Your dog is acting strangely. Perhaps he's sleeping more than you think he should. Maybe he's drinking a lot of water. Or maybe he's not eating. Whatever the reason, you think he's sick and may have an infection. But how would you know?
As a responsible dog owner, you need to learn the signs of infection and whether your dog is truly sick.
Things You'll Need
- Electronic thermometer suitable for rectal use
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Petroleum jelly
Instructions
Recognizing the Symptoms of an Infection
Consider the dog's overall behavior. Is your dog active as normal or is he listless and inattentive? Is he eating well or is he off his food? Is he happy as normal or is he grouchy? If your dog is showing behavioral changes or even problems it may be a sign of sickness or infection.
Look for outward signs of infection. Outward signs of infections include abnormal lumps and bumps that are warm or hot to the touch, bleeding, discoloration of the skin, weepy eyes, red eyes, eyes with discharge, nasal bleeding or discharge, blood or off-colored urine or feces, erupting sores, abnormal vaginal or penile discharge, smelly or crusty ears, lumps above the teeth and bad breath are all classic outward signs of disease, and quite possibly infection. Your dog may show his discomfort by limping, shaking his head, pawing his mouth, or being extra sensitive in areas.
Feel along your dog's body for lumps or painful areas. They may not be apparent in a visual examination. If your dog shows any sign of discomfort, stop. The areas may be too painful for you to touch and you should make an appointment for a veterinarian to do a full examination.
Take your dog's temperature. To do so, wash the thermometer with warm, soapy water and then disinfect it with isopropyl alcohol (dip the end of thermometer in the alcohol). Turn on the thermometer and coat the end with petroleum jelly. Carefully insert the thermometer into your dog's rectum (have someone hold him). When the thermometer indicates it's done, read the temperature. Normal temperatures for dogs are between 100.5F and 102.5F. Any temperature above that indicates a fever, and therefore, an infection.
Bring your dog to the veterinarian for a full diagnostic exam. Your veterinarian can determine whether your dog has an infection or some other health problem.