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When
dogs are not well
there are ordinarily certain signs that indicate that
the pet is indisposed. The most constant symptom is
a lack of appetite. This is accompanied by depression,
change of disposition, indifferent response to commands
or other stimuli, a ruffled and dull hair coat, or
a fever. The normal temperature of dogs is about 101.5
degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature of puppies and
excited dogs may go up as high as 102 degrees and
still be considered within the normal range. Any deviation
from this norm should be accounted for.
The temperature of dogs may be taken with an ordinary
human rectal thermometer. The thermometer should be
shaken down until the reading is no more than about
96 degrees, the mercury tip is covered with vaseline,
the thermometer is inserted into the rectum and allowed
to remain in this position for about one or two minutes,
then removed and read. There are many manifestations
that point to bodily dysfunction. The eyes may bear
an expression of pain, listlessness, or discomfort;
their membranes may be a deep red; and a watery or
pussy discharge may be apparent.
The nose may be warm, dry, and encrusted, and it may
bear a discharge of variable nature. There may be
intermittent sneezing attacks. The membranes of the
mouth and gums may be inflamed or eroded, and the
teeth may be dirty, infected, loose, or encrusted
with tartar and emitting a foul odour. There may be
a cough; laboured, quick, or very slow breathing;
or exhaustion after mild exercise. Vomiting and diarrhea
are very common symptoms. There may also be manifestations
or obvious signs of injury. Swellings of various sizes
and descriptions may appear on any part of the body.
There may be expressions of pain, hysteria, or fear.
There may further be nervous twitchings, convulsions,
partial or complete paralysis. The urine elimination
may be dribbling, painful, bloody, excessive, or insignificant
in quantity. The animal may have painful bowel movements
or strain excessively or unsuccessfully to pass the
stool. The animal may rub on its bottom, shake its
head excessively, dig at its ears, have inflamed ear
membranes, or be infested with observable external
or internal parasites. The skin may be laden with
dandruff or scurf and show variable degrees of irritation.
These are the paramount signs of disease in dogs.
It is hoped that this concise summary may serve as
a simple guide to assist the owner in determining
when the pet is not in a normal state of health.
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