Dog Disease - Horner Syndrome

 

Horner syndrome is a disease which results to the damage of nerves and results in facial changes on one side. This specially occurs when sympathetic nerves lose their stimulation. Horner’s syndrome is more common in Golden Retrievers. This dog disease may be caused by some injury to the nerves. In dogs, the most common causes of this dog disease include:

• After effect of treatment or medication
• Bite wounds
• Brain or chest cancer
• Car accidents which cause trauma to the head, neck, or chest
• Disease of the orbit
• Idiopathic
• Infections in the middle ear
• Intervertebral (IV) disc disease in the neck area

Symptoms of Horner Syndrome
The common signs of Horner Syndrome include:

• Narrowing of pupils
• Mild drooping of the upper eyelid
• Sunken eyes
• Projection of the third eyelid
• Dilated blood vessels on the affected area which make the area warm.

Diagnosis of Horner’s Syndrome
This dog disease is diagnosed by the symptoms mentioned above. However, it is difficult to diagnose the main cause of the condition. This cause can be detected by:

• Physical and neurologic examination
• Radiographs (x-rays)
• Chemistry panel
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• CAT scan
• MRI
• Injection of epinephrine in the eye

Treatment of Horner’s Syndrome
This dog disease does not cause pain. However, it is important to realize that there is no treatment for the changes in the eye, but if the damage is mild then it would heal on its own, and the appearance of the dog will be normalized. Normally this problem in dog becomes fine with in three months or so, but eye surfaces must be lubricated. Apart from this phenylephrine eye drops are injected depending upon the location of the injury.

Dog Disease - Hookworm Dermatitis

Hookworm dermatitis is the most common parasites in intestines found in dogs and young puppies are at a greater risk. This dog disease is also called ancylostomiasis or uncinariasis dermatitis. Hookworms feed on your puppy’s blood by attaching themselves to the lining of the intestine. Infection may lead to severe diarrhea, death and anemia. One must immediately recognize the symptoms of hookworm and refer to a vet.

Causes
The adult hookworms lay eggs in intestine of an animal and these eggs are passed into the environment through the feces of the animal. The eggs hatch within 10 days and the larvae are located in the soil. When the animal comes into contact with this soil, then the larvae enter the skin but may also enter via hair follicles. Moreover, puppies can also be affected by this disease by contracting hookworms from their infected mother. This dog disease can also infect the fetuses of a pregnant female and may be passed onto her puppies through her milk. 

Symptoms
Symptoms of the Hookworm Dermatitis include the following:

• Anemia
• Pale gums
• Lethargy
• Loss of hair
• Dehydration
• Stunted growth
• Inability to gain weight
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Pneumonia
• Respiratory disease
• Coughing
• Lesions on feet or other areas of skin
• Erythematos papules
• Thickened, red and alopecic skin
• Muscles aching
• Licking of feet

Diagnosis of Hookworm Dermatitis
Possible diagnosis when a dog has itching, alopecic and crusting dermatitis on skin is Pelodera dermatitis. Fecel exam for hookworm eggs does not confirm a diagnosis but however provides supporting evidence. The easiest, fastest, inexpensive and most reliable method for the diagnosis of this disease is skin scraping.

Treatment of Hookworm Dermatitis
Appropriate antihelminthic treatment should be given to all affected dogs followed by a prophylactic program. Proper sanitation must be practiced. Treatment includes routine worming with fenbendazole, thiabendazole or levamizole. Puppies must be wormed at two, four, six and eight weeks of age. When concurrent bacterial infection is suspected then oral antibiotics are used. It is necessary to replace dirty and moist bedding with clean and dry bedding. High-protein diet with iron supplements is necessary for a severely infected puppy. If the condition of the puppy is critical then blood transfusions may be needed. It is important to consult a veterinarian if you believe that puppy has hookworms.

Dog Disease - Chronic Fibrotic Liver Disease in Dogs

Hepatic Fibrosis
Fibrosis itself causes no symptoms but can lead to portal hypertension when the scarring distorts blood flow through the liver.

The general name for the final stages of chronic inflammatory conditions of the liver is chronic fibrotic liver disease. It is also called hepatic fibrosis. This is a group of diseases leading to death because of liver failure.

This dog disease can be caused by chronic injury in case of inflammation, viruses and increased hepatic copper concentration. This dog disease may be present at the time of birth which may also develop into cirrhosis. It is basically an overly exuberant wound healing when excessive connective tissue builds up in the liver and excessive amounts of scar tissues replace the normal structural elements of tissues. Even though, fibrosis has no symptoms but it may cause portal hypertension due to the distortion of blood flow through the liver because of scarring.

Symptoms
The disease normally affects young German shepherd dogs which suffer from swelling of the abdomen, hepatic encephalopathy, appetite loss, and loss of weight.

This dog disease normally affects humans, cats, piglets, and dogs. Concentration of hepatic copper is measured in congenital hepatic fibrosis patients.

For diagnosis and assessment of fibrosis, needle liver biopsy is used. The first step is to treat the underlying causes of this dog disease. There is a variable response to treatment with anti-fibrotic therapy. Soon after diagnosis of this dog disease, some dogs die whereas the others might survive two and a half years, and some may even survive for four years.

Treatment of Hepatic Fibrosis
Treatment of hepatic fibrosis is done by two methods: firstly eradicate the primary cause, and then directly attacking pathways which are used for producing liver scars. Till now antifibrotic therapy is not available. However underlying causes may be treated. And the survival rate of the dogs may vary according to the conditions of the causes.

Dog Disease - Cystitis in Dogs

The literal meaning of cystitis is the swelling of the urinary bladder. This term in general is applied to any disease which may cause inflammation in the urinary bladder. This dog disease is more common in female dogs but if a male dog is affected then it is more threatening for him. This is due to the fact that the urethra in the female dog is wide and it is difficult for it to be blocked with stones, whereas in the male dogs the urethra can’t dilate and become easily blocked.

Causes
In most cases the cause of cystitis is infection caused by bacteria. Bladder stones, tumors in the bladder, and diverticula are other common causes of cystitis. A number of other causes of this dog disease include:

• Urine retention due to the narrowing of urethra from trauma, tumors or calculi.
• Urine retention because of damage to nerve supply to the bladder from the spinal cord lesions such as infections, tumors and slipped discs.
• Urine retention because of congenital defects of the bladder.
• Urine retention from dogs which are forced to hold urine for a long time.
• Trauma to the bladder from accidents
• Deficiencies of fluids and vitamin A
• Diabetes and other causes of sugar in the urine.

Symptoms
The symptoms of cystitis include:

Blood in the urine
Difficulty in urination
Urinate more frequently than normal
Irritation to the bladder

Diagnosis
Dog’s urine is analyzed to diagnose this dog disease. If the presence of bacteria becomes obvious then culture and sensitivity testing would be done to decide what antibiotics are to be used. X-rays and biopsy may be necessary if the cause of the cystitis isn’t determined. Cytoscopy is also very beneficial in order to diagnose the cause of cystitis. In this a special instrument is used which inspects the lower urinary tract. 


Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the disease. Most cases of cystitis are due to bacterial infections and these are easily treated with antibiotics. However, in certain cases a number of antibiotics would have to be tried before an effective one is found and this may take some time. If the cause is bladder stones then in some cases those can be easily removed with special diets; whereas others may have to be removed by surgery. Benign bladder polyps are also removed surgically.

In severe cases pain relievers, urinary antiseptics and antispasmotics may be given in order to relieve the symptoms.

Prevention
In order to avoid the stagnation of urine, the owner should give loads of salt to the dog in its food. This would lead to increased drinking and increased urination, which would keep the bladder flushed out.

Dog Disease - Canine Distemper Disease

Canine distemper is a highly transmissible and hazardous viral disease which attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of puppies and dogs. This dog disease is not just limited  to dog, but also affects wild animals like foxes, wolves, mink, coyotes, raccoons, skunks, and ferrets.

Causes of Canine Distemper
The virus that causes canine distemper is contained in the secretions of the infected dogs and puppies. It then affects the other puppies and dogs due to air contact. Outbreaks of distemper are discontinuous. Since canine distemper affects wildlife populations, contact between wild life and dogs can help spread the virus. Non-vaccinated dogs are at a greater risk of catching this disease. The puppies which are not vaccinated are at a greater threat. Dogs which are suffering from distemper normally die and those that survive may suffer permanent neurological problems such as muscle twitching or convulsions. 

SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of this dog disease develop a few days after exposure to the virus and include:

Fever
Depression
Appetite loss
Pus-filled eyes
Nasal discharge
Vomiting and diarrhea
Convulsions
Muscular twitching
Paralysis
Coughing
Lethargy

PREVENTION
Initially many dogs died because of canine distemper. But now this disease is quite rare and can be prevented by vaccinations. However, the disease has not been totally eradicated because of this. All puppies and dogs should be vaccinated against this deadly disease. Puppies must be vaccinated at 8 weeks, then 10 to 12 weeks depending upong the manufacturers recommendation. Thereafter booster vaccinations should be given at 15 months and then every three years.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
This canine disease can be diagnosed by the clinical appearance and laboratory tests. There is no specific treatment for this dog disease. However, in order to prevent secondary infections treatment is done, treatment is done in order to control vomiting, diarrhea, or neurological symptoms, and combat dehydration by injecting fluids. The dogs suffering from canine distemper must be kept warm, isolated from other dogs and must be given good nursing care.

Dog Disease - Burns in Dogs

Mild Burns
In case of mild burns, cut the hair of the affected area and apply aerosol spray remedy or ointment of tannic-acid base. If you do not have either of these, make use of strong tea. This can be applied over the burned area through a gauze bandage tape. Apart from all these a 1% picric-acid solution, crude cod-liver oil or bicarbonate-of-soda solution can also be used. One must avoid using strong antiseptics such as iodine because this would cause more damage to the burns.

The burns which are caused by acids and alkalis can be treated by washing the area with wash water many times. Burns caused due to alkalis can be normalized by a weak solution of vinegar or lemon juice. On the other hand burns caused due to acids can be normalized by ammonia or bicarbonate of soda.

Severe Burns or Scalds
In case of severe burns; rush the dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Handle the dog with caution in case of severe burns or scalds as the dog would be in terrible pain. Keep the dog warm by hot water bottles or an electric heating pad if he falls into a state of shock. At this stage it is necessary to make a dog comfortable and not apply remedies that will cause problems later on. You must avoid oils and greasy ointments and also don’t use cotton directly on the wounds. As in this case cotton would stick on the wound which is difficult to remove later on. You may use sterile gauze or a clean cloth soaked in bicarbonate of soda. Hurry the dog to a veterinarian after placing a blanket over him to keep him warm.

Electric Burns
In case of electric burns, the animal will be in a state of shock. Symptoms include:

1    Listlessness
2    Grasping for breath
3    Glazed eyes
4    Colorless gums
5    Temperature well below the normal of 101.2°F

The circulation can be judged by temperature. The lower the temperature, slow would be the circulation. Due to this very reason, it is important for you to keep the dog warm. Do not give stimulants to an unconscious dog as it can result in death. Try to resuscitate your dog with whiff of smelling salts or ammonia under his nose. Treat the dog for shock and carry him to a vet at the earliest possible hour.

Dog Disease - Breathing Disorders in Dogs

Problem related to breathing may occur anywhere along the respiratory tract. Disorders which affect the upper part of the respiratory tract may include the presence of foreign bodies in the throat or nostrils and infections like kennel cough. Conditions affecting the lower respiratory tract include pneumonia, bronchitis, and fluid accumulation in the chest cavity. 

Dog’s usual breathing pattern is affected by all respiratory diseases. The first symptom of a respiratory problem is peculiar breathing. Normally a dog takes about 10 to 30 breaths in a minute. This breathing rate varies depending upon the size of the dog, being slow in large individuals and fast in small ones. It is important for you to become habituated to the breathing pattern of your dog, including the signs that the dog makes as it breathes in and out. This knowledge is necessary as it will make it easier for you to detect any changes from the normal pattern. 

Rapid Breathing

Just like human beings, the breathing becomes faster on canines after exercise. Dogs may also puff  in hot weather and when they are hyperactive or worried. Rapid breathing may also occur in hazardous situations like shock, poisoning or heatstroke. You must contact your veterinarian immediately if the breathing rate of your dog increases for no obvious reason. 

Shallow Breathing

Shallow breathing means that there is interference in the normal expansion and contraction of the chest. A dog with shallow breathing compensates by rapid breathing. Shallow breathing may be caused because of pain from bruising or damage to the ribs. You must contact your vet straightaway if your dog suffers from shallow breathing, especially if your dog has suffered an injury. 

Labored Breathing

Difficulty breathing is something of a concern and possible causes include lung disease, heart failure, build up of fluid in the chest, tumors and traumas. You must immediately contact your vet.

It is important for you not to mistake normal panting for labored breathing. Hot, nervous, excited or exhausted dogs have shallow, rapid, open-mouthed breathing which is not a medical problem. Panting is induced as a result of vigorous exercise. You must contact your vet in case of sudden panting of your dog. However, it is important to note that a dog may pant due to pain or drugs. The color of the tongue of your dog can easily help you distinguish whether the panting of your dog is healthy or dangerous. Presence of plenty of oxygen in the blood will cause the tongue to be pink colored. 

Noisy Breathing: Wheezing and Coughing

Changes in the breathing sounds of your dog are also of immense importance. The possible causes of this disorder include paralysis of the vocal folds and obstruction in the upper respiratory tract. In case of noisy breathing, you must immediately contact your veterinarian.

Wheezing which is quite common in people is hazardous in canines. This is because wheezing would indicate a problem affecting the lungs, or inflammation of the bronchi caused by allergy, irritation, or infection. It is important for a wheezing dog to get veterinary attention within 24 hours. 

A dog which is coughing continuously must be taken to a vet immediately as during coughing trachea contracts and forces air out at high speed to dislodge foreign matter from the airways. 

Diagnostic Methods

Various methods that your vet may use to find out the cause of your dog’s breathing problem include:

1        Physical Examination

2        Imaging Techniques

3        Bacterial Culture

4        Stool Analysis

5        Bronchoscopy

6        Tracheal Wash

7        Allergy Test

Steps to take in case your dog is choking

It is important to keep in mind that you do not give cough medicine to your dog if he is choking as this prevents expulsion of any stuck up material which creates further problems. 

The first step is to differentiate between choking and gagging. Choking needs immediate treatment as it is an emergency situation. 

In case the dog becomes unconscious, try to resuscitate him by pressing sharply with the heels of both hands below the back ribs of the dog. This should expel any blockage. Thereafter you can remove any obstruction or material from his mouth with your fingers. If necessary, you may also have to provide artificial respiration and even cardiopulmonary resuscitation.   

In case your dog is conscious, you must put your arms around the belly of the dog, and make a fist. After this squeeze tightly up and down behind the rib cage. In case of a small dog, place your hands on both sides of the belly and press the body tightly upwards and forwards. 

Diseases Related to Breathing Disorders

Other disorders and diseases which may be associated with this dog disease include:

·      Allergic Rhinitis

·      Breathing Disorders

·      Brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome

·      Chest and Lung Conditions

·      Kartagener syndrome

·      Pneumothorax

·      Pulmonary adenomatosis

·      Veterinary Drugs

Dog Disease - Botulism

 

Botulism is a disastrous dog disease which occurs due to nerve toxins produced by bacterium ‘Clostridium’. This disease is quite rare but proves to be fatal for the unfortunate victims. 

Dogs come into contact with this disease by having dead animals that may contain this toxin. The condition of the disease may vary according to the amount of toxin eaten. After ingestion, the toxin travels to the blood supply and then attacks the nerves in association with the muscles. As a result of this disruption is seen in the nerve impulse to the muscle and signs of the illness begin. Symptoms may become evident immediately after the ingestion of toxins or many days after that. During this dogs are very active but they are unable to stand or even walk. As the toxin travels through the system, it results in slow heart race, slow breathing and may even lead to death. 

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of this dog disease include:

1        Paralysis in hind limbs which progresses to forelimbs

2        Paralysis of respiratory muscles

3        Excess salivation

4        Facial paralysis

5        Distended esophagus

6        Difficulty in chewing and swallowing

7        Loss of ability to urinate and defecate

8        Impaired vision

9        Variable heart rate

10    In some cases blitaeral keratoconjunctivitis sicca

11    Drooping eyelids

12    Slurred speech

13    Constipation

14    Lethargic

DIAGNOSIS

The diagnosis of botulism is very tough because there are other diseases which have similar symptoms. This dog disease can be confused with drug reactions, nervous system infection, shellfish poisoning and myasthenia gravis. The diagnosis can be done if the toxins can be isolated from blood, ingested food, feces or vomit.

However, another method to diagnose botulism is based on history of exposure to potentially contaminated carcasses and weakness signs. 

TREATMENT

Treatment for botulism includes hospitalization with intravenous fluids. Respirators may be necessary if the muscles to help breathing are impaired. Antitoxins may be used in the earlier stages of disease and are useless if the symptoms for this dog disease can be seen. Antibiotics may be used for treatment but they are not very effective. Treatment may be done if the disease is diagnosed in the early stages; otherwise treatment becomes impossible because of the paralysis of the lungs and heart. 

DISEASES RELATED TO BOTULISM

·      Bacterial Infections

·      Botulism

·      Brucellosis

·      Leptospirosis

·      Leptospirosis In Domestic Animals

·      Leptospirosis In Wild Animals

·      Lyme Disease

·      Zoonotic Diseases

·      Veterinary Drugs

Dog Disease - Anal Sac Disease

 
All dogs may suffer from anal sac disease. The anal sacs are glands at either side of the anus (rectum). They produce secretions which are pungent and straw colored with brown flecks. These secretions give other dogs mating and territorial information and it is given out every time a dog defecates. Secretions may normally be produced when the dogs are hyperactive or nervous. 

A variety of problems arise due to anal sacs. For example, anal sacs may become infected with bacteria and lead to a disease called ‘anal sacculitis’. They may also become impacted or overfilled which leads to discomfort and infection. Anal sacs can also lead to tumors.

Symptoms of Anal Sac Disease

Symptoms that your dog is suffering from anal sac problems include:

·      Scooting anus on the carpet or the ground

·      Frequent licking of anus

·      Clamping the tail down over the anus

·      Reluctance to sit as sitting applies pressure on the painful anal sac

·      Difficulty passing feces

·      Production of ribbon-like stool

·      Redness or swelling in the affected area

Prevention of Anal Sac Disease

In order to avoid your canine suffering from anal sac disease, make sure it does a good amount of exercise. This not only makes it healthy but also gives it a chance to go outside and gives it enough space to have bowel movements. Healthy food is also very important; diet must include zinc, the B complex, vitamin A, lecithin and omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to this olive oil is healthy for the dog too as it acts as a laxative by promoting muscular contraction of bowels. 

Diagnosis of Anal Sac Disease

Certain tests may be necessary to confirm that the dog is suffering from anal sac disease. These tests may include:

1        History and Physical exam

2        Rectal examination

3        Blood tests

4        Chest and abdominal X-rays along with abdominal ultrasound if tumor is found.

Treatment of Anal Sac Disease

In case of simple swelling and impactions, emptying the anal sac is all that is required. If your dog fails to express the anal sacs while it is awake, then anesthesia must be used to express and flush the anal sacs. Other treatments may include antibiotics on anti-inflammatory drugs and surgical removal of the anal sacs in severe cases.

Diseases Related to Anal Sac Disease

·      Acute Peritonitis

·      Anal Sac Impaction

·      Anal Sacculitis

·      Anal Sac Abscess

·      Anal Sac Tumor

·      Canine Infectious Hepatitis

·      Constipation

·      Copper-associated Hepatitis

·      Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction

·      Inflammatory Bowel Disease

·      Esophageal Achalasia

·      Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, EPI

·      Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)

·      Gluten-sensitive Enteropathy

·      Hepatic Fibrosis

·      Hepatic Encephalopathy

·      Histiocytic Ulcerative Colitis

·      Megaesophagus

·      Perianal Fistulas

·      Pyloric Stenosis

·      Veterinary Drugs

Dog Disease - Allergic dermatitis / Atopic dermatitis

Allergic dermatitis is commonly known as Atopic dermatitis. It is the tendency to allergic disease in response to environment allergens. House dust mite is one of the common allergy causing source. Tree, grass and weed pollens also cause atopic dermatitis. Parasitic infections which include sacroptic mange and otodectic mange, and flea allergic dermatitis are also allergy-causing reactions.

Signs and Diagnosis of Atopy

Severe itching does not start in allergic pets. As the allergy proceeds, the dog develops pink or red skin, darkening and bronzing of the skin. Some symptoms which may indicate Allergic dermatitis include foot licking, recurrent ear inflammations, face rubbing, itching of the armpits and groin in a young animal. Common staphylococcal bacteria affect the skin, which causes papules or pustules. When the papules or pustules rupture, scabs can also be formed. Secondary yeast infections which are common in allergic dogs make a dog itchy, greasy, red and stinky.

        Diagnosis of atopic dermatitis may be a difficult task and would be based upon clinical signs and various skin and blood tests. A diagnosis of food intolerance would be made in itchy dogs and can be controlled without using drugs and could be cancelled out by the introduction of an elimination diet which is then followed by dietary challenge to confirm the diagnosis. Elimination diets are very time consuming and would require the commitment of an owner. It may take up to 3 months before the dog can stop scratching. Once the other causes of itching have been governed out, tests to detect allergic antibiodies to environmental allergy causing agents can be used to confirm the diagnosis of atopy. 

Breed Predisposition

Certain breeds are predisposed to develop allergic skin disease and atopy is often inherited. Breeds which are at a higher risk to this disease include Belgian Tervuren, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Cairn Terrier, Dalmtian, English Setter, Golden Retriever, Irish Setter, Labrador,  Lhasa Apso, Miniature Schnauzer, Pug, Retriever, Scottish Terrier, Shar-Pei, Shih Tzu, Wirehaired Fox Terrier, West Highland White Terrier,       

 

Treatments for Atopic Pets

It is very difficult for dogs to grow out of allergies and most dogs would require lifelong therapy. Veterinarians may recommend various treatments and best regime. 

Diseases related to Atopic dermatitis

·      Acanthosis Nigricans

·      Allergic Dermatitis (Atopy)

·      Alopecia

·      Atopy

·      Black Hair Follicular Dysplasia

·      Bullous Pemphigoid

·      Color Dilution Alopecia

·      Comedo syndrome

·      Cornification Disorder

·      Cutaneous Asthenia

·      Dermoid Sinus

·      Eczema

·      Erythema multiforme

·      Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)

·      Histiocytosis

·      Growth Hormone-Responsive Dermatosis

·      Hookworm Dermatitis

·      Hormonal Skin Diseases

·      Juvenile Cellulitis

·      Lethal Acrodermatitis (LAD)

·      Lipomatosis, multiple

·      Nodular Dermatofibrosis

·      Panniculitis

·      Pelodera Dermatitis

·      Pemphigus foliaceuos

·      Primary Idiopathic Seborrhea

·      Skin Problems In West Highland White Terriers

·      Sebaceous Adenitis

·      Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN)

·      Vitamin A-Responsive Dermatosis

·      Vitiligo

·      Zinc-responsive Dermatosis

·      Vasculopathy

·      Veterinary Drugs

Dog Disease - Acute Peritonitis

This is a dog disease in which the accumulation of fluids, organic debris, cells, infectious organisms and pus in the cavity in acute peritonitis can prove to be fatal if it’s not treated. The reasons can be quite numerous. It may be due to external injury or internal infections or diseases such as:

1        Bowel puncture from trauma

2        Rupture from disease or ingested foreign bodies

3        Escape of contaminated bowel contents into abdominal cavity

4        Infections from abdominal cavity puncture

5        After surgery

6        Damage to urinary system

7        Damage to pancreas or liver

8        Rupture or an infected uterus or prostate gland

 

Symptoms of Acute Peritonitis

Symptoms of Acute Peritonitis include:

1        Severe pain

2        Abdominal tenderness

3        Rigid abdominal muscles while walking

4        Stiff gait

5        Loss of appetite

6        Vomiting

7        Fever

8        Increased heart and respiratory rate

9        Symptoms of shock develop in a few hours

Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Peritonitis

This dog disease is diagnosed by signs, physical examinations, and absence of bowel sounds and evidences of fluid in the abdomen. The diagnosis can be confirmed by X-rays and laboratory tests. Identification of the cause of the peritonitis can be assisted by abdominal fluid sample withdrawn and examined microscopically. In case of presence of bacterial infection, culture and sensitivity test on the abdominal fluid may be used to determine the antibiotic which may be used to treat the disease. 

Treatment of Acute Peritonitis

To repair the injury or to drain an abscess, surgery is essential if organ rupture or perforation has occurred. Antibiotics may be essential to control infection. Treatment for shock and symptomatic and supportive care, along with the use of pain relievers and intravenous feeding will be needed in certain cases.

Dog Disease - Achondroplasia, Dwarfism, Dwarf Syndrome

Achondroplasia is a dog disorder of bones. The literal meaning of achondroplasia is “without cartilage formation”. The problem does not arise in the formation of cartilage but instead in converting the cartilage to bones especially in the long bones of the arms and legs. It is an inherited disease that affects 1 in every 15000- 40,000 births. This disease may affect as well as dogs. This may also be referred to as ACH, Achondroplastic dwarfism, Chondrodystrophia fetalis, Chondrodystrophy syndrome, Congenital osteosclerosis, Dwarf, achondroplastic, and Osteosclerosis congenital. All these definitions refer to the abnormal bone growth. In dogs, this disease may be mild with perhaps bowing or short legs. This normally does not result in discomfort for the dogs. However, in severe cases treatment may be necessary.

CAUSES

Achondroplasia may be caused due to:

1)      Genetic mutation of the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) gene located on chromosome 4.

2)       It may be inherited from the parents.

However, according to the research it is believed that these mutations make the protein more active, as a result of this protein interferes with the skeletal development which causes hindrance in bone growth.

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms included in this dog disease are:

1        Slightly larger head than normal

2        Undershot jaw of a shorter nose

3        Crooked teeth in few dogs

4        Abnormal bone shape

5        Enlarged joints

6        Sideway bowing of the forelims

Treatment

In severe cases of this disease, surgery might be necessary so that it may relieve the dog some pain and also allow it to function properly. Normally in this dog disease ulna, or radius/ulna surgery may be needed. This is performed when the dog is at least one year old and the growth of bones is almost complete. Even then, surgical success may vary.

Dog Disease - Acanthosis Nigricans disease in Dogs

This is primarily a dog disease of melanosis type which is more common in Dachshunds breed. It begins with hyperpigmenation in the armpits. This then progresses slowly to hair loss. Lubricated, stinky debris accumulate in more severely affected canines. There may be involvements of abdomen, groin, chest, anal area, forelimbs and hock in case of Acanthosis Nigricians. This dog disease is similar to chronic hyperplastic dermatitis mainly due to allergy, but inflammation in this case will be less. 

Diagnosis of Acanthosis Nigricans

History and physical examination is done to identify the underlying cause of the disease. Skin scrapings may be done to rule out the disease demodicosis, especially in puppies. In order to identify bacterial and Malassezia infection impression smears are useful.

 

In order to avoid multiplication of this dog disease, affected animals must not interbreed. 

Treatment of Acanthosis Nigricans

Primary acanthosis nigricans is incurable in Dachshunds. Dogs may lead to shampoo therapy and local topical glucocorticoids in the early stages of the disease. As the disease proceeds, tougher systemic therapy may be necessary. In case of secondary acanthosis nigricans, the lesions will be removed after identifying and correcting the underlying cause. If secondary bacterial and yeast pyodermas are not treated properly, then this will not occur. 

Vitamin E is successful in the treatment of numerous skin diseases, for example, discoid, epidermolysis bullosa simplex etc. However, it does not prove to be a success alone, but does offer a nontoxic aid to therapy.   

Dog Disease - Acromegaly disease in dogs

Acromegaly is a disease which happens as a result of excessive secretion of a growth harmone called somatotropin. It is also called hypersomatotropism. This dog disease results in enlargement of the head, face, hands and feets.

In man and the cat the overproduction of the growth hormone results sue to GH-producing tumor of the pituitary gland. However, in dogs the reason is different and the disorder is reversible. In dogs acromegaly may be due to progesterone secretion. Use of medicines containing progesterone can cause an excessive hormone growth. This dog disease may be cured by spaying. 

Symptoms of Acromegaly
Clinical signs of Acromegaly are abnormalities which include chronic progressive stiffness and rigidity. Other symptoms include:
•    Increased Appetite
•    Weight gain
•    Excessive urination
•    Increased thirst
•    Excessive panting
•    Prominent skin folds
•    Thickening of skin
•    Enlargement of tongue
•    Noisy Breathing

Diagnosis and Treatment of Acromegaly
This dog disease may be diagnosed by counting the increased plasma growth hormone of insulin-line growth factor 1 concentrations if the above mentioned symptoms are noticed. Progestagen withdrawal and ovariohysterectomy are the procedure which may cure this disease by reducing the plasma GH and GH-dependent insulin-like growth factor concentrations.

Dog Disease - Allergic Otitis, Ear Allergy

Dogs suffering from allergic dermatitis and food hypersensitivity are prone to develop inflammation of the ears. Matter of fact, the involvement of ear may be the one and only indication of an allergy. The Itching-scratching-itching cycle develops which results in loss of hair, scabs, and crusts around ears. The ear canal is filled with brown was which may sometime appear very red. 

Ear canals which have been medicated with medical ear preparations are prone to allergic contact dermatitis. The frequent cause of this problem is the antibiotic ‘neomycin’. On-and-off skin and ear infections are not normal for dogs and if your dog suffers so then there might be an underlying immune problem, or thyroid, or adrenal gland disease.

The dogs which have positive reactions to molds, trees, or cultivated plants are prone to skin and ear yeast infections. The dogs with positive reactions to cultivated plants are more prone to otitis externa and foot pad lesions.

‘Malassezia’ is adapted to nonhuman animals in particular, it has however, been causing generalized infections in human beings. This yeast can be transferred by human health-care workers from their pet dogs to neonatal patients. This is the most common yeast contributing chronic otitis externa in dogs.

Treatment of Allergic Otitis
In order to eliminate the ear symptoms, it is necessarily to treat the underlying skin disease. Antihistamines, topical and oral corticosteroids are used for the treatment of itching. It is advisable to stop the usage of any ear preparation that causes allergy. Bacterial or yeast infection must be treated as otherwise they may cause complications in allergic otitis.

Diseases and Disorders Related to Allergic Otitis
•    Allergic Otitis
•    Ear Infections
•    Epistaxis
•    Nasal Parakeratosis
•    Otitis Externa
•    Veterinary Drugs

Dog Disease - Acral Lick Dermatitis

Acral lick dermatitis is also known as lick granuloma and acral pruritic nodule. It is a skin disease mostly found in dogs due to excessive licking. It is one of the most usual and vexing dermatological problems seen in general practice. It is now believed that this disease is being caused by a multiple factor disease. There have been attempts to manage this disease with a single treatment which normally results in failure.

Acral Lick Dermatitis Causes
Some of the causes or factors of acral lick dermatitis are:
•    Allergy
•    Psychogenic causes
•    Boredom
•    Bacterial folliculitis
•    Foreign bodies
•    Neurologic disorders
•    Local trauma
•    Joint or bone diseases

Symptoms of Acral Lick Dermatitis
Lesions are single but they could be multiple. Large breeds such as German Shepherd Dog, Great Dane, and Labrador Retriever etc are predisposed. This disease may occur at any age, but it happens usually in dogs more than 5 years of age. Lesions maybe be at either one or different sites. Lesions are maintained by continuous licking or chewing. The lesion is characterized by bald, red, eroded or ulcerated, firm, nodular plaque.

Acral Lick Dermatitis Treatment
This disease can be controlled with medicine and/or behavior management. However, even after the identification and treatment of underlying problem, concurrent treatment of the skin is vital. It is essential to treat the associated secondary bacterial infection with 6-8 weeks antibiotics. Treatment of this condition can be difficult and in few cases surgical removal of affected area is required.

Several devices to stop licking are required: Elizabethan collar, bad tasting topicals, basquet muzzle, bandaging. Few drugs such as hydroxyzine (Atarax) and tricyclic antidepressants etc are used to alleviate anxiety.

The successful treatment of this disease depends on a thorough investigation of potential underlying causes and systemic, behavioral, topical and surgical methods of treatment.

Regular checkups of your Dog

Every dog owner wants the best for their dog, although some might ask why are regular check-ups for their dog important? Everyone wants to know the answer to this and similar questions. The main reason for regular check-ups for your dog by a qualified veterinary is to keep an eye on your dog's health and know in time if your dog is suffering for any diseases that you might not be aware of. Hence you need to pay special attention to your dog's regular checkups and tests, although these check-ups by a professional and testing might cost some money they may also be the first defense against diseases and save your dog's life.

A dog owner in general might not be able to diagnose clinical conditions and health problems in their dog because of lack of experience in dealing with diseases and dog rearing. This is the reason check-ups are given such importance, because a professional veterinarian is always be in better position to examine and diagnose any problems that your pet might be having. An example of this can be a potbellied dog, to a dog owner this might not seem like a sign of concern but in a through examination a problem might be diagnosed and early treatment can be given to treat the medical condition affecting the dog, in the case of a potbellied dog the problem could be diarrhea resulting in dehydration.

If you notice behavioral changes or any signs of illness then do not wait for your scheduled check-up instead contact your veterinarian and immediately get your pet checked out. Regular checkups also help in maintaining a health record of your dog and timely vaccinations for distemper, arvovirus, corona virus, rabies, hepatitis and several other diseases.Booster vaccinations are done by health care providers for the pet on these regular checkups which helps improve the immune system of your pet against some very dangerous diseases.

During checkups at the vet clinic your dog will go through several blood and stool tests to rule out any health problems, the stool tests will also be conducted to see that your dog is safe from worms and internal parasites, and if the presence of such is found de-worming and treating is generally carried out at the earliest to rid your pet of these parasites that affect its health.

Abnormalities, signs of pain are also checked during a checkup by the vet and treatment is given in case of problems, digestive upsets and anemia can also be diagnosed and treated during these checkups. A physical exam by a professional also help in detecting and ridding your loved pet of any external parasites like lice and ticks that might be affecting your dog. Another major aspect of a regular checkup is to ensure that the dental health of your dog is in perfect condition.

So you see a regular checkup by a professional can help diagnose problems and diseases with your dog and find a remedy at the earliest, therefore even though you might spend  little money every time your dog does for a checkup all that money is worth it because your pet is taken care of and because of the checkup is comfortable and happy.

Bathing your Dog

Grooming and cleanliness are probably one of the best things a dog owner can do for their dog, not only does this maintain a good level of hygiene, but also helps with the pet's health and keeps it safe from diseases related to hygiene. Bathing your dog regularly should be given the utmost importance. A pet living in unhygienic conditions is prone to infections.

While bathing your dog you should be careful and take steps necessary for your dog's betterment. For example if water enters the ear of a dog while bathing it can get into the ear canal of your pet and cause it harm by giving your pet an infection. Infections of the ear caused by water can be very painful and uncomfortable for the pet, ear infections may cause constant discharge from the pet's eat and may also cause enough discomfort that the dog constantly shakes its head.

Another important fact about bathing your dog is that not all breeds need to be given a bath at the same frequency, while some breeds require more bathing others might not. This typically depends on the fur and coat of your dog's breed. Hairy breeds of dog should be given a bath once in about 8 weeks, because if they get frequent baths they might lose the protective characteristics that their skin and coat provides them with. However in some cases hairy breeds can also be given frequent baths for a short while, for example if the dog is smelling bad due to some other health reason.  

When bathing your dog be sure to avoid human soaps or other soaps that might be irritating to your dog. The sops that are made for humans have material that is especially not suited to dogs. Therefore be sure to use the shampoo products that are especially made for dogs, these are made with your pet's sensitive body needs in mind and will be gentle on your dog's coat and fur. When using a new product be sure to try it out first on your pet so that if there is any allergic reactions you come to know of them.

Lastly when you are ready to give your dog a bath, be sure to have all the things together near a good source of water, this is necessary because dogs are generally excited by water and enjoy it and you don't want to be running around looking for bath products and towels while your pet is splashing water all over the place, Always use a dog conditioner on the coat it helps with combing after the bath. Bathing your dog should be a healthy and fun activity for both you and your dog, it will also keep your dog safe of many dog diseases associated with hygiene. Have fun bathing your Dog and remember cleanliness and hygiene should always be your first priority for the health of your dog.   

Dog Disease - Physical examination of a Dog

Physical examination of a dog on regular basis is a very important things and this importance should never be underestimated. A regular checkup of your pet by a qualified veterinarian can diagnose most dog diseases affecting your pet. the lack of regular physical examination can lead to your pet's health being neglected and you will not find out if your pet is suffering from any disease.

Observing your pet for behavioral changes like scratching, laziness or limping can lead to the diagnoses for several disease. These symptoms and behavior changes will tell you something is wrong and a physical examination will establish what is exactly wrong with the dog's health. for example a dog might be itching itself and because you notice the itching you examine your pet, you might just find a wound under the fur that is the cause of this itching, once the problem is diagnosed it is easy to find a cure and treatment for the problem or disease.    

Some other important diseases can be diagnosed by physical examination these can include wounds, the presence of external parasites like lice and ticks and thus physical examination will lead to a diagnosis and cure for your pet. Just like this physical examination can help you find out a lot of problems with your pet, sometimes for minor problems you can examine the pet yourself. Sometimes a professional can physically examine the pet and diagnose the disease and offer treatment.

We as pet owners should know the importance of a physical examination in a dog and have our pet regularly examined by a professional and qualified vet. This will lead to a good health for your dog and give it a comfortable and long life.

Dog Diseases Signs to look for!

The well being of our pet is very important to us and we always want the best for our loyal animal who is not only a companion but a part of the family for some of us. We always want our pet to be healthy and comfortable. Regular examination of our dog's health and observance of its behaviors can lead us to find out about the health of our dog. If something is wrong physically we will find out on an examination of by seeing behavioral changes that give us signs of an impeding disease or health problem with our pet. The following signs are indicators of your dog's health and will lead to diagnosing any diseases that might be affecting your dog.

If your dog has continuous nasal discharge it tells you that your dog is suffering from nasal congestion. If this discharge is too think it will also tell you that the dog might have pneumonia. Finding about these diseases in time will help you get a cure for your dog and make it comfortable.

If your dog is vomiting one or two times occasionally this is a sign of concern for you if your pet starts to continually vomit, be sure to take it to your vet for a thorough examination. This examination might just diagnose a serious medical problem with your pet and if diagnosed in time it might even save your pet's life.

If your dog has continuous itching then a closer examination should be carried out this itching could be because of a wound under the coat or because of presence of ticks, lice or some other parasite. The presence of a wound of parasite can be very detrimental to the health of your pet and once diagnosis is made treatment can be carried out to give relief to your pet.

If you observe that your dog is passing loose stool that could also be a sign of ill health, the passing of loose stool one or two times does not indicate danger but warrants attention and if the problem continues then this could be a sign of serious dog disease affecting your pet. In that case a visit to the veterinarian becomes necessary to diagnose and cure the health problem affecting your dog. In a similar way constipation in your dog is also something to worry about and could indicate a health problem with your pet.

Observe your dog's movement regularly any changes in that could also indicate medical problems with the dog. In case of abnormal movement a physical exam of the pet is necessary to rule out several dog diseases. a limping dog could be a sign of lesions in the dog's food. A dog which is of old age and is reluctant to walk or eat could be indicating some type of an acute renal disorders like nephritis an examination by a professional will rule that out.

If the eyes of your dog show signs of whiteness, it could be a sign of the corneal opacity that may occur in some diseases for example trypanasomosis. When the dog becomes anemic, the mucous membrane of the eyes becomes paler and in severe cases, this may have wall white color.

If the dog bites chain and owners or others, look for behavior disorders and rabies needs to be ruled out.

These are some important signs and symptoms of dog diseases affecting pets all over the world, be a responsible pet owner and always observe your pet for problems and behavior changes that might indicate a health concern with your pet. Keeping an eye out for these important symptoms can prevent the disease from dragging out and help your dog get the proper treatment and cure for some dangerous dog diseases.

Dog Disease - Administering medicine to a Dog

Dogs are very intelligent animals and most of the time they are aware when medicines have been mixed in their food and water by their owners. This makes it very difficult for the dog owners to administer medicines and drugs to their dogs. Medicines are a necessary evil that have to be given to pets when needed and forcing an animal to take medicine is not going to help. If your pet requires medication orally decide whether it is an option to mix the medicine with water or food. At many occasions the medicines can be mixed with foods and they can be properly concealed by mixing with the food.  

The best way to administer the medicine with food is to delay the feeding time of your dog when administering medicine with the food. This procedure will make the dog hungry to an extent at this time the dog should be provided with a small amount of food so that it is not suspicious and then food mixed with the medicine should be given to the dog, with this procedure the dog will more than likely eat the food mixed with medicine. If the dog is reluctant to eat medicine this way you will have to restrain the dog, open its mouth and place the medicine behind the fang teeth, extra care should be taken so the medicine does not go into the respiratory organs which can be dangerous.If that happens the dog will experience many bouts like activities and may end up in aspiration pneumonia with severe nasal discharge and panting like activities. In puppies, just swab the medicine around the upper lip. The puppy will lick automatically the drug by tongue. Hence, the administration becomes perfect in such cases.

If you need to administer a medicine that is in liquid form, don’t raise the head of dog too much and place medicine by a syringe. Just by using a dropper, fill the medicine in the lip pocket. The continuous rubbing at the throat side may stimulate the swallowing. Making the animal thirsty and then offering of medicine mixed water may many times help the intake of the medicine.

These are some of the ways to help you administer medicine to dogs when they are in need of medicine or suffering from diseases, it is important you know how to give your dog medicine to help it cure faster and feel better and live a healthy and comfortable life.

Dog Breed Afghan Hound

Afghan Hound:

This coursing hound comes from the mountains and plains of Afghanistan, developing from two distinct breeds which are now almost entirely intermingled. There is some evidence that Afghan hounds had moved eastward along the trade routes and had originated in the hounds of the eastern Mediterranean. This dog breed was first imported in to Britain in 1894, but failed to make much of impression until in 1907 a dog named Zondin appeared at shows and attracted the attention of royalty. Afghan hounds were imported into North America in 1926.

Characteristics:

A dignified hound, but capable of playing the fool. It needs a lot of exercise and its profuse coat demands frequent grooming. Given proper care it is one of the most striking of dog breeds and for this reason enjoys the mixed blessing of great popularity. The moment of the Afghan should be smooth and springy with considerable style. The dog gives the impression of strength and dignity combined with speed and power. The head is long and lean, the body strong and deep, with very muscled forequarters and powerful hind-quarters. 

For detailed breed information on the afghan hound and its health and diseases also read our detailed dog breed page on the Afghan Hound.