Dog

The Flea - Tiny but Dangerous

Fleas can cause problems that scratching can’t solve.

A flea bite itself is uncomfortable and dogs will scratch and groom themselves to seek relief. This scratching (and chewing) can damage the skin and allow infections to develop.

Flea bites are also responsible for one of the most common allergies seen in dogs – flea allergy dermatitis.

If a dog ingests a flea when grooming, the flea can transmit tapeworms. These intestinal parasites are a frequent and unpleasant problem in domestic animals.

Severe flea infestations can result in significant blood loss for dogs, leading to anaemia especially in young puppies.

Dogs need constant protection against the dangers that fleas bring.

Parasitic Worms

Intestinal parasites (worms) are a very common problem among dogs. Almost all puppies are infected with roundworms before birth. Or they are infected immediately after birth through their mother’s milk (roundworm, hookworm).

Dogs of all ages are continuously exposed to potentially harmful parasites. For example, being bitten by mosquitos can transmit heartworm infection. And exposure to worm eggs and larvae in the soil can occur in backyards and parks. Though some of these parasites are very dangerous, they can be easily controlled and associated diseases prevented.

Atopic Dermatitis

Scratching. Licking. Gnawing. Chewing. Skin infections. Hair loss. Bad smells. Sleepless nights. These are all signs that your dog may be suffering from canine atopic dermatitis.

If left untreated, this chronic condition causes constant misery for dogs and their families that love them. That happy, energetic pet they once knew has become unhappy, depressed and unsightly.

The good news is that veterinary science has developed new therapies that tackle the source of the allergy, not just temporary symptom relief.

If your dog is scratching or rubbing its face, or gnawing and licking itself, visit your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Heart Disease

Heart failure can occur in dogs of all breeds, weights and ages. However it is most common among older dogs, affecting 25% of all dogs more than 7 years old. If left untreated, the condition can be fatal. But thanks to modern veterinary medicine, dogs with heart failure can live longer, healthier, more active lives.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) - the most common form of arthritis in humans and dogs - is a painful, degenerative disease that affects highly movable joints. Weight-bearing joints such as the hips, elbows and knees are most susceptible to this debilitating condition. Dogs suffering from the everyday pain of OA may have difficulty jumping on to beds, climbing stairs or getting in and out of the car.