For someone who takes their dogs with them on adventures, it is important to be able to recognize if there is something wrong with their health. As a dog owner, you should be able to catch the warning signs so that necessary action can be taken at the right time.

Some of the health problems can be treated at home but some issues need a vet’s examination.

 

Cuts and Injuries

It is very common for dogs to get injured while playing. But to prevent any further infection, you should keep an eye out for signs of limping, bleeding, etc. Most of the time, these cuts cure by themselves, but sometimes it needs more attention.

Fleas

Fleas are easily transferable, so don’t be surprised if you spot fleas on your dog’s body. You will notice your dog scratching itself rigorously and frequently if they have fleas. Comb their body with a fine-toothed comb to spot any fleas. With every stroke, wipe the comb with a tissue or napkin. If you spot any brown-reddish specks on the tissue, then it is likely that your dog has fleas.

Eyesight Problems

Dogs are more prone to eyesight problems in their older age, but some of them have it at an early age as well. Having eyesight issues during their formative years affects their activity levels drastically.

To make sure that your dog’s eyesight is fine, keep checking their eyes regularly. Cataracts are very common in dogs and are easily detectable as it makes their eyes appear milky or hazy. A warning sign for eyesight issues is them bumping into things and getting clumsy with their direction.

As a precaution, you can install padding around things with sharp edges in your house and train them in utilizing their smell and sound senses more.

Worms

Worm is another pest that can attach itself to your dog while s/he is playing and eating outdoors. A signal that will alert you in case your dog may have consumed worms is them getting lethargic unusually, an increased appetite, and simultaneous weight loss. If that is the case, then you should immediately get your dog dewormed at home or in a clinic.

Ticks

You should be more mindful of ticks making a home in your dog’s coat or stomach if you are enthusiastic about going on long walks and hikes with them. Ticks are one of the most common pests that your dog can pick up during walks and hikes.

Not treating ticks on time can lead to further serious health problems like Lyme’s disease. There are various ways in which you can treat ticks. The first step towards it is checking your dog thoroughly for ticks after every walk or hike. The most common areas where you can find ticks are under the tail and in between the toes. There is a range of special tools that help remove ticks from a dog’s body, or you can just directly take them to a vet to get the ticks removed.

Arthritis

As your dog approaches old age, it is very common for them to get arthritis. If you notice your dog showing reduced mobility, having swollen joints, etc. then your dog might have arthritis. The good news is that arthritis is treatable and some exercise can be very helpful in combating it.