Taking care of a dog is typically pretty straight forward. You have to make sure that they eat every day, that they have a safe place to sleep at night, and that they get the love and attention they deserve as a furry member of your family. But dealing with a sick dog can get kind of tricky- not to mention stressful. This is why it's important to know signs your dog is sick and when to take your dog to the vet so that he can get the care they need before things get too serious. Following are some signs to look for that indicate it's time to see your veterinarian right away:
Dog Lethargy
If your dog is sleeping or laying around more than usual, and does not seem to have the same spunk they usually do, it might be a good idea to have them checked out by your veterinarian. Lethargy can indicate an ailment of some kind, such as a kidney infection or even a cold.
Not Eating or Drinking
A day of no eating is nothing to worry about for the most part, but if your dog is not interested in eating for two or more days in a row, it is time to take them to the vet. If they don't drink for entire day, they may be dehydrated due to illness and need to be seen immediately if possible.
Consistent Ear Scratching
If your dog starts to scratch at thier ears throughout the day, it is a good idea to have them checked for an ear infection. Some dogs tend to whine or whimper while scratching at their ears, which is a sure sign of infection or other ailment.
You know your pet best. When something doesn't seem right, that is a good time to pay attention. Catching a problem before your pet has lost weight or shows outward signs of disease often results in fewer treatments and less distress for your pet. If something seems out of the ordinary, call us to schedule an appointment today!