10 Warning Signs your dog needs to go to the dog clinic and vets
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Dietary changes:
Any alteration in a dog’s diet and food intake indicates the necessity of consulting a vet. If your dog deviates from its regular daily diet, it could be a sign of gastrointestinal issues or even a severe intestinal blockage that may require surgery.
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Excessive or insufficient water intake:
Failure to drink an adequate amount of water or lack of urination can indicate gastrointestinal problems. Similarly, if a dog drinks excessive amounts of water and urinates excessively, it should be examined by a vet at a dog clinic and vets for potential diabetes or kidney issues.
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Rapid or labored breathing:
All dogs pant during hot days or after physical activity, but they return to their normal state after a short period of rest or cooling down. A dog that constantly pants may simply have a cold or an allergy, but it could also have more serious underlying problems that need to be diagnosed by a vet.
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Vomiting or changes in stool:
If a dog vomits or has diarrhea once and it does not repeat or develop into a chronic condition, there is no cause for immediate concern, and it does not pose a threat to the animal. However, consistent changes in stool can be a sign of gastrointestinal inflammation, obstruction, severe allergies, or illness. Vomiting can also indicate poisoning in a dog.
- Lack of energy or lethargy: This concern is more significant in puppies and young dogs. A decrease in energy levels and reduced physical activity compared to before can be a sign of illness or physical issues in the dog.
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Lack of balance or difficulty in movement:
Any time a change in a dog’s movement is observed, such as limping, imbalance, or difficulty in performing regular movements, immediate veterinary attention should be sought. Limping may indicate a fracture or tendon injury, while balance issues or irregular movements may indicate neurological conditions.
- Red, watery, or inflamed eyes: Infections and irritants can alter the appearance of a dog’s eyes. If the eyes are excessively red or watery, they should be examined by a vet at a dog clinic and vets. These symptoms may be due to a scratch or injury to the cornea.
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Changes in skin and coat condition or the presence of pimples or inflammation on the skin:
While many skin rashes, dryness, or hair disorders can be caused by improper diet or allergies, you should never overlook skin irritations and itching that persist and cause discomfort to the dog. A vet can help identify the underlying cause of itching and assist in reducing and resolving it.
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Trembling and whimpering:
All three Behaviors indicate some form of pain due to injury or illness in the dog. If a dog retreats or yelps when you touch them, it is a clear indication that something is wrong. It may require X-rays of the bones and thorough examinations.
- Aggressive or abnormal behaviors: Whenever you observe aggression in a dog, it is a sign that there is a problem. Just like humans who display irritable behavior when they are sick or feeling unwell, dogs also exhibit similar reactions. Do not assume that sudden barking, growling, or other aggressive and restless behaviors are solely behavioral issues. When you witness such aggression, the first thing you should do is take the animal to a vet at a dog clinic and vets for an examination to assess for any illness or injury.
How often should I take my dog to the Vet at the dog clinic and vets?
Generally, all dogs should undergo a comprehensive physical examination at least once a year. Consider it as routine care for your dog. The number of visits to the vet for your dog depends on various factors, including the dog’s age, overall health status, medical history, and any changes in behavior or observed undesirable symptoms. In this regard, it is recommended to consult with your vet at the dog clinic and vets to determine an appropriate care and examination plan for your dog based on its specific needs.