Puppies are cute and furry, of course, and fun for the whole family to enjoy together. However, puppies get sick too, just like other animals and humans, and it’s important to know what common illnesses puppies are afflicted with and what to do about them. Common illnesses for pups include worms, the parvovirus and breed-related infections that vary from breed to breed. These are all controllable, but can cause serious harm to your puppy if ignored.
Worms
Small puppies that get worms are in much more danger of serious harm than grown dogs, so catching it soon is important. Good prevention measures for worms in puppies include regular vet checkups and de-worming treatments. If your pup already has worms, some symptoms are likely. Bloated or swollen stomachs, a ferocious appetite accompanied by weight loss rather than gain, and a hot dry nose are common symptoms of a worm infection in puppies. Other signs include lethargy, eating strange items, anemia. If you suspect your new pup has worms, getting him or her to a vet as soon as possible is extremely important.
Parvovirus
The parvovirus, or Parvo for short, is a common disease that afflicts puppies much more than adult dogs, and can be responsible for a lowered immune system, weak heart and sudden death in very small puppies. This makes it one of the most deadly afflictions for canines. There is a vaccination for parvo that can be given to your pup, but some vets suggest it should be given more than once to assure protection, and this necessity makes it possible to contract parvo before a vaccination takes effect. Symptoms of parvo are very noticeable and even scary, and include vomiting, bloody and smelly diarrhea and a high fever. There is no cure for parvo, so intense treatment to keep the puppy alive while the disease runs is course is necessary and often very expensive.
Infections
Along with worms and parvo, there are certain infections that are only common in certain breed of puppies. For example, Pekinese puppies are more likely to develop eye infections because of their physical build – their eyes stick out farther than their nose, and when their eyes come in contact with something they develop infections. Some small dogs are more prone to hernias, while some larger puppies can develop heart problems early on as a result of their size and breed’s history. Checking with a vet or doing research beforehand of common problems with the breed you’ve chosen can help you be more prepared to deal with them as they come and keep your puppy healthy and happy.
Pet Place provides resources on how you can learn more about crate training puppies and puppy vaccinations.