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18 18 | Four Seasons Hemet Herald | SEPTEMBER 2024 | | Four Seasons Hemet Herald | SEPTEMBER 2024 | We all want to do the best for our furry friends, dogs and cats, but sometimes we miss subtle signs that something is wrong. Here are some things to watch out for: 13 Warning Signs Your Dog Needs to Go e Vet When your furry friend is like family, you want to make sure they stay happy and well. Besides regular vet visits and shots, watching for signs that something might be wrong in between is crucial. You wouldn't want your dog to get seriously sick just because you missed the signals of a potential issue. Here are some warning signs your dog needs to go to the vet! Appetite Anomalies: When your dog changes their eating habits, it's like a signal to head straight to the vet. From tummy troubles to potential intestinal blockages, these shifts in appetite shouldn't be ignored. Digestive Disturbances: If their poop keeps changing or they throw up a lot, it could be a sign of tummy trouble, a blockage, or even a bad reaction to something they ate. Fatigue Flags: A sudden lack of interest in their everyday activities could signal an underlying issue, whether they're a young pup or an old dog. It could be a hidden injury or an internal discomfort. irst Trends: Keeping tabs on your dog's water intake is key! If you notice your furry buddy is suddenly hitting the water bowl more frequently, it could signal something like kidney issues/diabetes creeping in. Breath Bewilderment: While it's common for dogs to pant on a sunny day or after some fun exercise, catching your breath should be a breeze for them. Now, it could just be a simple cold or allergies. Rapid breathing might hint at anything from an injury to stress or even a possible heart concern. Weight Warnings: Even in healthy pups, shedding pounds out of the blue should raise a red flag and get you on the phone with your vet. Rapid weight loss can signal something serious going on internally. If your furry friend drops around 10 percent of their weight, it's time to give your vet a heads-up. For the little guys, even a one-pound dip on the scale could be cause for concern. Skin Story: If your pup is scratching away at persistent skin rashes or sporting a lackluster coat, it could be down to pesky allergies, including those linked to their diet. Eye Insights: Cloudy or red eyes, along with squinting or lots of discharge, could mean your dog has an infection or got hurt. Toxin Tackles: Vomiting and diarrhea could indicate your pet has been poisoned. Coat Concerns: A dog's fur should be lush, shiny, and velvety. Something might be off. It could be the food they're eating, an allergy, or a skin issue causing the trouble. Potty Predicament: If your pup is having trouble peeing or seems reluctant to go, it might not just be a simple problem. It could signal a bladder infection or something more serious lurking. Abdominal Alarms: If your furry friend's tummy suddenly feels firm and puffy, there could be various reasons behind it – from heart concerns to infections or even something as serious as 'bloat.' Ignoring a bloated belly in dogs isn't a smart move. Gum Guidance: If you notice your furry friend's gums losing their rosy hue and turning pale white, it's time to spring into action and head to the vet. Clue to their overall well-being. Discoloration could be a sign of trouble with oxygen levels and blood supply, so don't delay. PAWS