The Six Most Common Pet Medical Problems

As pet business professionals we are the temporary custodians of our clients pets and we do our best to give them the best care we can. One of the ways we can show we care is to keep an eye on their health and wellness and be on the watch for the most common pet medical problems. Being aware of the symptoms of these pet diseases can help to diagnose problems early and ensure that the pets have the best chance for treatment and a fast recovery!

Veterinary Pet Insurance reports that the following six diseases are the most common claims filed:

1) Skin allergies

Unlike humans who react to allergies with nasal symptoms dogs typically react with skin problems. Some of the symptoms are itchy red skin, poor coat texture and length, itching and chewing (especially the feet), constant licking, and hot spots.

2) Ear infections

Symptoms of ear infections include scratching at the ears, holding head to one side, or down, and shaking of the head. Ears may also look bloody, waxy, or swollen.

3) Stomach upsets

Symptoms of intestinal problems include a grumbling stomach, vomitting, and diarrhea. Upset stomach is more prevalent in puppies because they eat and chew everything in sight!

4) Urinary Tract Infection

Symptons of lower urinary tract disease include bloody urine, straining to urinate, urination in unusual places, and excessive licking of the urinary opening.

5) Benign Tumors

Tumors are easily detected by performing an all over body check each time you care for a pet. Lumps and bumps under the skin are often benign tumors caused by deposits of fatty tissue, cysts, or infected hair follicles.

6) Pyoderma

Pyoderma is a bacterial infection of the skin that is common to dogs and uncommon in cats. Symptom is a skin rash that may appear as small bumps, pus filled pimples, or blood filled blisters. The disease may be caused by parasites, allergies, or homonal disorders.

Keep an out out for these symptoms in your own and your clients pets. Consult a veteranarian if you feel a pet may be suffering from any of these ailments. If you have any other tips that can help protect the health of our pets please leave you comments and share your knowledge with others…

Owning a pet business does not guarantee you success, but it is generally not difficult to set up your own pet business adn many who own pet businesses love the hard working lifestyle and the closeness to pets. You will have to compete with those who may be better trained, may have lower cost structures and those who “pretend” to have your skills and experience when they do not. (eg not all those who advertise themselves as groomers are actually Groomers).

There are also key skills that all dog industry professionals should possess. Here are some of the most critical skills and abilities for those hoping to work with dogs professionally: Basic Dog Handling and Training Skills, ability to recognize behavioral signals.

Animals can be somewhat unpredictable when they are under stress or in an unfamiliar environment, like when they visit the veterinary office or the grooming salon, so it is important to be attentive and stay aware of the animal you are handling at all times.