Dogs, just like humans can develop fever. Fever in general is an elevation of the body temperature. This usually happens when the dog body reacts in response of bacterial infection. It is the immune system of the dog trying to fight back the infection and this increase in temperature reduces the proliferation of the bacteria. That said temperature that lies between 105 and 106 degrees F is considered dangerous. It is advised to seek medical help in case of such high temperatures.
It is not obvious for a pet owner to easily detect dog fever unless rectal temperature reading is taken. Dogs having fever may usually show changes in their behavior (reduced playfulness), lethargy and depression. Let’s look at some tips on how to detect dog fever.
Taking Body Temperature in Dogs
Healthy dogs have a rectal temperature between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees F. There have been instances where dog owners would just touch their dog nose just to estimate the body temperature. That is not advisable. The most accurate way of determining dog temperature is rectal thermometer. Ear thermometer is also widely used now. The normal ear temperature in dogs is known to lie between 100 and 103 degrees F.
How to diagnose dog fever.
Fever in pets may be caused by various factors. As mentioned above, due the immune system of the pet fighting back the presence of particular bacteria the body temperature may rise up. That said there are cases of immune disorders or internal tumors that are also known to cause a rise in the body temperature.
To be sure of the cause of the fever, the vet will have to perform diagnostic tests that include a complete blood count test. That test will enable the doctor to take note of any abnormality in the dog’s blood. Aside that the vet will also need to perform a blood chemistry profile test. That will help determine internal organ abnormalities. The blood report may not necessarily be enough. Sometimes the pet may have to undergo an x-ray, ultrasound and fine needle aspirate test just to make sure all underlying health concerns are ruled out.
Other Diagnostic Tests Include:
Fecal examination
Urine analysis
Antibody tests
Biopsy
Treatment of Dog Fever
There are different medications that the vet may suggest in accordance to the results coming from the different lab tests. Depending on how the dog’s body reacts to the treatment, the vet may also be required to adjust the treatment accordingly. Antibiotics are widely used when it comes to killing strains of bacteria. They are usually administered orally to the dog. In case the dog doesn’t respond properly to antibiotics it is then decided to further the diagnostic test to investigate underlying causes of the fever.
As a pet owner it is your job to make sure your pet remains healthy. For that reason it is important to follow the vet’s instructions to the letter. It is important to administer the drug as prescribed by the doctor and also avoid abrupt discontinuation of the drugs to prevent a relapse.
Other Treatment Options
As mentioned earlier there may be other causes of the fever. In case of a tumor, the best approach will be either chemotherapy or surgical intervention to prevent the progression of the tumor. This is why it is advised to always avoid the overuse of counter drugs to treat fever. It is important to first determine the underlying cause of the fever.
Home care advice
It is important that you keep your dog in a warm and comfortable environment, don’t allow him/her to be roaming outdoor all the time. Feed your dog with good nutritious food. Regularly take note of temperature readings of your dog, especially when you notice changes in behavior.
Vaccination is also advised since fever is easily transmitted to pets lodged in boarding facilities
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Originally posted 2010-05-24 02:45:03. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
