When to See the Vet

When does your dog require a trip to the veterinarian?

The obvious reasons to get him to a vet immediately are

• Injuries from some trauma such ass being hit by a car or falling out of a window

• Difficulty breathing. Remember many small dogs with pushed-in faces such as Pugs are prone to trachea collapse. Be sure to read my free article at
http://www.toybreeds.com/health.htm to understand this problem

• Sudden collapse

• Convulsions

• Bloated or enlarged belly

• Nonproductive vomiting especially with a bloated or enlarged belly

• Bloody or black diarrhea

• Inability to walk

• Ingesting poison such antifreeze, Easter lilies or rodent poison

The not –so-obvious ones that require vet attention

• Abdominal pain such as tenderness to the touch or standing with his back arched

• Refusing to eat for more than a day especially if has loose stools

• Excessive drinking. Similar to humans, drinking too much water can be a sign of diabetes

• Uncontrollable bleeding or bleeding from the chest. If you apply pressure on your dog’s cut and you’re unable to stop the bleeding within 10 minutes, get him to a veterinarian immediately. The vet can only give your dog stitches within a small window of time. Also get him immediate help if the bleeding is from his chest.

• Accidents with no obvious damage. If your dog is hit by a car, take him to nearest vet. Even if he is appears normal, he may have internal injuries. Wrap him in a blanket to help prevent shock, and keep away from his mouth any dog in pain may bite even if he’s never bitten before.

• Subtle signs of cancer such as muscle wasting, especially along the back and on the head, and weight loss despite a normal appetite

The five things you can do to help ensure your dog’s good health

1. Feed him a top quality brand of dog food

2. Give him (or have your vet do it) flea and tick medication

3. Treat him year-round for worms

4. Brush him regularly. This is the best way for you to notice subtle signs of change in his coat, body or skin

5. Brush his teeth regularly (at least weekly) and give him toys designed to help prevent tartar buildup

Finally, remember what my vet told me he learned in veterinary college:

Anytime an owner thinks it’s an emergency, it’s an emergency

Never be embarrassed to take your dog to the vet. Your dog’s continued good health and your peace of mind are worth an office fee.

P.S. Visit http://www.ToyBreeds.com next month for a new edition of the Bone-Mot™.