9 signs your dog needs to see a veterinarian in Brandon

Caring for a dog is no easy task. You must ensure they are vaccinated and see their veterinarian regularly. However, when there is an immediate sign of discomfort or pain, it becomes highly critical to schedule an appointment immediately. Dogs often don’t show distress until the situation is worse, and therefore, immediate care is essential. Here are nine signs that you must visit one of the veterinary services in Brandon, FL

Your dog is fatigued

Dogs, especially when young, are energetic and full of life. If your happy-go-lucky pup isn’t moving around much or is hiding in unusual places, check with the vet soon. It could be a sign of an infection, illness, or disease that has been causing discomfort. 

 

Your dog doesn’t have the usual appetite

If your dog has a change in appetite suddenly, you know it is a red flag. While it is not uncommon for dogs and cats to skip a meal once in a while, be very skeptical when you see that the animal isn’t eating at all. That could indicate an underlying disease. 

 

Your dog’s stool looks different

Any change in stool is a serious concern. For example, if your dog is taking longer to pass waste, they might be constipated. Diarrhea is often related to an infection, and if there is blood or mucus, that could mean something more severe. 

 

Your dog has been puking

Dogs can puke suddenly, and while that may not be a matter of immediate concern, you should worry if the vomiting continues for more than 24 hours. Vomiting because of an infection could mean having other symptoms, such as fatigue and fever. 

 

Your dog is limping

In the peak summer days of Florida, many pet owners find limping and walking issues in dogs. Dog paws are sensitive and prone to heat injuries. Limping is often an indication of an injury. You may have been watchful, but you never know if the dog has a ligament or bone issue. Check with the vet immediately. 

 

Your dog had a seizure

You shouldn’t wait to get medical help when your dog has a seizure. A seizure could be a result of ingesting toxins, head trauma, or other diseases, such as epilepsy. Many older dogs suffer seizures because of issues with the nervous system. 

 

Your dog has bite marks

Dogs and cats are curious animals, and that often leads to run-ins with other pets and animals. If there are bite marks on the dog, you know it has been in a fight somewhere, and this is an emergency. Bites of wild animals and other pets could mean additional risks associated with parasites, infections, and even rabies. More often than not, it is even hard to understand what animal was responsible for the marks. 

 

Your dog is bleeding

If your dog is bleeding from any part of the body, start by checking the nature and extent of the injury and whether you can treat that at home with a bandage and regular ointment. However, for open wounds or when the animal has lost too much blood, you have to go to the clinic for timely treatment. 

 

Your dog is in pain

Unfortunately, dogs cannot speak about their pain, and you often have to guess from their behavior and changes in action. If your dog is whining, seems in evident distress, or isn’t moving around, you must check with a vet to know whether there is something to worry about. There could be endless cases, and proper diagnosis is critical. 

Lastly, find a veterinarian in Brandon soon when your dog has dropped significant weight in a short time.