Dental Disease:

Dogs also suffer from dental disease, which in turn can seed infections throughout the body. Dental disease is associated with a bad mouth odor, brown to black staining on the teeth, and red gums. Since dental disease can be a cause of severe pain, it is highly recommended that dogs received annual wellness examinations to have their teeth evaluated. When dental disease is present, a thorough dental cleaning and polishing is in order.

Unlike cats, dogs tend to develop an underactive thyroid condition. The signs of this problem include decreased energy, loud snoring, a poor haircoat, the desire to be around heat and to avoid cold, and when advanced we can see breathing and walking problems. A simple blood test will reveal your dog’s thyroid level, and then we can assess if this level is normal for your dog or if it represents an illness. Treatment includes a yummy oral pill twice daily for life (and it is relative inexpensive!).

Heart Disease:

Dogs can suffer from many heart conditions, the most common of which is called mitral regurgitation. This occurs especially in small breed, older dogs, and is due to a valve in the left side of the heart that no longer forms a seal when the heart contracts. The resultant turbulent blood flow produces a murmur which can be heard when a stethescope is placed on the chest. The treatment for this condition depends on how advanced the secondary heart changes are, which can be assessed with an ultrasound. There are many other heart problems that occur in dogs which can be detected during an exam.

Kidney Disease:

Especially in dogs over nine years of age we can see kidney disease. At home you may notice that your dog drinks more and needs to go outside to urinate more often. She may have a decreased appetite, and weight loss is common. This disease holds a much better prognosis if it is diagnosed and treated early, often with a special diet. Simple blood tests and a urinalysis will reveal kidney problems.

Cancer:

Unfortunately cancer is relatively common in dogs. There is a much higher incidence of cancer in older dogs, although it is often diagnosed in dogs under two years of age. As scary as the word cancer is, it is important to remember that cancer is the most treatable chronic disease that animals get. Many cancers can be cured with surgery, some which chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and some need a combination of treatments. Common sites for cancer in dogs include skin, lymph nodes, bones, and spleen.

Diabetes:

Dogs also suffer from diabetes. Owners usually present their pets with a history of drinking excessively and urinating a lot. These dogs vary from having no appetite to being very hungry. Again, a simple blood test and a urinalysis will enable a diagnosis. Treatment in dogs requires insulin shots administered by owners, which most dogs tolerate very well.