While seeing 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit on a thermometer is considered feverish for most people, this is the normal body temperature range for dogs. When your dog reaches a temperature of more than 103 degrees, they might have a fever.
Below Lankas Labs has highlighted common fever symptoms and causes as well as suggestions on what to do when your dog runs a fever.
Recognizing Sick Symptoms of Dogs
A warm, dry nose is often the first thing that alerts owners their furry friend may be sick. Other common signs of a fever in dogs include vomiting, coughing, nasal discharge, and shivering. Your dog may exhibit a lack of energy and appear lethargic or sluggish. If you notice your pup has stopped eating and drinking due to lack of appetite, this is another cause for concern.
Causes of Fevers in Dogs
Your pup can run a fever for numerous reasons and locating the exact cause is not always easy. Fevers often occur alongside inflammation or infection. Infected bites, scratches, cuts or teeth can cause a fever. Some other possible ailments include an ear infection, a urinary tract infection, or an ongoing bacterial or viral disease. More serious issues include infection of the organs.
Ingestion of poisonous materials like toxic plants or human foods or medications may also lead to fever. Some dogs may run a fever after their vaccinations.
What to Do for Your Dog
Once you determine that your pet is ill, you should take them to the vet immediately. Nothing is more important than ensuring your pet is healthy and safe.
You can also attempt to take a dog’s temperature using an ear or rectal thermometer. Take your dog to the vet if his temperature is 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Remember that 106 degrees or higher could cause serious damage to your pet’s organs or prove fatal, so air on the side of caution when taking the temperature on your own.
To reduce your pet’s fever, apply cool water around their ears and paws. Try to get them to drink some water and avoid administering them human medications that may prove toxic.
Keeping your dog safe and healthy is important to us at Lankas Labs. As one of the leading Pointing Lab breeders in Kansas, we offer intelligent, gorgeous labs.
