Every year, I compile a list of New Year’s Day resolutions. Typically, the same items top my list each year. For instance, I always desire to lose weight and spend more time with my family members. Perhaps, you want to get healthier in the New Year. You may also wish for your beloved pet to enjoy better health this year. To help you accomplish this important task, schedule regular appointments for your pet with his or her veterinarian. A veterinarian can inform you of any health problems your pet may be experiencing. On this blog, I hope you will discover the importance of taking your pet to annual veterinarian appointments. Enjoy!
All dog breeds have certain diseases and health conditions to which they are predisposed. If you have a beagle puppy, it's important to know what conditions to watch out for as he or she grows into an adult. Here's a look.
Ear infections.
The folded-over shape of beagles' ears, combined with their narrow ear canals, leaves them prone to ear infections. If you notice your beagle pawing at his or her ears a lot, rubbing his head on things, or shaking his head a lot, it's time for a visit to the vet. Ear infections are easily treatable with antibiotics, and your vet may also show you how to clean your beagle's ears to make infections less likely in the future.
Skin growths.
Especially once your beagle becomes advanced in age (over the age of 8 or so), you'll want to be on the lookout for skin growths and tumors. These are quite common in beagles -- especially around the lips and anus. If they are removed quickly, they're not typically a major issue, but if left to grow, they can cause major irritation. Luckily, most skin growths in beagles are not cancerous and won't spread to other organs.
Eye diseases.
From glaucoma to eye dryness, beagles are susceptible to many eye diseases and conditions. The symptoms of these diseases are all similar -- trouble seeing, red and watery eyes, and frequent rubbing of the eyes. If you believe your dog's vision is suffering, your vet will run a series of tests ot confirm which eye disease is to blame. Some, like glaucoma, can be kept from progressing if you administer medications to your dog. Others, like retinopathy, are impossible to treat and may eventually cause your dog to go blind.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition most often seen in larger dogs, but beagles are prone to it as well. If your beagle's parents had hip dysplasia, he or she is at a greater risk -- so ask your dog's breeder if he has a family history of this condition. Symptoms usually appear before a dog turns one and include a slow gait, dragging a hip while walking, and trouble standing up straight. Anti-inflammatory medications can keep the dog comfortable, but he or she will never be able to run and play at full capacity.
Many beagles live long, healthy lives free of these conditions, but by knowing that there is a possibility of these diseases, you can be on the lookout and seek prompt treatment via a dog care center if they do appear.
Share28 February 2017
