Taking care of a sick pet is something that most owners are going to experience at some stage during their dog's life. The following article is not meant to replace the advise of your vet, who should always be the first person that you contact if your dog is unwell. These tips are designed to help you, to help your pet, during a period of recovery from illness.
Your veterinarian will advise you about the seriousness of the illness, any likely complications that may arise, and what you should do if any vomiting or diarrhea was to occur. You should also expect your vet to advise you on what food to feed, how frequently, and what type. If your vet doesn't-then make sure that you ask, as your dog's health is your responsibility.
A warm, comfy bed, familiar surroundings, and your friendly face is going to count for a lot during your dog's period of convalescence. You have built up a bond of trust between you during your time together, and this will help if your vet has given you instructions on administering medicine, and on any changes of bandages that might be needed.
Your dog will need lots of re-assurance, kind words, and if any maneuvering of your pet becomes necessary, then this needs to be done with care. If your pet has a problem with walking, or even standing, it's going to be your job to help him to go outside to relieve himself. You might need to recruit a helper to support your dog if it is one of the larger varieties. If so, use a blanket or large towel, and place it around his underbelly in the form of a sling.
Your pet's bedding needs to be kept scrupulously clean. Any faeces that may have attached to your dog can be washed off using a mild shampoo, and then gently toweled dry. If your dog has been vomiting, dehydration will be a problem. Pre-boil, and allow his water to cool, and then place close to his bed.
All dogs hate Elizabethan collars. But, if your dog has wounds, it is inevitable that he will try to lick, scratch, or even bite at them. You cannot allow this-make sure that the collar remains on until the wounds heal. Administering medicines is another area where you may feel like you are being cruel, when actually you are being kind.
Caring for a sick dog can be trying especially when you've got a dog that is a complete nightmare when it comes to taking medicines. If your dog is one of these-then your going to have to be smarter than she is. Try concealing any tablets in a treat. Pate is good, as is soft cheese. Ask your vet if the type of medicine that she has prescribed can be crushed and sprinkled on her food. Or, whether any liquid medications can be mixed in with her meals. If all else fails you are going to have to move on to the next stage.
Get the tablet ready in your hand, and back your dog in to a corner in the room. Talk to him reassuringly, but make sure that there is no way that he can escape from you. Acting gently, take his muzzle in your tablet free hand, and raise it upward, ease down on his lips and his mouth will open. Place the tablet in your other hand at the back of his throat, gently close his mouth, and then continue to rub his throat until your convinced that he has swallowed it. Afterwards give him a treat, and plenty of praise. Repeat this exercise 4 times a day for the next 14 days!
Your vet should have explained the longevity and extent of any exercise needed during your pet's convalescence to you. Make sure that you abide by this advice. I'm still amazed by a dog's powers of recovery even from some pretty horrendous injuries. They seem to take so much in their stride that you can easily be fooled by a quick return to their old zest for life. But, wounds take time to heal, and illnesses need time to recover from. Taking care of a sick pet isn't always easy, but it is one of the cornerstones of looking after your dog's health, and thereby his well-being and general happiness.
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