Part 2 of our list of dangerous diseases that can kill your dog
Table of Contents
Continuing with our discussion on dangerous dog diseases, here are four more diseases that can be fatal for your dog.
5) Gastric Torsion or Bloat
Bloat is a condition that is characterized by having a larger than normal stomach. In some instances, the stomach is filled with gas and it becomes twisted. As a result, fluid and air cannot escape from the stomach. Gastric torsion is a life-threatening condition that is characterized by the following symptoms:
- Inability to vomit
- Retching
- The stomach area becomes visibly enlarged
- Restlessness
- Excess secretion of saliva
Gastric torsion occurs when your dog gulps food quickly. Large and deep-chested breeds of dogs such as Great Danes, and Labradors have a higher susceptibility to developing this condition. The best way to avoid bloat is by teaching your dog to consume food slowly. Some time-releasing food bowls are available in the market which dispenses food in small bits so your dog won’t take large bites of food.
6) Renal Failure
- Renal failure develops gradually and often results in the death of the dog. Advanced dental diseases, Lyme disease, and complications from medicine are the most common causes of kidney failure in dogs. If dental disease is not treated on time, the bacteria from the dog’s gums diffuses in the blood and attacks vital organs like kidneys, causing irreversible damage.
To prevent renal failure, make it a habit to brush your dog’s teeth right from the start. You can also give bully sticks or other chewable toys to your dog to remove built-on plaque and tartar. And don’t forget to get your dog’s teeth checked by a professional dental vet once a year or so.
7) Lyme Disease
- Lyme disease is caused by tick infestation in dogs. The ticks carry bacteria that attacks the dog’s internal organs. It is one of the most common parasitic diseases in dogs. Common symptoms of Lyme disease include lameness in the legs i.e. loss or defection of motor skills. The lameness may affect all limbs at once or one by one.
Other symptoms include a decrease in appetite and stiffness of the body. If Lyme disease remains untreated, it can cause renal failure, in extreme cases. Antibiotics are the first line of action against Lyme disease. When treated early on, the symptoms of the disease resolve within four weeks.
- The best way to save your dog from catching this disease is to keep it away from other infected animals. A regular medical checkup also helps identify the disease and catching it in its tracks early on.
8) Valley Fever
- Valley fever, also known as coccidioidomycosis, is caused by the fungus Coccidioides. It is transmitted through dust and is non-contagious in nature. This disease is most prevalent in the dry areas of southern California that receive less rain.
The fungus attacks the respiratory system first and then spreads to other parts of the body, mainly joint bones and eyes. Common symptoms of the disease are:
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- High fever
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Swollen joints
- The appearance of ulcers on the dog’s skin
Antifungal medicine is administered for this disease. Treatment usually lasts for six months or more.
To keep your dog in good health, regular medical checkups are a must. Contact Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center if your dog displays serious symptoms of the above-mentioned diseases. We are located in Charlottesville, VA. Call us at 434-971-9800 and book an appointment now.