Understanding Common Medical Issues in Rescue Dogs — And How to Help
Rescue dogs often arrive with gaps in care. The good news: most conditions are treatable or manageable with a vet’s plan and a calm, low‑stress home. This guide explains what you might see in the first weeks and how to support recovery with simple comfort tools and good routines.
First Look: What You Might See on Intake
- Parasites: fleas, ticks, intestinal worms, or heartworm.
- Skin/coat problems: mange, allergies, hot spots, hair loss, scabs.
- Ears & dental: ear infections (yeast/bacteria), tartar, sore gums, broken teeth.
- Respiratory: “kennel cough”/upper respiratory infections (URI) — coughing, sneezing, discharge.
- GI upset & weight changes: diarrhea from stress/diet change; underweight or overweight.
- Pain & mobility: arthritis, old injuries, cruciate ligament tears, weak hind end in seniors.
Medical content is educational and not a substitute for veterinary care. Always follow your vet’s guidance.
Parasites & Preventives
Expect a fecal check and dewormer from your vet, plus a plan for monthly flea/tick and (where appropriate) heartworm prevention. Heartworm‑positive dogs can be treated under a veterinarian’s protocol; activity is restricted during therapy.
- Flea/tick prevention (ask your vet which product fits)
- Heartworm preventives (Rx via your vet)
- Fine flea comb to monitor progress
- Pet‑safe surface cleaner for resting spots
- Washable bedding — hot wash + dry
Skin & Coat Issues (Mange, Allergies, Hot Spots)
Mange (demodectic or sarcoptic), secondary infections, and allergies are common. Your vet will decide on dips, oral meds, or topical therapy. Keep stress low, prevent scratching/licking, and stick to the full course of treatment.
- Soft recovery collar or recovery suit
- Medicated shampoo (use only if vet recommends)
- Omega‑3 supplement to support skin/coat
- Gentle brush for low‑stress grooming
- Fragrance‑free wipes for between‑baths care
Ears & Dental Care
Head‑shaking, odor, or dark discharge suggest ear infections — your vet will prescribe drops and cleaning. Dental disease is extremely common in adult rescues and may require a cleaning/extractions. Daily care helps prevent recurrence.
- Pain, swelling, bleeding gums, or broken teeth
- Ear hematoma (swollen flap), head tilt, severe odor, loss of balance
GI Upset & Nutrition
Transition food gradually over 5–7 days. Stress diarrhea is common; talk to your vet about probiotics or a short bland‑diet plan. Provide fresh water at all times and measure meals to reach a healthy weight slowly.
- Slow‑feeder bowl to reduce gulping
- Raised bowls for large/senior dogs
- Probiotic supplement (ask your vet)
- Blood in stool, repeated vomiting, lethargy, refusal to eat/drink
- Rapid weight loss or gain, pot‑belly with poor coat (worms)
Respiratory Illness (Kennel Cough/URI)
Mild coughs often resolve with rest and vet‑prescribed meds; separate from resident dogs until cleared. If you see labored breathing, high fever, or blue gums, seek urgent care.
Pain & Mobility
Arthritis and chronic injuries are common in seniors. Vets may recommend anti‑inflammatories, joint supplements, weight management, and gentle activity. Make daily life soft, slip‑free, and easy to navigate.
- Orthopedic bed & warming pad
- Ramps/steps for car and couch
- Support/assist harness
- Joint supplements (ask your vet)
- Never give human pain meds unless a veterinarian prescribes a specific dose
Home Medical Kit for Fosters
- Digital rectal thermometer & water‑based lubricant
- Non‑adhesive vet wrap & gauze
- Pill pockets for meds
- Sterile saline for rinsing minor debris (not for deep wounds)
- Nitrile gloves, scissors, extra towels, spare leash
How You Can Help
- Donate cash to fund vet care, preventives, and diagnostics
- Send supplies via our Chewy Wish List or bring items from our Needs list
- Share this guide to help more fosters support medical recovery
References
- American Heartworm Society — guidelines & FAQs: heartwormsociety.org
- AVMA — parasite prevention & dental health resources: avma.org
- UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine — common intake conditions & care: sheltermedicine.com
- Maddie’s Fund — shelter health and stress reduction: university.maddiesfund.org