Five Common Signs That Your Pet Is Sick

First of all, I would like to inform you that most of these symptoms will result in needing immediate attention from a vet. So, rule of thumb, take your pet for regular check ups, keep your vet's phone number on your fridge or in your emergency contacts list.

Without further ado, keep an eye out for a dry nose. In most animals, a dry nose is a common symptom that your pet is probably dehydrated. The only exception is when they first wake up in the morning or from a nap. It is natural for the nose to be dry while they are still waking up.

Secondly, keep your nose alert for abnormal bad breath. Did you know that your friend really isn't supposed to have smelly breath? So when ever you catch a whiff of an unpleasant odor drifting from your dog or cat's mouth be sure to talk to your vet when ever it is next possible. Also, just a suggestion, brushing your pet's teeth is not such a bad idea. Brushing comes with many benefits such as better breath, whiter teeth and fewer dental issues.

Number three—look for any changes in his or her normal routine. Be on the look out for a lethargic attitude, changes in eating and drinking, as well as any limping. If your pet is moping around, I advise you should take them to the vet as soon as possible. A few more serious diseases are canine parvovirus, distemper, kennel cough, leptospirosis and heart worm. So by all means, if your pet is lethargic it is very wise and recommended to take him to the vet.

Next, if you notice any unusual itching or scratching, you might want to look into it. Many things lead to itching and skin irritation, such as mites and other parasites like fleas. Unless it is considerably bad, such as red and flaky skin, you can do some research and help ease the itching. Look online for symptoms of what you think it is and if all or most of the signs line up, like ear mites for example, get to work with some homemade remedies or even medicine you can find at your local store. In doing this, you can save yourself a pretty penny instead of paying more for the same treatments.

Finally, another thing to keep a watchful eye for the unusual darting of the eyes and lack of balance. When looking for a lack of balance you will most commonly notice that he or she has trouble standing up. These two symptoms usually mean an ear infection is present. In that cause you should take your furry friend to the vet and get it looked at and treated.

BONUS!

One sign that is not hard to notice is after he has gone to the bathroom. If there is blood, be it a little or a lot, TAKE HIM TO THE VET! I cannot tell you how many serious health issues have the symptom of bloody feces. So, please, if your pet has any blood in his business, don't wait to take him for some medical attention. It might not be serious, but here are some of the more serious illnesses and issues that bloody feces or diarrhea result as a symptom:

• Leptospirosis
• Whipworms
• Hookworms
• Coccidiosis
• Giardiasis
• Warfarin toxicty
• Thrombocytopenia
• Hypoadrenocorticism
• Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE)—HGE causes gastrointestinal bleeding so be on the safe side and seek expert help for your best friend.