When someone adopts a rescue dog, it is an incredible experience for them. But it also comes with responsibilities. Many rescue dogs suffer from health problems of their own due to their past experiences.
These circumstances give such dogs a chance for life with a higher quality. We can do this by learning about rescue dogs' common health issues and how to treat them.
| Common Health Issue | Prevention Tips |
| Skin Problems | Use medicated shampoos and flea prevention meds. |
| Dental Problems | Brush teeth regularly and provide dental chews. |
| Digestive Issues | Transition diets slowly and include probiotics. |
| Parasites | Use monthly preventatives and regular deworming. |
| Behavioral Health | Establish routines and use positive reinforcement. |
| Ear Infections | Clean ears regularly with vet-approved solutions. |
1. Skin Problems
The dogs' skin conditions are their most noticeable health problem. Many rescued dogs have flea infestations, dermatitis, or even mange.
Causes and Symptoms:
- The parasites, such as fleas and mites, can cause the dog to itch and become red and swollen.
- Food or environmental allergens can cause scratching, redness, and hair loss.
- Sometimes, if the dog is not properly cared for, the pet might develop skin infection problems.
Treatment:
- Initially, a vet has to check out for the exact diagnosis.
- Use the medicated shampoos and topical treatments prescribed by the vet.
- Treat the dog with medications for flea and tick prevention.
| Pro Tip: Use pet wipes to clean your dog's skin. This prevents infections and keeps its coat fresh. |
2. Dental Problems
Most rescue dogs have poor-quality teeth. They have bad breath, too. They weren't given the right dental care. Poor dental health can alter the overall well-being of the dog.
Common Issues:
- Tartar build-up and gum disease.
- Loose or missing teeth.
- Bad breath due to microbial infection.
Treatment and Prevention:
Make sure your dog's teeth are brushed with the vet's recommended toothpaste regularly. Schedule annual dental cleanings with the vet. Use dental chews specifically designed for dogs.
3. Digestive Issues
Rescue dogs may have sensitive stomachs. This is due to abrupt diet changes or poor past nutrition.
Symptoms:
- Vomiting or diarrhea.
- Lack of appetite or bloating.
- Weight loss despite eating well.
How to Help:
Transition to a balanced diet gradually. Include probiotics to support gut health, and consult your vet about potential food intolerances or allergies.
4. Parasites
Rescue dogs, especially strays, often have fleas, ticks, and worms.
Types of Parasites:
- External parasites: Fleas and ticks.
- Internal parasites: Roundworms, hookworms, and heartworms.
Preventions:
Use monthly preventatives to keep parasites at bay. Deworm your dog based on your vet's recommendations and regularly check for ticks, especially after walks in wooded areas.
5. Ear Infections
Typically, rescue dogs with floppy ears are the ones that go untreated for ear infections.
Symptoms:
- Continual movement of the head or the rot of the ear canal by the paw of the animal.
- The ears could turn red or discharge a foul odour.
- The ear canal may have thick, yellowish, or occasional blood discharge.
Treatment:
Ears should be cleaned with a gentle vet-approved solution that is left in for a few minutes. Diseases caused by microorganisms can be identified by cultures.
They can be treated with antibiotics or antifungals if given. Keep ears free of water, especially after a bath or swim.
6. Arthritis and Joint Problems
Mature rescue dogs or those with old injuries often get arthritis and other joint issues.
Signs to Watch For:
- Animals may dislike biomechanical issues, like lameness or ataxia, after exercise.
- Symptoms of soundproofing include going up the stairs and jumping. It also limits mobility in retirees.
- Worsening lung function or poor coordination could, more than expected, limit the rising interest in exercise.
Management Tips:
Orthopedic beds should be used to provide support to dogs. Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin should be used to improve joint health.
To achieve a healthy weight, dogs can reduce stress on their bones. They can do this by playing or taking short walks.
7. Vaccination and Preventive Care
Many rescue dogs have missed their vaccinations. So they are at a higher risk of infectious diseases.
Vaccines:
- Rabies, distemper, and parvovirus vaccines are the most common core vaccines.
- Lyme disease is a non-core vaccine. It is given based on your location.
Prevention Plan:
Start with a veterinarian's check-up after adopting your pet. Ensure you strictly adhere to your vaccination schedule, and vaccines are supplemented with wellness checks.
Regularly search for up-to-date topics on pet preventive health care. Watch vet tech webinars offered by vets and techs.
8. Obesity
Obesity is common in former pets due to abuse and irregular eating. They lack exercise.
Risks:
- The probability of diabetes and joint problems is high.
- The life span falls.
Solutions:
Feed high-quality dog food in moderate amounts at regular times. This is the solution. Apart from regular playtimes, regular exercise can be made a motive to keep them fit.
Buy interactive toys, like laser lights or dog chew balls, to make your dog exercise.
Weight loss and difficulty breathing are common symptoms during the progression of heartworm infection.
Conclusion
A rescue dog's journey is a struggle. But it's a triumph. You get a loyal, loving dog. By finding their health problems early and providing preventive care, you will ensure they live a happy, healthy life as dogs. Always remember: every dog is unique. You must work with your vet to find the best care plan.
