You care for your pet daily, but because they can’t tell you when something’s wrong, it’s not always easy to detect an illness or injury. While owners try to monitor their pet’s health as best as possible, it can be easy to overlook certain signs of a potential problem.

The veterinarians at Pet Health Clinic in Daleville, VA, want to give local residents as much information as possible to help care for their pets. Below, they share a list of warning signs that your pet needs professional care:

• GI Issues: It’s possible for a pet to experience vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation after eating something they shouldn’t have, but if it persists, it should get checked out. Also, blood in your pet’s stool or vomit always warrants a prompt call to the veterinarian, as it could point to a serious gastrointestinal problem, such as parasites.
• Weight Loss or Gain: Weight gain is often a result of consuming too many calories and not getting enough exercise, but a professional can weigh in on whether or not another health-related issue could cause sudden spikes in weight. Likewise, sudden weight loss might indicate a health problem which may need to be treated with medications.

• Biting or Scratching: While fleas are often the culprit behind excessive biting or scratching at the skin, there are other reasons your pet could have irritations. Seasonal and food allergies are common causes of skin troubles, and it’s important to get to the bottom of it before your pet experiences more pronounced symptoms like lesions or hair loss.
• Eye Troubles: If you notice cloudiness, redness, or puss in your pet’s eyes, have a professional address the cause. Again, allergies could be to blame, but there may also be a more serious reason for the irritation.
• Changes in Behavior: When a pet exhibits new behaviors, it might be a sign they’re not feeling well. New patterns of aggression such as growling, as well as lethargy or destructive behavior, might be related to health changes.

When your pet isn’t feeling their best, the dedicated veterinarians from Pet Health Clinic are available to help. From preventive wellness treatments like flea control and vaccinations to emergency services such as pet surgery, their facility is equipped to handle all your pet’s health needs. Schedule an appointment by calling (540) 992-4550, and visit the clinic online for a full list of their services today.