If your dog is sick, should you wait for a regular vet appointment or immediately take him to an animal hospital or emergency vet? Sometimes it’s hard to tell. Dogs are good at hiding pain and discomfort, and many dog owners in Ann Arbor have trouble telling whether or not their dog is dangerously ill. Here are a few symptoms that can indicate serious medical issues that will need to be treated at an emergency vet or Animal Hospital in Ann Arbor right away.
Bloody Stool
You should never ignore blood in your dog’s stool. Blood can indicate a serious blockage in the digestive track or the onset of a potentially life-threatening disease like parvo. Get your dog to an Animal Hospital in Ann Arbor right away, especially if stools are loose or bowel movements are strained.
Pale or Discolored Gums
The color of your dog’s gums can often let you know if your dog is seriously ill. Pale gums can indicate anemia or low blood pressure, and yellow-tinted gums are a symptom of liver problems or jaundice. Bluish gums often signal your dog has respiratory problem or is suffering from a lack of oxygen. In any case, it’s vital to see a vet right away if your dog’s gums aren’t a healthy pink color.
Distended Abdomen
A distended abdomen is a common sign of gastric volvulus, more commonly known as “bloat”. This condition can be life threatening, so get your dog to an emergency vet right away. Other signs of bloat include unproductive vomiting, lethargy and a loss of interest in food.
Difficulty Urinating
If your dog is having trouble urinating or you notice blood in his urine, get to an animal hospital right away–urinary blockages can be fatal to dogs. Your dog may also be suffering from a bladder infections or kidney stones, conditions that can be very painful and need immediate medical attention.
Seizures
First-time seizures in dogs require immediate medical attention. Although canine seizures aren’t usually life-threatening, you’ll need to see a vet right away to rule out accidental poisoning. Symptoms of dog seizures include trembling, uncontrolled urination, disorientation and temporary loss of consciousness.
Knowing what canine symptoms require immediate medical attention is a big part of being a responsible dog owner. If your dog gets sick, visit an animal hospital like the one at the Humane Society of Huron Valley right away.
