I Think My Dog is Sick, Should I Call the Vet?

Dogs, just like the humans who take care of them, sometimes get sick and out of sorts. Have you ever had a tummy ache in the morning, but by the evening you felt fine? You might have eaten something that didn't agree with you or you picked up a bug. The same thing can happen to your dog. As a responsible pet owner you need to be aware of what is 'normal' and what isn't for your particular pet.

Since your dog can't take itself to the vet when necessary, you have to be aware and alert. You know your dog better than anyone and it is your responsibility to insure the health and well-being of your furry friend. There are things to be on the lookout for regarding your dog's health. You need to know when it is time to call the vet. Here are a few examples:

Vomiting:

Dogs vomit frequently, it is not very uncommon at all. However, if your dog vomits more than once a day or vomits blood, it is time to call the vet.

Loss of appetite:

If your dog refuses to eat, it is a sign that something is wrong. If your dog isn't interested in food, do not try to force feed him. If your dog begins to over eat, and there is no weight gain noticeable, a vet visit is in order. When it comes to your dog's eating habits, there are several factors that can cause changes. Your dog may be having teeth or gum problems. If you've ever had a toothache, you can appreciate why the dog might not want to chew on a bad tooth or a painful gum. If your dog refuses to eat, do not leave the food in the bowl, throw it out. A change in appetite requires a vet visit.

Temperature:

First off, you need to have your vet teach you the proper way to take your dog's temperature. It is something that can come in handy for any pet owner. A dog's temperature should fall into the 100 to 103 degree range for an adult dog, or 95 to 97 degrees for puppies. Anything 'not normal' requires a vet visit.

Anything out of the normal:

If your dog fell and is limping, or if he was cut and needs stitches, these are reasons to call the vet. If all of a sudden a healthy dog can't walk or is whimpering in pain, do not hesitate to call your vet. You need to be the judge and make the call. If it turns out to be nothing, then all you lost was the cost of the visit. Don't take the risk of doing more harm by not turning to the professionals.

Helpful hints:

Keep the phone number of your vet posted in an obvious place in your home so that anyone, even a babysitter, knows where it is. You should also have the name and phone number of an 'emergency vet' posted. Most areas have at least one emergency veterinarian office that is open at night and on weekends, when the normal vets are closed. When you move to a new area, ask neighbors or friends for recommendations for a new vet.

Your dog cannot tell you what is wrong, but he will give you certain clues that something is out of the ordinary. Learn to read your dog, pay attention and be aware. His life depends on you, the responsible pet owner.

Source:

Personal experience

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