Canine Health and Husbandry Flashcards

A dog is panting heavily, drooling thickly, and stumbling on a hot day. What is the correct first response?

Answer: Move it to shade, offer cool water, and apply cool (not ice-cold) water to its body

Gradual cooling in shade with cool water helps reverse heatstroke without causing shock.

What does a dull, flaky coat with excessive shedding most often suggest about a dog?

Answer: A possible nutritional deficiency, parasite, or underlying health issue

Coat quality reflects overall health, so a poor coat can signal diet or health problems.

Which human food is toxic to dogs because it contains theobromine?

Answer: Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs metabolize slowly, leading to toxicity.

What is the recommended frequency for adult dogs to receive a routine wellness exam from a veterinarian?

Answer: At least once a year

Annual exams catch developing health problems early, before symptoms appear.

Why should dogs be kept on year-round heartworm prevention in most U.S. regions?

Answer: Heartworm is spread by mosquitoes and treatment is costly and risky

Mosquito-borne heartworm is far cheaper and safer to prevent than to treat.

What does it mean when a dog's gums appear pale white instead of healthy pink?

Answer: It can indicate anemia, shock, or blood loss—a warning sign

Pale gums can signal serious conditions like anemia or shock and warrant veterinary attention.

How can you check a dog for dehydration at home?

Answer: Gently pinch the skin at the scruff; if it returns slowly, the dog may be dehydrated

Skin that is slow to snap back (poor skin turgor) is a sign of dehydration.