When your dog starts to shows signs of being sick, it most probable is sick!
The question is "HOW SICK?"
The next question is whether a trip to the veterinarian is necessary.
Healthy dogs have a temperature of 101-102º F, a respiratory rate of 15-20 breaths per minute, and a heart rate of 80-120 beats per minute. They have pink mucous membranes (gums, inside of lips, tongue, inside of eyelids) They are clean smelling, ears and skin and their eyes are clear and bright.
If your puppy or dog shows any of the following signs, be prepared to call your veterinarian, or even if you feel it is "BAD" time may not be on your side, and a fast trip to the vet, may save you dog's life! It did for my dog!
Eyes: swelling, discharge, redness, etc.
Nose: running, crusting, discharge, etc.
Ears: discharge, debris, odor, twitching, scratching, shaking, etc.
Coughing, gagging, sneezing, retching, or vomiting.
Irregular breathing, shortness of breath, prolonged or heavy panting, etc.
Intestinal activity
Color and consistency of bowel movement
Frequency of defecation
Bloody stool
Evidence of parasites
Change in amount of food intake, change in body weight, change in water intake
Urine,
Color
Frequency
Amount
Smell
Straining
Dribbling or Discharge?
Odor, smell something bad or strong? "Mouth, Skin, Ears.
Coat & skin, check for the following: Wounds, Tumors, Hair loss, Dander, Color change
Biting, Scratching, Bite marks, Evidence of parasites, Licking.
Behavior, This will be the first thing you may note!
Depression, showing no emotion, looks sad.
Anxiety, shows fear, will not come when called.
Fatigue, sleeps a lot.
Lethargy, abnormally being lazy.
Sleepiness will tend to stay awake all night, and walking around.
Trembling
Stumbling, keep tripping on everything, Rugs, Steps, Doorways, etc.
Falling, Will fall down like someone tripped it.
If you should start to notice signs of sickness, start to keep a record for the Veterinarian! Be sure to note when the symptom first appeared, (TIME) and whether it has been intermittent, continuous, increasing in frequency, getting better, or getting worse before calling the veterinarian.
