The thing about pets, especially your dog, is that even though they may be feeling out of sorts and under the weather, they try their best to hide it, because that is their natural instinct.
It is therefore up to you to watch out for warning signs that all may not be right with your beloved pet.
You must educate yourself about how to take proper care of your pet, and how to deal with problems, should they arise.
Warning signs to look out for:
These are some of the early warning signs to look out for:
- Your dog has either lost or gained weight, even though she may be eating more, or less. These symptoms may be the early warning signs of an underlying disease, and you must call your vet.
- If she does not eat for more than two days in a row, it can mean that all is not right with her.
- If she starts eating too much, even stooping to foraging in your garbage for food, or develops sudden changes in her eating habits, then it is time to call your vet.
- If she starts drinking too much water. Even if you do not notice how much she drinks, you will be able to notice that she has started to urinate way too frequently, and even have ‘accidents’ inside the home. These may be the early warning signs of diabetes[canine diabetes] or kidney diseases, and the earlier you start treatment, the better her chances.
- Her coat has started to look dry and flaky. Although skin allergies may be the root cause for these symptoms, food allergies too can cause flaky skin. Consult your vet; he will put you on the right track.
- She may be showing signs of lethargy, like for example, she refuses to come for a walk with you. If the lethargy continues for more than two days, call your vet, she may be the unwilling host of heartworms.
- Is she vomiting? Is she running a fever? Does she seem to be in pain? These are early warning signs of some deep problem; you must call your vet immediately.
- If your dog is elderly, then you must watch out for signs such as limping, indicative of arthritis; shortness of breath, bad breath, abnormal chewing: like chewing on one side of the mouth, all indicative of heart disease or dental problems, lumps anywhere on her body, indicative of tumors; increased frequency of urination, indicating diabetes; and behavioral changes, including aimless wandering, circling endlessly, and forgetting house training, indicating cognitive dysfunction.
We all love our dogs and can’t do without them, and it is our duty and responsibility as owners to keep a watchful eye on the kinds of ailments that normally affect a dog, and the early warning signs of these ailments. Remember, the earlier you seek treatment, the better the chances at recovery.
