We all know that our dog can communicate with us. While he can’t speak, he does understand many of our words and commands, can discern our moods and emotions, and learns to let us know when they need our attention. From needing to go outside to wanting a treat, our dogs are actually master communicators.
However, things may get a little less clear when they are not feeling well. Some of the signs that it is time to make a veterinarian appointment can be subtle. No one knows your pet better than you do, so keep an eye out for these behaviors which may tip you off that your pooch is in need of a little medical help. Although it may turn out to be nothing, you also don’t want your best friend suffering one minute longer than he needs to.
When a Veterinarian Appointment is Recommended
- Eating Habits: It is not out of the ordinary for a dog to skip a meal or two if it is hot outside, but if you dog goes a day or two without showing interest in food, you should make that appointment. There are many conditions which can cause a dog to lose his appetite. If your dog suddenly begins exhibiting an eating behavior they never have before, such as eating out of the garbage or eating your plants, you want to check him out.
- Water Consumption: Let’s face it, it is hot outside and providing enough water is essential. However, if your dog begin drinking a lot more than normal, has to urinate a lot more often, or has accidents after drinking too much water, they may be suffering from a kidney ailment or even doggy diabetes. Time to make that veterinarian appointment.
- Lethargy: A lazy dog is not necessarily uncommon, but when your normally energetic and playful dog shows no interest in interaction, or doesn’t seem to want to go for his walk – he may be feeling badly. It’s ok for every dog to have an off day and just be sleepy – but if they seem uninterested in their normal activities for more than two or three days, get some expert advice.
- Vomiting: It is actually not uncommon for a dog to vomit up something that doesn’t agree with him. But if he begins vomiting frequently – or certainly if he vomits blood – you may have cause for concern. Dogs can become quickly dehydrated if they are exhibiting this symptom, especially in our heat, so do not put off the veterinarian appointment. Better safe than sorry.
- Unusual Stool or “Scooting”: If your dog’s stool is loose, bloody or irregular, if they are showing signs of constipation and straining, or are scooting across the floor on their butt – they are trying to tell you something. They may have worms, a urinary tract infection, or blocked glands; although this list is hardly comprehensive. A dog’s stool is one of the best indicators of health or illness. So as gross as it may seem, keep an eye out for changes in order to best protect your dog and keep him healthy.
- Cloudy Eyes: If your dog’s eyes are cloudy, red, or showing signs of discharge, you should make a veterinarian appointment immediately. Although you may not think those symptoms seem too dire, certain infections of the eye can progress rapidly and result in blindness.
The best way you can protect your dogs health is to study your dog and know his behavior. Should you see a deviation from the norm, you may need to get it checked out. Is your dog trying to tell you something? Very often, the answer is yes.
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