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If you go to the vet, be aware of the most common diseases dogs suffer from, including heartworm, uncinate spiral ulcer disease, Cushing's disease, and elbow malformation. These diseases also have symptoms you should be aware of.
leptospirosis
Due to H. spiracles, dogs will have a fever, diarrhea, loss of appetite, frequent urination, and muscle pain. Severe cases can cause liver and kidney failure. Treatment is usually with antibiotics. In some cases, intravenous fluids may be required.
Infected animals transmit the disease by ingesting contaminated water or coming into contact with contaminated soil. H. spiracles bacteria live in warm, moist areas and are transmitted through infected animals. The bacteria can also enter a dog's body through the nose and other open wounds.
Cushing's disease
The pituitary gland produces an excess of a hormone called ACTH, which causes the adrenal glands to overproduce cortisone. The hormone travels through the bloodstream to the adrenal glands, which produce excess cortisol. It is presumed that dogs with Cushing's disease also have tumors in their adrenal glands. Depending on the severity of the disease, treatment can be given. If the condition is mild, it can be treated with medication or surgery.
Although Cushing's disease cannot be cured, medical treatment can control its symptoms and extend the dog's lifespan. If the disease is caught early, the dog's prognosis is good and they can live a normal life for many years. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
Underdevelopment of the elbow
Dogs with elbow maldevelopment may develop microstress fractures in the ulnar cone due to abnormal forces being applied to the joint. The cone may separate from the bone below, fracturing the joint. However, surgery can be used to treat this condition. Symptoms of elbow maldevelopment include
pain on elbow extension and flexion, and limited range of activity. Dogs with elbow maldevelopment may also exhibit muscular atrophy of the triceps and periscapularis, which can vary in severity and age. However, early diagnosis is important.
Heart nematode
If you suspect your dog has heart disease, you should take him to the vet as soon as possible. An electrocardiogram and chest x-ray can detect installments of the disease and confirm if he has heartworms. If detected early, it may prevent heartworm disease from developing into a more serious condition.
Your dog may get heartworm disease because of coughing or being unable to tolerate exercise. Your vet can diagnose heartworms and prescribe medication. In most cases, after 4 to 6 months of successful treatment, your dog will be heartworm-free.
