Finding A Great Veterinarian

Just like humans, dogs will require medical care sometimes. Unfortunately, these pets are not able to communicate their symptoms to you in the same way a person can. Consequently, many dog owners find themselves struggling to determine when it is okay to put off a visit to the veterinarian and when they should rush their pet in for emergency care. If you are currently struggling to make this determination, continue reading to learn more about some of the symptoms that your dog requires immediate medical attention.

#1: Difficulty Breathing

It is normal for a dog to pant as a way of cooling their body temperature. However, this panting does not actually indicate a problem breathing. If you are trying to determine if your dog is experiencing difficulty breathing, you will want to look at their abdomen rather than their mouth. If your dog's chest is rising and falling sharply with each breath, this is a sign of distress and will warrant a visit to the animal hospital. 

#2: Bright Red Blood In Stool Or Vomit

Bright red blood in your dog's vomit or stool can be an indication of internal bleeding. This can be a life-or-death situation for your pet and should be taken very seriously. In this situation, there is no doubt that you should rush your dog to the veterinarian immediately. 

#3: Hard Abdomen

While rock-hard abs may be considered a good thing in humans, a hard abdomen is not a good thing when discussing your canine friend. An abnormally hard abdomen can be a sign of digestive issues or disease. Since some of these issues can have quick and severe effects on your dog's health, it is important to seek veterinarian care for your dog as quickly as possible when discovering this symptom. 

#4: Lethargic

Pets can experience minor illnesses which may impact their behavior for a short time. For instance, you may find that your pet is less interested in playing if they are not feeling well. However, a pet that is truly behaving in a lethargic manner will often refuse to eat or drink and may struggle to even stand. If you feel your pet is being lethargic, you should rush them to the animal hospital. 

#5: Pale Gums

If you are concerned about the health of your dog, it is always a good idea to check their gums. A healthy dog will have pink gums. If your dog's gums are white or pale pink, this could be a sign of internal bleeding or serious disease. In this situation, you will want to contact your veterinarian right away. 

For more information, contact a veterinarian near you.