No one has ever contested that a dog is everybody’s best friend: they are there for you regardless of your beliefs, financial status, or any other factor humans may consider. As such, when our best pals get sick, it can be extremely disheartening.
Like humans, dogs can become sick or experience health problems occasionally, and knowing how and when to recognize it is critical! As pet parents, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of illness in our dogs, as early detection and treatment can make a huge difference in their overall health and quality of life!
The signs of illness in dogs can vary widely and may be subtle at first, making it important to be aware of any changes in your dog’s behaviour or physical condition. At the end of the day, though, you spend so much time with your dog that any change is sure to go immediately noticed. As pet owners, we ensure our dogs receive the best care, including knowing when to seek animal urgent care.
Because delaying treatment for a sick dog can worsen its condition and lead to additional health problems, seeking prompt veterinary attention is critical. Read on to find out if your dog may be sick and what steps you can take to help them heal.
1. Loss of appetite
Like many humans, dogs do not want to eat when they feel bad. If your dog is not interested in eating or has a decreased appetite, it may be a sign that they are feeling unwell. Various medical conditions, including digestive issues, dental problems, and infections, can cause loss of appetite.
Not only can your dog experience a loss of appetite because of issues within their bodies, but it may also be due to stress, anxiety, or environmental changes. If your dog has not eaten for more than a day, it is time to take them to the vet for a check-up.
2. Vomiting or diarrhea
This behaviour change will surely catch your attention! While cleaning up their mess may be uncomfortable for us, I assure you that experiencing it is even worse for your dog. Many different things, including infections, dietary issues, and allergies, can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Sometimes, these symptoms may indicate a more serious condition, such as pancreatitis or kidney disease. While occasional vomiting and diarrhea may be normal, if it persists for a while, it may hint that you need to seek help.
3. Lethargy
This symptom of sickness may be a little bit harder to detect, but if you notice that your dog is slightly sleepier or has less energy than normal, it may be a sign that something is up. Medical conditions, including infections, anemia, and heart disease, can cause lethargy. Also, dogs may become lethargic due to changes in their environment or daily routine.
4. Changes in behaviour
You know your dog best, so any change to their behaviour should indicate that things are not normal. If your dog is acting differently than usual, such as being more aggressive, anxious, or irritable, it may be a sign that they are not feeling well.
A range of medical conditions, including pain, neurological issues, and hormonal imbalances, can cause changes in behaviour. Additionally, dogs may become anxious or aggressive due to changes in their environment or routine, which is worth noting.
5. Changes in bowel movement
While picking up poop may not be the most luxurious part of pet ownership, knowing about your dog’s health is critical. If your dog is experiencing difficulty or pain while urinating or having bowel movements, it may be a sign of a urinary tract infection or other medical issue.
Additionally, changes in bowel movements or urination may be a sign of digestive issues or other medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease. Speak to a professional if you notice any severe changes.
6. Changes to their skin or coat
Like humans, dogs have their own personality, skin, and hair (coat). If your dog’s skin is dry, flaky, or has any bumps or lesions, it may indicate an underlying skin condition. To continue, changes in coat or skin may indicate hormonal imbalances, allergies, or other medical conditions.
If your dog is experiencing changes in their skin or coat, take them to the vet for a check-up to rule out any underlying medical issues.
