The Most Common Illnesses That Affect Puppies
There’s hardly anything more exciting and heartwarming than welcoming a new furry family member home. However, there are quite a few challenges involved in pet parenting that you should know about. Aside from destroying your favorite shoes and new sofas, you’ll also need to consider common pet illnesses.
And when it comes to managing the costs of your puppy’s healthcare needs, a pet health plan is the best option. Obtaining the best pet insurance will ensure that you can afford the costs of essential vaccinations and all of those costly vet visits.
Nevertheless, we’ve listed the most common illnesses that affect puppies, so you’ll know when to visit the vet.
Parvovirus
Parvovirus is something pet parents hope never to experience, a virus that impacts the gastrointestinal system. The virus sets off a series of heartbreaking symptoms like the inability to eat, constant vomiting, and painful, bloody diarrhea. You’ll notice your pet lose weight almost overnight, and if you don’t act fast enough, the virus will ravish your pup’s health in a few days.
There are vaccinations to prevent parvovirus, so be sure to have your puppy vaccinated before you bring them home. Moreover, if you notice the symptoms of parvo, take your puppy to the vet right away, as hospitalization is vital.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is not as terrifying as parvovirus, although you still won’t want your pet to fall ill with this ailment. Kennel cough is caused by Bordetella bacterium, and it’s highly contagious.
The symptoms include sneezing, coughing, and a very odd honking noise. In addition, lethargy also takes over.
Your little puppy will also need to be vaccinated against kennel cough, and a vet visit is crucial if you notice the symptoms.
Distemper
Distemper is a harrowing disease that affects puppies. The condition is spread through airborne particles, exposure to infected objects, or contact with infected animals.
The disease is similar to measles, but this distemper is more tricky to treat because it impacts various parts of the dog. The symptoms include fever, seizures, drooling, vertigo, coughing, lack of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and nasal discharge. Once again, vaccines can help prevent infection.
Unfortunately, there is no effective cure for distemper, and you’ll need to visit the vet to say goodbye to your pup if you notice the symptoms.
Parasites
Parasites like worms and ticks are prevalent in young puppies. And it’s essential pet parents take action early on to prevent their pup from falling ill due to parasitic infections.
Young pups must be dewormed regularly, and adult dogs must be dewormed once every year. When it comes to ticks and fleas, regular grooming and bathing with a tick and flea shampoo is an excellent solution.
Vomiting And Diarrhea
While vomiting and diarrhea are often symptoms of more severe health ailments, there are instances where these are standalone health concerns.
In some cases, you might be offering the wrong pet feed. In others, your pup might be experiencing anxiety. If your dog is suffering from the symptoms of anxiety, you can consider pet CBD. But in all cases, a vet visit is essential if your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea for more than a few hours.
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The Most Common Illnesses That Affect Puppies
