When to Call the Vet

Recently my family in Idaho had to say goodbye to their beloved dog, a nine year old Pomeranian who would likely still be alive if the vet had been called sooner. By the description of it, she had been showing signs of illness for days before she passed. Often times it's hard to know when something is serious enough to bring to the vet, or if your dog will get over it on his/her own. Here are some signs that more than likely say your dog should see a vet.

• If your dog has been through any traumatic experience such as hit by car, attacked by other animal, broken limbs etc..
• You suspect your dog has eaten anything toxic.
• Sudden weight loss.
• If your dog is not eating, drinking or is lethargic for more than 24 hours. (Lethargy may be hard to notice in some dogs, or may not seem like an emergency, but this was the main symptom our Pomeranian showed in her last days.)
• Diarrhea for more than a day or two, or diarrhea with blood. 
• Fur falling out/excessive itching or chewing.
• Any signs of bloat. This is a big risk for big chested dogs, and I may dedicate a blog to bloat in the future. 
•   Discharge from eyes and nose.
• An unusual cough, which could be a sign of a collapsed trachea, especially in small, short nosed breeds.

The list could go on and on, but this is a basic, simple list that covers a lot of the major problems that could be life threatening to your dog. Obviously you want to use your better judgment, you know what's normal and not for your dog. But if you are questioning whether or no to take your dog to the vet, it would be wisest to pay a visit or at least call. It could save your dogs life.

R.I.P Tootsie