Being aware of the infectious and in some cases potentially fatal diseases your dog can catch at any age is a vital part of dog ownership. Spotting the signs that your pet is unwell and in need of veterinary care will not only help you give your dog a long, happy and healthy life. Knowing when to call your vet for advice and support could even save your dog’s life in an emergency. Understanding how dog diseases are transmitted will also help give you the information you need on how to protect your dog and prevent the spread of dangerous disease.
Tick-borne Babesiosis is most commonly seen in France but increasingly British dogs who travel are at risk. Signs include a high temperature, blood in the urine and lethargy.
Canine Coronavirus is a potentially fatal virus that causes diarrhoea, vomiting and weight loss.
Canine Parvovirus is highly contagious and symptoms include bloody diarrhoea and vomiting. The disease can be fatal especially in puppies and young dogs.
Distemper is caused by a virus and like Canine Parvovirus is also extremely contagious. Signs include coughing, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Just like in humans, Canine Hepatitis affects the liver with signs including fever, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Lyme Disease can develop after a tick bite, signs include joint pain, fatigue, depression, excessive thirst and loss of appetite.
Found on mainland Europe and a risk to pets travelling abroad from the UK, Rabies is a fatal disease caught from a bite or scratch by an infected animal. Leptospirosis is a bacterial illness transmitted in the urine of infected wild animals such as rats. This can be a silent killer and may lead to kidney or liver failure. Kennel Cough is a highly contagious infection caused by the Bordetella virus with symptoms including a severe, honking cough, nasal discharge and watery eyes.
Other diseases to consider include, Leishmaniasis, Ehrlichosis, Heartworm and Diabetes.