Dog is sick: go to the vet immediately or wait?
Have you ever asked yourself when you should go straight to the vet and what symptoms can wait? It can be a big blow when your beloved dog suddenly falls ill.
Sometimes his condition improves on its own. In today's blog article, we explain which symptoms you should look out for and when a visit to the vet is indispensable.
Symptoms that require an immediate visit to the vet
There are certain symptoms that you should immediately consult a veterinarian for, as they can indicate a serious illness. These include first and foremost:
- Severe diarrhoea or vomiting, especially if accompanied by blood
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Severe pain or injury
- Loss of consciousness
- Sudden loss of appetite or thirst
- Fever
- Poor general condition
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, we advise you to see a vet immediately. Ideally, you should announce your emergency in advance by phone. That way, your vet can prepare for your visit and see you immediately.
Symptoms that can often be waited for
There are also symptoms where you can wait before seeing a vet. These include:
- Mild diarrhoea or vomiting (one time)
- Cough or cold
- Minor injuries (minor wounds that do not bleed heavily)
- Good and unremarkable general condition
What if you feel insecure
If your dog is ill, it can be a very stressful situation for you. It can be difficult for a layperson to decide whether a symptom is serious or not. If you are not sure, consult your vet.
This way you can make sure your dog gets the best possible treatment, even if the symptoms are not severe. If you want to wait and see, it is important that you document your dog's condition and monitor him closely. If you notice that your dog's general condition is deteriorating, you should contact your vet immediately.
In summary, it is important to monitor your dog's symptoms closely and act quickly if they are severe.