It’s important to always pay attention to your pet’s health and learn to recognize any red flags to his health. The more you spend time with your four legged fur ball, the better you’ll be able to spot any noticeable differences in his appearance or physical health, and determine whether a trip to the vet is necessary.
A temperature of 101-102º F, a respiratory rate of 15-20 breaths per minute, and a heart rate of 80-120 beats per minute is normal for a healthy pup.
They have pink mucous membranes (gums, inside of lips, tongue, inside of eyelids). They have clean-smelling ears and skin and a full hair coat. Their skin is pliant, an indication of proper hydration, and their eyes are clear and bright.
If your puppy or dog shows any of the following signs, be prepared to call your vet, because the little guy might be sick…
- Eyes: swelling, discharge, redness, etc.
- Nose: running, crusting, discharge, etc.
- Ears: discharge, debris, odor, twitching, scratching, shaking, etc.
- Coughing, gagging, constant sneezing, retching, or vomiting.
- Irregular breathing, shortness of breath, prolonged or heavy panting, etc.
- Intestinal activity
- Color and consistency of bowel movement
- Frequency of defecation
- Bloody stool
- Evidence of parasites, etc
- Change in amount of food intake
- Drastic change in body weight
- Change in water intake
- Urine
- Color
- Frequency
- Amount
- Straining
- Dribbling, etc.
- Odor
- Mouth?
- Skin?
- Ears?
- Other?
- Coat & skin
- Wounds
- Tumors
- Hair loss
- Dander
- Color change
- Biting
- Scratching
- Bite marks
- Evidence of parasites
- Licking, etc.
- Behavior
- Depression
- Anxiety,
- Fatigue
- Lethargy
- Sleepiness
- Trembling
- Stumbling
- Falling, etc.
Noticing signs is half the battle; keeping a record helps the veterinarian make a diagnosis. Be sure to note when the symptom first appeared, and whether it has been intermittent, continuous, increasing in frequency, getting better, or getting worse before calling the veterinarian. The more info the doc has, the better he can help!
Norma Bennett Woolf-
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