Infectious diseases in dogs
Infectious diseases in dogs can be serious and affect their health and well-being. These diseases are caused by various microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria or fungi and can be spread through direct contact, airborne droplets or insect bites. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection, but common signs include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, cough, vomiting and diarrhea.
Some common infectious diseases in dogs include:
Parvovirus infection
A serious disease that affects the dog's gastrointestinal tract and can lead to life-threatening dehydration and weakness. Dogs are most often infected through contact with contaminated surfaces or faeces from infected dogs. Symptoms include severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, lethargy and loss of appetite. If you suspect that your dog has contracted parvovirus infection, contact your veterinarian immediately for immediate care and treatment, as this disease can be fatal if not treated in time.
- Symptoms : Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weakness.
- Prevention : Vaccination, avoid infected areas.
- Treatment : Veterinary care, fluid replacement, antibiotics for secondary infections.
Coronavirus infection
Causes similar symptoms to parvovirus infection and also affects the gastrointestinal tract. Dogs can become infected through direct contact with infected dogs or by eating contaminated food or water. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. If your dog shows signs of coronavirus infection, contact your vet for advice on treatment and how to support your dog's recovery.
- Symptoms : Fatigue, reduced appetite, cough, sneezing, runny nose and eyes, vomiting, diarrhea, breathing problems.
- Prevention : Vaccination, good hygiene, Avoid infected dogs.
- Treatment : There is no specific treatment for coronavirus infection, so supportive care is important. e your dog enough water to avoid dehydration. Always contact your vet if your dog shows symptoms of the disease for advice on how to proceed.
Kennel cough
A contagious respiratory infection caused by several different viruses and bacteria. The infection spreads easily in environments where dogs gather together, such as kennels and dog parks. Symptoms include persistent coughing, sneezing and fever. If your dog develops kennel cough, isolate them from other dogs and contact your vet for appropriate treatment and advice on how to help your dog recover.
- Symptoms : Cough, sneezing, runny nose, fever.
- Prevention : Vaccination, avoid overcrowded places with dogs.
- Treatment : Symptomatic treatment, antibiotics in case of bacterial infection.
Lyme disease (Lyme disease)
Transmitted through tick bites and can cause symptoms such as lameness, fever and fatigue. If the disease is not treated in time, it can affect the dog's joints, kidneys and nervous system. If you find a tick on your dog, remove it as quickly as possible with a tick remover and monitor your dog's health. If your dog shows signs of Lyme infection, contact your veterinarian for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
- Symptoms : Lameness, fever, decreased appetite, fatigue.
- Prevention : Tick repellents, avoid tick-rich areas.
- Treatment : Antibiotics, pain relief.
Leptospirosis
A bacterial infection that can affect the liver and kidneys. Dogs are most often infected by drinking water contaminated with urine from infected animals, such as rats. Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, vomiting and jaundice. If you suspect that your dog may have been infected with leptospirosis, contact your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.
Important : Leptospirosis can be dangerous for humans as well, so if you suspect infection in your dog, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice and treatment.
- Symptoms : Fever, chills, muscle aches and stiffness, decreased appetite and weight loss, decreased energy and fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea, yellowish mucous membranes and whites of the eyes, increased thirst and frequency of urination.
- Prevention : Vaccination, avoid stagnant water.
- Treatment : Early diagnosis is important to start adequate treatment, use of antibiotics to fight the bacterial infection, supportive care such as fluid replacement if necessary.
Ringworm
A fungal infection that can cause hair loss and skin rashes. Ringworm is easily transmitted from dog to dog and can also be transmitted to humans. If you suspect that your dog has ringworm, contact your veterinarian for diagnosis and advice on treatment and how to prevent the spread of infection to other dogs and people.
Rabies
Rabies, also known as rabies, is a serious and fatal viral disease transmitted via the saliva of infected animals, including dogs. It affects the nervous system and can lead to aggressive behavior, paralysis and death. Vaccination is the best way to protect your dog against rabies.
- Symptoms : Aggressive behavior, salivation, difficulty swallowing.
- Prevention : Vaccination, avoid wild animals.
- Treatment : No cure, early vaccination is key.
To prevent infectious diseases in your dog, it is important to
keep them vaccinated as recommended by the vet. Also avoid contact with sick dogs and try to keep your dog's environment clean and hygienic. If you notice any signs of illness in your dog, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian for advice and treatment. Paying attention to your dog's health and acting quickly on any signs of illness can help ensure that your best friend receives the right care and support to fight off infectious diseases.