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Home Health Remedies and facts about common
dog (Rottweiler) ailments
Rottweiler Snake Bite
(Copperhead)
This 2 yr old female
Rottweiler was bitten by a poisonous snake over the course of a Monday
night and discovered early Tuesday morning with sever swelling to the
right side of her neck. A call was placed to the veterinarian and the
details of the situation explained. The vet suspected a spider or bee
bite and placed the dog on an antihistamine. (Benadryl oral per 8hrs)
The following morning the
swelling had increased and the
hematoma had begun
to "leak" large quantities of blood and serum. A visit to the
veterinarian was quickly scheduled. Upon initial examination of the
wound the diagnosis was very vague.
CBC blood tests were pulled and showed an elevation of white blood
cell count and a well below red blood cell count of 29. (a level of 12
would necessitate a blood transfusion). The dog was administered a
general anesthesia, and the are was shaved for better viewing. Upon
closer examination the location of a snake bite was clearly visible.
Given that the only poisonous snake in the geographical region is a
Copperhead, a diagnosis of a Copperhead bite was made. The bottom of the
hematoma was lanced to allow good drainage, the wound thoroughly
flushed/cleansed and the dog was sent home on
Clavamox 625mg twice daily.
Click here for additional
info and video of a
Rottweiler snake
bite treatment.
COTTON BALL REMEDY IF
YOUR DOG EATS GLASS
What do you do if
your puppy (or mischievous older dog) gets into your holiday decorations
and eats some of the glass ornaments? This potentially lethal mishap can
darken even the brightest holiday season.
THE PROCEDURE
Before the holiday go to a pharmacy and buy a box of cotton balls. Be
sure that you get cotton balls not/the "cosmetic puffs" that are made
from man-made fibers. Also, buy a quart of half-and-half coffee cream
and put it in the freezer. Should your dog eat glass ornaments, defrost
the half-and-half and pour some in a bowl. Dip cotton balls into the
cream and feed them to your dog. Dogs under 10 lbs should eat 2 balls,
which you have first torn into smaller pieces. Dogs 10-50 lbs-should eat
3-5 balls, and larger dogs should eat 5-7. You may feed larger dogs an
entire cotton ball at once. Dogs seem to really like these strange
"treats' and eat them readily. As the cotton works its way through the
digestive tract it will find all the glass pieces and wrap itself around
them. Even the teeniest shards of glass will be caught and wrapped in
the cotton fibers and the cotton will protect the intestines from damage
by the glass. Your dog's stools will be really weird for a few days and
you will have to be careful to check for fresh blood or a tarry
appearance to the stool. If either of the latter symptoms appear you
should rush your dog to the vet for a checkup but in most cases, the
dogs will be just fine.
An actual experience: I can personally vouch for the cotton ball
treatment. While I was at the vet waiting for him to return from lunch a
terrified woman ran in with a litter of puppies who had demolished a
wooden crate along with large open staples. The young vet had taken
x-rays, which did show each of the puppies had swallowed several open
staples. He was preparing them for surgery when my wonderful vet came in
and said no surgery. I watched him wet several cotton bails, squeeze out
the water and pop them down their throats. Within 24 hours every staple
was accounted for. This was a lesson I learned in the mid-1960s and have
had to use several times on my brats. I wet the cotton bails and smear
on some liverwurst and they bolt it down and ask for more. The cotton
always comes out with the object safely embedded.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG IS
SPRAYED BY A SKUNK.
It's that time of year again when the
skunks are out nightly fattening up for the winter. Unfortunately, this
means more encounters between dog and skunks. Knowing what to do and
having the ingredients on hand will save you and your dog from suffering
any more than necessary.
Skunk wash can easily made at home from
common ingredients found in your house. I strongly recommend you buy
enough ingredients for a few washings, print the following recipe and keep
it all where you can get to it quickly (last time we used it was at
midnight just as we thought we were going to bed).
There are two recipes. The recipe with the
smaller ratio of peroxide would be preferable for dogs whose coat color
may be affected adversely by the peroxide.
Recipe #1
1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide
1/4 cup of baking soda
1 teaspoon of liquid soap
Recipe #2
1 pint 3% hydrogen peroxide
2/3 cup baking soda
1 tablespoon liquid soap
Mix this up at the time of use (the mixture must be fresh to work
properly). Pour or sponge it on dog. Knead it well into his coat. Be
careful to keep the formula out if the dog's eyes, nose and mouth;
you can use a sponge to carefully wipe it onto his/her face. Let it
sit two to five minutes then rinse with plain water. If a second
dose is needed mix a new batch from scratch. The mix reacts with the
chemicals in the skunk spray and oxidizes them. If the mix is not
fresh, the reaction will not work.
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Other suggestions include Pepsi...Leave
it on the dog for about 20 minutes, then wash the dog with regular dog
shampoo. The fizzing action of the Pepsi reacts with the skunk spray and
the smell is virtually gone (some slight odor remains, but that's
inevitable.)
Master Mechanic's All Purpose Cleaner from the True
Value hardware store works like a miracle on skunk spray. It washes away
the oil which carries the scent and there is no residual scent when the
dog gets damp. I use it on clients dogs too. I use it and then shampoo
normally.
PET HEALTH ALERT: TIPS
TO PREVENT ANTIFREEZE POISONING
According to Jill A. Richardson, DVM, of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Center (APCC), most cases of antifreeze poisoning in dogs and cats occur
around the pet's own home. "That's why we need to educate vehicle owners
on the proper use, storage and disposal of antifreeze," says Richardson,
who recommends taking the following precautions to keep pets happy and
healthy--and safe from accidental exposure:
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Never allow your pet to have access to
the area when you are draining antifreeze from your car.
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Consider switching to products containing
propylene glycol, such as Prestone Low Tox, which are less toxic than
conventional ethylene glycol antifreeze.
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If you suspect that your pet has ingested
antifreeze, contact your veterinarian immediately.
In addition to offering information online,
the APCC also runs an emergency hotline--1-888-4-ANI-HELP--that provides
round-the-clock telephone assistance.
BLOAT
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) or bloat is a serious,
life-threatening condition of large breed dogs. If you suspect your dog
has bloat, get help immediately! Studies have shown significant new
findings including the importance of what you feed your dog and that
surprisingly the raised dog bowls are related to an increase in bloat
also.
Here is the link that tells about the latest research
that indicates that raising your dog's bowl may actually increase your
dog's chance of getting bloat by as much as 100% or more!
http://www.vet.purdue.edu/epi/update2.htm
| Risk Factor |
Relative Risk |
Interpretation |
| Age in years |
1.20 |
20% increase in risk for each year
increase in age |
Chest depth/width ratio
(1.0 to 2.4) |
2.70 |
170% increase in risk for each unit increase in
chest depth/width ratio |
| First degree relative with GDV (yes vs. no) |
1.63 |
63% increase in risk associated with having a first
degree relative with GDV |
Using a raised feed bowl
(yes vs. no) |
2.10 |
110% increase in risk associated with using a
raised food bowl |
Speed of eating (1-10 scale)
[for Large dogs only] |
1.15 |
15% increase in risk for each unit increase in
speed of eating score for large dogs |
Table from Purdue University at the link above
If you would like to learn more about bloat, what it is,
how to help your dog in an emergency if you can't get to a vet, or just to
familiarize yourself with the symptoms, take a look at the Great Dane
Health and Welfare page:
http://www.ualberta.ca/~dc8/szbloat.htm
ANAL GLANDS are a pair of
blind sacs, each about the size of a small hazelnut, situated below and
either side of the dogs anus. These glands are secrete a paste-like
substance with a strong and quite unpleasant smell, designed for use in
territorial marking. The glands are rather inefficient at emptying
themselves and sometimes become overfilled and distended, giving rise to
pain and discomfort. This causes the affected dog to 'toboggan' across the
floor ina sitting position. Other affected dogs lick incessantly at the
area, or make sudden movements as though they have just been stung by
insects. If your dog has regular problems with its anal glands, ask your
veterinary surgeon to show you how to empty them yourself. Neglected and
impacted glands are most painful and often lead to the formation of
abscesses and a very sick, and unhappy dog. The glands can be surgically
removed if they present recurring problems, but preventive measures are
really best. These consist of feeding your dog so that its motions are
always well formed and passed daily, encourage the regular milking-out of
the anal glands in the natural way.
Anal Gland Diseases
ANTIBIOTICS are drugs used in the
treatment of secondary bacterial infections, not being effective against
the primary virus. The veterinary surgeon prescribes the correct dose
which must be given over a prescribed period of time, as it is the
complete course of treatment which effects the cure. Never keep unused
antibiotics in the medicine cupboard ; they have a limited lifespan, and
out-of-date products may harm if given indiscriminately.
ANTISEPTICS should be selected and used
with great care ; some are very toxic, and others, for cleaning wounds,
are destructive to cells and retard rather than aid healing. For first
aid, cleanse wounds with well-diluted hydrogen peroxide, then rinse with
salt water as a neutralizer. ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION may be given if your
dog has recived some form of shock and appears to be dead. Lay the dog on
its side with its head lower than the rest of its body. Place one hand
flat over the upper side of its abdomen and the other hand on the
ribcage, then lean on your hands for a second or two before releasing the
pressure. Repeat the movement rhythmically with a slight pause between
each movement. Keep up the massage until professional help arrives, and
remember that as long as you can detect a heartbeat there is hope of
recovery. ASPIRIN should not be given to your dog without seeking
veterinary advise first, as it is injurious to the membranes of the
stomach. Most human medicines are totally unsuitable for use in dogs,
and your dog should not be dosed with any substance without veterinary
advice.
Aspirin
Anal Gland Diseases
Atopic Dermatitis
B, = BITES from another dog can cause
puncture wounds or tears. The area should be carefully cleaned and watched
in case an infection introduced beneath the skin causes abscesses to form.
Clip the hair away from the edges of such wound and keep it open by daily
bathing, so that it heals slowly from within.
BRUCELLOSIS a bacterial infection
which can cause abortion and also fading puppies. In many countries a
clearance certificate is required before a bitch will be accepted for
mating.
Biting Pests and Stinging
Brucellosis
Blastomycosis
C,= CONJUNCTIVITIS is inflammation of the eye and may be
caused by a number of factors, such as mechanical agents, viruses and
bacteria infection or a foreign body entering the eye. Bathing is
necessary to clean away the discharges, bathe with cold water or a diluted
solution of boric acid made up for opthalmic use, obtainable from a
pharmacy,followed by the application of an eye ointment, prescribed by the
veterinary surgeon and squeezed along the inside of the lower lid. If
there is no improvment within 48 hours consult your vet.
CONSTIPATION can sometimes be help with a dessertspoon
of liquid paraffin or a small amount of liver, that should do the
trick, but if it persists and the dog keeps on straining a blockage of the
bowel can be suspect. Seek veterinary advice.
COUGHS of the retching type sound as thought the dog as
something caught in its throat. If ther is no obstruction, then it could
be kennel cough, kennel cough (parinfluenza) can take a variety of
different forms, and all forms are highly contagious, it is a infectious
bronchial virus which is dangerous in young puppies. Waste no time in
seeking veterinary aid and, in the meantime, keep your dog warm and quiet
and allow it to lick a little honey from a teaspoon.
CUTS must be carefully cleaned and disinfected. If
jagged and very open, it is best to have it stitched by your vet, If
bleeding profusely first make certain it is not an artery (this would be
bright red and pumping), bandage firmly with a pressure pad and leave for
the blood to coagulate. Do not remove the dressing too soon as you could
start the wound bleeding again. If a small wound dust with antiseptic
powder and leave. If an artery has been severed, put a tourniquet in
between the heart and the wound and take immediately to the vet. Never
leave a tourniquet on for more than 20 minutes. Release for a few minutes
so as to allow blood into the limb again, (liquid plastic skin dressing
applied to cuts on pads is very helpful for quick healing).
CYSTS are usually found when grooming your dog you will
find small hard lumps which, when squeezed, emit hard, string-like pus.
When empty, dab with disinfectant. they will often disappear as quickly as
they appeared.
CANINE HEPATITIS the signs hepatitis are drowsiness,
vomiting, loss of appetite, high temperature, and great thirst. These
signs may be accompanied by swelling of the head neck, and abdomen.
Vomiting may also occur. This disease strikes quickly, and death may occur
in only a few hours. An annual booster shot is needed after the initial
series of puppy.
Coughs Kennel
Cushings Disease
D, = DIARRHEA is a condition in which liquid feces are
expelled at frequent intervals, sometimes accompanied by vomiting. The dog
may look generally unwell and should be kept extra warm. Withhold all
food, giving only boiled water with a little added glucose and, if the
condition persists for more than a few hours, get veterinary advise.
Stress, over-excitement, and an excess of milk or a change in diet can
give a dog loose motions, but this condition, not to be confused with true
diarrhea, is easily put right by reversing the causative effect, By
introducing peace and quiet or a bland diet, or by not giving any more
milk, the motion should quickly return to normal.
DISTEMPER is a infectious canine disease which can be
prevented by vaccination. A puppy or dog normally acquires this infection
by breathing air contaminated by droplets sneezed or coughed out by
another infected dog. The incubation period is thought to vary from five
to twenty-eight days, but an infected puppy can show symptoms within ten
days. The disease causes an initial rise in temperature, usually followed
by discharges from the eyes and nose and accompanied by a cough. The dog
or puppy may also vomit and have diarrhea. Within a short while, the
animal becomes thoroughly depressed and lethargic, and refuses to eat. The
invading virus tends to attack the nervous system and causes fits and
convulsions. Dedicated nursing, combined with constant, careful veterinary
attention, are required if there is to be any hope of recovery.
Diarrhea Chronic
Distemper Virus
Diabetes Control
Diabetes Insipidus
Diabetes Mellitus Type 1
Diabetes
Diabetes Sudden Onset
E, = EARS examine these regularly to make certain they
are clean and free from wax. Calamine lotion is excellent for cleaning
ears. Soak a tissue in it and then clean. If the wax is a dark reddish
color there is an infection. Your vet will give you an ointment to put in
the ear night and morning which will soon clear this up. If the ear is
sore and has a pus-like, smelly discharge, your dog is suffering from
otitis (canker). Professional advice is best sought inthis case.
ECZEMA is a skin disease which may be caused by one of a
number of factors including allergic reaction. Dogs sometimes develop dry
skin conditions when feed a faulty diet. In cases of (wet) eczema the skin
is red and looks wet and raw, with pus-like crusts, it is probably wet
eczema. Treat with sulpur-based ointment, but if it continues then a visit
to the vet is indicated. He will probably give an injection or pills to
help. some dogs are allergic to straw so if you are using this for bedding
try changing to shavings or newspaper.
ECLAMPSIA sometimes occurs in a bitch who has had a big
litter and is being deprived of calcium, due to her inability to mobilize
it quickly enough. She will start to stagger, look glassy eyed and then
collapse. Immediate veterinary attention is essential or else this
condition will prove fatal. Your vet will give a calcium injection and
your bitch will quickly return to normal.
Ear Hematoma (Graphic
Photo's of Surgery)
The Canine Ear
Chronic Ear Problems
Ear Problems
Ehrlichiosis
Eye Anatomy
Eye Cataracts
Eye Corneal Ulcers
Eye Glaucoma
Eye Inflammation
Keratoconjunctiveitis sicca
( Dry Eye )
Horner's Syndroms
(Eye) Progressive Retinal
Atophy (PRA)
F, = FLEAS are parasites which live on dogs they are not
hard to get rid of there is some good insecticide shampoos and sprays that
can be bought from your vets or a good pet store. Fleas bite through the
dogs skin to suck their blood, They can transmit several dieseas and act
as hosts to the tape worm. The presence of fleas is indicated by tiny
black grits, their excreta, found in the dogs coat, particulary behind the
ears and along the spine towards the tail. and also in the fine hair on
the inside of the thighs.
FITS or convulsions, are sometimes experienced by puppys
and dogs. They may be epileptic in origin and therefore hereditary, or
they may be brought on by pain, a nervous upset or extreme fear. When
having a fit , a dog stops in its tracks and falls onto its side, tremors
rack its body and it may pass urine and faeces. keep it very quiet and, if
possible, put something over the animals until it stops fitting. Take care
not to get bitten, apply cold compresses to the animals neck and head.
Have the dog thoroughly checked out to make sure that the action of its
heart is not impaired, and if the fits persist you must take veterinary
advice regarding the dogs future.
FIRST-AID KIT (suggestions) Adhesive tape, -
Antihistamine tablets (for stings), Antiseptic dusting powder or cream, -
Bandages (crepe,)(cotton,) lint or sterile dressing,in two widths; -
Calamine lotion; - Cough mixture; - Cotton wool/buds; - Curved scissors; -
Disinfectant; - Ear ointment;(from vet) - Eye ointment;(from vet) - Gauze;
- Honey; - Kaolin/Milk magnesia;(for up set stomachs) - Liquid parrifin; -
Nail clippers; - Plastic skin dressing; - Thermometer; - Tweezers;(blunt-ended)
- Vaseline; - Washing soda.
Fleas And Ticks
G, = GASTRO ENTERITIS covers a variety of bowel
conditions, the symptoms of which are sickness and diarrhoea. Enteritis is
the inflammation of the bowel and in a mild form it is quickly cured by
kaolin-based medication. Starve for two days, giving only small drinks of
honey and water. This gives the bowel a chance to heal and also slows down
the whole digestive system. If the dog passes or vomits blood and has a
temperature your vet will prescribe a broad spectrum antibiotic. After a
serious attack of enteritis, pancreatic deficiency or malabsorption
problems can occur. A faeces or blood test is required to ascertain
whether either is present. These two problems, believed by some to be
hereditary, may be the answer to your dogs poor condition in spite of
eating well. Soft mud or grey coloured greasy motions are classic
symptoms. With both these complaints the digestive system is not absorbing
all the food, hence the poor condition. Once diagnosed, tablets are given
which helep to control this problem but the dog must be kept o a very
bland diet such as rice and boild chicken. In some cases it is incurable
but controllable.
Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis
(H.G.E.)
Gastric Foreign Body
Removal (Graphic Photo's of Surgery)
H, = HEAT STROKE is an emergency which requires
immediate arrention. Dogs left in cars, tied up in full sun, or left in
concrete runs without suitable shade can all develope heat stroke. special
care must be taken to shade for your dog when living in hot climates. Heat
stroke starts with rapid, frantic breathing. The tongue and mucous
membranes are bright red and the dog will start staggering. Put it in a
tub of cold water or hose down with a garden hose. It is imperative to
bring the temperature down as quickly as possible or this will prove
fatal. Ice packs around the body (packets of frozen veg can be used) will
also help.
Hepatitis ( Canine )
Heat Stroke In Dogs
Heat Stroke / Prevention /
Treatment
Canine Herpes
http://searsvet.50megs.com/Herpes1.html
Canine herpes is the cause of many dead fetuses and also a cause of fading
puppy syndrome where puppies begin to die shortly after birth. Until
recently nothing could be done to prevent the deaths, but this vet claims
to have a cure. It would be worth a try!
I, = INJECTIONS are used to administer antibiotics and
vaccines into the system of the dog. Most injections are quite painless
but, if you are upset by the sight and the use of hypodermic needles, make
sure that a nurse or assistant is available to handle your dog when an
injection is necessary, so that your distress is not transmitted to your
pet.
INTERDIGITAL CYSTS are pus-filled lumps appearing in
between the toes, which burst but usually reappear again, are painful and
can cause lameness. Try hot fomentations, dry and then dust with an
antiseptic powder. If they continue consult your vet. With all the above,
a change of diet is indicated. Cut out carbohydrates, especially flaked
maize. Include garlic in the diet as this is an excellent blood purifier.
INTUSSUSCEPTION describes a situation in which the bowel
telescopes in upon itself. Usually caused by vomiting and diarrhoea.
Surgery is usually successful if diagnosed early.
J, = JUVENILE CATARACT uncommon, appears at around
eight-nine months of age and looks like a white film which gradually
covers the whole eye. Can be operate on to improve vision. Is hereditary
and so this shepherd should not be bred from.
L, = LAMENESS can be caused by a strained muscle or
tendon. Keep the dog quiet with minimum amount of exercise. If this does
not improve within a few days seek expert veterinary advice.
LICE spend their life cycle on the dog. After laying
their small white eggs, called nits, they firmly attach them to individual
hairs. T he adult insects are slow-moving and grey, slightly than a
pin-head. Insecticidal shampoo will kill the adults, but an infected
animal must be carefully and meticulously combed, too, to try remove the
eggs. It is normally necessary to give a series of shampoos to effectively
cure a dog or puppy heavily infested with lice.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament
Repair in a Dog (Graphic Photo's of Surgery)
Lameness In Dogs
Leg Problems And Weak
Pasterns In A German Shepherd Puppy
Leg Fracture in a dog
(Graphic Photo's of Suregery)
Liver Shunts
M, = MANGE is caused by the presence of tiny mites. The
sarcoptic mange mite burrows into the skin to lay its eggs and, in doing
so, gives rise to areas of intense irritation. The sites chosen by this
parasite include the ear flaps, hocks and upper limbs. The demodectic
mange mite is microscopic and spends its life in the hair follicles and
sebaceous glands of the dog. Its presence is seen when scaly, discolored
patches devoid of hair appear in the dog's coat. Infection with mange is
very debilitsting, and the condition needs very careful and methodical
treatment under veterinary supervision to clear the problem.
http://www.italiangreyhound.org/demodex.html
Two theories1 exist about why certain dogs develop demodectic mange, both
of
which deal with suppression of the immune system. While not proven to be
inherited, most researchers believe the tendency to develop demodectic
mange
is hereditary, and most breeders seem to find evidence of certain families
that are more prone to the problem. One theory regards the cause to be a
defect in t- lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) which respond to an
immunosuppressive substance produced by the mites, resulting in a dog
whose
immune system cannot get rid of the mites. The second theory holds that it
is
not the mites, but a tendency to develop a bacterial infection along with
the
mange, which results in the bacteria suppressing the immune system. Either
way, the result is the same, the mites and bacteria proliferate on the
skin,
causing hair loss, redness, etc.
Probably that while localized mange is a common problem in IG puppies,
most
dogs do not develop generalized mange. This would seem to indicate that
removing these animals from a breeding program would serve no purpose, but
conversely, due to the relative infrequency of generalized mange, any
affected individual should be surgically neutered.
http://www.marvistavet.com/html/demodectic_mange.html
Enlarged lymph nodes are a bad sign -- often foretelling generalized
mange.
CAN THE PUP BE BRED LATER?
Sometimes the puppy with localized demodicosis was obtained for breeding
purposes. The current recommendation is not to treat these puppies so that
we
can determine if the condition will stay localized and resolve or if it
will
generalize. If it stays localized and eventually resolves without
treatment,
the animal is still a candidate for breeding. If the condition generalizes
to
cover the entire body, the animal should be sterilized. If the condition
receives treatment and resolves, we will never know how the disease would
have gone in its natural state and will not know whether the pup is
carrying
the genetic predisposition for demodectic mange. In this case, it is best
to
be conservative and not take the chance of passing on genetic
predisposition
for this disease. Localized demodicosis is almost exclusively a "puppyhood"
disease. When a
puppy develops localized demodicosis the chance of the condition resolving
are 90% unless there is a family history of demodicosis in related dogs.
In
this case, chance of spontaneous resolution drops to 50%.
http://www.barkbytes.com/medical/med0019.htm
The causative factors as to why some dogs develop demodectic mange while
other dogs do not is not fully understood. The tendency to be
susceptible
to
demodectic mange appears to be hereditary. It is known that dogs with
demodectic mange have an immune system defect. It is this defect that
appears to be inherited, making the pup unable to keep the demodex mites
under control.
http://www.mesavet.com/library/mange.htm
The exact reasons that dogs develop mange are not fully understood, but
genetics and immune suppression both play a role. A tendency to develop
demodicosis runs in some families, with the same parents consistently
producing affected puppies. While all breeds are susceptible, some are at
increased risk.
http://www.abap.org/vet0896.htm
Since heredity is thought to be a factor in Demodectic mange all dogs
infected with it should be neutered. Even though pups in a litter where a
parent is infected do not show signs of the disease they can still pass it
on
to future offspring. The stress of the heat cycle is also thought to cause
Demodex to worsen.
Mange
METRITIS is inflammation of the womb which usually
occurs within a week of whelping. The bitch becomes listless, sometimes
will start straining and often fever will set in. Consult your vet
immediately who will give a course of antibiotics which will soon clear up
this condition.
N, = NEPHRITIS this is inflammation of the kidneys, often
caused by an infectious agent. The dog may drink a lot of water and
urinate a lot. Older dogs can also suffer from this and we have found
herbal remedies very useful as treatment. Barley water, made by boiling
pearl barley for 30 minutes or soaking flaked barley overnight and then
straining, is best form of drinking water for a dog suffering from this
condition. Your vet will prescribe an antibiotic.
( Nose ) Loss Of
Pigmentation
P, = PANNUS uncommon. A form of corneal inflammation
which affects both eyes and is characterized by a pink or pigmented
membrane growing across the cornea. Con result in blindness. See
http://www.ellerbach.com/eclectic/pannus.html for more info.
POISONS the most common are warfarin, used in rat and
mouse bait, lead and metaidehyde found in slug bait. If you suspect your
dog has eaten any of these try to induce vomiting by pushing a lump of
washing soda down its throat and get to the vet as quickly as possible.
And tell him what type of poison you suspect your dog has eaten.
PYOMETRA a much more serious infection of the womb,
which in this case becomes filled with pus. An immediate hysterectomy is
the only solution. Can be fatal if not dealt with immediately. Sometimes
older bitches develop this three or four weeks after finishing a season.
PYORRHOEA is an unplesant condition of the mouth caused
by an accumulation of tartar on the teeth which presses on the gums,
causing inflammation and pain. The first signs of this condition includes
offensive breath and discoloration of the teeth. It is often caused by
feeding soft food and may be prevented by giving your dog hard biscuits
and rawhide chews to gnaw on from an early age.
PNEUMONIA an inflammation of the lung usually caused by
a bacterial infection but can also be caused by shock and viruses. The
dog's breathing becomes shallow and laboured, and you can hear a bubbling
sound if you pit your ear close to the dog's chest. The dog will usually
have a high temperature (about 4o'c/104'f). Keep warm, especially the
chest area. An old cardigan or pullover can be very useful in these cases.
Your vet will probably prescribe a broad spectrum antibiotic.
Pyoderma Acute Moist, Or
Hot Spots
Parvovirus Information
Pancreatic Insufficiency
R, = RING WORM is caused by a fungus and it is
contagious, so isolation is essential.All bedding must be burnt and the
kennel scrubbed out thoroughly with disinfectant. You will see rapidly
spreading bare patches which can occur on any part of the body. Clip hair
round edges and treat with a fungistatic solution. If there is no
improvement consult your vet who will prescribe a suitable drug, which
will soon cure it. ROUND WORM usually found in young puppies. If the puppy
looks thin or bloated this can sometimes be the cause. Worm with a
preparation containing a suitable verifuge and repeat ten days later.
Worms In Dogs
Worms infestation
S, = STINGS if your GSD has been stung by a wasp or bee
etc remove the sting where possible and give antihistamine tablets. If the
sting is on the eye or tongue and there is excessive swelling, consult
your vet immediately.
T, = TONSILLITIS this is a bacterial infection and, in
an acute form fever can occur. Treatment with antibiotics usually effects
a cure. Feed on a liquid diet and keep the dog warm and quiet.
TICKS any body who lives in the countryside, where there
is sheep and deer, will sooner or later find a tick on there dog. Do not
pull it off, as, if the head remains in the skin it can cause nasty sores.
Cut the tick in half with sharp scissors; the head should then drop off.
If this does not work. get some surgical spirits and dab the area this
should then remove it.
THORNS these can be painful and sometimes very hard to
remove. Soften the surrounding area by applying a hot compress and then
extract with tweezers. Dab with disinfectant, dry carefully and dust with
antiseptic powder. Make certain you have got rid of all the thorn.
TEETH if your dog developes a smelly beath or starts
pawing its mouth or rubbing along the ground, you can susoect tooth
problems. Sometimes, in older dogs, ulcers and bad teeth can occur. These
can be extracted if necessary by a veterinary surgeon, but a general
anaesthetic is necessary. A weekly marrow bone or hard biscuit will keep
the teeth clean and in good condition. If you find them getting dirty,
presuade your dentist to let you have an old teeth scaler and gently
scrape the teeth but be careful not to damage the gums. If your dog is
uncooperative a visit to the vet is indicated.
Tick Toxicity In Dogs
V, = VAGINITIS this is an inflammation of the vagina and
can also occur during puberty. The bitch will lick herself and urinate a
lot. A vaginal douche and antibiotics will soon correct this. VOMITING is
quiet a common occurrence when a dog is still in the puppy stages, they
will quiet often gulp there food down quickly then throw it back up, they
will then re-eat it again as part of there natural digestive processes.
Eating rough grass often induces vomiting, too, and is generally thought
to be beneficial to digestion. A dog or puppy that vomits water as well as
food, looks off-colour and cold and also has diarrhoea, is very sick
indeed and needs veterinary help without delay.
Vaccination Allergys
Vomiting Problems In Dogs
Yeast infection of the ear. Use Blue Power Ear Wash. The
recipe and instructions are here:
http://www.mariebennett.com/blueear/
Blue Power Ear Wash Recipe
INGREDIENTS:
16 Oz. Isopropyl Alcohol
4 Tablespoons Boric Acid Powder
16 Drops Gentian Violet Solution 1%
Mix together in alcohol bottle and shake well.
Please shake this solution every time you use it to mix the Boric Acid
Powder. Either a baby ear syringe or a plastic squirt bottle work well for
putting the solution in the ear.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE:
Evaluate condition of ears before treating and if the are inflamed and
sore do not attempt to pull hair or clean out ear at all. Just flush and
then wait until inflammation is gone, which will be about two days. Warm
the solution and shake the bottle each time before using. The dogs will
accept the treatment much better if you warm it up for them.
Flood the ear with solution (gently squirt bottle).
Massage gently, wipe with 100% cotton pad.
On first treatment: flood the ear twice, wipe with a pad, and leave alone
without massage.
The dog will shake out the excess, which can be wiped with a tissue.
(Note: the Gentian Violet does stain fabrics so you're best to do this
outdoors.)
Treat 2x per day for the first week to two weeks, depending upon severity
of ears.
After the 2nd or 3rd day you can clean out the ear with a tissue or cotton
pad.
Treat 1x per day for the next 1-2 weeks.
Treat 1x per month (or even less frequently, depending on the dog).
Z, = ZOONOSES are disease which you and your dog can
catch from one another. Because such diseases do exist you should always
wash your hands after handling or playing with your pet. It should have
its own bedding and feeding bowls, which must be kept clean and fresh as
your own, and you should not allow it to lick your hands or face.
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