[ad_1]
As a dog owner, you are no different from being a parent that frets about your precious pug’s health. At the risk of being paranoid, you may find yourself frequenting the veterinarian’s clinic without even the need to do so. While it is understandable why you should choose to be safe than sorry, there is a way to tell if your pug is a tad sick or ER sick. Save time, money and needless worrying by following these simple guidelines.
Check for major physical changes in your pug. Pay special attention to its temperature, behavior, appetite, scent, breathing, skin, eyes, stool and secretions.
Temperature:
The normal temperature of dogs range from 101 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 to 38.8 degrees Celsius). If you suspect that your pug is ill, take his or her temperature rectally, the way you do for human babies. If he has a fever, take him to the vet immediately.
Behavior:
If your pug exhibits unusual behavior such as shivering, vomiting, excessive salivating, loss of appetite for 24 hours or more, restlessness, loss of balance, staggering and falling, whining for no apparent reason, and seizures, they are red flag warnings to bring him to the vet right away.
Breathing:
It’s normal for pugs to pant in hot weather or after exercise or playing. But if you notice that your little one is having a difficult time breathing, is panting heavily or making wheezing sounds, then it’s time to get medical help.
Smell:
You know the usual scent of dogs. If they’re sick though, they will emit a weird smell from their ears or mouth. That’s another sign to go to the vet.
Stool:
Blood in the stool and increased or dried up bodily emissions are likewise good indicators that it’s time to bring your pug to the vet.
Secretions:
Having unusual and excessive amounts of discharge from the eyes, nose, mouth and ears is another reason for a vet visit.
Inflammation:
One of the pug’s most sensitive areas is his eyes. Because of the unique shape and design of his face, his eyes are not as protected as other breeds and are more prone to injuries and other problems. Regular eye exams will help detect infections right away. If you notice eye inflammations, you should rush him to the vet.
Hair Loss:
Small patches of hair loss exposing some skin on the face or forelegs may be a symptom of demodectic skin mites. These appear gradually until the patches reach their maximum size and the hair begins to re-grow. If you see these symptoms, get treatment from the vet immediately.
Lastly, just like a parent knows his child by heart, you, as the dog owner, are in the best position to determine whether your pug needs immediate medical care or not.
[ad_2]
Source by Jennifer Maxwell Wezensky
