Keeping your canine companion happy and healthy is an absolute must. To prevent any health concerns, take your dog for regular checkups at a local veterinarian’s clinic. In addition to scheduling regular appointments, it is always important to stay cautious with any animal you’re raising. If you are a new dog owner, it is quite normal to tremble at the thought of uncertainties. Your pooch may be vaccinated, but you must watch out for signs of uncharacteristic behavior between regular medical visits. Here’s a simple checklist that should help you understand if you should take your beloved pet to the vet.
1. If Your Dog Drinks Too Much or Too Little Water
If your dog is thirstier than usual or is not drinking water, it is time for a checkup. However, before you listen to those alarm bells ringing in your head, it is necessary to monitor this behavior for at least 24 hours. Drinking too much water and urinating excessively can indicate a urinary tract infection. If the behavior continues, you should schedule a checkup.
2. If Your Dog Stops Eating
Some dogs tend to get fussy with food, but if your dog refuses its favorite meal as well, then you should start worrying. Dogs can stop eating for many reasons, but it isn’t your job to figure out why. This behavior can indicate just about anything. Perhaps it’s a tummy ache, or your dog has a fever. If the problem persists, call your vet to schedule a checkup.
3. If Your Dog is Suddenly Lethargic
While some dogs like sleeping for hours, many others love playing outside with their owners. If you feel your dog has suddenly become lethargic, you don’t have to panic right away. Call a local vet and inform them about this change. They may ask you to observe your dog’s behavior for a day. However, if your dog still shows no sign of activity, then it is time for a checkup.
4. If Your Dog Starts Snorting or Sneezing
Dogs that love playing outdoors can often face health problems, especially if you haven’t kept a close eye on your pet. A parasite might attach itself inside a nostril, or your dog may have a runny nose. Your dog may also catch a cold or suffer from allergies. It is best to get in touch with your vet to ensure proper treatment.
5. If Your Dog is Breathing Rapidly
Dogs normally pant on a hot summer day or after vigorous exercise. If your pet is breathing rapidly after a brief period of rest, however, then you should immediately have your pooch checked. Your dog may have developed a chronic illness, or it may simply be reacting to something. For peace of mind, have your pet examined by a reliable vet.
6. If Your Dog Vomits
Generally, dogs tend to vomit once if they suffer from food poisoning, and the natural antidote is to give them water. To avoid dehydration, you can feed them liquids regularly. However, if the vomiting continues, it can spell trouble for your pooch. Vomiting is one of the most common symptoms of many health problems your dog may be facing. Having your dog examined by a vet is a definite and necessary choice to avoid further complications.
7. If Your Dog Shows Changes in Stool
Scrutinizing your dog’s stool might feel offensive, but this is a business that needs tending to regularly. If you notice any worms in the stool, call your vet at once. Consult your vet for further advice if your dog has loose stool. If the stool shows blood, it is better to get your pet checked at once. Make sure you snap some pictures of your dog’s stool to facilitate its health checkup.
8. If Your Dog Has a Skin Rash or Strange Lump
Examining your pet’s body regularly is necessary to spot any kind of change. If your dog is whining consistently and you notice a rash forming on your pet’s skin, contact your vet immediately. There are incidents when an abscess may form on the body and you may be unaware. It looks like a swollen lump and can be easily felt by gently moving your fingers over your pet’s body.
If your dog develops any of these problems or any other questionable condition, schedule a checkup immediately. Be sure to use a reputable vet such as Sykesville Veterinary Clinic.