Your dog isn't able to verbally communicate with you with words, so it's important for you to pay attention to other ways your dog may be telling you that he isn't feeling well or is in pain. Some changes or mannerisms may be noticeable, but other may require you to pay a little more attention. Read on for some signs to look for that would indicate that your dog is in pain.
1. Changes In Eating Habits
If your dog is not eating his food the way he used to or isn't eating at all, it could be due to a number of things such as having stomach issues. Try to add water to your dog's dry dog food to soften it a bit. If that doesn't help, then try giving your dog quarter white rice mixed with boiled chicken breast. Only give your dog a small amount of this mixture to prevent upsetting your dog's stomach more. Taper off of the mixture after a day or two and add the mixture to your dog's food.
2. Excessive Licking
If your dog is licking an area excessively, it may be due to something causing your dog pain. Inspect the area where your dog is licking himself and look for anything that may be causing him distress. There could be a tick or a flea, or possibly a sore of some sort. If it's on your dog's paw, take a look at his paw pads and his nails to be sure the pads aren't cracked and that the nails aren't broken. If you notice anything wrong with your dog, take him to the veterinarian for treatment.
3. Restlessness
If your dog is restless, it could be due to a stomach issue or something else. Take your dog outside to see if he has to go to the bathroom or in case he needs to throw up. Your dog may eat grass while outside if he is having stomach pain. Allow him to eat the grass to help settle his stomach, then keep him outside in case he gets sick. If he continues to be restless, take him to the veterinarian to rule out any type of obstruction from eating something he shouldn't have.
If your dog is in pain, he isn't going to be able to tell you, but he may be showing you. Pay attention to the signs above, and if your dog is doing anything else out of the ordinary, take him to the veterinarian for a checkup and for help. Get in touch with a clinic such as Murrells Inlet Veterinary Hospital for more information.
Share30 November 2018
For years, I wanted to fill my home with happy animals. When I got married, my spouse wanted a pet just as much as I did, and it was great to start looking for pets together. We were able to find a rescue animal who worked well with our budget and our lifestyle, and it was neat to give that sweet animal a home. However, after we brought the pet into our home, we realized that he needed some medical care. We turned to a veterinarian for advice on his medical health, and we worked on getting him completely vaccinated. Check out this blog for more information on finding help early.
