By Kathy Davison
1. Signs of Illness
When the puppy or dog is just too good, when suddenly be stops his mischievous ways, we begin to suspect that something is wrong. Maybe he acts sluggish, droops his tail and does not care about cleaning up his dish. Or perhaps he eats as if he were starved, or drinks so much water that he vomits it right up again. His stomach may be bloated.
The stools should be medium brown in colour and well formed. The puppy may defecate 4-5 times a day, the grown dog once; don't worry so long as colour and consistency are right.
If the stools are black, watery or blood- streaked, and there are more movements than usual, then something should be done. In a puppy, the eyes and nose are often first to show oncoming illness. The eyes may weep, possibly with pus collecting at the inner corners.
The nose may discharge either clear water or mucus. He may pant continuously, his breathing may be difficult, his expression strained.Not all of the symptoms will be noticed, of course,when the puppy is getting sick; certain symptoms point to one ailment, others to another. However,they are signs that should be watched for.
Any one of them is enough to tell the owner that something is wrong. Do not wait to see whether the condition will correct itself. The chances are that it won't. Don't experiment with remedies suggested by wellmeaning neighbours. Get the advice of an expert-your veterinarian. Quick action at the first sign of illness is the best short-cut to its cure.
2. The Sick Room
When the dog is ill he needs a room or corner of his Own. Protect him from noise and confusion,and from the Well-meant attentions of children and unthinking adults. He will be comforted by the quiet presence of his owner, but do not talk too much. You'll tire him out.
He needs first of all, peace and quiet. The dog recovering from a serious disease like Distemper, may be thrown into Fits by nothing more than the slam of a door or the shrieks of children playing. Or a frenzy of fear may be caused by the raising of a window shade and the entrance of sudden, stabbing light. Use dark shades, and keep the light fairly dim.
Over one side of his bed throw a blanket to further Shield the light which will pain him if his eyes are affected.
Remove rugs and carpets so the floor can be easily cleaned and cover the floor with newspapers. Arrange for enough air without a draft, and moderate heat that will remain even. Have some water bottles handy in case the patient needs more warmth. A table or a chest for medicine, utensils, everything used in the course of treatment will be helpful. And do not forget a pad upon which you note each dose of medicine and the time of day it was given. Wash all utensils carefully when ever they are used. Wash your hands before and after tending a sick dog.
Knowing what is wrong with your dog and what to do about it is key to not only prolonging your dogs life but having peace of mind as well. Having that information could literally save your dogs life.
