Many domestic animals, especially dogs, retain some traits of their wild ancestors, one of which is the tendency to hide illness or injury. This is important in the wild, as appearing weak could make an animal an obvious target for predators. However, it’s not such a good instinct for pets, as it can make it harder for their owners to call the veterinarian in time. While dogs can be good at hiding vulnerability, it’s not impossible to tell if they need medical attention. You just need to attune yourself to their behavior and watch for the following signs:

• Bloated Stomach: Your dog may be acting normally but appear to have a distended abdomen. Call a veterinarian immediately if anything seems to protrude from your pet’s belly or other areas, as it could indicate a hernia or other serious complications.

• Disorientation: Pets may appear disoriented or sluggish if they’ve recently been under anesthesia or other drugs. However, they may also display these symptoms if they’re severely dehydrated or have other problems. Signs of disorientation include trouble walking, imbalance, and pacing in circles.

• Wheezing & Panting: All dogs pant after physical exertion, but if their breathing seems unusually labored and goes on for much longer than usual, they may need medical attention. This could be a sign of overheating, heart disease, or anemia. 

• Unusual Eating Habits: If your dog doesn’t eat for two days, drinks an excessive amount of water, or exhibits other unusual eating habits, you need to call the pet hospital, as your dog could be developing a new illness.

• Unexplainable Aggression: Dogs who lash out for seemingly no reason without a history of aggression may be doing so because they’re in intense pain, and you may need a vet to diagnose them. Causes may include brain tumors, rabies, and thyroid problems. 

• Salivation: If your pet recently ate something bitter or strong, it’s normal for them to salivate for a little while. If this lasts more than a day or two, however, then you need to call a veterinarian as soon as possible to make sure it’s not an illness or allergic reaction. 

• Compulsive Behaviors: There are many possible explanations for compulsive behaviors, which could be related to emotional, physical, or territorial issues. Compulsive behaviors for a dog commonly include licking or scratching the same part of the body until it bleeds or balds. This can lead to infection, so consult your vet about preventing this issue. 

Looking for a pet hospital in the Fairport, NY, area? Get in touch with Fairport Animal Hospital today. They provide exceptional and compassionate veterinarian care for most pets, including birds and exotic animals. Call (585) 388-1070 to set up an appointment or visit their website for more information. They’re also active on Facebook, posting announcements and pet care tips.