Top 4 Summer Diseases in Dogs: Prevention Tips Inside!

Common Summer Diseases in Dogs:

1. Heart Disease

Obese dogs, such as Pekingese and Corgis, and older canines are particularly prone to overheating during the summer months. To cool down, they often breathe heavily, which can strain their respiratory system and lead to an accelerated heart rate, increasing the risk of sudden death. Some dogs are genetically predisposed to heart conditions, and the heat can exacerbate these issues. It's crucial for older or frail dogs to limit their outdoor activities and take frequent breaks during walks.

Prevention and Treatment:

Regular Health Checkups:

Regular vet visits can help detect diseases early, preventing future complications.

Controlled Diet:

Avoid highfat and spicy foods. Ensure a balanced diet to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Parasite Control:

Parasites like heartworms can contribute to heart disease. Regular deworming is essential for maintaining your dog's health.

2. Cold

Just like humans, dogs can catch a cold when exposed to extreme temperatures, especially after a walk outside. Sneezing and runny noses are common symptoms. After a walk, you can use a fan to cool your dog down, but be cautious not to blast them directly with cold air. Offering your dog ice water or a wet towel can also help. If your dog enjoys ice treats, a popsicle can be a refreshing treat.

Prevention and Treatment:

Cold Remedy:

Follow dosage instructions based on your dog's size. For dogs over 80 pounds, adult dosages may be appropriate, while smaller dogs might only need a teaspoon.

Antiviral Oral Solution:

Administer one dose twice a day.

Amoxicillin:

1020 mg per kilogram of body weight, taken 23 times daily for 5 days. Always consult a veterinarian before administering medication.

3. Skin Diseases

Summer is peak season for pests like ants and fleas. Dogs that frequent outdoor areas can easily bring these critters home. Dogs with shaved fur are more susceptible to bites and sunburn, leading to skin issues. Preventive measures include cleaning your dog's body upon entering the house, bathing immediately after walks, and using insectrepellent soaps to deter pests and kill eggs.

Prevention and Treatment:

Parasiteinduced itching often affects a dog's back and tail, causing scratching, rubbing, licking, or biting to relieve the discomfort. This can lead to hair loss, thickened skin, and scaly patches. While antiallergy shots can provide relief, the ultimate solution is to eliminate the parasites. Thoroughly clean your dog's resting areas and activity spaces during the summer months.

4. Heatstroke

Dogs have a limited number of sweat glands, primarily on their paws, which means they can't regulate their body temperature as effectively as humans. Dogs are much more susceptible to heatstroke, with a normal body temperature ranging from 37.8 to 39 degrees Celsius. A temperature of 40.65 degrees Celsius can cause organ damage, and 41 degrees Celsius is considered highly dangerous.

Prevention and Treatment:

Keep your dog's walks to cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late evening, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. Always carry water and offer your dog ice water to help cool them down quickly. If your dog shows signs of heatstroke, immediately soak them with water, wrap them in a damp towel, and seek veterinary care immediately.

Remember, summer brings a host of challenges for our furry friends. As responsible pet owners, we must be proactive in preventing these common issues to keep our dogs healthy and happy!