It’s no fun when your dog isn’t feeling their best. Unfortunately for them, they can’t put into words exactly where it hurts or what they’re experiencing, so as a vigilant pet owner, it’s important to be aware of signs of illness in your dog.
As in humans, unusual symptoms such as a loss in appetite or lethargy can only be temporary, and not an indication of anything serious, but if your dog appears to be out of character for more than a day, then it might be time to take a trip to the vets. Read on to learn more about signs of illness in your dog.
Dietary Changes
Any unexpected change in your dog’s food or water consumption could be an indication that something is wrong. This could be excessive water consumption, a prolonged lack of appetite, or unexplained weight changes. In more extreme cases your dog may show signs of an upset stomach. If your pet is vomiting frequently, an immediate trip to the vets is advised.
Personality Variation
Your dog is a member of your family, and as such you get to know their personality in depth. This should help you to be aware of any changes that could be signs of illness. These may include your dog avoiding you or hiding, an increase in tiredness, bouts of unprovoked aggression, or restlessness.
Facial Indicators
Your dog’s face may be the first place where illness becomes visible, where sinus problems or dental issues could affect your pet’s ears, eyes, nose and mouth. Symptoms to look out for in this area would include discoloured or pale gums, excess drooling, bad breath or breathing difficulties.
Emotional Symptoms
Like humans, illness in dogs can sometimes manifest in a non-physical sense. Behavioural changes or loss of appetite could be indicators of stress, separation anxiety or depression in your dog, conditions which also require a trip to the vet.
A general awareness of how your dog is behaving can help you to keep track of symptoms as they develop. Problems like an unhealthy coat or joint stiffness can emerge over time, particularly as your dog gets older, so keeping any changes in mind will help your vet to reach a diagnosis.
When it comes to the wellbeing of your dog, it is always best to err on the side of caution. If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, or if you just think something isn’t right, it is always best to reach out to your vet surgery for advice.
Bay Vets can support you in getting the right help for your dog. Visit our pet advice page, or contact us now to make an appointment. Alternatively you can utilise our out of hours service for round the clock emergency advice.
As a community veterinary surgery you can trust, Bay Vets offers a range of vital services, including pet vaccinations, microchipping procedures and dentistry.
