What to do if a dog has a fever and vomiting? - briefly
If your dog is exhibiting both fever and vomiting, it's crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately. While waiting for their advice, ensure your dog stays hydrated by offering small amounts of water frequently.
What to do if a dog has a fever and vomiting? - in detail
If your dog is experiencing fever and vomiting, it's crucial to take immediate action to ensure their well-being. Here are detailed steps you should follow:
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Monitor Temperature: Normal canine body temperature ranges from 100°F to 102.5°F (37.8°C to 39.2°C). Use a rectal thermometer to accurately measure your dog's temperature. If it exceeds 103°F (39.4°C), your dog has a fever.
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Check for Dehydration: Vomiting can lead to dehydration, which is dangerous for dogs. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, sunken eyes, and decreased skin elasticity (tent the skin on the back of the neck; if it doesn't spring back quickly, your dog may be dehydrated).
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Withhold Food and Water: Although this might seem counterintuitive, temporarily withholding food and water can help rest the gastrointestinal tract and prevent further vomiting. Offer small amounts of water every 15-20 minutes if your dog shows interest but isn't vomiting.
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Administration of Medications: If you have fever-reducing medications prescribed by your vet, such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), administer them according to the instructions. Never give human medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to dogs without veterinary guidance, as they can be toxic.
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Cooling Measures: If your dog's fever is high (over 104°F/40°C), you can use cooling measures to help lower it. Wet a towel with cool water (not cold) and place it on areas where blood vessels are close to the skin, such as the groin, armpits, or paws. Avoid overcooling, which can cause shivering and increase body temperature.
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Contact Your Veterinarian: If your dog's fever persists for more than a day or two, if vomiting continues despite withholding food and water, or if you notice any other concerning symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or unusual behavior, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Prepare for the Vet Visit: Have all relevant information ready, such as when the symptoms started, any medications your dog is currently taking, and any recent changes in diet or environment. This will help your vet make a more accurate diagnosis.
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Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it's tempting to try to figure out what's wrong with your dog online, many symptoms can be caused by various conditions. A professional diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment.
By following these steps, you can help stabilize your dog and provide the necessary information to your veterinarian for a prompt and accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.