ZOONOTIC DISEASES

Diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans are called Zoonotic Diseases. All diseases of pets (bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic) are spread by direct contact with blood, saliva, urine or faeces of an infected animal.


Human beings with compromised immune system need to be very careful as they are very susceptible of contracting contagious diseases. The following included in this cautious class are:

• infants

• toddlers

• elderly

• pregnant women

• cancer patients

• patients with an autoimmune disease

This article does not cover all Zoonotic diseases but the most common diseases, which can be passed from dogs to humans. You should always refer to doctor’s advice if you suspect that you or your pet has contracted a disease.

Fortunately, these diseases rarely occur in healthy individuals, are mild and can be easily treated. Children often put their hands in their mouths, providing easy routes for bacteria to travel into their bodies e.g. children who eat dirt are more susceptible to contract zoonotic diseases.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO DO BEFORE ARRIVAL OF BABY AT HOME

You can do the following things to prepare your dog before the arrival of baby:-


1. Identify and control attention-seeking behaviours such as pawing, barking, jumping, or any other demanding behaviour.

2. Become familiar with subtle signs and body language of dogs.

3. Begin a flexible routine of feeding and activities with your dog.

4. Be sure to take these opportunities to practice obedience skills.

5. Play with a doll and baby equipments to expose your dog to these new and exciting items.

6. Identify restricted areas for your dog and begin to use then such as outside, closed room, crate etc.

7. If you have more than one dog, get them used to being apart from one another.

8. When putting together the nursery, the dogs should be allowed to come in and explore and sniff at everything including the baby toys.

9. The dogs are not used to the sounds of a baby – the crying, the laughing. All the sounds can be downloaded off the internet and the dogs can get used to hearing them and will not try to explore after the arrival of baby.

10. Dog’s obedience and responsiveness to commands should be improved before the baby comes home.

11. You can also bring home some baby clothing from the hospital so that the dogs will become familiar with the smell of the baby as well.

CARE OF SENIOR DOG

Veterinary care for older dogs:-


The healthier we can keep a dog when he is young, the more likely he will be healthy as he grows older. His vaccinations, deworming, nutrition, dental care and parasite control will have a direct effect on his current health.



1. Physical examination – Older dogs should be checked thoroughly and regularly at least twice a year. You must tell your veterinarian about any conditions you have observed and evaluated. You can ask your veterinarian during an examination if you have any queries.



Physical examination should include following:-



a. Oral and dental examination – It should include an examination of mouth, teeth, gums, tongue and throat.



b. Ophthalmic exam – Routine procedure may include eye examination for any initial signs of cataracts, glaucoma or dry eye.



c. Rectal exam – It is an important part of a physical examination for a dog. Vet will examine the inner pelvic area, lymph nodes, prostate gland and urinary system parts.



d. Hair and coat – Your vet will check for the skin, coat and hair condition.



e. Parasites – it should include an examination of the skin and ears for any sign of external parasites. A fecal examination should be done to find out any internal parasite, if present.



f. Vaccinations – It is important to keep your dog up-to-date on his vaccinations as the older dogs have less immunity towards infectious diseases.



g. Blood test – The blood should be tested for hemogram, liver function test, kidney function test, etc.



h. Blood Bio-chemistry – These tests will include the evaluation of various chemicals, enzymes, proteins, hormones and different electrolytes.



i. Radiographs – the chest and abdomen radiographs are useful to find out any signs of disease.



j. Diagnostic tests – Different diagnostic tests like endoscopy, ultrasound and electro surgery can be used to diagnose any heath problem.

k. Pain management – Pain killers can be used in older dogs to make them comfortable.