Flickr Image: Stiller Beobachter
Unlike humans, animals can’t tell us when they are ill so instead their bodies have to do the work instead. This is why it’s important to get to know your pet so that you can tell what’s an individual quirk and what’s not, for example, some dogs eat loads at one sitting while others like to eat throughout the day. By performing the following five-minute doggie health check, you’ll instantly be able to see if something isn’t right or if your pet has a wound in their fur, a dental issue or claw problem.
Coat
Dogs coats should be glossy, springy and clean as all pets, no matter what type, are fastidious about grooming themselves. A dull, coarse or unkempt coat could be a sign that your pet is sick, or experiencing severe mental stress as animals take pride in the condition of their fur. If you spot bald patches, loose hair or see dark specks in the hairs your dog may have fleas, mites or even mange and needs a trip to the vet to a) have the condition confirmed and b) so that you can get some flea medicine as fleas are terribly unpleasant for all animals.
Teeth
Clean canine teeth look a bit like our own, with pink gums and ivory enamel, but unlike us dogs can’t brush their teeth, so you need to do it for them, or have a vet carry out the procedure. However, doggie dental chews can help to maintain good hygiene as well as protect from a build-up of plaque, reduce bad breath and reduce the risk of gum infection due to a build-up of tartar. There are many types of dental chew, find out more by speaking to your vet or looking online.
Tail
Tails should be soft, wagging and high, depending on the breed of dog, a low tail or a drooping one can be a sign a dog is stressed. Don’t forget to look under the tail itself; this is where cancerous lumps can form near the anus and also where dogs can suffer from bowel problems due to infection.
Nose
Many dogs have naturally warm dry noses so don’t worry if it seems a little dry at first as warm weather, a change of environment and even the dog’s natural body temperature can cause this. However, if your dog’s nose is crusty, cracked or inflamed do call the vet as it can be the first sign of an autoimmune disease.
Eyes
Your pet feels all sorts of emotions including grief, sadness, boredom, frustration and even anger. Look at how your dog is behaving, did they come to greet you when you returned home or are they lying on the floor? In their bed? Or next to a window? A dog that has its tail lowered or ears flat is obviously unhappy and it’s a clear indicator something is amiss. Physically, eyes should be bright, clear and alert, any discharge, discolouration or fogginess could mean an infection or allergy that needs treating ASAP.
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