No matter how careful we are, accidents can happen!
Here are the Top 5 Reasons Dogs Visit ER Veterinarians.
1. FOREIGN BODY
Dogs swallow and play with stuff. Name it and they probably can eat it. Vomiting and inability to keep food down are the symptoms.
Make it a point to do a quick survey of your house each day, check the floor for little things like paperclips, bits of wrapping paper or food that might have been overlooked. Almost everything is appetizing to a dog!
2. TRAUMA: INJURY FROM AUTOMOBILE OR DOG FIGHT
Always double check your doors to be sure that they are shut and latched. If you are outside and your dog is inside, he probably wants to be outside too! A door that is not latched is an “open” invitation. When you are walking your dog, be aware of other dogs on the street. If you are unsure about an approaching dog … take another route.
3. PANCREATITIS
Inflammation of the pancreas can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and if untreated, it can be fatal.
Some breeds are more likely to exhibit Pancreatitis, Yorkshire Terriers, Miniature Schnauzers and Shetland Sheepdogs are a few. It can sometimes be managed with diet.
4. GDV – DILATION AND VOLVULUS
Usually affects deep-chested dogs, like Greyhounds, or German Shepherds but this disease but can occur in other dogs too. Gas builds up in stomach and gets trapped when stomach torses. The dogs are uncomfortable, pacing, cannot rest and maybe retching. Sometimes you can tell their abdomen is enlarged.
Some schools of thought recommend smaller meals, soaked food and to avoid large amounts of drinking water. And further that you should wait two hours after eating to exercise your dog. Even these steps may not guarantee avoiding a bloat.
5. URINARY TRACT INFECTION
Usually occurs in females, this is a very common emergency room problem. Culture of the urine is advised when your dog is straining to urinate and constantly trying. Antibiotics can be prescribed and often are the cure.
Thank you to Dr. Anne Chauvet. If your dog is suffering from any of the above, please proceed to your Emergency Room Veterinarian immediately!
