What to Do When You Think Your Dog Is Sick

If your dog has been looking a little bit under the weather, it's sometimes tricky to figure out whether you need to seek immediate medical attention, or whether you can wait and see. If your dog displays any of these symptoms, then you will need to take him or her to the vet immediately: 

• Vomiting
• Abdominal distress
• Diarrhea
• Seizures
• Excessive drooling or saliva production
• Gagging or dry heaving
• Coughing
• Paralysis or lameness
• Coma or unconsciousness
• Unusual aggressiveness towards people or animals
• Delirium or confusion (knocking into furniture or objects)
• Visible injuries (swelling, broken bones, open wounds)

All of these symptoms indicate that there could be a very serious medical condition, that will need professional treatment. They may also indicate that your dog has been physically injured, or poisoned, and again, immediate, professional care is imperative.

Pay Attention

A good rule of thumb, for all pet owners, is to pay attention to your dogs' regular behaviour. You'll soon learn what is normal for your dog, and when something out of the ordinary is going on, you'll be able to pick it up quickly.

Since speed is often of the essence when injuries or illnesses are present in dogs, it's important that you act quickly, and knowing what to look for is important.

If You Choose to Wait

If you decide that your dog doesn't look that sick, or if he or she is acting strange, but there are no visible signs of injury or illness, you might decide to wait and see whether he or she is simply under the weather. Or maybe you are unable to take immediate action. 

• If that is the case, then you will want to follow these guidelines:
• Seperate your dog from other pets and animals.
• Keep him or her in a quiet, isolated place.
• Monitor your dog's condition regularly - every half hour to an hour is best.
• Ensure that your dog has lots of clean water, but don't try to force food on him or her if he or she is not hungry.

If your dog's condition does not worsen, then whatever it is that is affecting him or her may not be too serious. However, if you choose to follow these directions, and you notice that your dog's condition is deteriorating, then you will still need to seek the care and advice of a veterinarian.

So if you think your dog is sick, your decision on what to do should be based entirely on your dog's condition, and whatever you do, it should be done immediately after your suspicions are aroused.