It is very important to know how to deal with common health problems that dogs can have. One of the problems is fever, which is a common symptom of many diseases in dogs. In this article, we will discuss the causes of fever in dogs, how to diagnose fever, and most importantly, how to treat fever in dogs at home.
Causes of Fever in Dogs
Fever in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, inflammation, and heatstroke. Infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can enter a dog‘s body through various means, such as ingestion, inhalation, or through the skin. Common infections that can cause fever in dogs include parvovirus, distemper, and Lyme disease. Inflammation can be caused by various factors, such as allergies, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. Heatstroke can occur when a dog’s body temperature rises above normal levels due to exposure to high temperatures, such as being left in a hot car or exercising in hot weather.
Infections: Dogs can contract infections from various sources, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Common infections that can cause fever in dogs include parvovirus, distemper, and Lyme disease.
Inflammation: Inflammation can also cause fever in dogs. Inflammation can be caused by various factors, such as allergies, autoimmune diseases, and cancer.
Heatstroke: Dogs can also develop fever due to heatstroke, which occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises above normal levels due to exposure to high temperatures.
Diagnosing Fever in Dogs
Taking a dog’s rectal temperature is the most common way to diagnose fever in dogs. However, it is important to note that a dog’s temperature can also be affected by other factors, such as exercise, stress, and excitement. Therefore, it is important to take the dog’s temperature when it is at rest and in a calm state. In addition to taking the dog’s temperature, a veterinarian may also perform a physical examination and run diagnostic tests, such as blood tests and urinalysis, to determine the underlying cause of the fever.
To take a dog’s rectal temperature, you will need a thermometer. You can use a digital thermometer or a mercury thermometer. Digital thermometers are more accurate and easier to use. To take a dog’s temperature, lubricate the thermometer with petroleum jelly and insert it into the dog’s rectum. Hold the thermometer in place for about a minute, then remove it and read the temperature.
Treating Fever in Dogs at Home
Treating fever in dogs at home involves a combination of hydration, cooling, and monitoring. It is important to keep the dog hydrated by offering plenty of water and, if necessary, electrolyte solutions. Keeping the dog cool can be achieved by placing a cool, damp towel over the dog’s body or placing the dog in a cool room with a fan or air conditioning. It is important to monitor the dog’s temperature regularly, as well as its overall behavior and appetite. Offering a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and rice or boiled hamburger and rice, can help keep the dog’s strength up. In some cases, a veterinarian may prescribe medication to help lower the dog’s fever.
Keep your dog hydrated: It is important to keep your dog hydrated when it has a fever. Offer your dog plenty of water to drink. You can also offer your dog ice cubes or ice chips to help cool it down.
Keep your dog cool: You can help lower your dog’s body temperature by keeping it cool. You can do this by placing a cool, damp towel over your dog’s body or by placing it in a cool room with a fan or air conditioning.
Give your dog a cool bath: You can also give your dog a cool bath to help lower its body temperature. Fill a bathtub or a large basin with cool water and place your dog in it. Make sure the water is not too cold, as this can cause your dog to shiver, which will raise its body temperature.
Monitor your dog’s temperature: It is important to monitor your dog’s temperature while treating its fever. Take your dog’s temperature every few hours to make sure it is not getting worse. If your dog’s temperature continues to rise, you should contact your veterinarian.
Offer your dog a bland diet: When your dog has a fever, it may not feel like eating. However, it is important to offer your dog a bland diet to help keep its strength up. You can offer your dog boiled chicken and rice or boiled hamburger and rice.
Give your dog medication: In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe medication to help lower your dog’s fever. Do not give your dog any medication without first consulting your veterinarian.
When to See a Veterinarian
While most cases of fever in dogs can be treated at home, there are some situations where veterinary care is necessary. If the dog’s temperature is above 105°F, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Other signs that veterinary care is necessary include lethargy or unresponsiveness, vomiting or diarrhea, lack of appetite or thirst, and other symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing. In addition, if the dog’s condition does not improve or worsens despite home treatment, it is important to seek veterinary care. In most cases, fever in dogs can be treated at home. However, there are some cases where you should seek veterinary care. You should contact your veterinarian if:
- Your dog is lethargic or unresponsive.
- Your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea.
- Your dog is not eating or drinking.
- Your dog has other symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing.
- Your dog’s temperature is above 105°F.
Conclusion
Fever in dogs is a common symptom of many illnesses. It is important to diagnose and treat fever in dogs as soon as possible to prevent complications. By following the steps outlined in this essay, you can effectively treat fever in dogs at home. However, if your dog’s condition does not improve or worsens, you should seek veterinary care.
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