Dogs are susceptible to a number of different diseases.
There are a variety of different diseases that can afflict dogs. Some of these diseases are exclusive to canine species, while others can affect other animals and humans as well. Some dog diseases are infectious, such as parasitic infections, viruses and bacterial infections, and some are inherited or related to the breed, such as hip dysplasia. On the other hand, some are spontaneously developed like many cancers and nervous system diseases.
Rabies
Also known as hydrophobia, rabies is a fatal virus that is capable of affecting all mammals including humans. Because rabies can spread so quickly, rabies vaccinations for dogs are required by law in most areas of the U.S. Rabies is transmittable from wild animals to dogs and humans, and rabid dog bites pose a serious health risk.
Canine Parvovirus
Also known as parvo, this is a gastrointestinal infection that can be fatal in some dogs. There are two primary types of parvovirus, one that primarily affects puppies and one that can be transmitted to any dog. The parvovirus causes intense vomiting and diarrhea, and the most common cause of death is from severe dehydration.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is an extremely contagious respiratory disease that is caused by several different viruses and a bacteria called Bordetella bronchiseptica. Kennel cough is commonly transmitted from dog to dog in close confinement, such as in pet stores and kennels. There is a vaccination available for Bordetella that can reduce the likelihood of developing kennel cough.
Heartworm
Heartworm is a disease spread by Dirofilaria immitis and mosquitoes. Heartworm is a severe illness that causes coughing and difficulty breathing and eventually leads to death. The treatment for heartworm is uncomfortable and also dangerous, but there is an annual vaccination and oral medication that can prevent it from occurring.
Canine Distemper
Distemper is an infectious disease that is often fatal in dogs, according to Caroline Tanaka, a veterinarian in Austin, Texas. Distemper causes a number of symptoms, including respiratory issues and neurological changes. A vaccination is available for canine distemper and can protect young puppies and adult dogs from transmission from infected dogs.
Ringworm
Ringworm is a skin disease caused by different fungi like Microsporum gypseum, Microsporum canis or Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Ringworm typically presents with hair loss and irritated, scaly skin. Despite the name, there is no actual worm involved with ringworm.
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