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Canine Parasites and Diseases: A Simple Guide

Even if you give your pet the good things he needs such as a good amount of physical activity and good foods for him, you need to realize that your pet can still become sick.  The best way to help you pet is to make sure that as soon as you notice something wrong that you take care of it.  For example, the symptoms that you may feel yourself when feeling sick, such as diarrhea, lack of appetite or a look of being out of it can be a sign that he has a bug.  But, on the other hand, if the symptoms last more than a few days, it's time to call your vet.  They may have something more serious such as parasites or an infection.

One of your first concerns should be when you pet has diarrhea.  This is very important to notice especially in puppies. Again, it may seem like he just has a bug, but it can also signal that there is something more wrong such as a virus, parasite or bacterial infection.  While a change in the type of food the dog eats or just the stress he is under can cause it, it's important to take steps to protect your animal when he has diarrhea.  You need to insure your pet, especially your puppy, does not dehydrate.  If the condition lasts for more than a day or so, you should call your vet.  You may need to collect a sample for the vet so that he or she can figure out what the problem is and how to treat it.

What about a dog with what looks like a cold?  Dogs that are coughing or have discharge coming from their nose are often suffering from a URI (Upper respiratory infection.) These are caused by a virus or bacteria that are lurking in the air.  It is important for you to realize what is happening with your dog, for your sake and the pets.  What they have is something they can pass on to you and your family as well.  Some pets can develop dehydration or even develop pneumonia.  Dogs that are exposed to a shelter like situation can also contract other respiratory diseases such as Bortadella or kennel cough.  Rest and some proper care can have the dog over this disease within a few days.  You can have your dog vaccinated for this condition which is a great thing to do for anyone who uses a doggie daycare of needs to use boarding shelters for when you travel.

Most municipalities will require that all dogs receive a certain number of vaccinations.  These are very important to your dog's health.  They help to prevent more deadly diseases from affecting your pet.  For example, parvovirus, distemper and rabies are diseases that can be vaccinated against.  Your dog will likely need to have a booster vaccine every year or so to protect them continuously.  Doing this protects you and the dog as well as other dogs in the area.  

Parasites can also attack and harm a dog.  For many dogs, there are a number of parasites that can affect them.  In order to monitor for this, your dog will need to be seen by a vet regularly and the vet is likely to need you to provide them with a sample of fecal matter.  A good thing to watch for is small rice sized granules in the dog's bedding or near its anus.  This is a sign of worms and your pet needs to be seen by a vet to help stop the problem.
But, that's not all of the parasites that can infect your dog.  On his skin there can also be parasites.  For example, mange and sarcoptic mites are critters that like to live here the hair follicle and on the skin of the pet.  Ear mites live inside the pet's ear.  They can really cause your dog pain and should be taken care of.  You may not be able to see them, either.  If your dog is uncomfortable or is scratching quite a bit, even skin biting, there are most likely parasites that need to be taken care of.  Of course, there are also fleas to contend with.

You should always consult a qualified veterinarian if you are concerned about your pet's health.

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