Are you a new dog owner? Do you have a few dog health questions that you would like answered? Here are the most common topics where people have cares and concerns.

What kind of vaccination schedule should you follow? When puppies reach the age of six or eight weeks, they should go ahead and start a series of injections. They will need to be protected against parvovirus, adenovirus, distemper, and canine parainfluenza. These are deadly to dogs of all ages. If kennel cough is a concern, vaccinate against bordatella. All canines are legally required to have yearly rabies shots, even pups. As dogs grow older, they should get boosters every three years for these illnesses.

What do you do if you think your pet has worms? Well, if you have noticed your pet having diarrhea or moving objects in the stool, they likely have worms. Get them to your vet for a de-worming. In puppies, this should be done regularly because they are born with them. Your dog can pick up hookworms, tapeworms, roundworms, and many others. Some of these can be passed to humans. Heartworms are deadly and should be prevented by heartworm pills given monthly.

How do you keep your pet free of parasites? Fleas and ticks are a constant annoyance and struggle for pet owners. They feed off the blood of animals and make them sick and uncomfortable. To get rid of fleas, make sure your dog is given a strong flea dip bath. For nasty ticks that can carry diseases, pulling them off quickly and with care is important. To prevent other occurrences, put him on a monthly topical flea and tick medication for prevention. It is effective and goes directly onto the coat.

Is your dog flea-free but still itching? If he is constantly scratching and you are positive it is not fleas, it could be one of three things. First, he could have allergies just as humans get to something in the immediate environment. Next, it could be that he has ear mites that are causing him pain and irritation. For either of these issues, see your veterinarian. Lastly, it could just be dry skin, especially in fall and winter. Going out and finding a shampoo consisting of oatmeal or tea tree oil to bathe him in should help.

What food is best for your pet? Always choose a dry food for your dog. They have a very high nutrient percentage and contain very little water. Canned foods are mostly water and cause problems with the teeth and gums and can also make your dog obese. Make sure when you buy the kibbles that you read the nutrition label. The food needs to contain real meat and not wheat or byproducts as its base.

Does your dog have arthritis? If he is a senior, it is very likely. Trouble rising, walking, jumping or generally being stiff are all signs of this condition. Arthritis is the result of friction on joints due to the cushioning cartilage wearing down. Medicine to relieve symptoms is available. Also, have your vet check for hip dysplasia if you own the breeds predisposed to it.

Canines are wonderful companions. However, we have to take care of them. You have already started just by getting answers to some of your dog health questions here!

If you want to get some FREE answers to some of the more common dog health questions, then please click on any of these given links: dog health questions dog health questions in the world

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