Sick Dog Warning Signs

No matter how much you love your dog, how carefully you look after it, and how well you feed it, there will be times when your dog gets sick!

Obviously the most important thing is to recognise that your dog is sick, and make sure that it gets prompt, appropriate treatment. We have listed below a number of symptoms that should ring a warning bell and make you seek treatment. Remember, if in doubt, always call your vet!

• Reluctance to exercise
• Limping or favoring a paw
• Decreased agility
• Pain on movement
• Discharge from eyes
• Discharge from nose (an occasional clear discharge may be OK)
• Loss of appetite
• Increased appetite without weight gain
• Sudden weight loss
• Increased (perhaps excessive) thirst
• Persistent cough
• Diarrhoea, vomiting
• Constipation
• Yellow or brown teeth
• Cracked or missing teeth
• Bleeding, swollen or obviously sore gums
• Persistent scratching
• Persistent licking (obsessive)
• Skin inflammation, sores or abscesses
• Dull coat; coat dropping in patches
• Bloated abdomen
• Dragging the hindquarters

Remember, call your vet if you have any reason to worry!