Rickets is a change in the structure and deformation of bone tissue, which is more common in young dogs and puppies. It is caused by a lack of vitamin D in the body and impaired calcium and phosphorus metabolism. Most often, rickets manifests itself during the period of intensive growth in dogs of large breeds, at the age of about six months. Fortunately, it is quite possible to treat this ailment and, with the right approach, its consequences can be nullified.
Instructions
Step 1
The first signs, signaling the onset of the disease, can serve as changes in the puppy's taste preferences - he can begin to intensively gnaw furniture, books, lick the walls whitewashed with lime. The puppy may change gait, he may start to limp, his paws weaken. After a while, feeling the joints, you may find thickening, pressure on the bone becomes painful for the dog. Do not wait for the deformity of the head and pelvis bones to begin - start treatment immediately.
Step 2
Carry out complex treatment. It is better to show the puppy to the veterinarian who will prescribe calcium and phosphorus preparations. Balance your dog's diet, it should contain raw meat daily, and once a week - a piece of boiled boneless sea fish. You can also give him according to the dosage, depending on the weight, fish oil preparations. Be sure to give your puppy dairy products, milk and cottage cheese, cereals, rye bread and butter. In addition to raw egg yolks, add crushed shells and crushed bones to your food.
Step 3
Walk your dog daily, especially on sunny days. Just like in humans, under the influence of direct sunlight, vitamin D begins to be produced in the dog's body. If it is winter outside, arrange a solarium for your pet using a mercury-quartz lamp. It is best to put the puppy on its back and hold the lamp at a distance of about 1 meter. Fake tanning sessions start at 2 minutes and work up to 7-8 minutes. Usually 10-15 sessions are enough. Remember to cover your dog's eyes with a visor or folded towel.
Step 4
Give the puppy vitamin supplements containing vitamins A, D, E. You can inject intramuscularly "Trivitamin" at a rate of 1 ml for every 10 kg of the puppy's weight. You must make at least three injections every 7 days. After that, you can pierce "Ergocalciferol" in a dosage corresponding to the weight. Intravenously inject the puppy with calcium glucanate 2-3 times a day, half a gram. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian when determining the dosage of drugs.
