4 Common Dog Health Problems
Dog owners naturally want only the best for their pets and will keep a watch out for any signs of ill health or discomfort. There are some common dog health problems that every dog owner should be familiar with if they are to keep their best friend active and well.
Probably the most common problems seen in dogs are skin irritations and allergies. With constant scratching, chewing and rubbing, dogs can create unsightly patches on their bodies which can in turn become infected.
There are many causes of allergies in dogs, and what affects one dog does not give a dog in the same environment any problem whatsoever. Molds, pollens, fleas, dust mites, ragweed, food ingredients can all trigger allergic reactions in dogs – and humans for that matter.
Food allergies are the easiest to rule out by simply changing the dog’s diet. Where this is the cause many owners revert to preparing home made dog food for their pets, thereby eliminating all preservatives, and artificial colors and flavours. This will also alleviate many other common dog health problems.
A visit to the veterinarian will determine whether any sedative or hydrocortisone cream or spray is needed to help with scratching and resulting lesions. Soothing shampoos ease discomfort in the short term.
Arthritis is another common dog health problem and it is estimated to affect up to 30% of all dogs, especially as they get older. It is caused by the breaking down of the cartilage that protects the joints, thereby causing inflammation and pain. If you notice your dog limping, lagging behind during walks, or is slower than usual to rise after resting, suspect arthritis and consult your veterinarian.
Anti-inflammatory medication and pain relief may be necessary, and if the dog is overweight, a weight-reducing diet will be prescribed.
For dogs that are left in boarding kennels while their owners are away, it is imperative that they be vaccinated against kennel cough. This is a very contagious respiratory infection, producing a persistent, dry cough. It is caused by a bacterial infection, and if contracted may need treatment with antibiotics.
When mosquitos bite your dog, they can deposit microscopic larvae, which if left to mature will migrate through the bloodstream to your pet’s heart, and reproduce there. If left untreated, these worms can grow up to 12 inches long, and the dog will die of heart failure. Heartworm disease has in the past been treated by a once a month tablet, but it is now available as an annual vaccination.
Good dental health prevents many other common dog health problems and is an essential component of good canine care.
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Diabetic Dog Food Recipes
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a condition where the body cannot regulate the levels of blood sugar. Approximately one in 400-500 dogs develop DM, and most when they are between 7 and 9 years old, with unspayed females more susceptible.If your pet exhibits signs such as excessive urination, excessive thirsts, weight loss or lethargy, it could mean that it has developed DM, and a visit to your veterinarian is warranted.
Most dogs with DM will require insulin injections, but research into management through diet is continuing. Most vets recommend that diabetic dog food contains a higher soluble fiber content that commercially available dog food. It is generally believed that soluble fiber affects the digestive system by slowing the absorption rate of glucose.
If the diabetic dog is obese, it will require a diet even more specialized because it is important for the diabetic dog to lose excess weight gradually. Veterinarians will be best equipped to advise on the best diabetic dog food for individual pets as this will vary according to age, breed, size, and other health issues that may be present.
Often home cooking is not recommended for diabetic pets, but in consultation with your vet, it is possible to prepare meals at home for dogs with this condition. The main thing is to keep the food well balanced, healthy and consistent at each meal to maintain a stable glucose level.
For those contemplating home cooking for their diabetic dog, the basic recipe is 50% complex carbohydrates, 25% vegetables, and 25% protein (chicken, lean beef or fish). For a large dog, a sample recipe would be:
6 pounds of chicken
4 cups of uncooked brown rice
3 cups of carrots
2 cups of chopped celery
10 ounces of fresh spinach
3 cloves of crushed garlic
3 cups of rye
80 ounces of chicken stock
80 ounces of water
Simmer the chicken and garlic in the stock for 20 minutes. Remove the chicken and add the rye to the liquid and simmer for 40 minutes before adding the rice and simmering for a further 15 minutes. Combine the rye and rice mixture with the rest of the ingredients and mix well. You do not need to cook the vegetables as the heat from the rye/rice mixture will soften them enough.
Follow your vets directions as to how much to give your dog at each serve, but 3 feeds per day is best for diabetic dogs.
Many of the commercially available high-quality dog foods are able to be consumed by diabetic dogs. Maintaining the consistency of timing of meals and serving size is the key. As well, several manufacturer’s of premium dog foods, for instance Purina and Eukanuba make prescription diets.
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Carolin Shadler’s Blog
