Medina

There are obvious times your dog may be sick.  It is vomiting repeatedly.  It is not eating at all.  It is sleeping a lot more.  It is whimpering when you touch them or they get up.  But often times there are more subtle signs your dog needs to be taken to the veterinarian’s office.  Remember they cannot talk to you so you need to keep an eye on them for obvious, and less obvious signs of problems.

We talked to Dr. Steve Hicks of Akron Medina Veterinary Hospital, located in the Medina, Montrose, Fairlwawn area to find out 10 hidden signs your dog may need to go to the veterinarian.

1. 1. Eating Less – If your dog is eating less than usual for more than a day or two it could be a sign of something more serious.
   2. Eye / Vision Change – If you notice the eyes changing or notice your dog is having trouble finding treats or food, it is time to see a vet.
   3. Change in Exercise – If your dog is not interested in the same level of exercise it is time to go to a vets.
   4. Signs of Aging – Just because a dog is getting older and exhibiting signs of aging does not mean the dog cannot bounce back with some medical care or treatment.  Often people think this is not treatable but at the very least dogs can be made more comfortable.
   5. More Frequent Urination – Dogs that start urinating more could have a kidney problem and should be looked at by a veterinarian to check for kidney disease.
   6. Low Grade Cough – One sign that is often overlooked is a low grade cough.  It does not have to be a loud cough.  Even an infrequent cough can be a sign of heart disease and should be checked out.
   7. Not liking hard food anymore – If your dog seems to no longer like harder food and treats this is often a sign of gum disease.  Poor dental health can lead to losing teeth and other issues and should be treated by a vet.
   8. Slower Movement – If your dog is moving more slowly it could be a sign of arthritis.  There are over the counter and prescribed treatments for this and you should not let your dog suffer when there is a treatment that can relieve the pain.

Dogs can have thyroid problems just like people do. Any weight gain or loss without change in diet should be checked.

Dr. Steve Hicks - Akron Medina Veterinary Hospital

1. Panting More – A dog that is panting more but otherwise still looks happy might be in pain.  This is one of the ways dogs exhibit pain or stress.
2. Any Change In Habit – Ultimately, being on the look out for any change in habit is important.  Losing weight could be serious.  Gaining Weight could be serious.  Not responding to sounds like before could be serious.  Changes should always be taken seriously and discussed with a veterinarian.

If you are not sure, you can always give your veterinarian a call and ask about worrying symptoms and see if they think your dog needs to be seen.  Catching a problem early can save you and your dog more serious problems later on.  And saves you the uncertainty and worry when you notice something just not right but at the same time not an obvious sign of distress.