You are viewing entries tagged 'disease'.
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Does your dog seem to have an extra sensitive stomach? Often times a dose of acidophilus can help – humans take it all the time, too!
Acidophilus is a probiotic often found in yogurt that aids in digestion: it puts the good bacteria in your system! Check with your vet to see if giving your buddy this supplement will help that sensitive stomach. |
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Recent genetic research has found that a mutation in the MDR1 gene, present in many herding and sight hound breeds or mixes, is related to adverse reactions when that dog is exposed to certain flea/tick treatments (preparations with Ivermectin), pain medications (acepromazine), and various other drugs. If your dog carries this genetic variant, they could be at serious risk when it comes time to protect against pests or treat illnesses. Testing is available to determine if your dog is safe to use these common pharmaceuticals.
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Does Rover have a crusty, dry, or scaly nose? Some dogs, like some people, have naturally dry skin. This can be genetically influenced, or due to environment, diet, medication, or allergies. A simple and affordable fix is applying propylene glycol to the nose each day. You should be able to purchase propylene glycol from your favorite health store or pharmacy for next to nothing, literally! And it is unscented so won’t bother your dog’s sensitive sense of smell. |
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If a dog that isn’t normally aggressive suddenly begins showing signs of aggression, you must get to the vet right away so that physical pain can be ruled out. Dental problems are high on the list of triggers for aggression in dogs.
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Many dogs are prescribed cortisone pills (prednisone) for skin problems but vets often fail to note that it is one of the drugs linked to aggression, especially in dogs with some tendency towards being aggressive. If you do see any change in your dog’s personality on cortisone contact the vet immediately to discuss other options. Be aware, however, that other problems can occur if you stop the drug suddenly. The vet will direct you about how to weean the dog off this effective but potent medication. |
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Spay your female puppy at six months of age and you reduce her risk of mammary gland (breast) cancer to zero. One in four unspayed females will get breast cancer – it’s that simple. |
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Yearly vet exams with blood work can catch diseases and illnesses early, which will increase the chances of your being able to successfully combat the situation. |
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Take a list of questions and have pen and paper ready, especially if you have a dog who is really sick and you have things you want to know. When we are anxious due to a medical issue (whether it belongs to us or our pets), it’s easy to forget to ask something important or to forget the reply because we are frightened or nervous. |
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If puppies are neutered young, their risk of cancer of the prostate (and of the anus) is reduced dramatically. It’s yet one more good reason to neuter your dog. |
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When skin cancer is present, it can take the form of very small red blisters or little lumps and should be examined by a vet ASAP. |
