Dog Infections
Dog Infections are common, and most dogs will experience one type of infection in their lifetime. While most are easily treatable, some can be dangerous or even fatal to your dog. There are vaccinations offered to protect your dog from some of these common infections. Certain canine vaccines are mandatory in some states. There are also medications to treat these canine conditions if your dog happens to contract one.
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Distemper
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Canine Distemper virus (CDV) is preventable with a vaccination. This infection begins with flu-like symptoms in your dog. Nose and eye discharge are the first signs that usually appear. Your dog may also appear to be squinting. This is usually followed with fever and lethargy. This dog infection can progress to seizures and possible brain damage. It causes death in 50 percent of all cases. It is vital to get your dog to the vet if you suspect this infection.
Parvovirus
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Parvovirus (parvo) is an extremely contagious viral infection. The symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. The most predominant symptom is urgent bloody diarrhea. The diarrhea has a sickening metallic smell to it, and it can be accompanied with major gas discharge. This viral infection usually comes from stagnant water, such as a puddle, and can also be spread through feces. This is another infection that can be prevented with a vaccination.
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Rabies
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Rabies is another infection that is contracted by dogs. Your dog can get rabies from another infected dog or wild animal. There is no cure for rabies, which is always fatal for your dog. The signs of this infection are neurological, and your dog may start to sway when standing. There is also a mouth discharge of white, foaming saliva. There is a vaccination for this canine infection, and in some states it is the law for your dog to get this.
Ear Infection
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One of the most common infections in dogs are ear infections. Dogs with longer or floppy ears are most susceptible. Your dog pawing at his ear or exhibiting a constant scratching in that area is usually one of the first signs of this infection. A foul odor and black or waxy discharge from the ear are other symptoms of this infection. The dog might rub the ear on the carpet or ground and keep his head tilted to one side if an ear infection is on board. This is very treatable by your vet with antibiotics and ear ointments. A full recovery is usually expected.
Upper-Respiratory Infection
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Dogs can suffer from an upper-respiratory infection much like humans do. Common causes are Bordetella, also called kennel cough, and canine influenza. The infection typically settles in your dog's upper trachea, bronchi, and sinuses. A dog can exhibit a dry cough and appear lethargic. Labored breathing can also be a symptom. These types of infections are treated with antibiotics from your vet and are usually not a dangerous medical condition when treated in time.
Lyme Disease
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Lyme-disease symptoms include fever, pain when moving, loss of appetite, lameness and lymph-node enlargement. The infection is caused from ticks that transmit this bacterium to dogs. A vaccine is available for Lyme disease, although it's effectiveness is debatable. When caught in early stages, the treatment of antibiotics is usually successful. Your dog may also be given anti-inflammatory medication to help with the pain and swelling in the joints.
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