Distemper (Panleukopenia): Distemper in cats is much different than in dogs and the two cannot be spread from one species to another. Diarrhea, high fever, vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite are hallmark symptoms of distemper. This disease is almost always fatal without proper pet vaccines beforehand.More Common Canine Diseases Bordatella (Kennel Cough): Responsible pet ownership dictates you vaccinate your dog against kennel cough if you are boarding your animal on your next trip away from home or even if your dog is involved in socialization activities with other dogs. The vaccine is now frequently administered via a nasal spray. A dog with kennel cough often displays symptoms such as a deep, hacking cough and occasional mucus. If the disease is contracted, the dog is treated with a course of antibiotics. Distemper: A highly contagious disease, distemper is usually fatal to dogs. Affecting the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems, distemper is identified by the initial flu-like symptoms, including coughing, sneezing, runny nose and eyes, and lethargy. A high fever will accompany these symptoms and will be followed by diarrhea, vomiting, shaking, and seizures. If the dog survives, it is normally impacted mentally for the rest of its life. Heartworms: Preventing heartworms is easy with just a simple dose of medication every month, normally in the form of a pill or a chew. Your dog is at risk all year long, because infected mosquitoes transmit the virus to your pet. The disease, caused by a parasite in your dog's heart, blocks the heart chambers, and eventually, smaller parasites flow through your dog's bloodstream. Treatment for heartworms is expensive and potentially fatal. Providing your dog with monthly medication is an important part of responsible pet ownership, and many vet offices will ask if you need a refill each time you come in. Hepatitis: Largely affecting the liver, a dog with Hepatitis will experience a fever, runny eyes, and abdominal pain. The fever may increase, causing convulsions. This disease, without prior administration of pet vaccines, can be fatal if not treated in a timely manner. Leptospirosis: If your dog enjoys playing in water, such as lakes or dog park pools, responsible pet ownership again dictates that a vaccination is necessary. Commonly contracted through water in which an animal has urinated, Leptospirosis can be spread to humans as well. In the beginning, symptoms can be nonexistent but will eventually lead to a kidney infection, vomiting, fever, and weight loss. The virus can be fatal if not treated, but the dog will most likely suffer from side-effects for the rest of its life. Parainfluenza: A highly contagious respiratory disease, the symptoms of Parainfluenza include a dry cough, runny nose and eyes, and lethargy. The disease will cause damage to the dog's respiratory system and can be fatal if not treated quickly. If you are likely to board your dog, administration of preventative pet vaccines for Parainfluenza is recommended. Page 2 of 3 :: First | Last :: Prev | 1 2 3 | Next

Dr. Gloria Dorsey, DVM, MPH, and Director of Medical Services at the Atlanta Humane Society, received a Master's of Public Health Degree in Epidemiology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is a graduate of Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Dorsey has worked for the non-profit animal charity and organization for over 12 years. Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

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