Dog Medicine for Common Conditions

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     Just like their human companions, dogs run into health trouble from time to time. Since canines can be rather careless when it comes to keeping up on the common conditions and medicines of their species, you may want to do your favorite pooches a favor and get informed on the basics.

Although it抯 important to be aware of canine medical conditions, and perfectly natural to want to help when you think you抳e identified a problem, you should never take action or make assumptions when it comes to your pets?health. Before taking any actions, always consult a certified practicing veterinarian for further advice.

The following is intended to increase awareness about common conditions that affect dogs and potential remedies, not to diagnose illnesses or prescribe medicines.

Canine Arthritis

One of the most common health issues that primarily develops in aging dogs, and especially larger breeds, is arthritis. As with their human counterparts, there are several types of arthritis that can affect dogs, but they all translate to painful, weakened or inflamed joints. Common causes of arthritis in dogs include genetics, physical stress such as in an accident, obesity, which can put undue stress on joints, or malnourishment.

Common signs of canine arthritis to watch for include the tendency of your dog to hesitate before climbing stairs or going on walks. You might also notice your dog favoring or avoiding one leg or seeming stiffer in the morning and getting more limber as the day progresses.

One medicine your veterinarian may prescribe for treating arthritis is FlexileRx, a medicine that reduces pain and joint inflammation in both dogs and humans by regulating and inhibiting enzymes that metabolize fatty acids in the joints, perpetuating damage.

FlexileRx also contains a powerful antioxidant, which protects cells from oxidative damage by free radicals and improves joint health with plant-derived flavonoids. Most suitable for dogs with mild to moderate osteo-arthritis, FlexileRx can help put the spring back into the step of your ailing pups.

Another possible alternative for arthritis treatment in dogs is Previcox by Merial. While Previcox cannot cure osteo-arthritis, it reduces the pain and inflammation associated with the disease. A chewable, non-steroidal medicine, Previcox is usually prescribed for medium to large dogs and can result in improvements within the first few days, restoring your dog抯 activity to previous levels by easing pain.

Heartworm

Heartworm is a parasitic infection that is spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes. Although it primarily affects dogs, it can also thrive in cats, wolves, foxes and other small to medium mammals. The parasite, a type of roundworm, receives its moniker from its tendency to live within the bloodstream of infected hosts, eventually settling in the heart itself. Your veterinarian will routinely perform tests that can detect heartworm in your dog抯 system before they cause noticeable symptoms.

If your pet has reached the stage of infection where symptoms are apparent, you may notice your dog becoming prematurely exhausted when exercising. Therefore, dogs with sedentary routines may not even exhibit signs of infection until a more advanced stage. As infection advances, your dog may begin to cough upon exercise, experience severe weight loss or even faint. In the case of advanced heavy infections, though not all become heavy enough to produce the worst symptoms, the disease can even result in pulmonary heart failure if not treated.
If your veterinarian has identified a heartworm infection in your dog, she may prescribe one of several available medications, including Heartguard Plus Chewables for Dogs. A combination of two anti parasitic drugs, Ivermectin and pyrantel pamoate, Heartguard prevents heartworm by killing their larvae for a month after infection. The medication also eliminates ascarids and hookworms as well.
Advantage Multi is another medication, this time topical in nature, that treats and prevents a number of canine troubles including heartworm, fleas and intestinal parasites. A combination of imidacloprid and moxidectin, Advantage Multi comes in pre measured doses depending on your dog抯 weight and is applied at the back of the neck once a month.
When talking to your vet about heatworm and possible treatments, be sure to inquire about the most effective combination for flea, tick and heartworm prevention in your particular area.
The best way to nurture excellent health and long life in your dog is by taking care of him. Plenty of exercise, a well balanced and moderated diet full of essential vitamins, minerals and healthy fats and oils, and lots of attention are three things that will keep your pups happy and healthy.

If you think you抳e spotted a potential issue in your pet梐n odd change in routine, a new habit or even an intuitive concern梩he most effective course of action you can take is notifying your local veterinarian and asking for advice. An attentive, concerned and well-informed master will, in just about every case, produce a happy, healthy pet.