The exact cause of the disease is unknown, but it is believed that environmental and hereditary factors do play a role. Exposure to toxins, poor dietary habits, lack of exercise and underlying health issues can all increase the risk.

Symptoms of cancer in dogs will depend on the location of the tumor, and can range from gastrointestinal problems such as bleeding, vomiting and diarrhea to seizures, urinary problems, Cushing’s and loss of co-ordination.

Getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial, so it’s important to have your dog tested immediately if you notice any changes in its behavior, notice any discomfort or can see or feel any strange bodily masses. Your veterinarian will be able to perform diganostic tests to determine where the cancer is located and how severe the condition is. Based on this analysis he or she can recommend a course of action to treat the condtion effectively and maintain the health of your pet.

What are the treatment options for cancer in dogs?

Depending on the nature and location of the cancer, there are several treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation and surgery to remove the growth and possibly the surrounding tissues. Medications may also be administered.

Although there is no cure for canine cancer at this time, medical science is getting closer, and the treatment available today is much better than what it was just a decade ago. Symptoms of cancer in dogs can be managed effectively, and conventional and natural therapies are proving effective in this battle. Do your part to ensure your dog’s health with a proper high quality diet, regular exercise and a clean, toxin-free environment.

Please note you should always consult with your veterinarian before deciding on a treatment for cancer in dogs. He or she will help you decide on what is the best solution for your pet.

Distemper in dogs is highly contagious and caused by airborne exposure to respiratory secretions of animals infected by the virus. It can be lethal without treatment, attacking the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems. Early signs include puss-like eye discharge, fever, coughing, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. In later stages, canine distemper virus could cause seizures, twitching and even paralysis.

How is the condition usually prevented and/or treated?

According to most veterinarians, 50% of pets that are infected with canine distemper will not survive, while those that do will have permanent problems such as deformities and digestive disorders. Canine distemper and seizures are very common as well.

To prevent the illness from occurring, pets are vaccinated throughout their lives. There is no cure for the disease, and conventional means merely temper symptoms and keep the dog from developing more serious complications.

Please note you should always consult with your veterinarian before deciding on a treatment to relieve distemper in dogs. He or she will help you decide on what is the best solution for your pet.

The symptoms to look for with the start of the heat cycle are bleeding from the vagina, and swelling of the vulva and increased urination. If you have a male dog in the area, he will probably be the first one to notice your female’s changes. The bleeding indicates the beginning of the cycle, but the blood spots may be hard to notice especially in smaller dogs.

Be careful with exercising dog’s in heat during this time as even the best trained and behaved female dog will succumb to hormones. You can not trust her off her lead or out of your control. Never leave her outside by herself even in a fenced garden if there is any possibility of male dogs nearby.