When To Take Your Pet To the Vet

Pets make great co-drivers and provide truckers with companionship and love.

Many drivers take their pets on the road with them and see their pets as family.  You want to do all that you can to make sure your pets are happy and healthy.

Your pet can’t communicate when it’s feeling unwell, but there are some warning signs that your furry friend is not feeling well.

Here are the 6 most common signs of illness in your pet:

Vomiting and Loose Stools- The first is probably the most obvious, if our pet is vomiting or has loose stools, he or she may not be feeling well. Just like humans, extended periods of vomiting and diarrhea are a sign of illness. Occasional vomiting and loose stool is not often a sign of illness, but if your pet is vomiting multiple times a day, or all of his or her stools are loose, you need to consult a vet. Blood in his or her stool is also a serious warning sign that something might be wrong.

Loss of, or decrease in, appetite- If your pet has suddenly began snubbing his or her food, you need to watch him or her closely, especially if your pet begins behaving lethargically and is less active.

“A reduced or absent appetite, especially if it lasts for more than 24 hours, is a reason to bring your animal to the veterinarian,” John Randolph, DVM, diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and professor of medicine at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, told WebMD.

Increased urination- If your pet is suddenly whining to use the bathroom more frequently or, after being potty trained, starts having accidents, this can be a warning sign of illness.  If this is happening, it’s important to note whether or not your pet is drinking his or her water more quickly. Are you having to fill his or her water dish more often? If both these symptoms persist, take your pet to the vet.

Persistent coughing- If your pet suddenly develops a persistent cough, take him or her to the vet.  Persistent cough is a sign of kennel cough, heart worms and many other illnesses.

Excessive shedding- If your pet suddenly starts losing an excessive amount of hair– especially if bald spots are appearing– he or she might have a parasite or other skin condition.

 Stiffness or difficulty standing up- If your pet is suddenly taking his or her time going from a laying position to standing, he or she may have achy joints, a sore back, issues with his or her hips, a tick borne illness, arthritis or another condition. If your pet suddenly appears stiff, seems to have difficulty moving or is slow to stand, please take him or her to the vet.

You know your pet better than anyone else. If you notice a sudden difference in temperament or activity, take him or her to the vet.