Whether it’s a happy wag as you walk through the door or an affectionate lick after a fuss, your dog is sure to bring plenty of joy and companionship to your home. While both you and your pet will likely have endless fun playing, adventuring and spending time together, we all know that there’s more to owning a dog than just fun!
As responsible pet owners, it’s our job to make sure that our canine friends have everything you need to stay happy and healthy. While plenty of exercise and a nutritious diet are great starting points to do just that, it’s also important to give your pet regular health checks to help spot the signs of illness. We know that it’s not always easy to tell when your dog isn’t feeling too well, which is why we’ve put together a helpful list of sickness symptoms to look out for.
When your dog usually loves to munch down at mealtimes, it can be a worry when they seem uninterested in their food. You can usually expect a lack of appetite when your dog has recently had vaccinations, has experienced some degree of stress (like moving home, for example) or as your pet gets older. However, if your dog hasn’t eaten in over 24 hours, it’s usually a good idea to speak to your vet. It could be a sign that something isn’t right, especially if there are other symptoms present.
At some point all dogs will experience symptoms like these. If it only happens occasionally, it isn’t too much of a worry as changes in diet or chomping down on something they shouldn’t have can cause an upset stomach.
However if your pet is vomiting or experiencing diarrhoea several times a day, it’s time to get your pet to the vet . It could be a sign of something more serious. Keep an eye out for blood in their stool or vomit too.
Dramatic changes to the way your dog usually “goes” can be a sign of illness too. If your pet is urinating significantly more or less regularly, it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on their toileting habits. If the change in the way they’re drinking or urinating continues, it may be worth speaking to a vet. It could be a sign of kidney or liver disease, diabetes or a urinary tract infection.
It’s also usually a good idea to check your dog’s stool on a regular basis – it’s a great indicator of your pet’s overall health.
Your pet’s gums say a lot about their health, so it’s a great idea to get in the habit of checking them regularly. If your canine friend’s gums look pale, blue, red or yellow, it could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. If you’re worried, speak to your vet and keep an eye out for any accompanying symptoms.
