7 Red Flags For Dog Health

As a dog parent, you want to keep your furry friend happy and healthy. But sometimes, dogs can’t tell us when something is wrong. Learning to spot warning signs early can make a huge difference in your dog’s health and may even save their life. Here are seven red flags that mean it’s time to call your veterinarian right away.

1. Trouble Breathing

If your dog is breathing fast, panting heavily when they shouldn’t be, or making unusual sounds like wheezing or whistling, this is a serious emergency. Watch for a blue tint on their gums or tongue, which means they’re not getting enough oxygen. Dogs normally take 12-30 breaths per minute, so anything much faster could signal trouble.

2. Changes in Eating or Drinking

When dogs suddenly stop eating or start drinking much more water than usual, something might be wrong. A dog who won’t eat for more than a day or seems to have no energy around mealtime needs attention. The same goes for dogs who can’t seem to get enough water.

3. Vomiting and Diarrhea

While dogs sometimes have upset stomachs, repeated vomiting or diarrhea is concerning. This is especially true if you see blood, if your dog seems weak, or if they can’t keep water down. These symptoms can lead to dangerous dehydration quickly.

4. Sudden Weakness or Collapse

If your dog suddenly becomes very tired, weak, or falls down, don’t wait to see if they feel better. This could mean many different serious problems that need immediate care.

5. Signs of Pain

Dogs often hide pain, but watch for limping, difficulty getting up, hunched posture, or unusual aggression when touched. Heavy panting when it’s not hot, restlessness, or hiding can also mean your dog is hurting.

6. Stomach Bloating

A swollen, hard belly can be life-threatening, especially in larger dogs. If your dog’s stomach looks bigger than normal and feels tight, and they seem uncomfortable or are trying to vomit without bringing anything up, get help immediately.

7. Eating Dangerous Items

If you know or suspect your dog ate chocolate, grapes, onions, or other toxic foods, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. The same goes for non-food items like socks, toys, or decorations that could cause blockages.

When in Doubt, Get it Checked

These warning signs don’t always mean the worst, but they do mean your dog needs professional care. Trust your instincts as a dog parent – you know your dog’s best. If something seems “off,” it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Keep your vet’s number and the nearest emergency animal hospital’s contact information handy. Quick action can make all the difference in keeping your beloved companion healthy and happy for years to come.

Remember, this information is meant to help you recognize problems, but only your veterinarian can properly diagnose and treat your dog’s health issues.

The post 7 Red Flags for Dog Health appeared first on Animal Wellness Magazine.