Parvovirus

• Parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that can be deadly if not treated promptly. Parvo, as the disease is sometimes called, attacks internal organs such as the intestines, bone marrow--and, in rare cases, the heart. Parvovirus is easily transmitted through contact with infected feces. Symptoms of parvo include loss of appetite, extreme lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea, often tinged with blood. An infected dog must be treated with antibiotics to fight the infection and intravenous fluids to prevent and/or treat dehydration.
  
  

Rabies

• Rabies is a disease that attacks the brain and nervous system. The disease is transmitted through saliva. An animal or human can become infected with rabies if bitten by an infected animal. Symptoms include aggression, lack of coordination, seizures and foaming of the mouth. There is no cure for rabies as, and the disease is always fatal. It's imperative that your dog has his rabies shots in order to prevent this disease.
  
  

Distemper

• Distemper is another highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs. Distemper affects the brain, lungs and intestines and causes vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, lethargy, nasal discharge and runny eyes. Seizures may occur. Treatment for distemper is supportive, since there is no cure. A veterinarian should monitor the dog's condition. He may prescribe medications to alleviate symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting. The veterinarian may also prescribe medication to control epilepsy as well as antibiotics. The dog may be given intravenous fluids as a result of dehydration.
  
  

Bordatella

• Bordatella, more commonly known as kennel cough, is a respiratory condition caused by a bacterial infection. Kennel cough is highly contagious. It is easily transmitted through saliva and nasal discharge. Bordatella is called kennel cough because it is a common condition in kennels and animal shelters where overcrowded conditions may exist. The infection is easily passed from one dog to the next. The symptoms of kennel cough include coughing, sneezing and runny nose. Symptoms of kennel cough can range from mild to severe. The biggest danger with this condition is that a secondary infection such as pneumonia may occur, in which case the veterinarian prescribes antibiotics to treat the infection.
  
  

Lyme Disease

• Lyme disease is an infection that occurs when a dog is bitten by an infected tick. The risk of developing Lyme disease is greater for outdoor dogs than those mostly kept inside. Lyme disease affects the joints, heart and kidneys. An infected dog may develop a bull's-eye type of rash at the site of the bite. Other symptoms include pain, fatigue and swollen joints. After the diagnosis is made, a veterinarian will prescribe antibiotic treatment that must be continued for several weeks.
  
  

Considerations

• There are many conditions that may affect your dog's health, such as internal and external parasites, hip dysplasia, cataracts and diabetes. Taking preventive measures can help keep your dog healthy and lower the cost of your vet bills. Feed your dog a healthy diet and make sure he gets regular checkups with the veterinarian.