often than an adult dog.

By following these tips, you will keep your dog healthy. Remember, a healthy dog is a happy one.