Over the course of the pandemic, an estimated 3.2 million households across the UK have added a new pet to their lives.
It’s easy to see why – dogs make us happier, encourage us to be on the go a little more, and fit in as another popular family member.
But if you’re a dog owner, when your best friend is badly ill can be quite worrisome – and we usually turn to the internet for answers.
Dog food company tails.com has researched the top Googled health issues that dog owners across the UK have been looking for the most and asked their chief veterinarian Sean McCormack for advice on how to treat them at home and when to get help from your veterinarian, it’s important should be looking for.
Kennel cough – searched 15,000 times a month search
Kennel cough is the common name for infectious tracheobronchitis in dogs, which is a highly contagious respiratory disease in the canine world. The disease causes inflammation of the throat and lungs.
The most common symptom of kennel cough is a dry, hacking cough that sometimes sounds like honking. Other symptoms include watery discharge from the nose and choking. In severe cases, symptoms can lead to pneumonia, fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
Sean points out that treatment plans vary depending on the severity. Your veterinarian will know best how to treat your pooch.
However, in most cases it is recommended that you just let the cough drain, but be sure to check with your vet. Sometimes treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics to treat a secondary infection may be needed.
Sean recommends isolating your pet from other pets, avoiding cigarette smoke or other irritating fumes. If your dog pulls on a leash, try replacing your pet’s collar with a harness for the duration of the cough to avoid further pain. Monitor your pet’s eating and drinking habits and give them the support they need.
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Ticks in dogs – searched 8,200 times a month
There is a common misconception that ticks are only a problem in dogs during the summer months, but warmer weather has resulted in an increase in ticks throughout the year.
Due to the nature of a tick’s blood-sucking tendencies, they can transmit a number of infections and diseases such as babesiosis and borreliosis that affect both dogs and their owners. Ticks are most commonly associated with Lyme disease, a disease that often goes undetected because symptoms often go away for several weeks after the first bite.
The sooner a tick can be removed, the less likely it is to get infected.
“To effectively remove a tick, use a tick removal tool (easy to find online). It allows you to twist the tick off the skin and lift it up by going under its biting mouthparts, ”says Sean.
“It is important that you properly remove the tick and pull your head out, as simply pulling on the tick can often sink the mouthparts into the skin and risk infection. If you have trouble removing a tick yourself, contact your local veterinarian for help. “
Dog Diarrhea – 5,200 Wanted Per Month
Diarrhea in dogs is one of the most common problems veterinarians see each year.
There are many causes of diarrhea in a dog or puppy, but the most common are sudden diet changes, eating something they shouldn’t, parasites, infections, inflammatory diseases, and even just plain stress, anxiety, and overexcitation.
Sean explains, “The color of your dog’s droppings can also depend solely on your dog’s diet – reddish, greenish, or dark brown droppings can be anything.
“If it looks black, it could be a sign of internal bleeding, while light yellow or gray poop could be a sign of pancreatic fat digestion problems or liver problems. Get veterinary help immediately if you notice this in your dog’s stool.
“You know your dog better than anyone, if you feel like something is wrong – or common problems like constipation or diarrhea don’t go away after a few days – don’t hesitate to take your dog to the vet and have one.” Stool sample with. “
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Dog fleas – searched 3,000 times a month
More than 95% of fleas do not live on animals, but in wooden floors, carpets and home textiles.
Sean says, “The most effective flea products are spot-on liquid medications that are applied to the skin of your dog’s neck, but misuse can be a problem with these treatments, and if it rains or your dog leaps in water, the product may be washed away before it takes effect can be.
“Check with your veterinarian to find out how best to control fleas. It is just as important to control surrounding eggs and larvae, as well as adult fleas on your dog. If you don’t, you will never get rid of the infestation.”
Canine Ear Infection – Searched 2,900 times a month
An ear infection is an irritating and painful build-up of bacteria or yeast in the ear canal, usually caused by an underlying condition such as ear mites, a skin problem, or excess ear wax.
The most common symptoms of an ear infection may include; Scratching ears, pain and head shaking. Take care of your pooch – a head tilt or loss of balance are signs that your dog’s infection has penetrated deeper into your dog’s ear.
Sean says, “When it comes to treating an ear infection, always consult your veterinarian. The sooner your dog is treated, the faster the dog is likely to recover.”
Do you love dogs?
If that’s a big yes, now is the time to join our brand new sister site, TeamDogs. It’s packed with brilliant information and recommendations for people like you here in the Northeast.
When you get there, make it your first job to share a picture of your dog on our Top Dogs feed.
When you’ve done that, you might want to leave a recommendation to help other dog owners in the North East TeamDogs community.
Arthritis in Dogs – Checked 2,700 times a month
Similar to humans, arthritis is a very common condition that causes stiff, painful, or swollen joints. Moving around can be very difficult and uncomfortable for your pooch.
Says Sean, “To prevent arthritis in your four-legged friend, keep your dog’s joints as healthy as possible by keeping him slim and giving him regular, sensible exercise.
“Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis, but luckily there are several treatments available to slow its progression and relieve pain. Diet supplements or special diets tailored to your dog’s needs containing omega-3 oils, glucosamine, and chondroitin can be helpful.
“Treatment can include pain relievers, joint supplements, hydrotherapy, and even surgery – all of which are available from your veterinarian.
“If you suspect arthritis in your dog, it is best to see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Vomiting in Dogs – Searched 2,500 times a month
Vomiting is one of the most common symptoms veterinarians deal with on a daily basis. It can be caused by a variety of things, and in most cases, vomiting in dogs will improve within 24 hours. However, some are more serious and require treatment from a veterinarian.
Sean advises, “It is not always necessary to see your vet the first time your dog vomits, but it is extremely important to monitor him closely and seek advice from your veterinarian if he is vomiting more than once feels uncomfortable or has other symptoms.
“Always contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog tries repeatedly to vomit but fails, especially if he has a bloated stomach.
“This can be a sign of something more serious that needs further investigation.”
Canine Gastroenteritis – Checked 1,900 times a month
Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, i.e. the stomach and intestines. It can be caused by infection with bacteria, viruses, parasites, drugs, or even new foods. Most dogs with gastroenteritis have intermittent episodes of vomiting and diarrhea.
Sean explains, “Symptoms can be foamy, yellowish broken bile, especially after the stomach is emptied. Some owners may see dry lifting or gagging after their dog has eaten or drunk.
“If you think your pet has gastroenteritis, seek veterinary help immediately; your pooch may need immediate attention.”
Cataracts in Dogs – searched 1,500 times a month
Most cataracts in dogs are the result of a genetic or hereditary defect. Many breeds of dogs are predisposed to hereditary cataracts that appear at birth or develop later in young or medium-sized dogs.
A cataract is an abnormal clouding of the eye caused by a change in the lens.
Sean explains, “Cataracts prevent light from reaching the fundus, reduce vision and ultimately lead to blindness. The most common causes of cataracts are old age, diabetes, and eye diseases.
“Cataracts grow slowly so you may not notice them until later, but here are a few symptoms to watch out for: a clouding or gray tinge in your dog’s eyes, loss of vision, especially in low light – this can be very difficult to notice as it is often slow to develop and most dogs can adapt very well by using their hearing and smell instead.Pain – Cataracts are not painful, but some of the underlying medical conditions they cause are (like eye injury or glaucoma).
“Contact your veterinarian if you notice any changes in your dog’s eyes, or if you think they are losing their eyesight.”
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Ultimately, you know your pooch best, if he is behaving in any unusual way and you are concerned, it is always best to contact your veterinarian.