When Should You See a Vet?

Since our dogs can’t verbally tell us what’s wrong, it can be difficult to know when something is wrong. However, this means it falls on us as owners to stay in tune with our dogs and pay attention to their health and behavior.

Of course, dogs can exhibit behaviors that may not be a big deal, whereas others could be signs of serious health conditions that require a vet. So, how do you know when to see a vet? Let’s take a look.

Signs It’s Time to See a Veterinarian

While some changes may not be immediately concerning, some are clear indications it is time to see a veterinarian. These include…

• Eating Changes. Loss of appetite or a lesser appetite could be signs of an injury or illness. Each dog’s eating habits can vary, but if they are regularly eating less than usual or not at all, consult with a veterinarian ASAP. 

• Drinking Too Much or Too Little. When your dog is drinking less water than usual or way more, these can be potential signs of serious issues, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or thyroid conditions. 

• Bathroom Habit Changes. If your dog’s bathroom habits have changed significantly, or their stool is abnormal (bloody, frequent diarrhea, odd color or odor, etc), it could be a sign of various conditions. This could include parasites, allergies, bacteria, or organ problems. 

• Frequent Vomiting. It often isn’t unusual for a dog to throw up their food once, but if it becomes frequent, it could be a problem. If your dog vomits more than once in 12 hours, call a vet. 

Here are some other important signs to see the vet about.

• Lack of energy or lethargy
• Labored, rapid, or shallow breathing, or faster panting
• Poor balance or difficulty moving
• Skin rashes, wounds, or hair changes
• Whining, crying, or wincing
• Aggressive or uncharacteristic behavior
• Bumps and lumps
• Coughs, runny noses, frequent sneezing
• Irritated eyes, dilated or constricted pupils, and eye discharge

Can You See a Virtual Veterinarian?

Modern times have introduced the availability of a virtual veterinarian visit. These can be beneficial for saving money and trips to the vet for less concerning issues. However, most of the above are generally concerning enough to take your dog to the veterinarian in person.

If you’re on the fence, a virtual veterinarian may be able to tell you whether it is time to take your dog in or not. At the end of the day, you know your dog. Keep an eye on their health and any abnormalities, and ensure they get the care they need. 

Look to Get Joy for Your Dog’s Health Needs

Luckily, Get Joy offers 24/7, on-demand access to virtual vet services. This offering is free for customers and can help you determine if your dog needs to go to a vet or not. We also offer supportive supplements to help boost your dog’s gut health, reduce dog anxiety, and relieve joint pain. Get started today!