Several common dog illnesses are preventable. Dog vaccines prevent several common dog illnesses. The dog owner should make sure to get the do properly vaccinated and take other measures to prevent common dog diseases.
Vaccines and responsible dog ownership cannot prevent all dog illnesses. However, getting the dog properly vaccinated can prevent some potentially fatal dog illnesses. Some of the common dog illnesses that are prevented by dog vaccines are rabies and parvovirus.
Rabies is a potentially fatal viral infection transmitted by a bite from an infected animal. Since rabies vaccines are perhaps the most common dog vaccine administered, the frequency of rabies cases has drastically declined over the years.
Parvovirus is another viral infection that can be prevented with dog vaccinations. Parvovirus causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms including bloody diarrhea. Young puppies with the parvovirus can experience sudden death is the viral infection attacks the heart.
Diarrhea in dogs can be caused by other illnesses besides the parvovirus. Ingesting rotten food or other viral infections can cause diarrhea. By eliminating a dogs access to garbage, the dog owner may prevent some causes of diarrhea in dogs.
Vomiting is another common cause for a veterinary appointment. Vomiting can be caused by the same things that can cause diarrhea in dogs. If the dog has both vomiting and diarrhea, has blood in either one, or if either persists for more than a day, the dog owner should contact the veterinarian immediately.
Dirt and debris in the dogs ears can increase the dogs risk of ear infections. Ear infections are another common cause of needing veterinary care. The presence of ear mites increases the dogs risk for ear infections, therefore any ear mites should be treated promptly.
Brushing the dogs teeth and taking the dog for regular veterinary dental visits and cleanings can prevent periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a common dog illness that can be prevented. It is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the dogs teeth.
