I’m a vet – dog owners need to look out for easy-to-miss signs that their pet is seriously ill
A VETERINARIAN has offered advice on the easy-to-miss signs that your dog could be suffering from a serious illness.
While your dog may not be able to tell you if they are sick, spotting the red flags of illness early on can save your pet from serious health problems.
Most vets recommend getting a pet check-up at least once a year, though some breeds may require closer attention.
Dr. Antje Joslin, a top veterinarian for Dogtopia—a vast network of doggie daycares across North America—told Newsweek there are “several telltale signs that your dog isn’t feeling well.”
Watch out for these 6 signs that your dog may need to see the vet sooner than expected:
FUR OR SKIN CHANGES
One of the first signs of illnesses that many pet owners notice is a change in their pet’s coat or skin irritation.
Animals with unhealthy skin or fur are “probably not in optimal health,” Joslin said, and should receive medical attention.
WEIGHT GAIN OR LOSS
If there have been no significant changes in your pup’s activity levels, a jump or decrease in their weight could spell trouble for their health status.
Weight loss especially is a common sign of illness.
APPETITE FLUCTUATIONS
Even if your dog’s weight is stable, fluctuations in their appetite can be another sign of poor health, Joslin said. Watch out for vomiting or diarrhea.
Big increases in appetite are similarly worrisome and should be checked out.
TIREDNESS OR WEAKNESS
Dogs will often slow down when they are feeling unwell, much like people.
If you notice that your pooch seems to have significantly lower energy levels or less interest in playing with you or other dogs than usual, Joslin said, it is probably time for a vet appointment.
CHANGES IN BREATHING OR GUM HEALTH
If your dog develops a cough or starts wheezing or panting heavily after exercise, it could be under the weather.
Changes in gum color to pale or white, purple or bright red can be serious, she added, and may signal the need for immediate medical attention.
UNUSUAL DISCHARGES OR SMELLS
When your pet is sick, it may show signs of infection through discharges from its ears, eyes, nose, or genitals.
Any sign of unusual foul odors or discharge should be checked out by a vet.
Dr. Joslin’s advice comes after another vet warned of the everyday item you must avoid using on your pet.
And other vet has cautioned that your dog’s sleeping habits could indicate they are in serious pain.