Prepare for unexpected vet bills
It’s scary and worrying, but sometimes dogs do get sick. Even after our best efforts to keep our beloved pets safe, happy, and healthy, but bacteria and viruses do not care about that. And that’s how your lovely pup got pneumonia. What now? There are a number of things you can do, but before you take matters into your own hands make sure that you understand the illness, that you consider this a high priority, and that you do not try to play doctor and diagnose your dog yourself. While your pup is ill, you will need to slow down physical activities altogether, yet still give them the mental stimulation that they need.
When you notice that your dog is feeling under the weather, all you want to do is make them feel better. However, sometimes it is good to let them show you exactly what is going on. Now, that does not mean that you should leave them alone and passively observe, but instead be an active observer and figure out how to help them. This is where you need to be informed about what you are dealing with so you know what to tell to your vet when you take your dog to them. Look for the warning signs and symptoms, try to write down everything that you notice, and make sure that you completely understand that your dog is not pretending, but that they are actually feeling unwell. Have your pup snuggle beside you as you become informed.
Once you have acknowledged the symptoms of pneumonia in your dog, it is time to react quickly. First of all, never attempt to diagnose and treat your dog yourself, always seek professional help. Your vet will be able to properly diagnose the illness he sees in your dog and prescribe appropriate treatment for them. When you take your dog to a vet, they will perform a physical examination, listen to their lungs to check for wheezing sounds, and maybe order an x-ray to understand if the illness has spread. They also may ask for blood and fecal matter test to understand the full scope of illness.
The best way to cure an illness is to prevent it. An apple a day keeps the doctor away, the old proverb says. So, how to prevent this disease from striking your dog? Before anything, you need to be aware of it. Educating yourself and being as informed as possible will give you a good overview of what you have to do to prevent your doggo from getting sick. Regular vaccinations, regular vet checkups, clean surroundings, and awareness are 80% of the job already, so pay close attention to your doggo and other canines they are playing with. Allow your dog regular exercise, another important component of good health.
Recovery time can take a few days or even a few weeks, but when your dog gets better, follow up with your veterinarian to make sure that everything is okay. An additional x-ray may be needed, and all antibiotics should be gone. Your dog will appreciate the outing, especially after being home on recovery mode.
Most of all, be aware of your pet’s daily activities and diet. Make sure that they eat well, they eat healthy, and that they lead a healthy lifestyle so their immune system can be strong and protect them from diseases.Â
As you can see, pneumonia is a serious illness that needs to be treated properly and promptly. Educate yourself on the signs and symptoms, know how to notice that your dog is unwell, and be prepared to go to the vet as soon as you realize that something is wrong. Be responsible with their meds and make sure that they actually take them, but most importantly, try to prevent your dog from getting sick in the first place!