When should I take my dog to the vet for acting weird?

It’s not out of the ordinary for your dog to skip a meal or two, especially if it’s hot outside — but any more than this should be a red flag that something’s off. Two days without eating is a clear sign that your dog needs an examination. If your dog is usually well-behaved but begins raiding the pantry or garbage, you should take them for a checkup. Lethargy is a sign that something may be troubling your dog. A lethargic dog may be uninterested in playing, going for a walk, or participating in activities they usually enjoy. Normal fatigue or sore muscles can sometimes be due to high temperatures, but you should see a vet if symptoms persist for more than two days. Take your dog to the vet if they have any of these symptoms: worms noted in the stool, diarrhea for more than 24 hours, straining, blood or mucus in the stool. Even in an overweight dog, sudden weight loss should prompt you to take them to the vet. Losing weight quickly and unexpectedly could indicate a serious health condition. If your dog drops in weight by 10 percent, bring it to your vet’s attention. Take your dog to the vet or an emergency vet clinic if they show any of the following symptoms: open wounds or possibly broken bones, such as from being hit by a car or other trauma, stopped breathing or unconsciousness, repeated vomiting or vomiting blood, seizure, sudden collapse or difficulty breathing, bleeding from their mouth, nose, or eyes, possible poisoning from eating something toxic, extreme pain, seen as whining or shaking, hard and swollen abdomen.

If your dog shows an unquenchable thirst, it could indicate a problem such as kidney disease or diabetes. A sudden loss of appetite can indicate an underlying health issue. Hence, if you notice a sudden and unexplained decrease in your dog’s activity level or a lack of interest in their favourite activities, it may be a cause for concern. It can be due to infections, pain, or organ dysfunction. Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and further complications. If your dog experiences prolonged episodes of vomiting or diarrhoea, it’s crucial to seek veterinary assistance. You should not ignore your dog’s breathing difficulties. Prompt veterinary attention is vital to ensure your dog’s respiratory health. Unexplained weight loss could point to issues like parasites, thyroid problems, or gastrointestinal disorders. Uncharacteristic aggression, excessive restlessness, disorientation, or increased anxiety may indicate pain or neurological problems.

If your dog starts to vomit, but is still acting totally normal, and wants to eat or drink, I’m usually less concerned. As a matter of fact, though these dogs want to eat or drink, it is best not to let them. Often, once that stomach goes through the rigors and smooth muscular contractions associated with vomiting, not to mention the potential irritation to the stomach wall itself, it is primed for more vomiting. Now, if the vomiting continues despite all of this, or your dog seems to be becoming more depressed or listless, begins to dry-heave frequently, or you note his or her abdomen beginning to expand and tighten up, then it is definitely time to call your veterinarian or a local emergency hospital. If the symptoms persist past a few days, actually worsen, or if your dog’s general attitude, energy, or appetite diminish, it’s time to see your veterinarian. If signs of limping or limb pain persist with no resolve within the first 24 to 36 hours, then it is time to visit your veterinarian. If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian – they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.