When Should a Dog Visit the Vet?

For first time dog owners, you may ask the question, when should I take my dog to visit the vet? At some point, a dog owner must be faced with a situation when the dog is ill, sick or injured. As a pet owner, you may wonder when the situation is serious enough to warrant a trip to the doctor's office. It is best that as pet owner, you know how to check the temperature of the dogs, its gums and pulse. This can help you in assessing the condition of the dog. Timely vet care is the key. If you delay the care, it would take a toll on your animal's body. This would make illness or condition more difficult to treat and it would be costly.

The first thing to consider is the general appearance of the dog. An ill dog would stop eating and drinking. They would look sad and not themselves. Dehydration and hypoglycemia can set in after a few hours. Seek the dog immediately if the pet stops eating and/or drinking. The situation could be fatal after a few hours. Take the dog's temperature in the rectal. The normal temperature of a healthy dog is about 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperature out of this range can be an indication of illness. This is a situation that may need a trip to the veterinarian. The gum's color is a sign that the dog is ill. The normal gum color is pink. Abnormal gums are white, grey, blue or yellow. These colors can indicate of internal bleeding, anemia or disruption of blood flow. Improper oxygenation can result in loss of blood.

As a pet owner, look for signs and pain of distress. Observe for drooling, panting and restlessness. Check the dog's heart rate. It is a good indicator of distress and pain. The normal heart rate of the dog is dependent on its size and age. Quick or slow pulse can indicate illness or distress. A puppy normally has a heart rate of 180 beats per minute. Adult dog's heart rate ranges from 60 to 160 beats per minute, for younger, smaller dogs, the faster the heart rate.

If you have the time, record the dog symptoms and behavior. A pet log would make the diagnostic easier. It will serve as your guide when talking to the doctor. There is no chance that you might forget important details that is associated with stress and anxiety of caring for a sick pet. Pet owners should know where to find help in advance. There should be a 24 hour vet clinic in your area. Ask around for good vets. This would save you time when there is an emergency. Knowing where to seek help would make a difference.

Rodnas Laygaf has been working as a professional in the field of dogs for sale and European puppies for sale for over eight years. Visit his websites to find more information.