Top 10 Reasons Your Dog Needs to See a Vet (Ishraq Ahmed Hashmi)

Any pet owner should be able to notice certain things that would suggest your funny companion needs to be taken to the vet. Unlike humans, a dog cannot tell you when it hurts, but you should observe its changes of behavior and state of health. Here are 10 signs that suggest your dog needs a vet visit:

1. Vomiting or Diarrhea

That is the reason why when your dog vomits or feels the need to defecate and produces diarrhea, then it is time to call for a vet. While vomiting increases the chances of dehydration, diarrhea has an impact on the electrolyte imbalance. If the dog vomits or has diarrhea it should be taken to see the veterinarian after 24 hours or prior to that.

2. Increased Thirst and Urination

Since the dog in question increased the amount of water it is consuming as well as frequency of urination, this may indicate kidney problems or diabetes. Be observant of the amount of water your dog is drinking or how often he is urinating and you should see the vet in case of any changes.

3. Lack of Appetite

Loss of appetite by itself is a symptom of many diseases that affect the teeth, gastrointestinal tract or infections. If however the dog is not eating after twenty-four hours, then you should take the dog to the vet to be checked for any disease.

4. Changes in Stool Quality

Any changes in the color, the form or the frequency of the droppings can also be a signal that your dog is in a problem with conditions such as IBD or GI foreign bodies. It is advisable to see a vet if there are signs that things are not right in the dogs’ stomach.

5. Coughing or Difficulty Breathing

A dog may have breathing issues, for instance, kennel cough, pneumonia, or congestive heart failure, which may manifest initially with a simple cough. If your dog displays any symptoms from the aforesaid list, you are advised to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.

6. Sudden Alterations In Their Manner Of Walking Or Moving

If the dog is reluctant to stand or move, is limping, or even appears stiff, it may be as a result of musculoskeletal disorders for instance arthritis, hip dysplasia or cruciate ligament injuries. See a veterinarian to identify the cause and the right treatment in such a case.

 7. Discharge or Redness in the Eyes or Nose

Diarrhea or Ulcers of the Mouth or Tongue or Disease or Foam on the Mouth or Lips or Roughness on the Tongue or Lips or Disturbed Stomach Soreness in the throat or Hoarseness or Shortness of Breath or Difficulty of Breathing or Pain in the Side or any Numbness of the Limbs or Discharge or Redness in the Eyes or Nose.

 Discharge, reddening, pain, tearing or other unusual symptoms in the eyes or nose can be symptoms of infections or allergies. Any milky or thick discharge from the eyes or the nose should therefore be reported to the vet.

 8. Alteration In The Skin Or Coat

 Issues such as dandruff, rash, scurf, and loss of hair in your dog are signs of skin allergy, fleas, or some diseases. Take your pet to the vet to get the root of the problem and the treatment recommended.

 9. Whining or Whimpering

 During the observation, crying, whining or whimpering may be presented as signs of pain or discomfort as well as anxiety. If your dog does any of the above, you should try and sort out what this is caused by and if it continues, consult a vet.

 10. Lethargy or Depression

 Depression and fatigue can be signs of hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease, or any chronic form of pain. If any of your dog becomes dull and lifeless or looks and acts depressed consult your veterinarian for a check-up.

 The following is what clients are likely to expect during the vet visit.

 If you see these signals, then it is advised to take your pet to the veterinarian urgently. During the visit:

•         Give a comprehensive description of the dog’s history of behaviors and associated symptoms.

•         Assist the vet to conduct a physical examination and conduct laboratory tests when the situation requires it

•         Comply with the given instructions that the vet may prescribe for treating the illness and for taking care of the pet.

Preventative Care

Through proper veterinary check-ups, one can avoid so many ailments. Schedule annual check-ups for your dog, and follow the vet's recommendations for:

 •         The immunizations and the parasites control.

 •         Toothpaste and other types of oral hygiene

 •         Diet and weight.

 •         There are certain health screening and diagnostic tests that are essential in expatriate healthcare.

Thus, if you identify any of these 10 signs and take your dog to a veterinarian when needed, you will be empowering your pet for a joyful and healthy life. That is why to make sure that our furry friend is safe, better be extra careful all the time.