Over the summer around the majority if the cases we see will fit into 1 of following 5 conditions:
Here is a very brief run-down of what you can do to prevent them from occurring:
- Gastroenteritis. This is a broad term for any stomach upset and there are too many causes to name. General preventative measures include: feeding a good quality food, be careful not to giving too many festive treats or rich foods, make sure there is always plenty of clean water available and try prevent your dogs drinking from stagnant puddles of water, always ensure regular de-worming and vaccinations.
- Tick borne diseases (this is not exclusively billiary as there are other diseases like Ehrlicha or Anaplasma which are also transmitted via ticks). These diseases cause a range of symptoms from lameness, to fever, to immune system malfunctions. Prevention includes regular treatment with a licensed tick and flea medication. This year has seen the introduction of a lot of great new and effective products into the veterinary market. For more information on these products please come speak to us.
- Dog fight wounds. Wounds often appear small but there is commonly an iceberg effect. They are best handled by seeing them promptly and flushing the wounds out to prevent or minimize infection. If you have inter-dog aggression be most aware at times of high excitability such as feeding, when getting home or when having visitors.
- Skin disease. As with gastro-enteritis there is a huge variety of causes and treatments, but by far the most important part you can play is making sure all your pets are treated for fleas. Even if you don’t see fleas make sure that you treat all animals at the recommended dosage interval. Flea bites are often the exacerbating factor with itchy dogs. Other general skin treatment tips are feeding food with high omega 3 and good quality ingredients, and washing with medicated shampoos.
- Kennel cough. This is an upper respiratory tract infection that usually occurs 3-10 days after your pet has returned from kennels or has been in contact with on infectious dog. It is easily treated and seldom problematic. The most common symptom is a dry harsh cough that often leads owners to believe that their dogs have a bone stuck in their throat.