When to Call the Vet

If you've ever had a dog, you know it is an essential part of your life. You may not always be able to tell when something is wrong with them, but some signs can help you figure it out. If your dog shows these symptoms, call your vet as soon as possible:

Vomiting

If you've noticed that your dog has been vomiting more than usual, it's a good idea to have him checked out by a veterinarian. Vomiting can be caused by many things and is often the first sign of illness in dogs. The most common causes of vomiting include food poisoning (such as from spoiled food), parasites (like worms or giardia), and gastrointestinal disease.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common sign of illness in dogs, and many things, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites, can cause it. Food intolerance or stress can also induce diarrhea in your pup.

So how does one know if their dog has the runs? Here are some symptoms:

●      Your pup has been suffering from diarrhea for more than 24 hours, and it's not improving.

●      You notice blood in their stool (this can indicate that they're dehydrated).

●      The diarrhea is accompanied by vomiting.

Constipation

If your dog has constipation, it may be hard for them to poop. If your dog isn't pooping regularly or has difficulty doing so, it can cause bloating and discomfort. This can lead to vomiting, other complications like dehydration, and even death if left untreated.

If you suspect your dog is constipated, check with a vet immediately. They'll physically examine their abdomen and take blood tests to determine what might be causing the blockage.

There are many causes of constipation in dogs—some more serious than others—so it's important to know what's going on before making any decisions about treatment options.

Abnormal appetite

If your dog's appetite is abnormal, it can be an early sign of illness. A sick dog may not eat as much or stop eating altogether, which can happen even if the dog has never had any problems with their appetite.

If you suspect your dog is sick, contact your veterinarian immediately.

When a dog goes on a diet or takes medication to lose weight, you mustn't suddenly change the daily routine of feeding them smaller portions or different foods than what they are used to eating.

Doing so could cause stress or digestive distress in your pet and make them even more ill than before starting their new diet or medication regimen.

Increased need to urinate

Increased urination can signify diabetes, kidney disease, urinary tract infection, or bladder stones. Dogs with diabetes have higher than usual sugar levels in their blood and may drink large amounts of water to compensate for it.

Dogs with kidney disease will lose their ability to regulate electrolytes (sodium) and waste products from their body correctly. This leads to increased urination because the kidneys cannot filter out these substances efficiently.

Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria travel up from your dog's groin area into his bladder and kidneys. They will then cause irritation that results in increased urination and pain and discomfort when he does go pee.

Bladder stones are deposits made up of minerals such as calcium oxalate or struvite inside your canine companion's bladder wall, which can cause severe discomfort if not treated immediately.

Conclusion

If you note any of these signs, you must call your vet. If unsure what's wrong with your dog, don't try to self-diagnose. While many simple problems can be treated at home, more severe illnesses require the care of an experienced veterinarian. Before having a vet examine your dog, don't wait until symptoms get worse or go away.