One of the worst things imaginable is when our beloved dog gets sick. However, it happens from time to time and is entirely normal. Just like people need to go to the doctor when they get sick, dogs require the same care. While some behaviors or issues subside on their own, it’s important to monitor your dog’s actions to see if they progressively worsen or not. Here are signs you should take your dog to the vet as soon as possible.
You can also check these warning signs your pet may have glaucoma or cataracts
Little Appetite or Ravenous Appetite
One of the most obvious signs your dog needs to go to the vet is if you observe a change in their eating patterns or appetite. If a dog has a minimal appetite, even with just plain chicken and rice, it can indicate something more serious. If your dog’s unwillingness to eat persists past 48 hours, take them to the vet immediately.
Conversely, a ravenous appetite can be a sign that something is going on as well. Most commonly, pregnant girl dogs will exhibit ravenous appetites when they’re expecting. A ravenous appetite can also signify that your dog isn’t getting enough nutrients in its diet.
Refusal of Water or Excessive Drinking
Much like your dog’s appetite, refusal of water or excessive drinking can signify that something is wrong. If your dog refuses water for 24 hours, take them to the vet immediately. If your dog is drinking copious amounts of water for more than 48 hours, take them to the vet. These can be signs of kidney disease or diabetes.
Lethargy
Another noticeable sign your dog needs to go to the vet is if they seem lethargic. Sleeping too much or the inability to move can be a sign of a viral, fungal, or bacterial infection or severe pain. Lethargy is associated with many common and serious veterinary medical issues, especially if your dog is exhibiting other unusual symptoms.
Vomiting
If your dog goes more than 24 hours vomiting, they need to see a vet immediately. Vomiting in dogs can range from parasites to a virus. It’s not normal for dogs to throw up regularly since they have relatively strong stomachs. If your dog’s puking is persistent, they’ll need to be seen right away.
Diarrhea or Bloody Stool
Another valid reason to take your dog to the vet is having unusual diarrhea or bloody stools. If you’ve recently switched your dog to a new diet or they snuck a couple bites of human food, then you don’t need to be immediately concerned. However, if their stool is bloody, they should be seen by a vet immediately, as this is a telling symptom of parvovirus – a highly contagious virus that attacks the gastrointestinal system. Parvovirus can often be fatal, so immediate intervention is vital to your dog’s survival.
Sudden Weight Loss or Weight Gain
Rapid fluctuations in a dog’s weight aren’t normal, considering they hold weight differently than humans and generally weigh less. If your dog is quickly dropping weight or suddenly packing on the pounds, then it’s probably time to see the vet. Rapid fluctuations in weight can be symptomatic of a variety of diseases or conditions. Be sure to monitor your dog for other symptoms to give your vet a complete overview of what’s going on so your dog can get adequate treatment.
Limited Range of Motion or Mobility
If your dog stops loving regular walks around the neighborhood or has trouble getting around, then it’s time to take them to see the vet. This can be a sign of arthritis, degenerative disease, bacterial, fungal, or viral infection. If you think about it, we don’t like to move much when we’re not feeling well – so it makes sense that a dog wouldn’t either!
Flinching or Yelping at the Touch of a Hand
Lastly, one of the most important signs that your dog is in physical pain is if they become hesitant to touch. Flinching, yelping, and even screeching when touched are common symptoms that your dog isn’t feeling well and needs immediate medical attention. This is usually caused by injury, arthritis, hip dysplasia, or degenerative diseases.
Monitoring your dog for symptoms is important in their day-to-day life. Dogs can’t communicate with their words so it’s vital to pay attention to their physical behavior. If your dog is sick, you’ll know it. Often, symptoms blend together to showcase the issue at hand. If your dog is acting funny, don’t be afraid to seek medical care!