How To Tell If Your Dog Is Sick Or In Pain

Pain can change a dog s behavior and just like a human a dog can act grouchy when in pain.

How to tell if your dog is sick or in pain. Change in behavior you know your dog best so if you begin to notice your dog acting strangely she is probably trying to tell you something. Check your dog s eyes. Some dogs become more aggressive and may even bite especially when touched in an area that hurts. Never give pain medicine unless it was specifically prescribed for your dog.

You are your dog s most important health care provider since you see him every day and decide when he needs to see the veterinarian. Your dog can t tell you when he s sick but he can give you clues. Ensure your dog receives the correct dose of any medications prescribed by your vet. This includes over the counter.

Our girl died naturally at home but she had pain meds was followed closely by a vet and we were stocked with ample of supplements to make her comfortable in case of nausea diarrhea vomiting pain anemia etc. And while things like limping or whining every time they put pressure on an area are pretty sure signs of a dog in pain symptoms aren t always so clear especially if your dog is of the walk it off type. Even if the signs resolve you ll want to keep the appointment to be sure whatever was causing the pain does not become a long term problem. Dogs in pain are more likely to bite be careful.

So if you think your dog is showing any signs of pain including any changes in routine preferences and behaviors set up an appointment with your vet as soon as you can. A dog may yelp in pain when you go to touch her injured paw or sore back but it s even more likely that she will suffer in silence. Five dog pain tips. Most dogs in pain don t vocalize at all.

Behavior breathing heart rate and even appearance can all change when your dog is experiencing pain. Your dog s eyes can tell you a lot about any pain it might be experiencing. Your dog also may be rubbing at the area that hurts. First off to start with the obvious they can t tell us if something hurts because of that whole not talking thing.

Each dog will react differently to the type and dosage level of pain medication so always monitor your dog s response and if you have any concerns contact your vet. Any of the following signs warrant a trip to the vet. Symptoms of pain can be subtle and easy to miss. Only you know your dog best and can tell how her quality of life is.

If there is pain in the eye area you may see squinting redness cloudiness or a discharge.