Many common dog illnesses and symptoms can be cause for concern, or even fatal if left untreated. Our Natick vets offer advice about health problems to watch for.
Common Dog Illnesses
Dog parents need to be vigilant and prepare to visit their vet for a physical exam and diagnosis if needed. Here are 3 common dog illnesses and their symptoms.
Cancer
As our pooches live longer thanks to research, advancements in veterinary medical care, and various vaccines, therapies, and treatments, we also see more incidents of certain diseases.
Causes & Symptoms
Different types of cancer - from skin, bone, and breast cancers to malignant lymphoma and soft tissue sarcomas - can plague dogs as they enter their elder years. Cancer is more common in some breeds than in others because of genetic factors. Environmental factors can also occur.
Though early detection can sometimes be difficult if little to no symptoms appear, classic symptoms of cancer include:
- Lumps or bumps
- Abnormal bleeding
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Wounds that don’t heal
- Lameness or swelling in bones or other parts of the body
Depending on the cancer, a tumor could be removed surgically, and there may be options to treat or cure the disease or prolong your dog’s life. Early detection and treatment are critical to survival.
Ear Infections
If your dog is suddenly scratching their ear or shaking its head more often, whining, or exhibiting other relatively new forms of concerning behavior, a vet can examine them to find out whether it may have an ear infection.
Potential causes include moisture in the ears (a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast), allergies, autoimmune disorders, wax buildup, and more.
Causes & Symptoms
In addition to the signs mentioned above, symptoms include:
- Swelling or redness in the ear canal
- Dark discharge
- Pain
- Odor
- Itchiness
- “Crustiness” or scabs
It’s important to see your vet for quick treatment to keep the infection from spreading to other parts of the ear and leading to more serious conditions such as facial paralysis and deafness.
Parvovirus
Dogs can contract this highly contagious viral disease from an infected dog’s feces or virus particles, which can survive in the environment for months. Though people and dogs who have not received all of their vaccines are most susceptible, many dogs who receive timely, prompt treatment can be saved.
Causes & Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Reduced appetite
- Dehydration
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (usually bloody)
- Fever
- Weakness
Parvovirus can be prevented with puppy vaccines and booster shots. Parvovirus must be treated as it can lead to bone marrow damage, bacterial pneumonia, chronic heart disease, and even sudden death.
What to Do if Your Dog is Ill
If you see any of these symptoms appear in your dog, it’s critical to get them to a vet as soon as possible. At Wellesley-Natick Veterinary Hospital, we have onsite specialists, diagnostic services, and an emergency clinic to help diagnose and treat your pet’s most challenging health conditions.