A tax consultant and attorney with nearly two decades of experience, Suzanne DeWitt is the owner and principal of Valora in Miami, Florida. Beyond her work at the firm, Suzanne DeWitt maintains an interest in dogs.
People who own a dog or who are in the process of adopting one must consider the health care needs of their pet. Knowing how to recognize common diseases and prevent them can ensure a dog’s health and save on veterinary bills.
Among the most frequently occurring conditions are obesity, dental problems, and poisoning as a result of the consumption of toxic foods and substances. Veterinarians warn that obesity can damage a dog’s organs and increase the risk of diabetes, liver disease, and joint pain. However, regular exercise and proper feeding can keep dogs at a healthy weight for their breed and size.
In regards to dental care, owners can brush their dogs’ teeth regularly and schedule oral examinations annually. To prevent the consumption of dangerous chemicals and foods, owners should make sure that these items are inaccessible to their pets.
There are also many serious and potentially fatal conditions that owners can safeguard their dogs against through vaccinations and medications. Possibly the most widely known disease is rabies, which can also spread to humans. The highly contagious canine parvovirus infection (parvo) is also avoidable through regular vaccinations, and veterinarians state that it is especially important for puppies and older dogs. In addition to these illnesses, owners can vaccinate their pets against canine influenza, Lyme disease, and heartworm.
