Having a dog in Greece also has its pros and cons. In addition to the joy of living with your dog in Greece, there are also certain pet-related health concerns that impact your dog. This article will specifically touch on the aspects that could affect your dog’s health. Here at mybestie.gr, we are committed to assisting dog parents in recognizing canine ailments and taking the necessary steps.

1. Vector-borne diseases (Leishmanias)

Leishmaniasis is one of the most serious diseases threatening dogs in Greece, caused by sandfly bites. Leishmaniasis is common, particularly in warmer parts of the country, as well as in spring and summer. Its symptoms include weight loss, hair loss around the eyes, skin sores, lethargy, nosebleeds, and kidney failure. Leishmaniasis is a chronic disease, which needs permanent treatment.

Another common disease that can affect dogs, caused by ticks, is ehrlichiosis. Symptoms can include fever, weakness, blood disorders, swollen lymph nodes, or fatigue. Parasite prevention products are needed, along with annual blood tests, to diagnose the disease early.

2. Parasites: Fleas, ticks and internal worm

Parasites are a year-round issue in Greece because of their mild winters. Fleas and ticks are responsible for skin irritation, infection, allergies, and life-threatening diseases. Parasites within dogs, including worms like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms, result in diarrhea, vomiting, wasting, anemia, or stunted development in young dogs.

It is important that the deworming and protection against external parasites be done regularly, not only for the benefit of your dog’s health but for that of the community too, as the parasites can be transmitted to humans.

3. Gastrointestinal

Health conditions related to the digestive system feature among the commonest reasons for pet owners to visit veterinarians. Food poisoning, scavenging for food when walking, stress, food intolerance, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or pain in the abdominal area may be the cause.

In urban settings, there are also possibilities of consuming toxic materials from the streets. In most cases, symptoms related to the gastrointestinal tract need not be neglected ever. They can lead to infections, pancreatitis, and even more severe diseases.

4. Skin conditions / Allergies

Skin issues occur frequently in Greek dogs, and the major causes of such issues include allergies like environmental allergies (pollens, dust mites), food allergies, flea allergy dermatitis, and infections by fungus and/or bacteria, leading to itching, reddening, hair loss, ear infections, and hot spots, respectively.

The tropical conditions of warm and high humidity tend to increase skin problems, which are worse by poor grooming and personal hygiene. Infections can be avoided by early treatment.

5. Ear infections (otitis)

Dogs with drop-eared ears or those that like swimming are vulnerable to having ear infections. However, the signs of ear infection include head shaking, scratching, odor, redness, or drainage. Sometimes, ear infections might become sore and chronic, impacting the dog’s hearing.

Ear checks and cleaning, advisable on a regular basis, particularly after baths or swims in the sea, are simple measures for preventive care.

6. Joint and mobility issues

As dogs grow older, they develop arthritis or hip dysplasia. This tends to affect large-boned dogs and those that weigh too much. Symptoms of dog arthritis include stiffness, problems getting up from lying down, problems climbing stairs, or reduced activity.

Taking care of your weight, exercising, and going for early veterinary checks can greatly help. Many canine health problems in Greece can actually be prevented by taking proper care of the dog. Many health problems in dogs are due to the presence of parasites. Observing the behavior of the dog carefully can prevent many health problems. A healthy dog is a happy dog.