Dog Allergies and Health Issues

The Top 10 Humane Health Issues That Affect Dogs as Well.

The itchy, watery eyes and constant ka-chooing are all signs that fall has arrived. With pollen counts high and your pooch shedding his summer coat, if you are sufferer of allergies, you have no shot at surviving without some sort of anti-histamine. Most people are surprised to learn however, that their allergy causing pup might also suffer from the watery eye syndromes as well. A recent study by a pet health insurance firm, VPI located in the USA examined its 2008 medical claims data to determine the top 10 “human” conditions that also plague pets:

• Allergies – In 2008, VPI received 63,761 claims for skin allergies. Allergic reactions in pets can result from flea bite saliva, the pollen of nearby plants or foods that pets eat. Treatment for pets is relatively the same as it is for people: control the pet’s exposure to allergens (in the environment or to certain foods), administration of antihistamines, and, in severe cases, administration of anti-inflammatory medications.

• Bladder infection – 23,915 claims received. The symptoms of a bladder infection, or bacterial cystitis, can be difficult to recognize in pets. Don’t assume all “accidents” in the house or a pet’s frequent urination pattern is simply a behavioral issue. There could be medical basis to a pet’s change in urinary habits. It is important to never ignore a pet that appears to be experiencing painful or difficult urination.

• Arthritis – 19,537 claims received. The aging process occurs more rapidly in pets and has many of the same effects on pets as it does on humans. Arthritis, or degenerative joint disease, most often results from a lifetime of wear and can cause pain or decreased joint movement. Pets suffering from arthritis may need anti-inflammatory medications and/or pet specific pain relievers for their arthritis. (Note: never give a pet a human drug or pain reliever, since these can be toxic to pets.)

• Diabetes – 8,590 claims received. As with humans, diabetes requires daily management of the disease and a combination of treatment involving weight control, specially timed meals, insulin injections and/or oral medications.

• Skin Cancer – 2,114 claims received. It would be easy to think that with hair usually covering the majority of their bodies, pets don’t have to worry about skin cancer. Unfortunately, the three most common skin cancers in humans also occur in pets. Areas of skin that are white or pink on a pet’s coat are particularly susceptible to sunburn which, with long-term exposure, can lead to skin cancer. As such, it is important to monitor the skin of pets with white ear tips, pink noses, etc.

• Gum Disease – 1,748 claims received. Pets have a disadvantage compared to people in the dental category. Food particles tend to gather in the corners of their mouth after a meal, so tooth brushing and regular checkups are necessary. Without tooth brushing the pet is susceptible to the potentially harmful effects of excessive plaque buildup on the tooth’s surface. The plaque harbors bacteria, which easily invade the adjacent gum lining, leading to gum recession and gum disease.

• Acne – 705 claims received. Acne in dogs and cats affects the chin and lips. While dogs often outgrow the condition, cats are more likely to suffer lifelong breakouts. Most pets are not bothered by the condition, but in severe cases, the affected areas may become painful or itchy. Topical medications may be prescribed by a veterinarian to relieve the pet’s discomfort.

A healthy dog start with healthy nutrition, good exercise and healthy lifestyle. If we are what we eat, so are our dogs. Often most health concerns are connected to poor nutrition. Do not let pretty labels and false claims, fool you. The pet industry is a multi million dollars business and does not always have our dogs or cats best interest at heart.

Feeding your dog high quality food does not have to be expansive and can save you thousands in vet bills. Learn to read food label, look for natural ingredients with the least processing. If you can make your own dog food, do it. It is actually a lot easier than you think even if you have a big dog.

Tags: Health and Wellness