Deadly Dog Diseases

Protecting your pet from common diseases that can threaten its life and health is one of the prime duties of every dog owner. Getting annual vaccinations recommended by your veterinarian is the best way to ensure that your dog is protected against these diseases. Vaccinations protect not only your dog but other animals and humans in the community

Distemper

The American Veterinary Medicine Association cites distemper as the greatest threat to dogs' lives. The disease is fatal to puppies in 80 percent of cases, and 50 percent in adult dogs. Symptoms include fever, eye and nose discharge, loss of appetite, cough, diarrhea and vomiting. In later stages, it can produce paralysis and seizures. There is no cure for the disease, and treatment is only supportive. It is important to stay current on your dog's distemper vaccinations

Rabies

Rabies vaccinations are required by law. The disease is nearly always fatal in dogs once symptoms appear. Symptoms include changes in behavior that include refusal to eat and drink and apparent depression. The animal may become aggressive or shows signs of paralysis. Disorientation, seizures and choking may occur. Rabies can be contracted by humans, so it is important to protect your pet as well as your community from this disease.

Parvovirus

"Parvo" is a highly contagious disease that is easily spread among dogs and is often fatal in puppies. It is spread through contact with infected feces. The virus can live for some time on bedding, cage floors and other surfaces. Symptoms include severe vomiting and bloody diarrhea, lethargy and weakness, fever, loss of appetite and lack of interest in surroundings. Symptoms can be severe and can overwhelm the animal quickly, causing death in a matter of days. Treatment usually requires hospitalization and IV fluids. Vaccination is the best prevention against parvovirus.

Infectious Canine Hepatitis

Infectious canine hepatitis is a contagious viral illness spread through contact with saliva, urine or feces of an infected animal. It is most prevalent in puppies. Symptoms of infectious canine hepatitis are vomiting, coughing, cloudiness of eye, increased drinking and urination, jaundice, pale gums and tongue and abdominal pain. It is treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics and IV fluids. Vaccination is available to prevent this disease.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is known as the outdoor dog's disease. It is caused by a bacteria known as a spirochete found in infected soil or water or feces of raccoons, skunks or other woodland animals. Symptoms include vomiting, refusing to eat, weight loss, muscle pain or stiffness, and lethargy. Treatment is with antibiotics. Leptospirosis can be transmitted to humans, so care should be taken to use good hygiene methods when your animal is sick. Revaccination is important to prevent the disease in dogs that spend a great deal of time outdoors

References

• Animal Health Channel
• CanisMajor.com
• VetInfo.com