Last time on the Acoma Animal Clinic blog we talked a lot about how preventative care, regular check-ups, and proactivity in your pets health care is critical in maintaining not only good pet health but also an affordable vet regime. To that end, we wanted to provide our readers, you, with more information on how to stay on top of your pet’s health. Here are some of the most common dog health questions, and the answers you are searching for
Common Dog Health Questions
Q: What are the most common health problems?
A: Some of the most common are ear infections, worms, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Q: Why is my dog vomiting?
A: Vomiting can be caused by a wide number of things, ranging from kidney failure, poisoning, or overeating. It is important to look at the contents of the vomit, whether there is blood or bile and more. Pay close attention when you notice your dog vomiting, if there is blood seek a vet immediately.
Q: Why is my dog shaking its ears?
A: Dogs shake, scratch, or otherwise focus on their ears when they have infections. Other symptoms include ear odor, lack of balance, red ear canals, swelling, unusual eye movement and more. If you suspect your dog has an infection seek out a vet immediately to get your pet on an antibiotic.
Q: How do I know if my dog has worms?
A: Another of one of the most common health problems in dogs is the various types of worms. If you notice any of the following symptoms pay your vet a visit. Diarrhea, weight loss, rough/dry coat, change in appetite, vomiting, scooting.
Q: What does dog diarrhea mean?
A: Like vomiting, diarrhea in dogs can have a wide range of causes. Stress, parasites, food issues, or parvovirus. Unfortunately, diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration in your pet. Make sure they have plenty of clean drinking water and if the condition persists for longer than a day see a vet!
Common Dog Health Questions – Dental
Q: How many teeth do dogs have?
A: Most pooches have around 42 teeth.
Q: When do teeth fall out?
A: When pups are growing, their baby teeth fall out at different times varying by breed. Usually around 16 weeks (about four months) they will be losing their front teeth and the others later. Usually, this is not noticed as the teeth are swallowed or come out when the pet is outside.
Q: What is the most common dental problem in dogs?
A: Periodontal disease is by large the most common issue when it comes to dog’s dental health. By the time most pets are 2 years old they have some form of the disease. This is of course due to lack of brushing! Just think how your mouth and teeth would hold up if you didn’t brush for years?
Q: Can my dog get cavities?
A: Cavities are much rarer in pets than us. Their diets have much less sugar than ours. There are still other problems that can take hold. Again, make sure you’re brushing those teeth!
If you have noticed any of those symptoms in your furry friend, pay close attention and if necessary contact your vet! They can accurately diagnose ailments and get you and your pet on the path to health soon.
Together, the health of your pet can be maintained at the highest level, all year. If you’re looking for a veterinarian to help you contact us and let’s get your family healthy.