John R. Fultz's Blog, page 42

Dermatitis in dogs: Understand the problem and see how to treat it

It starts with redness on the skin, itching, hair loss and depending on the stage, it even forms wounds. Folds and long, thick hair are characteristics that facilitate the development of dermatitis in dogs.

As with humans, dogs also become more fragile when they don’t eat well or are constantly exposed to situations that generate stress. Low immunity also contributes to the development of dermatitis, so it is very important to take good care of the dog so that it does not develop this disease.

How is dermatitis in dogs?

It is called atopic dermatitis. It is an inflammation or infection of the skin. It usually affects dogs that have long hair like the golden retriever and dogs that have a lot of folds on the body, like the shar-pei, as these characteristics contribute to the accumulation of fungi and bacteria in the skin.

However, the disease can be developed for several reasons. Allergies, skin injuries, hormones, contact with chemicals, parasites and microorganisms and autoimmune issues are some of the causes that contribute to atopic dermatitis.

It’s worth remembering that wet places are also great hiding places for fungi and bacteria. It is important to keep the place where the dog rests always clean and dry.

How to identify dermatitis in dogs

Because it is a skin problem, the symptoms are very noticeable. Hair loss, itching, redness and flaking are some of them. It is also common for the area affected by dermatitis to have wounds, as the dog scratches itself with its nails and teeth, hurting the skin.

Dermatitis is a disease that only affects the skin, so the dog does not have symptoms such as fever, vomiting and diarrhea.

Main causes of dermatitis

There are several ways for the dog to develop the disease, which makes it the most common among canines and depending on the form of contagion, it will determine whether the disease is transmissible or not.

Let’s look at the main ways to contract atopic dermatitis:

Allergy to products: just like humans, pets are also allergic to perfume, shampoo, cleaning products that come into contact with the animal’s skin (such as bleach, disinfectant, etc.) can generate allergic dermatitis.Fungi and bacteria: this is the easiest way to contract the disease, especially when the dog has low immunity or some underlying disease. Humid places end up favoring the proliferation of bacteria, such as bathing tanks in pet shops that are not properly sanitized or even a post-bath drying that was not completely done, leaving the fur damp for a long time.Parasites: another way to contract atopic dermatitis is through flea, tick, scabies and lice. In addition to these parasites being able to transmit the disease directly, ticks and scabies cause wounds in the dog’s skin that facilitate the entry of bacteria and fungi. Some dogs are also allergic to fleas and ticks, which causes skin irritation and makes the organ more vulnerable to the disease.Food: some animals are allergic to certain foods or components. Some of them are intolerant to beef and chicken, which can cause skin symptoms, such as severe itching. However, this form of developing dermatitis is not contagious.Genetics: despite not being the most common form and also without a form of contagion, some dogs are already born with a predisposition to the disease, and if it is diagnosed quickly, special care is needed, especially when bathing and feeding.Hormone problem: hypothyroidism is not something exclusive to humans, animals also suffer from it. Just like this, other dysfunctions can deregulate the puppy’s hormonal system causing the disease to develop.How to treat dermatitis in dogs

Because it has several forms of contagion, there are also different ways to treat each case and obtain positive results. The veterinarian will determine the best way after carrying out the tests and identifying the causative agent.

The use of specific lotions, ointments and shampoos to treat dermatitis are always indicated to help treat the skin from the outside in. However, depending on the severity of the disease, the dog will be treated with antibiotics, histamines and antifungals.

Atopic dermatitis is a disease that has no cure, but it can be controlled and for that the owner will have to be very dedicated so that his pet does not suffer so much from the disease.

Some ways to prevent the disease are to maintain a balanced diet with foods that do not harm the animal, keep the environment clean and always airy and prevent the dog from being wet for a long time. Taking certain preventive measures, the puppy will not suffer from canine dermatitis.

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Dog gets the flu? Find out what the symptoms are and how to treat them

Contrary to what many people think, dogs do get the flu. In the same way that humans have a low immune system and are susceptible to the flu virus, with dogs, the same occurs.

But take it easy, the human being is not able to pass the disease to the canines and does not live and versa.

Although the flu is caused by airborne viruses and bacteria , a dog can only be infected by another dog. Therefore, it is indicated that they do not stay in stuffy environments with infected animals, as the risk of spreading the disease is greater.

The flu in dogs is also known as “kennel cough”, it can happen at all times of the year, especially in winter, when temperatures drop and also affect dogs.

Contagion can be done via contact with a sick animal, either in the same environment or through the air (sneezing) or objects contaminated by respiratory secretions.

Next, learn about the signs that your furry friend has the flu and also, how to treat and prevent your puppy from suffering from the effects of this disease. Check out:

What are the symptoms when the dog gets the flu?

Incredible as it may seem, the symptoms of a dog with the flu do not change much from humans, but it must be noted that the virus that causes the disease in both cases are different.

Influenza viruses in humans can be categorized into A, B and C, the H1N1 and the H3 N2.

In dogs, the virus is H3N8 is a specific type of influenza virus that affects only dogs.

The canine flu virus can remain alive on surfaces for up to 48 hours, that is, on floors, toys and others. On clothes, for just 24 hours and in the hands of a responsible person for 12 hours.

The dog has the flu for a period of between 2 and 4 days , which can last for 10 days depending on the case.

The symptoms that will be reported below, may take 2 days after contamination to appear, however, this is the period in which the virus is most prolific, therefore, your dog can spread the disease.

Dogs can also have:

Very dry coughnasal secretionssneezingChoking sensation, very common during coughing or sneezingWeakness

In more severe cases:

Fevereye secretionsApathyDehydrationLack of appetiteAnorexiabreathing difficulties

Obviously, the tutor will suspect that the dog has the flu only when the symptoms begin to appear, in some cases, it is necessary to carry out an antibody test to have a more effective result, since many have very mild symptoms, however, they can contaminate other animals around.

To carry out this test, two blood samples are taken, one is taken at the moment the flu is suspected, and the other, after 14 days. If there are nasal secretions, they can also be evaluated to confirm the presence of the virus.

If the dog has the flu for a long time and the symptoms get worse, it is important to take it to the veterinarian, as the disease can develop into pneumonia and lead the dog to death.

Treatment for when the dog gets the flu

In reality, there is no specific way of treating dogs with the flu, the specialist evaluates each case in detail. However, the first thing you should do is make sure that it really is this disease, as the symptoms can be confused with other health conditions.

The best way to have this confirmation is by taking your pet to the vet.

If very strong symptoms or pneumonia are detected, the dog needs special care such as the intake of antibiotics. In more serious cases, the use of breathing apparatus may be necessary.

Understand that dogs don’t talk, they can’t express the real pain they feel. A flu can bring health complications that can be quite dangerous, especially if he is a puppy or elderly. So take it to the specialist.

It is important to note that infected dogs must be isolated from other dogs for a period of 2 weeks. This means that you should avoid socializing with other dogs during this period.

If you have another dog at home, keep them separated, in addition, wash objects, surfaces, dishes and clothes that were in contact with the dog with the flu. Simply sharing these items can transmit the flu virus.

It is expressly forbidden to offer dogs homemade recipes for the flu, as mentioned above, the flu in humans is totally different from the canine flu, in addition to not solving it, it can also promote a worsening of the furry health condition.

Only the veterinarian can indicate the treatment for canine flu , as he takes into account the age of the dog, weight, breed and state of the disease.

If medication is needed, the tutor’s role is to administer it correctly, in addition to other care such as:

Keep the dog always hydrated , offer water at least 5 times a day;Make him eat, it is certain that he will not have an appetite, but encourage him so that he can recover faster. Try offering your favorite food;Accommodate the dog in a warm corner, don’t let him catch cold air currents;Do not bathe the dog during its recovery, this can increase the chances of catching pneumonia;Inhalation devices can help the dog breathe better, put some of the steam close to him so he can feel the benefits;DON’T offer your puppy teas and soups, room temperature water is enough;

Your affection and care for the puppy can make all the difference in recovery. Be patient, full improvement may take up to 3 weeks.

How to prevent canine flu?

The veterinarian always addresses the need to follow the vaccination protocol with dog tutors. In fact, the available vaccine does not prevent and even less treat the disease, however, it reduces the symptoms and also minimizes the severity of the flu in the furry.

Another important fact is that the vaccine reduces the amount of virus that can be spread in the environment. That is, vaccinated dogs are less likely to transmit the virus to other furry ones when compared to those that are not vaccinated.

The vaccine is recommended especially for dogs that live in houses with other dogs, kennels or that usually socialize with other pets in condos and parks.

An article published by the blog UOL points out that Chinese dogs were diagnosed with the H1N1 influenza virus that jumped from pigs to dogs. The author of the study says that this flu virus is interacting with each other and that it can mix and create new forms.

An extra host for H1N1 is cause for concern among the authors of the research and one of the attempts to restrict the virus in pigs is the vaccination of dogs .

One more reason for you to inform yourself about vaccinating your pet. If you have questions about the vaccine against canine flu , talk to the veterinarian, he will know how to guide you better on this subject.

Another way to prevent your dog from getting the flu is to protect it against external agents that may affect it. Therefore, always maintain a good diet to strengthen immunity, hydrate it and, above all, avoid animal clusters.

Of course, it is important that he socializes with other dogs, but in winter periods, it would be ideal for walks not to be in places where other animals may have gone, as the virus can remain active on surfaces for 48 hours.

If you realize that the dog is showing flu symptoms, take it to the vet. In addition, arrange for the furry to be isolated if you have other animals at home, it is essential to prevent the spread of the virus.

Now that you know which dog gets the flu, be extra careful with your furry friend. Although most cases are mild and heal easily, there are exceptions of aggravation of the disease that can even kill.

Always pay attention to your furry friend, if you notice anything unusual, seek expert help and share good times with your best friend for much longer.

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Elderly dogs: see 10 care you need to have with these grandparents

The health of dogs is compromised over the years, which impairs their well-being and can lead to serious complications, especially after 8 years of age. It is very important that dogs receive all the necessary attention and care during this phase, but disease prevention should start when they are young. Learn how to take care of elderly dogs and ensure the well-being of these gentlemen!

Among the most common health problems in elderly dogs are cardiorespiratory diseases, generally aggravated by obesity and a sedentary lifestyle, as it is very common for the owner to abandon the habit of walking and playing with the dog, which due to its excess weight and from joint problems become very unwell.

Check out 10 precautions you need to take with elderly dogs1 – Medical exams

Exams help detect various diseases , including those that evolve without showing signs and put the animal’s life at risk. As elderly dogs are more prone to health problems , medical examinations should be periodic, carried out every year. The main ones are blood and urine and feces.

2 – Adequate Food

When dogs start to become elderly, the muscles and bones in the mouth weaken, it is common for them to lose teeth and have a lot of difficulty chewing, often they stop eating due to this type of difficulty and the owners don’t realize it.

The ideal is to adjust the food according to your dog’s needs. Offer small, easy-to-chew snacks and, if necessary, soften the food with a little water. Another important point is that there is no lack of nutrients in the diet of the elderly dog.

3 – Prioritize fun

It’s a great way for dogs to distract themselves, especially seniors, who tend to spend a good part of the day and night sleeping. Encourage your dog to play, in addition to relieving stress, this type of activity helps prevent obesity , a very common disorder in small dogs.

4 – Don’t miss out on tours

One of the favorite activities of any dog, regardless of its age. The walk should take place once a day, in addition, it is important to choose a calm place and without many climbs so that the animal does not get tired.

Walking is a great way to help strengthen muscles and prevent joint disease, it also decreases the frequency of cramps and pain . When it is part of the dog’s routine, the walk makes him less lazy.

5 – Contact with other dogs

The elderly dog ​​does not have the same willingness to run and play as younger dogs, so contact with very agitated dogs can result in stress and aggression. But if your dog is the social type and likes to make friends, this type of contact is not harmful.

6 – Observe the behavior of the elderly dog

Just like humans, senior dogs also suffer from cognitive degeneration . When this occurs, they begin to behave differently, giving the impression that they are rebellious.

However, what happens is a gradual loss of learning that he had during his life, so they start to urinate in the wrong place , forget to eat and drink water, become slower and have a lot of difficulty obeying commands from the owner. There is no treatment for this type of problem, you have to be patient and do your best to make the dog’s life more pleasant.

7 – Be aware of excess secretions and excretions

The elderly dog ​​is much more susceptible to diseases and the animal’s organism always shows signs when something is not right. The always wet muzzle can be a sign of an allergy or cold, as the eyes watering a lot can be a sign of infection or even distemper.

Through urine, the kidneys excrete various substances that are not useful to the body, however, when an elderly dog ​​urinates many times a day, it is a sign that the health of the kidneys is compromised.

In addition to observing if there is excess, the owner must be aware of the color of these secretions and excretions. In the eyes and nose, the normal color is transparent or slightly whitish, since the urine should always have a yellowish color. When observing any change, take your elderly dog ​​to the veterinarian immediately.

8 – Always observe the animal’s breathing

By observing the dog’s breathing, the owner can see if there are any signs of cardiac alteration. Panting breathing, snoring, tiredness after short walks and difficulty breathing are the very common signs that denounce the compromised health of the heart and lungs.

9 – Beware of temperature changes

Sudden temperature changes can harm the health of the elderly dog. It’s important to keep him warm during the winter and avoid walks on rainy or windy days. During hot days care should also be taken, especially with the hydration of the animal.

10 – Be sure to maintain dog hygiene

Often, due to limitations, older dogs are stressed at bath time, this should not be seen as an obstacle to maintaining cleanliness of the dogs’ hair and skin. In addition, another essential care is with the teeth, if brushed frequently, it prevents tartar and several other complications that can lead to tooth loss and consequently compromise the dog’s quality of life.

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Dog pregnancy – Find out what care is needed?

For those who have a pet friend at home, care is always present, but they need to be redoubled during the pregnancy of a dog. Special attention needs to be given to food, health, and the future canine mother, as well as their owners, need to adapt their home and routine to the arrival of their babies.

The heat of bitches

Usually small breeds start the heat period at six months, while larger breeds start to come into heat at 12 months. And the heat period lasts about three weeks, repeating itself every six months. It is a period when the dog may become more needy, nervous or agitated.

The dog pregnancy

Puppy gestation lasts between 56 and 70 days after conception, but parturition usually happens around the 63rd day. It is common for bitches to have an average of 6 puppies.

During the first 30 days of pregnancy,  there will be no physical changes, and to be sure of the existence of the puppies in the belly, it will be necessary for a veterinarian to carry out an ultrasound examination after 25 days.

But from that period on, the changes in dog pregnancy become visible with the growth of the nipples, initiating the preparation of milk production. There is an increase in appetite, which makes her gain weight quickly and she will be more affectionate and sentimental, wanting the presence of the owners. In addition, she will show signs of tiredness, remaining in bed longer.

Dog pregnancy careFood

Your furry companion’s energy needs will increase during pregnancy so, as soon as it is confirmed, provide a larger daily amount of food. The average is 5% more feed per week, until farrowing, increasing throughout the day.

It may be that in the first few weeks she feels nauseous and doesn’t want to eat. A tip to alleviate the problem is to mix the feed with a wet food that she likes. If it doesn’t work, ask the vet for help, as she shouldn’t go long periods without feeding.

Her hydration also needs to be adequate for the puppies to develop well. Make sure she is drinking the available water.

Fun

During dog pregnancy, your little friend may not be as willing to play and walk. She may prefer to have quieter times, especially in the early and late days.

You must respect her disposition, suspending activities that demand a lot of effort. The walks can continue, as long as they don’t demand too much from her. You can take her for light walks to keep her muscles strong.

The delivery

When the day of delivery is approaching, prepare a suitable place for your puppy to have her babies in peace. Possibly she herself will “build” a nest by pulling blankets and cloths to the place where she wants to have her young. Respect that.

It’s a good idea to bathe and groom your dog a week before giving birth so that everything happens more hygienically and the puppies are able to breastfeed more easily as soon as they are born. But if your partner doesn’t like bathing and feels scared or nervous, she should avoid it.

Leave a free space for the mother to have her puppies. Remove pillows or other items that might get in the way. Also take care that the place is protected from cold and rain, as puppies cannot regulate their own temperature as soon as they are born.

After the first contractions, the bitch can take about two hours before the first puppy is born. If it takes longer than that, look for the vet, as she must have some difficulty. Intervals between chicks can also take up to two hours.

With these precautions, the gestation of a dog will be very peaceful and soon you will have several fluffy puppies in your home.

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Canine obesity – How to treat this problem, recommended exercises?

Sleep well, eat well, drink plenty of water and exercise frequently. Sounds like a great health tip for you doesn’t it? But did you know that your puppy also needs to take care of itself? Canine obesity is a very serious matter and still largely ignored by dog ​​owners, who consider it “cute” that their pets are chubby, as if feeding the dog in excess was an act of love.

In the next few lines, we’ll help you get to know this subject better and what to do to avoid or treat your friend.

Causes of canine obesity

Firstly, it is important to draw attention to one of the main causes of the problem. Unlike humans, who have discernment to decide what to eat and what to avoid, dogs feed on what is served to them, that is, as a rule, the owner ends up being the main cause of canine obesity.

The owner takes into the life of the animal many of the vices that he himself commits on a daily basis. That sweetie, that out-of-hour cookie that looks like a gesture of affection may be shortening the dog’s life span. It is estimated that around 30% of domesticated dogs suffer from obesity here in Pak.

Another factor that greatly increases your friend’s chances of getting fat is neutering. Although important for controlling the number of animals, this procedure makes the dog less active, which can contribute to weight gain. Therefore, the feeding of these animals needs to be special. The big feed brands work with a specific line of products for neutered animals.

How to find out if my dog ​​is obese?

A simple look from the owner is very subjective to define whether or not a dog is overweight. There are breeds where the most “full” appearance is normal, so this does not define the health status of the dog.

Some signs are quite important, such as difficulty walking, lack of desire to participate in the games they normally love and not answering the call for a walk, their favorite time, may indicate that something is wrong with your friend.

However, for an exact definition of whether or not it is obesity and what level it is, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately. It is through examinations with measurement and some mathematical formulas that the professional can give the accurate diagnosis.

My pet suffers from canine obesity, what do I do?

Well, first of all, it’s essential that you accept the diagnosis given to your friend and commit to changing that situation. Normally, we start by giving less caloric food to the dog. Understand that it is not to reduce the amount that your dog is used to, as veterinarians say that when a dog gets used to a certain volume of feed, he tends to always eat this volume, so the tip here is to reduce the caloric value of it .

Continuing with the treatment, the indication is to make your dog eat more often during the day, dividing the normal volume of food into more stages.

You know that sweetie, the little piece of your snack or the biscuit out of time? No way. The tip here is to follow the diet strictly.

Make it a habit to always hydrate your dog. By the way, this tip works for you too. How about doing it together with your friend? Join this practice, a regular exercise routine, such as a walk or even a light run. All with vet supervision, right?

By following these steps, you will notice that your pet’s health will improve with each passing day and the time you will spend together will be longer and of better quality!

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Dog in heat: clear all your doubts

A dog in heat indicates that he is already at a sexual age ready to breed and breed. Therefore, if a female dog is not spayed, she will go into heat.

It is important to note that a dog in heat goes through delicate moments, especially discomfort in the area of ​​​​the sexual organs, urinates more often than normal and is affected by great irritation.

The bitch changes behavior during heat and needs some care. (Photo: Disclosure).

Below, understand in detail what happens at this stage and what you can do to help minimize symptoms.

At what age does a dog go into heat?

This issue is very variable, there is no right age for this to happen. In general, the first heat happens between 6 and 12 months.

What determines the exact period of heat are characteristics such as the breed and size of the puppy. For example, small female dogs often reach sexual maturity early.

When a dog is in heat, what are the signs?

Dogs show signs during this period, bitches usually bleed for a week. At this stage, she is aloof, does not allow the male to approach her. Therefore, it is ideal for the tutor to leave her in isolation to avoid stress.

After a week the bleeding stops, so she allows the males to get close and they are ready to mate. It is in the first 10 days after the onset of heat that the dog’s fertility peak occurs. If a puppy is not desirable, it is essential not to let any dog ​​live with it during this period.

There is a worrying issue during the bitch’s heat, it is a side effect that can affect her if she does not breed during the period. Many dogs develop a psychological pregnancy, which can cause a lot of suffering for them.

stages of rut

Heat can usually recur every 6 to 12 months in a dog’s life. It is worth remembering that this period can be divided into 4 stages, they are:

1 –  Pro  estro

Phase lasting up to 9 days, is when the genital area becomes swollen. In some cases there is secretion, but without an unpleasant smell. There may be bleeding.

The bitch becomes aggressive and there are some changes in behavior.

2 – estrus

It is the phase when the bitch is already in heat, she already accepts the male very well and is able to breed and procreate. In general, it lasts 10 days, but it can vary from 8 to 15 days.

3 – Metaestrus

If the bitch has become pregnant, then it is time for gestation, delivery and lactation. If she has not crossed, it is essential to keep an eye out, as some may have a psychological pregnancy.

4 – Anestrus

Sexual rest phase. Therefore, the best way to know if the dog’s heat is over is to pay attention to these stages.

Neutered dog goes into heat?

The goal is that neutered dogs do not go into heat, however, this can happen. What defines this is the relationship between the development of the female dog’s organism and the period in which she was spayed.

For example, if she was castrated before the first cycle, that is, before 6 months of life, it is very likely that she will not go into heat after castration, as her reproductive organs will be very small. However, if she is spayed after that period, heat can happen.

Another important detail is that the female dog can go into heat after castration if she suffers from Remnant Ovary Syndrome, that is, when tissue is left behind during castration, it can remain in her abdomen and come to life.

That is, she can secrete hormones during heat even without having a uterus and ovaries and begin to experience the same physical and emotional symptoms of the heat period.

Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye on the dog’s symptoms, if she has changes in behavior and bladder infections frequently, it is essential to seek advice from a veterinarian.

What is the care for the dog in heat?

Heat triggers many hormonal changes in female dogs, so they tend to behave differently as they become very stressed.

It is important that tutors know how to take care of them with the following precautions:

During heat, it is normal for bitches not to feel hungry, but it is essential to insist on offering a quality feed;Keep the bitch’s vulva area always clean, in some cases, the bitch may not allow it, especially if it is inflamed from so many licks that she gives. If it is very swollen, look for a veterinarian;A good option to stop bleeding during heat is to use a canine absorbent;Be very affectionate with the dog in heat, in general, they are more fragile and in need of care;The bitch can get pregnant in all heats, so it is essential that she rest in the next heat so as not to generate wear and tear on her;How to avoid dogs heat?

Dogs can also benefit from contraceptive methods, in general, progestogen-based injectables are the best. They should be used every 6 months to prevent heat.

However, there is a catch. They prevent heat and pregnancy, however, they can be a predisposing factor for breast, uterus and ovarian cancer. In view of this, the technique most indicated by veterinarians is “castration”, the ovaries and uterus of the bitch are removed.

Therefore, if the tutor does not want the bitch to have puppies, the best way to avoid this is by opting for castration. It is a safe technique that prevents future problems that can be caused by the use of sex hormones.

It is ideal to castrate females from 5 months of age, it is the best phase as a factor and protection of the breasts.

To perform the procedure, it is important to look for a veterinarian who will do the pre-surgical evaluation. Only equipped clinics should perform the procedure.

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Dermatitis in dogs: understand the problem and see how to treat it

It starts with redness on the skin, itching, hair loss and depending on the stage, it even forms wounds. Folds and long, thick hair are characteristics that facilitate the development of dermatitis in dogs.

As with humans, dogs also become more fragile when they don’t eat well or are constantly exposed to situations that generate stress. Low immunity also contributes to the development of dermatitis, so it is very important to take good care of the dog so that it does not develop this disease.

How is dermatitis in dogs?

It is called atopic dermatitis. It is an inflammation or infection of the skin. It usually affects dogs that have long hair like the golden retriever and dogs that have a lot of folds on the body, like the shar-pei, as these characteristics contribute to the accumulation of fungi and bacteria in the skin.

However, the disease can be developed for several reasons. Allergies, skin injuries, hormones, contact with chemicals, parasites and microorganisms and autoimmune issues are some of the causes that contribute to atopic dermatitis.

It’s worth remembering that wet places are also great hiding places for fungi and bacteria. It is important to keep the place where the dog rests always clean and dry.

How to identify dermatitis in dogs

Because it is a skin problem, the symptoms are very noticeable. Hair loss, itching, redness and flaking are some of them. It is also common for the area affected by dermatitis to have wounds, as the dog scratches itself with its nails and teeth, hurting the skin.

Dermatitis is a disease that only affects the skin, so the dog does not have symptoms such as fever, vomiting and diarrhea.

Main causes of dermatitis

There are several ways for the dog to develop the disease, which makes it the most common among canines and depending on the form of contagion, it will determine whether the disease is transmissible or not.

Let’s look at the main ways to contract atopic dermatitis:

Allergy to products: just like humans, pets are also allergic to perfume, shampoo, cleaning products that come into contact with the animal’s skin (such as bleach, disinfectant, etc.) can generate allergic dermatitis.Fungi and bacteria: this is the easiest way to contract the disease, especially when the dog has low immunity or some underlying disease. Humid places end up favoring the proliferation of bacteria, such as bathing tanks in pet shops that are not properly sanitized or even a post-bath drying that was not completely done, leaving the fur damp for a long time.Parasites: another way to contract atopic dermatitis is through flea, tick, scabies and lice. In addition to these parasites being able to transmit the disease directly, ticks and scabies cause wounds in the dog’s skin that facilitate the entry of bacteria and fungi. Some dogs are also allergic to fleas and ticks, which causes skin irritation and makes the organ more vulnerable to the disease.Food: some animals are allergic to certain foods or components. Some of them are intolerant to beef and chicken, which can cause skin symptoms, such as severe itching. However, this form of developing dermatitis is not contagious.Genetics: despite not being the most common form and also without a form of contagion, some dogs are already born with a predisposition to the disease, and if it is diagnosed quickly, special care is needed, especially when bathing and feeding.Hormone problem: hypothyroidism is not something exclusive to humans, animals also suffer from it. Just like this, other dysfunctions can deregulate the puppy’s hormonal system causing the disease to develop.How to treat dermatitis in dogs

Because it has several forms of contagion, there are also different ways to treat each case and obtain positive results. The veterinarian will determine the best way after carrying out the tests and identifying the causative agent.

The use of specific lotions, ointments and shampoos to treat dermatitis are always indicated to help treat the skin from the outside in. However, depending on the severity of the disease, the dog will be treated with antibiotics, histamines and antifungals.

Atopic dermatitis is a disease that has no cure, but it can be controlled and for that the owner will have to be very dedicated so that his pet does not suffer so much from the disease.

Some ways to prevent the disease are to maintain a balanced diet with foods that do not harm the animal, keep the environment clean and always airy and prevent the dog from being wet for a long time. Taking certain preventive measures, the puppy will not suffer from canine dermatitis.

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Dog vomiting: see the main causes and what to do

Vomiting is a common reaction of the dog’s organism, but it can also be a warning sign when it is very recurrent.

Dog vomiting is a symptom that can be caused by several factors, from poor diet to the manifestation of serious illnesses. Observation is the key to discovering the severity of the cause.

Dogs’ digestive health is very fragile, their stomachs and intestines are sensitive and do not accept many types of food well. For this reason, it is important to always feed them in the best possible way, that is, with food suitable for dogs, such as dry food, vegetables without seasoning and fruits.

Dog vomiting: what to do?

First, keep calm. Vomiting is not always a negative sign about the dog’s state of health. The organism of animals is extremely selective, so when dogs ingest toxic food or an object, the stomach causes vomiting as a way of expelling what is harmful. It is a defensive reaction.

However, vomiting can also be a symptom of a serious health problem or illness. It is very important to observe the dog’s behavior and if there are other signs that his health is not going well.

Before taking your dog to the vet, consider the following points to understand if vomiting is just a symptom of poor digestion or indicates something more serious.

How long has the dog been vomiting?

It is essential to observe how many times the dog has vomited during the day and how long he has been vomiting. In addition, it is important to understand the frequency of this episode, for example, if it always occurs after meals or at random times of the day. It’s not normal for a dog to spend more than a day throwing up.

How is the vomiting?

The color and consistency can indicate the presence of blood in the vomit. If the color of the vomit is too dark or does not match the color of the food that the puppy ate, you need to consider the possibility that the dog really is sick.

Is the dog listless?

The dog’s behavior before and after vomiting also reveals the severity of the cause. If they remain listless all the time, they are probably in pain. If this behavior lasts for more than a day, it is a sign that the vomiting is not just a result of poor digestion.

Is vaccination up to date?

This is an important issue, as many diseases that can be prevented through vaccination have vomiting as an initial symptom. Check your pet’s vaccination card.

Are there other symptoms?

When vomiting occurs due to a health problem, it is usually accompanied by other symptoms. Diarrhea is the most common of these, followed by apathy, constant crying and unusual secretions.

How can I help my dog?

Due to vomiting, digestion of food is not done completely. In addition, the body is dehydrated. It is very important to try to maintain the dog’s hydration, it is a way to make him recover faster.

Most likely, he will not look for water or food due to the discomfort that vomiting causes. It is the owner’s responsibility to offer food while the dog is weak.

Check out recipes that can help with this task!

Hydration

Take him to drink water every two hours, see how often he accepts the drink. If he refuses the water from the potty, fill a syringe with water and sneeze it into the dog’s mouth, carefully and little by little so as not to provoke more vomiting. Dogs love ice water and also coconut water, try it!

Sick dog food recipe

Homemade food is much more attractive to the dog than dry food, especially at these times. In addition, a lighter and more natural diet greatly favors the recovery of the dog that is vomiting.

Ingredients

1 cup of rice100 g of chicken breast1 grated carrot

Method of preparation

Cook the rice and carrots without any kind of seasoning, just with a pinch of salt. Do the same with the chicken. Wait for the food to cool down, then shred the chicken and mix well with the carrot rice. Divide into portions suitable for your dog’s size. Always serve warm.

Fruits are allowed in the diet of the dog that is vomiting, as long as they are not acidic, such as pineapple, orange and passion fruit. Papaya and banana are good options.

Attention!

If the dog shows no improvement and has other symptoms besides vomiting, take him to the vet. Never medicate your dog without medical guidance.

The post Dog vomiting: see the main causes and what to do appeared first on John's Blog.

Dog with neurological problem: See symptoms and diseases

Few people know, but the brain of pets is vulnerable to diseases. A dog with a neurological problem needs to undergo a series of tests so that the veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis.

In this matter, you will know the main symptoms of neurological problems in dogs. In addition, you will have information about the diseases that most affect the canine neurological system.

What are the symptoms of neurological problems in dogs?

Veterinary neurology is a slightly more complicated area than human neurology, after all, patients don’t talk. In any case, the guardian must be alert to the signs that the animal may present.

The symptoms of dogs with neurological problems vary according to the condition. Pets may have:

Dizziness;Convulsions;Walking in circles;Tremors;Involuntary movements;Blindness;Loss of consciousness;Insomnia;Lateral deviation of the head;Difficulty picking up or swallowing food;Paralysis of limbs;Alteration of the senses.

Dog with neurological problem: What are the causes?

We have gathered the main neurological diseases that affect dogs. Look:

Epilepsy

Epilepsy in dogs is a health problem that generates neurological signs, such as seizures.

Epileptic seizures can have a primary origin (when the animal is born) or secondary (sequelae of a traumatic brain injury).

Granulomatous meningoencephalitis

Granulomatous meningoencephalitis, also known as MEG, is an autoimmune disease that affects small dogs aged between 3 and 5 years. This is a common health problem in toy breeds and terriers, with females being more frequently affected.

MEG is a disease of progressive evolution, which affects the brain and spinal cord. In addition, the disease manifests itself in three ways, according to the site of the lesion: Ocular, Focal, Multifocal or Disseminated

Among the clinical signs of the disease, it is worth noting: convulsions, turning, visual impairment and lethargy. The puppy may lose interest in things he used to love to do, like playing and walking. In addition, it is also common for the animal to be prostrate and want to eat all the time.

Treatment is performed with corticosteroids and Gardenal. Other actions can improve the patient’s quality of life, such as supplementation with Omega 3 and acupuncture.

Another important point: as with cancer patients, dogs with MEG cannot be revaccinated, as vaccines overload the immune system.

Stroke

Elderly dogs can suffer from Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA). Stroke occurs when blood flow is interrupted.

When a dog suffers a stroke, he starts to walk in circles, he may have his head to one side and confused. His eyes may move from side to side involuntarily. In addition, the animal also completely loses control over urine and feces.

Alzheimer’s

When dogs reach 12 years of age, they tend to show neurological changes. Canine Alzheimer’s, also called canine cognitive disease, is a disorder that manifests itself through neurological signs.

The dog with Alzheimer’s has difficulty learning new things, becomes aggressive, does not interact as much with the family and pees in the wrong place.

Behavioral changes cannot be ignored by the tutor. In the face of a sign, it is necessary to look for a veterinarian and carry out the tests requested for the diagnosis. There is no cure for the disease, but there are palliative treatments.

Cervical spondylomyelopathy

There is a neurological disease that affects the spine of the dog and is called Cervical Spondylomyelopathy. This syndrome is frequent in large dogs, such as Dobermann, Great Dane and Saint Bernard. It results from compression of the cervical spinal cord.

About 75% of cases have neurological signs, which are controlled with the administration of corticosteroids. In general, lack of motor coordination is one of the main symptoms of the disease.

Trauma

Falls, attacks by other dogs and being run over are situations that result in cranioencephalic trauma.

Symptoms vary depending on the location of the lesion. In short, dogs have seizures, blindness, lack of reaction to stimuli and mental confusion.

Meningitis

Viral, parasitic and fungal infections can result in meningitis, a common disease in Pug, Beagle and Maltese dogs.

In dogs, meningitis manifests itself through neurological signs such as confusion, agitation and behavior change. However, it also results in fever, loss of appetite and muscle stiffness.

Distemper

Distemper is a viral disease that can be prevented with a vaccine. However, when the dog is not vaccinated, it can develop the disease, which impairs the functioning of several organs. The impact on the nervous system results in seizures and paralysis.

Neoplasm

Neurological alterations can manifest because of a neoplasm, that is, a cancer in the brain. The most frequent clinical signs are: walking in a circle, changes in behavior and convulsions.

Idiopathic vestibular syndrome

Dogs that lack balance, are disoriented, cross-eyed and move in circles may suffer from Idiopathic Vestibular Syndrome.

This health problem can disappear in a short time or last for years. In any case, it is more frequent in older dogs .

Hydrocephalus

Yorkshire , Chihuahua and Maltese breeds have a tendency to develop hydrocephalus. This disease manifests itself when there is accumulation of fluid in the brain.

In general, the animals suffer from a swollen head, convulsions, bulging eyes, visual impairment, staggering gait and poor learning.

Canine infectious hepatitis

A dog with a neurological problem may be suffering from infectious canine hepatitis. This disease is caused by canine adenovirus type 1 and generates inflammation in the liver.

When the disease reaches the most severe stage, it affects the neurological system, causing clinical symptoms such as convulsions, disorientation and tremors.

Anger

Although it is a preventable zoonosis, rabies still affects many dogs and can be transmitted to humans. The animal with this disease presents mental confusion, aggressiveness, disorientation, spasms and convulsions. Excessive salivation is also a characteristic symptom.

Intoxication

When ingesting a toxic substance, the animal may show neurological signs and muscle tremors. In this case, bouts of vomiting , diarrhea and seizures are also common .

When it comes to poisoning, immediate care makes all the difference for the dog not to suffer sequelae.

Diagnosis and treatment

Finally, as soon as the dog presents a symptom of a neurological problem, the tutor must take him to a veterinary hospital. In this establishment, the animal will be referred to a veterinary neurologist, who is able to perform neurological examinations to investigate the reason for the symptom.

In general, the diagnosis is made by eliminating hypotheses, so the veterinarian will request several tests to investigate the patient’s condition.

After all, can a dog with a neurological problem be cured?

The possibility of cure varies according to the origin of the problem. There are some diseases that accompany the patient for the rest of his life, such as epilepsy and granulomatous meningoencephalitis (MEG). Control is carried out with drugs.

The post Dog with neurological problem: See symptoms and diseases appeared first on John's Blog.

Dog with neurological problem: see symptoms and diseases

Few people know, but the brain of pets is vulnerable to diseases. A dog with a neurological problem needs to undergo a series of tests so that the veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis. 

In this matter, you will know the main symptoms of neurological problems in dogs. In addition, you will have information about the diseases that most affect the canine neurological system.

What are the symptoms of neurological problems in dogs?

Veterinary neurology is a slightly more complicated area than human neurology, after all, patients don’t talk. In any case, the guardian must be alert to the signs that the animal may present.

The symptoms of dogs with neurological problems vary according to the condition. Pets may have:

Dizziness;Convulsions;Walking in circles;Tremors;Involuntary movements;Blindness;Loss of consciousness;Insomnia;Lateral deviation of the head;Difficulty picking up or swallowing food;Paralysis of limbs;Alteration of the senses.Dog with neurological problem: what are the causes?

We have gathered the main neurological diseases that affect dogs. Look:

Epilepsy

Epilepsy in dogs is a health problem that generates neurological signs, such as seizures.

Epileptic seizures can have a primary origin (when the animal is born) or secondary (sequelae of a traumatic brain injury).

granulomatous meningoencephalitis

Granulomatous meningoencephalitis, also known as MEG, is an autoimmune disease that affects small dogs aged between 3 and 5 years. This is a common health problem in toy breeds and terriers, with females being more frequently affected.

MEG is a disease of progressive evolution, which affects the brain and spinal cord. In addition, the disease manifests itself in three ways, according to the site of the lesion: Ocular, Focal, Multifocal or Disseminated

Among the clinical signs of the disease, it is worth noting: convulsions, turning, visual impairment and lethargy. The puppy may lose interest in things he used to love to do, like playing and walking. In addition, it is also common for the animal to be prostrate and want to eat all the time.

Treatment is performed with corticosteroids and Gardenal. Other actions can improve the patient’s quality of life, such as supplementation with Omega 3 and acupuncture.

Another important point: as with cancer patients, dogs with MEG cannot be revaccinated, as vaccines overload the immune system.

Stroke

Elderly dogs can suffer from Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA). Stroke occurs when blood flow is interrupted.

When a dog suffers a stroke, he starts to walk in circles, he may have his head to one side and confused. His eyes may move from side to side involuntarily. In addition, the animal also completely loses control over urine and feces.

Alzheimer’s

When dogs reach 12 years of age, they tend to show neurological changes. Canine Alzheimer’s, also called canine cognitive disease, is a disorder that manifests itself through neurological signs.

The dog with Alzheimer’s has difficulty learning new things, becomes aggressive, does not interact as much with the family and pees in the wrong place.

Behavioral changes cannot be ignored by the tutor. In the face of a sign, it is necessary to look for a veterinarian and carry out the tests requested for the diagnosis. There is no cure for the disease, but there are palliative treatments.

cervical spondylomyelopathy

There is a neurological disease that affects the spine of the dog and is called Cervical Spondylomyelopathy. This syndrome is frequent in large dogs, such as Dobermann, Great Dane and Saint Bernard. It results from compression of the cervical spinal cord.

About 75% of cases have neurological signs, which are controlled with the administration of corticosteroids. In general, lack of motor coordination is one of the main symptoms of the disease.

Trauma

Falls, attacks by other dogs and being run over are situations that result in cranioencephalic trauma.

Symptoms vary depending on the location of the lesion. In short, dogs have seizures, blindness, lack of reaction to stimuli and mental confusion.

Meningitis

Viral, parasitic and fungal infections can result in meningitis, a common disease in Pug, Beagle and Maltese dogs.

In dogs, meningitis manifests itself through neurological signs such as confusion, agitation and behavior change. However, it also results in fever, loss of appetite and muscle stiffness.

distemper

Distemper is a viral disease that can be prevented with a vaccine. However, when the dog is not vaccinated, it can develop the disease, which impairs the functioning of several organs. The impact on the nervous system results in seizures and paralysis.

neoplasm

Neurological alterations can manifest because of a neoplasm, that is, a cancer in the brain. The most frequent clinical signs are: walking in a circle, changes in behavior and convulsions.

idiopathic vestibular syndrome

Dogs that lack balance, are disoriented, cross-eyed and move in circles may suffer from Idiopathic Vestibular Syndrome.

This health problem can disappear in a short time or last for years. In any case, it is more frequent in older dogs .

hydrocephalus

Yorkshire , Chihuahua and Maltese breeds have a tendency to develop hydrocephalus. This disease manifests itself when there is accumulation of fluid in the brain.

In general, the animals suffer from a swollen head, convulsions, bulging eyes, visual impairment, staggering gait and poor learning.

canine infectious hepatitis

A dog with a neurological problem may be suffering from infectious canine hepatitis. This disease is caused by canine adenovirus type 1 and generates inflammation in the liver.

When the disease reaches the most severe stage, it affects the neurological system, causing clinical symptoms such as convulsions, disorientation and tremors.

Anger

Although it is a preventable zoonosis, rabies still affects many dogs and can be transmitted to humans. The animal with this disease presents mental confusion, aggressiveness, disorientation, spasms and convulsions. Excessive salivation is also a characteristic symptom.

Intoxication

When ingesting a toxic substance, the animal may show neurological signs and muscle tremors. In this case, bouts of vomiting , diarrhea and seizures are also common .

When it comes to poisoning, immediate care makes all the difference for the dog not to suffer sequelae.

Diagnosis and treatment

Finally, as soon as the dog presents a symptom of a neurological problem, the tutor must take him to a veterinary hospital. In this establishment, the animal will be referred to a veterinary neurologist, who is able to perform neurological examinations to investigate the reason for the symptom.

In general, the diagnosis is made by eliminating hypotheses, so the veterinarian will request several tests to investigate the patient’s condition.

After all, can a dog with a neurological problem be cured?

The possibility of cure varies according to the origin of the problem. There are some diseases that accompany the patient for the rest of his life, such as epilepsy and granulomatous meningoencephalitis (MEG). Control is carried out with drugs.

The post Dog with neurological problem: see symptoms and diseases appeared first on John's Blog.