Is Your Dog in Pain?
It is tough knowing your furry friend could be suffering and can’t tell you. It is important to pay attention to your pet and be their advocate when they are feeling discomfort. September is Animal Pain Awareness Month. Here are a few signs that might indicate your canine companion is in pain:
Behavioral changes
- Decreased appetite — especially if he’s experiencing dental pain.
- Changes in water consumption — dogs that begin drinking considerably more or less water each day
- Sleeping more or less — a dog might sleep more if he’s trying to heal or less if he can’t get comfortable.
- Excessive grooming — dogs that suddenly begin licking their paws excessively may be attempting to soothe themselves.
- Antisocial behaviors — if your pup has always run to greet you at the door or typically loves playing with your children but suddenly seems disinterested.
- Aggressive behaviors — dogs that are suddenly more irritable or quick to react when touched or stimulated
- Agitation or restlessness — pacing back and forth repeatedly or difficulty getting comfortable.
- Being more vocal — an increased amount of yelping, growling, howling or snarling
Physical changes
- Stiff or rigid body posture — if your dog doesn’t seem to want to move a specific part of his body or his entire body, he could be suffering from an injury or arthritis.
- Limping — one of the more obvious signs of pain and/or injury.
- Swelling — if your dog’s face, legs, or paws seem to be swollen, he could be suffering from inflammation, an infection, or worse.
- General fatigue or malaise — dogs that become reluctant to climb stairs or slower to get up
- Heavier panting — dogs that begin panting heavily, even though they haven’t been exercising or aren’t trying to cool themselves
- Changes in breathing — shallow breathing might be a sign that it’s painful for your dog to take a deep breath.
If your dog is showing any signs of pain, contact us.