Common Ailments in Puppies: Symptoms and Remedies
Puppy Health issues and Veterinary Care: A Warm Welcome Turns Sour
Whoa bud, you've got a pup and life's a real party, right? But hey, what if things aren't exactly going paw-fect? Sadly, it's not uncommon for pups to fall sick soon after joining your home - yep, one study suggests about 20% of puppies face health issues post-adoption [1]. So, keep an eye out for those bad days and prepare yourself to visit the vet earlier than planned.
From vomiting and diarrhea to parasites and skin problems, your new pal might find itself dealing with a range of common issues. It's a blow, especially since some diseases can crop up within hours of moving into their new home. That means you may not even have the time to save up for an emergency pet fund or take out insurance yet. But don't fret! You've got options like CareCredit – a credit card for health and pet care that lets you cover both planned and unexpected veterinary costs [*].
Picture this, doc: I've been practicing vet-med for eight years, and boy, have I seen some puppy health nightmares. One little guy showed symptoms soon after his insurance papers were signed off, requiring an all-nighter at the emergency vet. So, let's talk about puppy health tips, common issues, and how to spot that your pup needs a quick vet visit.
Red Flags: Recognize a Sick Pup
When you first bring your pup home, you're not that acquainted with its usual behavior, which can make it tough to tell if something's wrong. But here are some warning signs to watch out for:
- Lethargy: A pup that's sick may sleep a lot or be hard to wake up. Regular sleep-wake cycles should be expected.
- Loss of appetite: Diarrhea might be common, but persistent vomiting or loss of appetite are not.
- Inactivity: A healthy pup should alternate periods of play with sleep and feeding. If yours looks uninterested in the world around them, it may be cause for concern.
If you think your pup is under the weather, give your vet a call. They'll help you assess whether to worry or not.
Common Puppy Health Issues: Top 7 Troublemakers
Let's dive into some common problems you may encounter with your pup:
1. Parvovirus (Parvo)
New pups are especially vulnerable, as their immunity protection from mom wanes. They're more susceptible if they haven't started their vaccination course yet. This virus is highly contagious and can be fatal. Treatment is intensive and works best when started ASAP [2].
2. Distemper
Another disease vet's vaccinate pups against, distemper is less common but serious. Your pup may show vomiting, coughing, lethargy, fever, and neurological signs [2]. Sadly, their immune system is so compromised that they're likely to get secondary infections as well. There's no treatment for distemper, but dogs can receive supportive care as their immune system fights the virus.
3. Fleas, Ear Mites, and Other Parasites
These critters are common but usually mild. They're often picked up from the environment or other pets. You may notice some itching, head shaking, or biting at the back and flanks. Since the symptoms can be subtle, check with your vet to ensure proper treatment [*].
4. Worms
We often call these internal parasites worms. Puppies can get roundworm and hookworm easily through their mouths or mom's milk. Regular re-dosing is required to keep the infestation at bay [3]. Talk to your vet to make sure you get the right treatment for your pup.
5. Giardia
A protozoal parasite, giardia can cause chronic diarrhea in pups [3]. A special test is needed to identify it, and normal worm treatments won't usually work against giardia.
6. Kennel Cough
Also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, kennel cough is a group of illnesses causing a cough in dogs. It's common in socialized puppies, as it spreads easily from dog to dog []. There's no specific treatment, but your pup may need supportive care to help them get better [4*]. Vaccination is recommended if your pup attends doggy daycare or classes.
7. Congenital Diseases
Though rare, these diseases are usually spotted in young pups. They're conditions the pup is born with, and may include liver shunts or heart defects. Common symptoms include ill thrift, lethargy, and failure to grow. Surgical options are often available, so talk to your vet as soon as you're worried [5].
Nursing a Sick Pup Back to Health
First things first, if your pup is sick, take them to the vet. Puppies have immature immune systems, and they can deteriorate quickly even from mild illnesses [6].
Once your vet gives the OK for your pup to go home, follow their advice on medications and exercise. Pups that are feeling under the weather may need to eat little and often, but stick to a diet they're familiar with rather than switching it up while they're Ill. Ensure your pup always has plenty to drink, and keep them warm without overheating them [7].
Keeping Your Pup in Top Health
Take your pup to their first vet visit as soon as possible, ideally within a few days of bringing them home. Your vet will provide personalized advice on vaccinations, parasite prevention, diet, and more. Here are some other tips:
- Puppy-proof your home: Make sure your pup is safe in areas where they'll be unsupervised.
- Educate yourself: Learn about common household toxins that could harm your pup.
- Use a crate: If your pup needs to be contained when unsupervised, a crate can be a useful tool.
- Financial preparations: Consider CareCredit, pet insurance, or other financial options to cover your pup's lifetime of care. CareCredit helps pet parents prepare for their pet's medical needs [*].
References
- Brand, Claire L et al. "Pandemic Puppies: Demographic Characteristics, Health and Early Life Experiences of Puppies Acquired during the 2020 Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the UK." Animals : an open access journal from MDPI vol. 12,5 629. 2 Mar. 2022, doi:10.3390/ani12050629
*CareCredit is offered by Synchrony Bank and is subject to qualification. See carecredit.com for details.
This information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian regarding any questions or concerns about your pet's health.
In light of the common health issues that puppies might face post-adoption, it's essential to consider financial preparations for pet care. pet insurance, such as CareCredit, can provide coverage for both planned and unexpected veterinary expenses, ensuring you're ready for any emergencies.
Moreover, a health-and-wellness lifestyle and lifestyle changes, including regular vet visits, puppy-proofing your home, and educating yourself about household toxins, are crucial in maintaining your pet's overall health and well-being. Science plays a significant role in understanding these common puppy health issues, shedding light on the causes, symptoms, and treatments for various conditions.
