If you have a furry friend, chances are they feel more like your family than just a pet. This is why it can be so difficult to watch them experience any kind of health problem. While a call or visit to the vet should be your first response, there are many ways to manage several health issues at home. If you have a dog, here are 5 health issues you may notice, and how you can treat them.
1. Weight
Many dogs have experienced problems with weight. Weight loss can be an indication of a parasite, a disorder, or several kinds of diseases, and therefore should be brought up to your vet. If your dog is gaining too much weight, chances are they're eating too much and getting too little exercise. If your vet says your dog is outside the margins of a healthy weight, you may want to switch up your dog's food, eating schedule, and exercise routine. To help regulate digestion, you may want to check out a Dr. Marty ProPower Plus coupon.
2. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can become allergic to all sorts of things. If you notice excessive itching and scratching, there are a couple things you can do to help. Severe allergies may require steroids or medication from the vet, but others can be treated at home. Specialty shampoos can help alleviate itching and prevent discomfort in the future, but it is important to make sure you're using them correctly. A quick rinse with these shampoos may not be enough to get the full effect. Itching could also be a sign of dry skin, in which case fatty acids can help your dog get healthier skin and a shinier coat. Some allergies could be food related, so you'll need to be picky about treats and dog food.
3. Hot Spots
Many dogs get hot spots from time to time, but the cause can vary. Hot spots can occur because of allergies, infections, or simply because your dog licked or scratched the area. Repetitive licking can be a sign of anxiety in dogs, in which case treating the hot spot may not prevent future ones from forming. Once you know the cause, you can take the proper preventative measures. To help a hot spot heal, first find the cause, then clean and dry the area and find a topical product to treat the issue. Many dogs will still try to lick the area, so keep this in mind when selecting a topical product. If you can't keep your dog distracted, it may be time to get out the cone. Also, do a quick check for fleas, since hot spots can also be caused by irritation from an infestation.
4. Dental Disease
Dental disease can sneak up on both you and your dog. While it can be difficult to brush a dog's teeth effectively, a buildup of plaque can affect the whole body. Bacteria that originates in the mouth can cause intestinal issues and even damage other organs. If your dog won't sit still enough for a good brushing, there are products you can add to their water that loosen plaque and can help get rid of bacteria.
5. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is bound to happen at one point or another, but it can be difficult to determine the cause. Persistent diarrhea should mean a call to the vet, since your dog could have a serious infection or other disease that needs treatment. For the occasional loose stool, consider finding a product that promotes healthy digestion. If the problem keeps coming back, this could be a sign that you need to change your dog's food.
Seeing your dog in any kind of pain can be distressing, but that doesn't mean you have to panic. Once you're more familiar with your dog's habits and health history, you'll be better prepared to treat minor issues from the comfort of your own home.
