By Dr. Charlotte Rodricks1 and Dr. Abhinav Sontakke1
Assistant Professors, Parikrama Veterinary Science College, Kashti, Daund, Shrigonda, Ahmednagar 414701
Winter is coming and along with a host of potential ailments, which could afflict our furry friends. Young pups and older dogs have been reported to be especially susceptible compared to their middle age counterparts. Some common ailments to watch out for are:
- Arthritis
Often reported in older dogs, it is a degenerative joint disease which causes pain and inflammation and affects one in five dogs. Symptoms include a reluctance to climb stairs or jump, stiffness, irritability, whining on touching the affected areas, limping, and slowness during walks. Many dogs tend to also lick or chew the affected areas. In some cases, swollen areas can be observed around the affected joints. Treatment involves joint supplements and monitoring of your pet’s weight to prevent further damage to the joints. Physiotherapy, daily massages, and moderate exercise can also help alleviate symptoms. In some incidents, to prevent slipping on tiled floors and varnished wood, it is advisable to use anti slip mats.
- Kennel Cough
A highly contagious mild respiratory infection which can be either bacterial (Bordetella bronchiseptica) or viral (canine influenza virus) in origin. It is mostly reported in immunocompromised dogs, very young pups, and older dogs who visit day cares, kennels or parks where there are other infected animals. The symptoms mimic flu in humans and can be in the form of nasal and ocular discharge, forceful hacking cough, gagging or retching, sneezing, lethargy, inappetance and in extreme cases, fever. Transmission can be through airborne droplets, direct contact or via contaminated surfaces. To treat such cases, it is advisable that the animal receives sufficient rest along with fluid therapy. More extreme cases would necessitate antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian.
- Dry skin
Observed in all dogs of varying ages, it is more common during the winter season. The skin can become dry and flaky resulting in dandruff. Dogs tend to get aggressive with their licking and scratching leading to staining of fur and alopecia. Sometimes seasonal allergies can cause the dog’s skin to become irritated causing it to become red and flaky due to excessive scratching. External parasites like fleas and ticks can also cause skin to dry out due to constant scratching. In such cases, a topical flea ointment should be applied. Their diet should be regulated and Vitamin E or omega supplements should be added to their
food. A medicated shampoo that soothes the skin can also be used as directed by a veterinarian.
- Hypothermia
A common ailment during the winter season is hypothermia. Symptoms include cold extremities, shivering, lethargy, pale gums, slow movements, depressed appetite, and a general lack of energy. It can often prove fatal in very young pups. Keep your dog well insulated and warm them up gradually. Younger dogs should be wrapped in a blanket and a hot water bag should be kept underneath which should be changed periodically. For very severe cases, warm fluids can be given.
- Weight gain
As a consequence of becoming slow and sluggish, animals will automatically reduce their movement which will result in weight gain. This will further aggravate already present conditions and may even lead to sores if the animal is unable to move. Treating the initial symptoms and maintaining a proper exercise routine can restrict unnecessary weight gain.