Health and Wellness

How can I make vet visits easier for my dog?

There are several factors at play with dogs who have excessive fear of the vet's office.

First, there is the drive itself. Many dogs enjoy a ride in the car, but this excitement can mutate into anxiety once your dog arrives at the office.

Dogs are easily distracted, however, and you can help instill a sense of calm by performing a few 'comfort' routines once your dog reaches the office.

It is important for you to remain calm, above all, and not transmit your own fears to the dog. From there, it is a matter of diverting your dog's attention at key points. For example, you can offer a treat once in the waiting room, and again while your dog is receiving shots.

Also, you may work on your dog's fears at home by including 'medical' style examinations in the grooming process. At least once per week, make a point of lifting your dogs tail, opening his mouth to check his teeth, examining his ears, and so on.

How important are vaccinations?

Very! Every single vaccination is important to your dog's health, and none should be skipped over. It only takes a few untreated animals to spread disease. Parvovirus, for example, was almost unheard of before the 70's. Once it took hold, however, it spread rapidly and the effects were devastating.

Prevention is the best cure, so don't shirk on your dog's vaccinations!

I've heard you can tell whether a dog is sick by whether his nose is wet or dry. Is this true?

This is an old wife's tail. Neither your dog's nor your cat's nose can tell you how he's feeling, or whether he needs to see the vet. Changes in the moisture and temperature of your pet's nose can vary based on the weather, recent physical activity, sleep and more.

A warm, dry nose can accompany a fever, but this information is only valuable when your pet is displaying other signs of illness, such as lethargy, disinterest in food/water, etc.  If you suspect your pet is sick, you're better off being safe than sorry. Take him in for a check-up.

What are some of the most common health problems faced by dogs?

A wide variety of bugs and parasites would love to make a home on and/or inside of your dog. Some problems, like mange, are seen primarily in strays and not a big concern for well-cared for animals.

Awareness is the key to prevention, however, so let's look at a list of potential health conditions to look out for:

--        Internal and external parasites (worms, fleas, ticks, mites, etc)

--        Saracoptic mange (caused by mites)

--        Follicular mange

--        Ringworm

--        Heartworm

--        Clogged anal glands

--        Hip dysplasia

--        Lyme disease

--        Heat stroke

--       Rabies

One of the biggest keys to protecting your dog's health is to be aware of what's going on in the outside environment. Pay attention to the seasons. Fleas and ticks can afflict your dog any time of year, but are much more abundant in warm weather months.

Keep an eye out for 'local vermin', too, especially if your dog loves to run through tall, grassy or wooded areas. Rodent and snake bites can be lethal to your dog.

 Print this page 

Fresh Content.net