Puppies are naturally a little more vulnerable to illness thanks to their immature immune system. This means that as owners, we have to pay particularly close attention to their health and wellbeing. Being aware of the signs of illness in our animals can ensure that we get our pets the veterinary attention that they need quickly, and before there are any serious or long-term consequences for their health and happiness.
Here are five of the most common puppy diseases to watch for and their symptoms.
Parvovirus
Parvovirus, or parvo as it is commonly referred to, is a viral disease that is extremely infectious and deadly. It is most often seen in puppies and young dogs aged up to 3 years old and attack either the heart or the gastric lining so that your dog can no longer absorb nutrients. Parvo is transmitted either directly through contact with an infected dog or through your pup coming into contact with the bodily secretions of an infected animal. Without prompt diagnosis and treatment, fatality rates are very high.
Symptoms of parvovirus include:
- Bloody diarrhea
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy/weakness
Since it is a virus, there is no known cure. Virtually all pups with parvovirus require hospitalization where they will be given a combination of medications and therapies in order to strengthen them so that they are better able to fight the virus. Vaccinations are the most effective way to protect pets of all ages against parvovirus.
Distemper
Canine distemper is a virus that causes symptoms that are very similar to a human cold. It is also transmitted in the same way, through direct contact or airborne exposure. However, dogs don’t get colds so if you notice that your puppy has any of the following symptoms, they have may canine distemper:
- Runny nose
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Discharge from the nose and eyes
Again, because it is viral, there isn’t a drug available that can treat canine distemper. This means that veterinary care comprises of medications and treatments that will help your puppy to gain strength and build up their immune response to the disease. Without treatment, distemper can be fatal. However, even if your puppy recovers, there is a chance that the disease can return in later life. For this reason, vaccinations against distemper are strongly recommended.
Kennel Cough
Despite its name, kennel cough – also known as canine parainfluenza – can occur in animals who aren’t in, or have never been, in kennels. This airborne and infectious disease is much like bronchitis in humans. Symptoms include:
- A persistent, dry, honking cough
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Decreased appetite
Left untreated, kennel cough can lead to pneumonia which is extremely dangerous for puppies. Fortunately, animals can start to be vaccinated against kennel cough as early as 6/8 weeks of age which can ensure that your puppy is adequately protected. Kennel cough often isn’t fatal, and most dogs who do develop it will recover within a few weeks. Nevertheless, vaccination against the disease is still advised.
Heartworms
There are a variety of different parasites that can affect our pets. Heartworms are one of the most dangerous forms of internal parasite. Immature heartworms are spread via mosquitos and once your puppy is bitten, the immature heartworms travel through the bloodstream where they settle in the blood vessels of the heart and lungs. Here they mature into adults, each up to a foot long and capable of reproducing. As their numbers grow, they begin to block blood flow, causing damage to your dog’s organs and putting them at risk of lung disease and heart failure. Left untreated, they are nearly always fatal.
It takes up to six months for a dog to develop symptoms of a heartworm infestation after being bitten. Signs to look out for include:
- A soft, dry cough
- Fatigue
- Reluctance to exercise
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
Heartworm prevention is recommended by all veterinarians and this is available in several forms, including oral medication and injection. Most heartworm preventatives are only available on prescription. Your vet will be happy to advise you further.
Internal Parasites
In addition to heartworms, puppies are particularly prone to picking up other internal parasites. These include hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms. These live inside the intestinal tract, causing a range of unpleasant symptoms including:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Swollen abdomen
- Loss of appetite
- Visible worms in your pet’s feces
Some types of worm can even be spread between pets and people. Fortunately, preventatives are readily available, as are treatments should your puppy be affected. Your vet will be able to advise you which is the best brand of medication to treat your pup.
If your puppy has any of the symptoms listed against any of these diseases, or if you have any concerns about the general health of your furry friend, please don’t hesitate to speak to our expert veterinary team for advice.
