Your Dog's Health

A dog is more than a pet; it's a part of the family. That's why your dog deserves the kind of care that you loving provide all family members. To really care for your dog, be aware of signs that can indicate disease or illness.

Educating yourself on proper canine care should always be done before you bring home your new pet. Be aware of the signs of potential health concerns, and know how to provide preventative care.

Preventative medicine is paramount in effective health care. Just like children, puppies need to see a health care specialist on a regular basis. At six weeks of age, your puppy should begin a series of four DHLPP/CCV vaccinations. These shots are administered at three- to four-week intervals. Your puppy also needs to be de-wormed often, and should begin receiving heartworm preventative medication at four months old. Heartworm prevention is an ongoing necessity that's vital to providing your dog with a long and happy life.

Once these initial treatments have been given, your growing dog should see the vet for a checkup once a year. At these annual visits, the vet will examine your dogs stool and teeth, administer any necessary vaccinations, and provide a general examination to rule out medical concerns.

By keeping up on preventative medicine needs, you will be helping to ensure your dog's health. But it's also essential that you are able to watch for signs of potential health troubles.

Skin problems are common, and dogs may present these conditions in different ways. Many pets suffer with skin allergies indicated by "hot spots" and hair loss. Hot spots are painful, oozing sores appearing on the skin's surface. Your pet may deal with the discomfort by licking constantly at the area, which in turn makes the problem more difficult to treat.

Pet owners are often quick to misdiagnose a skin allergy as a flea infestation, so it's important to know the difference in symptoms. Dogs who tend to scratch their heads, necks and front legs typically have skin allergies. Those that chew on the top of the rump will likely have a flea infestation. Know the difference so that you may administer proper treatment.

Many health problem clues can be found in your pet's stool. Runny or discolored stool should be prompt you to call the vet. The solution may be as simple as altering the diet, but it may also call for treatment of parasites. If parasites are found, they can be easily remedied. Gastric dilatation volvulus is less common, but very serious. This condition can occur when a dog exerts himself or herself after consuming a large amount of water. Large breeds with deep chests are most prone to developing gastric dilation volvulus.

Your dog is a cherished family member and deserves to receive the best health benefits. It's not difficult to provide good preventative care for your pet, although it may take an occasional investment of time or money. See to it that your dog has a yearly checkup with the vet. It's just as important that you're aware of the signs and symptoms of illness and disease. If so, you and your pet will enjoy a happy and healthy life together.

Article Source: http://www.financemanual.com

Larissa Levise loves writing for numerous online magazines, on family fun and home garden topics.
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