Sleeping more than usual or unwillingness to play
may be signs of illness.
One day you might notice that your dog is acting "funny."
Sometimes a dog can be sick for days before you know about it.
Sometimes the best way to tell that your dog is sick is to learn
everything about your dog so that you will know when he isn't
feeling well. You should know how he sleeps, eats and plays. And
if anything changes, tell your parents.
Here are some other things to watch for:
Eating. If you notice that your pet is refusing food, he
might be getting sick. Sometimes that is one of the first signs.
Dogs may sometimes eat less in hot weather, but if it continues
more than a few days, tell your parents to call the
veterinarian.Drinking. You may
notice that your dog is drinking a lot. This is not normal –
unless the weather is hot. If your doggie is really lapping up a
lot of water, he may need to see a veterinarian.
Red gums or eyelids. Your dog's gums
and eyelids should be pink. If they are red it might be
allergies. Or if your dog has other signs of illness, like
vomiting, it might be something serious.
Panting. Dogs pant when they are trying
to cool off. But they also pant when they are in pain or if they
are having trouble breathing.
Coughing or hacking. Your dog might
cough if he has a virus, but if he is also panting and doesn't
want to eat, it might be something serious. Tell your parents to
call your veterinarian.
Urinating. If your dog has trouble
going, or if his urine is very dark, there might be a problem.
This might mean he needs to see a veterinarian.
Diarrhea. Dogs often get diarrhea from
eating something they shouldn't. But if he has a fever or is
vomiting, too, then he might need to see a veterinarian.
Appearance. If you dog doesn't feel
well, he might look different. His ears might be droopy and his
coat might be dull and dry.
Attitude. Dogs that don't feel well
often want to sleep more and don't want to play. They often just
lay around.
There may be other things you notice. If your
dog is sick, you need to take him to see the veterinarian right
away. Sometimes if you wait too long, your pet might get a lot
sicker. Also, be careful handling your dog if he is sick.
Although he may not mean to but he might try to bite if he is in
pain or not feeling well. |
