Read first,
Part I: The Trauma of a Dog Fight
Part II: Canine Care Kits – What You Really Need

By Deborah Angus

I have been lucky these last few years with my three dogs. My husband administers most vaccines and standard shots, and I took our puppy, Bonnie, in to get fixed. And due to the rough Texas landscape, rattlesnake vaccines are now available, a high priority for my husband who previously lost a dog to one of the vicious serpents. Outside of these standards, we haven’t had cause to take our dogs to the vet.

For years, pet owners streamed into their vet offices for all the standard issues: shots, teeth cleaning, regular checkups. Now there seems to be plenty of specialists and advanced care for dogs with cancer and other life threatening ailments. Yet most visits are less dramatic. PetHealthZone says these are now the top ten reasons people take their dog to the vet.

1. Atopic or allergic dermatitis
2. Ear infections
3. Benign skin neoplasia
4. Pyoderma (hot spots)
5. Osteoarthritis
6. Periodontitis/tooth Infection
7. Upset stomach
8. Intestinal inflammation/diarrhea
9. Cystitis or urinary tract disease
10. Anal gland sacculitis/ expression

All in all, a trip to the vet can be a happy routine experience. But our furry companions can’t tell us when or if they have an urgent problem. Here are some key indicators to help you determine if a trip to the vet is warranted.

1. Difficulty breathing including labored or rapid breathing, wheezing, or choking sounds that can signify a respiratory problem.
2. Persistent vomiting or diarrhea, especially if accompanied by blood, dehydration, or showing no signs of improvement after 24 hours.
3. Severe injury: Any trauma that causes bleeding, fractures or obvious pain requires urgent care.
4. Loss of consciousness: if your dog collapses or is unresponsive, it’s crucial to seek help immediately.
5. Seizures: If your dog experiences a seizure lasting more than a couple of minutes or has multiple seizures in a short time, call a vet.
6. Swelling or bloating: abdominal swelling can indicate a serious condition like bloat or torsion, which is life-threatening.
7. Unable to stand or walk: sudden weakness, limping, or inability to move can signal neurological or orthopedic issues.
8. Signs of pain: excessive whining, whimpering, growling when touched, or any signs of distress should be taken seriously.
9. Excessive thirst and urination: Sudden changes in drinking and urination habits can indicate diabetes or kidney issues.
10. Changes in behavior: unexpected aggression, lethargy, or withdrawal from normal activities can signal health problems.

If you observe any of these signs in your dog, it’s best to contact your veterinarian immediately or head to an emergency animal clinic for evaluation. Early intervention can be crucial for a positive outcome.

Did your pet have any unusual illness? Share your story with FTN.