Your dog’s health - know the signs!!
Unfortunately our dogs can’t verbally speak to us regarding their ailments and illnesses. However, they do give us signs through their behavior as to how they are feeling and what they may be experiencing. We just need to be observant owners. There are some things that we usually don’t pay attention to once we’ve had our dogs for a while. When we let them out to do their business, very few of us will check their urine or feces. These things are usually only examined when we are walking the dogs and they decide to do their business. But on occasion, you should note that both of these functions are working properly, because if not, it could indicate illness for your dog.
According to Animal Planet (www.animalplanet.com), there are several instances where you should contact the vet immediately. For instance, if you note that your dog has abdominal pain, or hardness in the abdominal area, this could indicate a variety of severe conditions such as a blocked bladder, pancreatitis, peritonitis or an undetected pregnancy. If your dog is experiencing difficulty in breathing or is wheezing, this could be allergies, but could also be something like heart disease or an obstruction in the windpipe. If your dog has difficulty urinating or there is blood in the urine, the vet should be contacted right away as your dog could have a urinary tract infection, stones or tumors.
If your dog’s eyes or eyelids are inflamed, the vet should be notified and your dog should be examined right away to determine if there is an eye infection, injury or corneal ulcers. Delaying a vet visit could cost your dog his/her eyesight. If your dog has a loss or balance or coordination and seems extremely weak, this is a cause for serious concern as it could be an indication of brain loss, brain trauma or tumors.
There are several other conditions that I’ll be speaking about in future entries. Just remember, you know your dog better than anyone else and will be able to judge and know from your gut when the dog is seriously ill. Go with your gut and don’t hesitate to call the vet for your dog’s health and safety and for your peace of mind.
January 28th, 2008 at 7:50 am
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January 29th, 2008 at 8:11 pm
[...] additional health concerns to watch for!! by Susan Mead In an entry a couple of days ago, (click here to check it out), I highlighted some symptoms your dog… However, your dog may experience health issues that are a matter of concern but allow you to [...]