Do You Know The 3 Most Common Reasons Dogs Are Taken To The Veterinarian?

Do you know the three most common reasons why we take our dogs to see the veterinarian? We spend millions of dollars visiting the veterinarian for these problems but by learning a little dog first aid, you could save yourself hundreds of dollars. Eliminating a visit to see your veterinarian can benefit you in three ways.

1. Financially: In these times of recession, we need to avoid hefty bills whenever we can.

2. Time: Everybody these days is very busy, so if you can save an hour or so by not waiting at and then being seen by your veterinarian all the better.

3. Anxiety for your dog: Most dogs get really anxious at the veterinarian.

Well, now for the three most common reasons why we visit the veterinarian.

1. Scratching

2. Vomiting

3. Diarrhea

With a little dog first aid knowledge you can treat these conditions yourself.

Scratching

The two most common causes of itching and scratching in dogs are allergies and fleas. Regular brushing of your dog looking for lice, ticks and fleas will eliminate this being the cause of itching and scratching. There are a huge number of allergens which can affect your dog. If your dog has a lot of dandruff and flaky skin, they might be in need of a supplement of essential fatty acids, such as Omega 3. An excellent source is ground flax seeds added to your dogs food. Bathing your dog in cool water with an oatmeal shampoo will help to relieve even the most itchiest of skins.

Vomiting

Dogs will vomit quite often if they have eaten their food too quickly or simply ate too much. There should be little to worry about if your dog vomits very infrequently. If your dog is vomiting every few hours or so you must guard against them getting dehydrated. If they stop drinking water you must consult your vet. If your dog is vomiting occasionally and still consuming water an effective home remedy is called Nux Vomica.

Diarrhea

Dogs will eat almost anything they find lying around. Unfortunately quite a lot of what they eat doesn't agree with them and the end result is that your dog will have diarrhea. Most instances of diarrhea can be treated in your home without a visit to the vet. Diarrhea helps your dog to clear their body of any toxins which they may pick up. The most effective treatment for dogs with diarrhea is to stop your dog from eating for 24 hours. Not eating for 24 hours gives your dogs intestines a chance to rest and regenerate themselves. After 24 hours introduce some bland home cooked food like white rice or cooked oatmeal. If your dog is happy and active the diarrhea should clear up in a few days.

If your dog however is passing large amounts of blood in his stool, has a fever, is dehydrated or is acting very lethargic then you should really consult your veterinarian.