Your Dog Has a Fever: Here‘s What You Should Do327


A dog's normal body temperature ranges from 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38.1 to 39.2 degrees Celsius). When a dog's temperature rises above 103 degrees Fahrenheit (39.4 degrees Celsius), it is considered a fever. Fevers can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, inflammation, and certain medications. While some fevers are mild and will resolve on their own, others can be serious and require veterinary attention.

If your dog has a fever, it is important to take their temperature and monitor them for other signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, and vomiting. If your dog's fever is over 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) or if they are showing other signs of illness, you should take them to the vet immediately.

While you are waiting for your vet appointment, there are a few things you can do to help your dog at home. First, make sure they have plenty of fresh water to drink. You can also offer them small amounts of bland food, such as boiled chicken or rice. If your dog is vomiting, do not give them any food or water. You can also try to cool your dog down by placing them in a cool bath or shower. Do not use cold water, as this can cause your dog to go into shock.

Once you arrive at the vet, the vet will perform a physical examination and take your dog's temperature. They may also ask you about your dog's recent activities and any other symptoms they have been showing. The vet may recommend bloodwork or other tests to determine the cause of your dog's fever. Once the cause of the fever has been determined, the vet will prescribe the appropriate treatment.

In most cases, fevers are not a serious medical condition and will resolve on their own within a few days. However, it is important to monitor your dog closely for any signs of worsening illness. If your dog's fever does not improve within a few days or if they are showing other signs of illness, you should take them to the vet immediately.

Here are some additional tips for caring for a dog with a fever:
Make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water to drink.
Offer your dog small amounts of bland food, such as boiled chicken or rice.
Do not give your dog any food or water if they are vomiting.
Try to cool your dog down by placing them in a cool bath or shower.
Do not use cold water, as this can cause your dog to go into shock.
Monitor your dog closely for any signs of worsening illness.
If your dog's fever does not improve within a few days or if they are showing other signs of illness, you should take them to the vet immediately.

2024-11-14


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