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Vet Care Shows You Care

If you care for your pet, and we know you do, then it is important to also allow a veterinarian to care for them. Your vet is the one who can provide vaccines, check your pet for ongoing conditions like arthritis and parasitic infections, and recommend medications to treat fleas and ticks. Most vet are very familiar with treated dogs and cats, and many will also treat rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, and other household pets. If you'd like to learn more about veterinary care, then plan on spending some time on this website. It's a good resource for any curious pet owner.

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3 Health Issues For Small Dog Breeds

by Elijah Romero

Dogs are the most popular pet in the United States. According to recent statistics from the American Pet Products Association (APPA), there are over 89 million pet dogs in the country. Half of the households in the U.S. have small dogs. Examples of small dog breeds include Pomeranians, Yorkshire terriers, Italian greyhounds, and miniature poodles. There are many reasons dog owners choose to have a smaller breed. Small dogs cost less to feed, they do well in smaller spaces, and they are easier to groom. However, dog owners need to be aware that there are certain health issues only small breeds have.

Here are three health issues for small dog breeds.

1. Pancreatitis

The pancreas is a vital organ as it aids in digestion and regulates blood sugar levels. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, it's called pancreatitis. One of the primary common causes for pancreatitis in small dogs is a high-fat diet. This is why pet owners should not feed their small dog human food. When a small dog's pancreas is not working as it should, the dog will have the following symptoms:

  • Repeated vomiting
  • Hunched back
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dehydration
  • Fever

Pet owners who notice these symptoms should take their dog to a veterinarian right away. If severe pancreatitis is not treated in a timely manner, it could cause severe organ damage.

2. Tracheal Collapse

The trachea is the part of the body that is responsible for carrying air from the nose or mouth to the lungs. The trachea is commonly referred to as the windpipe. When parts of a small dog's windpipe weakens, it makes it hard for them to breathe. Causes of tracheal collapse in small dogs include exposure to dust and smoke and kennel cough. For some small dogs, there is no specific cause for tracheal collapse.

Symptoms of tracheal collapse include:

  • Intermittent bouts of coughing
  • Rapid or difficulty breathing
  • Exercise intolerance

Veterinarians usually prescribe medication to treat a collapsed trachea. If it is a severe case, a veterinarian might recommend surgery.

3. Homeostasis Imbalance

When a dog can't handle extreme temperatures very well, it's called homeostasis imbalance. A small dog's small size and inadequate insulation makes them susceptible to this health issue. When a small dog is suddenly exposed to cold temperatures, it causes their body heat to drop dramatically. Excessive heat also greatly affects small dogs.

Because extreme temperatures have such a negative impact on a small dog's health, it's important for pet owners to talk to their veterinarian about how to keep their pets safe during severe and extreme weather.  

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