Our dogs are part of the family, they are our besties, they eat our leftovers(or we even cook adobo for them), and they accompany us on our daily errands. But our dog can’t talk and complain, so how do you know when to seek medical help? How can you tell if that limp signifies a sprain, or that sneeze requires an antibiotic?
Act with urgency and seek out a veterinarian immediately.
Weight loss is considered to be clinically significant when it exceeds 10% of the normal body weight and when it is not associated with fluid loss or dehydration. Even in an overweight dog, sudden weight loss should prompt you to take them to your vet. Losing weight quickly and unexpectedly could indicate a serious health condition. In small dogs, this may be as little as a 0.5 kilogram weight loss.
Skin and Fur Changes While many skin rashes, dry skin and dull coats result from food and other allergies, no one should let their dogs suffer along with irritations and itches that never go away. Veterinarians can help determine the cause of the skin and hair problems and come up with a solution to make your dog more comfortable again.
Unusual or Aggressive Behavior Anytime your dog’s behavior changes for the worse, it is an indication that something is not right. Just like people get cranky when they are ill or in pain, your dog can have the same reaction. Do not assume that a sudden increase in barking, growling, pacing or other aggressive or restless actions are a behavioral problem. The first thing to do is to consult with your veterinarian so the dog can be checked for illnesses and injuries.
Vomiting or Changes in Stool and Urine Throwing up their food once or having a bout of diarrhea is not necessarily cause for alarm if the problem goes away quickly and does not become chronic. However, continual changes in stool can indicate digestive inflammation, a blockage, serious allergy or disease. You'll also need to take your dog to your vet immediately if your pet produces only a few drops of urine, or none(when they try to urinate). Don't wait: being unable to urinate can quickly result in serious illness for your dog or even death.
Change in Eating Habits It’s not out of the ordinary for your dog to skip a meal or two, especially if it’s hot outside, but any more than this should be a red flag that something’s off. Two days without eating is a clear sign that your dog needs an examination. Some diseases cause dogs to develop unusual eating habits. If your dog is usually well-behaved but begins raiding the pantry or garbage, you should take them for a checkup.
Lethargy is a sign that something may be troubling your dog. A lethargic dog may be uninterested in playing, going for a walk, or participating in activities they usually enjoy. Normal fatigue or sore muscles can sometimes be due to high temperatures, but you should see your vet if symptoms persist for more than two days.
Scooting or dragging rear
If your dog is scooting or dragging his/her rear on the floor, he/she may have worms, blocked or infected anal glands, urinary tract infection, or diarrhea. Bring him/her in for a check!
