When to Worry About Your Dog

Owning a dog can be a worrying business – as well as the great joy that a canine companion can bring you, you can’t help but be conscious of the responsibility on your shoulders. Your dog relies on you for it’s care, food and happiness, and you need to be up to the challenge.

Today we’re taking a look at some of the times you need to be worried about your dog, and when you can don’t have to worry at all.

Time to Relax: My Dog is Vomiting!

Upset stomachs are far from rare for dogs. If your pet is suffering from diarrhea and vomiting, dog gastro remedies can include changes in diet management or food before a trip to the vet. In most cases your dog will recover quickly by itself and you can relax. All you need to do is think about food and water – even if they’re having a bout of vomiting, they still need to eat and drink. Withholding food from your dog can have serious effects of its own, so offer small meals on a regular schedule of food your dog will find it easy to digest like rice and boiled chicken.

You may need to switch your meal schedule anyway! If your dog throws up undigested food after meal times, they could be eating too much, too fast. Smaller meals fed more often through the day removes that temptation to gorge.

Time to Worry: My Dog Isn’t Vomiting!

Oddly, you might have more to worry about if your dog isn’t vomiting. A dog that’s retching and trying to throw up but can’t could be suffering from the serious condition known as Bloat, where the digestive system gets obstructed and twisted. This can have fatal consequences, so if you notice your dog suffering from this symptom it is definitely time to worry and get to the vet without delay!

Time To Worry: Changes in Behaviour

As an owner, you get to know your dog very well. You know what their personality is, what’s normal and when things are different. Your dog can’t directly tell you when something’s wrong – when they’re sick, when they’re in pain or distressed, but their behaviour will change, and if you’re paying attention you’ll know you need to take action.

Particular changes to look out for are unexpected or uncharacteristic aggression – this is a sign your dog is feeling defensive, and that could be because they’re hurt or sick. In the wild, this would make them a target, so they get more aggressive to keep themselves safe.

Lethargy is another worrying sign – if your dog’s energy dips (especially in situations where they’re normally excited and playful) something could be wrong. It’s worth watching for this in conjunction with vomiting. A vomiting dog that’s still energetic and shows a healthy appetite is likely going to be fine. A vomiting dog with no appetite or energy could have a serious health problem.