If you notice that Rover’s behaviour has altered it is always worrying. However, a depressed manner in dog may actually be a sign of a fever. He may show a general listlessness, be unwilling to move from his bed. A common indication is a lack of desire to eat and drink. His eyes may appear dull and he’ll show no interest in his normal activities: such as walking, playing with his toys, or playing merry hell with your slippers.
Dog Fever
If you touch Rover around the ears or the nose he may feel hot. Just as with humans a fever will raise the overall temperature to combat infections from bacteria, viruses and ingested toxins, the same is true of dogs. In humans touching the skin will ascertain if the temperature is raised. However, a dog’s temperature is normally 3 degrees above that of a human: somewhere between 37.8°C (100°F) and 39.3°C (102.7°F). So Rover will naturally feel warm; but to a human touch how warm is warm? Rover is not in a position to speak.
Dog Fever
He may also be showing more serious signs of illness such as an itch which he’ll be scratching; he might find it painful to move; he may even have diarrhoea and vomiting. Unfortunately only a trained professional can tell by touching a dog if there is a fever; and even then they will know that the surest way of telling is with a thermometer.
Dog Fever
When taking the temperature of a child, the thermometer can be inserted under the tongue or under the arm. Not really possible for Rover: it’s usually done rectally with animals. Not pleasant for either of you. Make it easier on your poor sick pooch with some lubricant, like petroleum jelly. Reassure him as well, as he’s really not having a pleasant day. It would also be best to keep a thermometer for his personal use.
A temperature slightly above 102°F might indicate only a mild fever, and as with humans, this is not necessarily a bad thing: a mild illness often helps to boost the immune system. Therefore generally Rover should be kept comfortable, insuring that he doesn’t dehydrate. The temperature should be monitored at regular intervals to see if it alters. It should also be noted that faeces may be the causing a false reading, so it’s best to check after Rover has relieved himself. If the temperature begins to rise, or is taken at 105°F or above then this indicative of a serious illness and requires immediate consultation with a vet.
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