Dog Health Problems
Sometimes dog health problems result from unexpected situations that cannot be prevented with standard measures such as a healthy diet or vaccination.
Rather, there are conditions that will have your dog become ill - e.g. if your dog eats cyanide poison in the bush intended for rodents, or he enters shock after an injury - what do you do? To prepare for such dog health problems, consider these tips:
First Aid
In times of emergency dog health problems as detailed below, knowledge and quick action can make all the difference. Consider taking a first aid course and purchasing a special dog first aid kit.
Traffic accidents
It's not uncommon for dogs to run out into the street unexpectedly, but if you keep your dog on a leash, you'll minimize the chances that it will be hurt. Dogs hit by cars often have broken bones and lacerations. Be aware that a dog in pain may attempt to bite. Handle an injured dog in a manner that protects you and prevents further injury and pain to the dog.
Heatstroke
Dogs are more susceptible to heat exposure that humans. In a hot climate, ensure there is sufficient shade and water is available. Heatstroke kills family pets every year because they are left in cars on warm days.
- Rapid or heavy breathing
- Bright red tongue
- Vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
- Unsteadiness
- Hot, dry nose
- Thick saliva
Household Chemical Poisoning
Dog health problems resulting from common household chemicals, paints, acids and detergents are common. The list of common contaminants is large and common sense is the best measure to prevent such a catastrophe.
- Keep poisonous materials properly stored and out of reach of pets.
- Keep dogs from wondering in areas where pest control aerial drops of poison have occurred.
- Keep emergency numbers handy by the phone.
- Try to establish what poisonous ingredient the dog has been exposed to.
- Call your vet for notification of the incident and provide as much information that you may have.
- Once isolating the poisonous ingredient, be sure to take evidence of it, such as the label of container, to the vet
