There is nothing more heartbreaking than having a sick or dying dog, and worse still, discovering that the illness could have been prevented had the symptoms been recognised early enough. Knowing that we could have prevented the problem or at least sought treatment for our beloved pets earlier can be soul destroying, and it is for this reason that all pet owners should understand and recognise the basic symptoms that indicate the need for a visit to the vet.

One of the more common symptoms pet owners discount is itchiness because it is more often than not due to external parasites. However, itchiness can also be an indicator of an allergic reaction to certain environmental, parasitic or bacterial influence. This can lead to allergic dermatitis which is then exacerbated by the continuous scratching to form weeping wounds and areas of redness and soreness known as hot spots. This can further lead to hair loss and permanent skin damage if it is not treated. Should you dog scratch continually, even after treatment for external parasites such as fleas, a vet consultation should be considered to discount the possibility of allergic reactions.

Bloating is a more severe symptom, but is one that needs to be recognised quickly to prevent serious problems. Bloating can be caused by a number of things with the most common cause being excess air, or a blockage in the valve below the stomach which prevents the material being produced by the digestive process from exiting the stomach.

Bloating can happen rapidly and can be fatal to your dog. If you dog’s abdomen is distended and the dog shows signs of nausea, vomiting or sudden weakness, contact your vet immediately. Bloating can also be an indicator of GDV which can lead to decreased circulation, infections, bleeding disorders, heart failure and death.

Another important symptom to look out for is a ravenous or unquenchable thirst in your dog. Any changes in your dogs routine is a warning signal, but an increase in thirst may indicate a more serious problem. Increased thirst accompanies many illnesses including kidney failure, diabetes mellitus, Cushing’s syndrome, hypo-adrenocorticism, hyperthyroidism, liver disease, fever, cancer, uterine infection and poisoning. Before taking your dog to the vet because of an increase in or unquenchable thirst, it is important to consider the environmental factors that could be causing the thirst such as a change in diet to one with a higher salt content, side effects from medications and a response to common environmental changes.

By recognising changes in your dogs behaviour and routine you will be able to read the symptoms and determine if your dog needs to be treated by a veterinary professional. If you are in doubt as to the cause of any symptom that causes your dog discomfort, it is best to consult with your vet to make sure any symptom you detect is not an indicator of a more serious or perhaps fatal problem that needs to be treated immediately.