Dogs can get fevers just like humans do, and it’s important to know how to comfort them when they’re feeling under the weather. Feverish dogs may be lethargic, unwilling to eat or drink, and generally uncomfortable. Here are a few tips for making your furry friend feel better fast!
How to Comfort a Dog With a Fever
Have you noticed that your pup has been a little off lately? Maybe they’re not playing as much, or they’ve been sleeping more than usual. If you think your dog might have a fever, there are a few things you can do to help them feel better.
Give Them Plenty of Water
One of the most important things you can do for a feverish dog is to make sure they’re staying hydrated. Offer them water frequently, and if they’re not interested in drinking on their own, you can try offering ice chips or even chicken broth.
Make Sure They’re Comfortable
A fever can make your dog feel pretty lousy, so do what you can to make them comfortable. Adjust their bedding so they’re not lying on anything too warm or cold, and consider running a humidifier in their room to help them breathe easier.
Keep an Eye on Them
While it’s important to give your dog some space when they’re not feeling well, you also don’t want to leave them alone for too long. Check on them frequently to make sure they’re doing okay, and if their fever isn’t going down or they seem to be getting worse, call your vet right away.
Place a Fan Near Your Pup
If your dog is panting a lot, it can help to place a fan near it. This will help them cool down and feel more comfortable. Just be sure not to point the fan directly at them, as this could make them too cold.
Use a Wet Cloth To Cool Your Dog’s Ears & Paws
Another way to help your dog feel better is to use a wet cloth to cool its ears and paws. This will help bring their fever down and make them more comfortable. You can do this a few times a day, or as often as your dog seems to need it.
Keep the Home Environment Calm
It’s important to keep the home environment calm when your dog is sick. This means no loud music, TVs, or other noise that could bother them. You also don’t want to have too many people in and out of the house, as this can be overwhelming for a sick dog.
Keep Your Pup Away From Other Dogs
If your dog is sick, it’s best to keep it away from other dogs. This is because they’re more likely to spread their illness, and they may not have the energy to socialize. If you have other pets, try to keep them in a separate room from your sick dog.
What to Give a Dog With a Fever
Cool Your Dog Down
If your dog has a fever, it’s important to cool it down. This can be done by placing a wet cloth on their paws and ears, or by giving them a lukewarm bath. You should avoid using cold water, as this can make your dog shiver and raise its body temperature even more.
Give Them Plenty of Fluids
In addition to making sure your dog is drinking water, you can add some to its food. This will help them stay hydrated and may make them feel a little better. You can also give them chicken broth, which can help soothe their stomach and replace lost electrolytes.
Offer Small, Frequent Meals
If your dog isn’t interested in eating its normal food or is having digestive issues, offer small, frequent meals instead. This will help them get the nutrients they need without overwhelming their system. You can also try feeding them canned food, as it is usually easier to digest.
Add Probiotics to Their Diet
Probiotics can help dogs with a fever by restoring the balance of good bacteria in their gut. This can help improve their appetite and digestion, and may also help reduce inflammation. You can give your dog probiotics in powder form, or add them to their food.
Give Them Plenty of Rest
It’s important to let your dog rest when they’re sick. This means no walks, playtime, or other activities that could exhaust them. If possible, try to keep them in a quiet room where they can sleep undisturbed.
Canine Aspirin
If your dog’s fever is high, your vet may recommend giving them aspirin. This can help reduce inflammation and pain, but it’s important to only give your dog the recommended dosage. Aspirin can be harmful in large doses, so never give your dog more than what your vet has prescribed.
Feeding a Dog With a Fever
When your dog is sick, it’s important to make sure it’s getting the nutrients they need. This means offering small, frequent meals and monitoring their intake.
If your dog is experiencing indigestion, diarrhea, or vomiting, it may not be able to keep food down. In this case, you can try feeding your dog a bland diet or boiled chicken and rice. This will help soothe their stomach and give them the energy they need to recover.
You can also feed your dog canned food, as it is usually easier to digest. Canned food is also a good option if your dog refuses to eat dry food.
Sometimes dogs will choose to fast when they’re sick. If your dog is refusing to eat, don’t force them. They will usually start eating again when they’re feeling better. It’s safe for your pup to go without food for a day or two as long as it’s drinking water. But if your pup continues to refuse food for more than a few days, you should consult your vet.
How to Tell if a Dog Has a Fever
How exactly can you tell if your furry friend has a fever? Here are some signs to look out for:
Take Your Dog’s Temperature
First, check their temperature with a rectal thermometer. The normal body temperature for dogs is between 101 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit. If your dog’s temperature is above 103, it may have a fever.
Check Their Gums
Another way to tell if your dog has a fever is to check its gums. Healthy gums are pink in color and should feel moist to the touch. If your dog’s gums are pale or dry, it
Touch Your Dog’s Nose
One way is to touch their nose. A dog’s nose should be cool and wet to the touch, so if it feels warm or dry, that could be a sign of a fever. You can also check their gums – if they’re pale or have a yellow tinge, that’s another symptom.
When to See a Vet About a Dog With a Fever
It’s important to know when to seek professional help for your pup. If your dog has a fever and is also displaying other symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or lack of appetite, it may be a sign of something more than a fever at play.
You can call your vet to ask for advice if you’re not sure whether your dog has a fever. They can help you determine whether your dog needs to be seen and, if so, how urgently.
If your dog’s fever is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, it’s considered an emergency and you should take it to the vet immediately:
- Seizure
- Inability to stand
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in the face or neck
- Inability to drink water
- Extreme dizziness
- Visible physical trauma
If your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to take it to the vet or an emergency animal hospital.