Diagnosing a sick dog
It can be a very worrying time if your puppy or dog seems to become ill or is in pain. Without being able to communicate clearly with your pet, it can be difficult to know exactly is wrong and their symptoms can be hard to diagnose, which is obviously very distressing. The first sign that your pet may not be feeling well is if they begin to act differently, for example becoming lethargic, or if the dog’s appetite suddenly changes. If you notice any changes like this, it might be wise for you to take a closer look at your pet to look for signs such as red or swollen eyes, itchy ears, pale gums or shortness of breath.
If you are at all worried about the symptoms you observe, you must take your dog to see a vet. Most likely, it is just an infection or injury that can be treated very easily with some medication prescribed by your vet. If it is anything more serious, your quick action will mean that your vet can diagnose the problem as quickly as possible, starting any treatment at the earliest time, which will be best for your pet.
Remember that certain kinds of dogs are more prone to certain illnesses and conditions than others and so it is a very good idea for you to read up about your breed of dog. If you know the signs to look out for, you can pick up on any symptoms of common ailments as soon as possible.
