How to Take Care of Your Sick Dog?
When you have a dog at home it is one of your responsibilities to take care of him while he is sick. Knowing the common reasons why your dog gets sick is helpful. Of course, once you see your dog weak and helpless, you will feel disappointed too.
When all of the home remedies that you have done to cure your dog will fail, you need to consult your veterinarian to apply proper medical management.
Assessing the Health Status of Your Dog:
If your dog is acting strange in the past few days, you may conclude that something is not right. Assess his health status and confirm if he is truly sick. Don’t just rely on your veterinarian. You have to learn on how to evaluate your dog’s condition.
Here are some common symptoms that may be present once your dog is ill:
* Bloody Stool which is cause by worms, intestinal blockage, and constipation.
* Blood in urine which is due to urinary tract infection, kidney disease, and internal injury.
* Loss of appetite which may is caused by underlying serious health condition.
* Vomiting which is caused by flu, worm infestation, gastrointestinal disorder, and poisoning.
* Sudden weight loss is due to worm infestation and cancer.
* Coughing which is due to pneumonia, heart disease, and heartworm.
There are plenty of symptoms that your dog may possess. Any changes from his habit or action should be checked so that the underlying cause will be revealed.
Feeding Your Sick Dog:
One of the common symptoms when your dog gets sick is he loses his appetite. Choose the best dog food that offers well-balanced diet like California natural brand dog food or dog food by Blue Buffalo.
You can even cook a healthy homemade dog food. This will attract him and encourage him to eat even in small amount. Don’t force your dog to eat.
Just leave his food beside him so that anytime he gets hungry, he can manage to eat easily. Never forget to leave water near him. Oftentimes, your sick dog gets thirsty most of the time.
Visiting Your Veterinarian:
When your dog’s symptoms persist and aggravate more than 24 hours and you can still see him vulnerable and distressful, you have to visit your veterinarian immediately.
Be prepared since your veterinarian will ask you about the health history of your dog. Make sure that you know everything about your dog. After your veterinarian assesses your dog, he will be able to determine the cause of his illness.
It will be easier for you and for him to apply the proper treatment. Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics and other medicine to cure your dog. Your dog’s lifestyle and diet may also need to be modified.
Helping Your Dog:
Through the days that your dog is not feeling well, you have to help and to monitor him. Make sure that he has taken or swallowed his medicines.
As much as possible, don’t let your children play with your dog. Your dog may become irritated. Provide him enough rest and friendly environment so that he will gain his strength again.
