How to Be a Better Pet Owner

Signs You Should Take Your Dog To The Vet Hospital

Being a dog owner is a big responsibility and sometimes, it can be difficult to tell what you should do for your dog and their health. There are certain times that you should wait and see how things go if your dog is under the weather and others when you should get to the vet hospital right away for assessment and treatment. Get to know some of the signs that you should be taking your dog to the vet hospital rather than waiting and seeing what happens. Then, you can be sure you get the vet hospital right away if any of these situations apply to you.

Your Dog Has Unexplained Labored Breathing

If your dog is not just panting but seems to be having difficulty breathing or is breathing extremely heavily, they should get the vet hospital right away. Labored breathing can be a sign of many things including asthma and even heart issues and failure. 

The sooner you get your dog to the vet hospital, the better in these cases. Try not to panic around your dog as you rush them to the vet hospital though. Doing so can add additional stress on your dog, making their breathing even more labored and difficult. 

Your Dog Was Out in the Heat and Is Acting Funny

When your dog has been outside in the heat of summer and they start acting strangely, you may think they are just tired. However, dogs can suffer from heatstroke just like humans can. Some of the primary signs of heatstroke in dogs are disorientation and confusion, heavy panting, drooling, dry nose, rapid heart rate, inability to get up, and even seizures. 

If you notice any of these issues with your dog and they have been outside in the heat, it is best to get them to a veterinarian hospital right away. The veterinarian may apply cool water and compresses to your dog to lower their body temperature. They might also administer IV fluids to prevent or treat associated dehydration and give your dog oxygen to help calm their breathing and ensure they are getting enough oxygen in their system. 

Your Dog Is Suddenly Off Balance 

If your dog is suddenly wobbly and cannot seem to keep their balance, this is another sign you should go to the vet hospital. There are numerous conditions that can cause a dog to be off-balance. One of those things is a stroke, which can be a serious veterinary emergency. Head to the vet hospital right away to make sure your dog gets swift treatment if it is something serious like a stroke. 

Now that you know a few of the signs you should take your dog to a vet hospital, you can be sure you do so if any of these situations ever happen with your dog. 


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