There are a few common health issues that rescue dogs face. These include heatstroke, fleas, and ticks. Fortunately, many of these problems are preventable with proper care. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common dog health problems and how to treat them.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a serious health problem for dogs. It can be caused by excessive physical activity in warm weather. Dogs with limited airways are more vulnerable to the condition. Brachycephalic breeds are particularly susceptible to heatstroke.
Vomiting
Vomiting is one of the most common health problems in rescue dogs, and it can indicate a variety of conditions. Vomiting can also be a sign of a foreign body or toxic substance. The symptoms of a foreign body are often more severe than those of a toxic substance. If your dog has a foreign body, it is best to get a stool sample as soon as possible. Vomiting can also be a symptom of a parasite.
Fleas
Fleas and ticks are common health problems in dogs, particularly rescue dogs. Fortunately, most good rescue agencies treat their dogs for fleas and ticks before they are adopted. However, it is still essential to continue treating your new pet with a flea and tick prevention product once you bring him home.
Ticks
There are about 90 different species of ticks in the U.S., but only a few are commonly found on dogs. Each one affects a dog’s health in different ways. Because of this, it’s important to know how to identify each type so that you can take the proper steps to protect your dog. In addition, different species of ticks have different behaviors and preferred habitats.
Mitral valve disease
Mitral valve disease affects a dog’s heart and is most common in older dogs. The heart is unable to pump enough blood through the valve, leading to congestive heart failure and fluid buildup in the lungs. While no cure exists, medications can help delay the progression of the disease.
Urinary tract infection
A UTI is one of the most common health problems affecting rescue dogs. While most cases of UTI are treatable with antibiotics, a recurring infection can be dangerous and lead to bladder cancer. A veterinarian can prescribe antibiotics for the UTI, and sometimes they may also prescribe pain medication or suggest a change in diet. The type of antibiotic prescribed will depend on the severity of the infection and the spread of the infection. Typical antibiotics for UTIs include Cefadroxil, Tetracycline, and Gentamicin. It’s important to keep your dog on antibiotics for the entire duration of the infection.
