Pet owners told to watch out for hidden signs their dog needs the vet

Many pet owners are quick to respond when their dog shows obvious signs of illness, like limping or vomiting, but not all symptoms are easy to spot. A pet expert is now urging dog owners to be on high alert for subtle yet critical signs that could mean your dog needs immediate medical attention.

The expert at the dog trust shared: “Like young children, dogs can’t verbally tell us when they are feeling unwell, or if they are struggling emotionally. So, we need to be aware of any signs that they may be ill, injured or need to see a vet. By regularly checking your dog, you can make sure any problems are picked up early and your dog gets the help that they need.”

The expert advised: “While waiting to be connected (to your vet), you can use our list of signs that your dog should see a vet to assess how urgently your dog needs to be seen.”

Here are three areas to pay attention to which show hidden signs that your furry friend might be unwell. 

1. Ears

The Dog Trust urges owners to check their dogs’ ears regularly as part of their at-home health care routine.  If you notice your dog showing discomfort or reluctance when their ears are touched, or if there’s a bad smell coming from the ears, it could be a sign of a problem.

Other warning signs include excess or smelly discharge, red or sore-looking ears, matted or dirty hair around the ears, frequent rubbing or scratching, and any swelling of the ear flap. If you observe any of these symptoms, it’s best to contact your vet for advice and treatment.

These problems could be the result of allergies, ear mites, ear infections, ear tumours, ear hematomas or vestibular disease, reported Pet MD. 

2. Eyes

The Dog Trust highlighted: “Some dogs may have a slight natural discharge from their eyes, but if you notice any abnormal discharge or if your dog’s eyes look different to normal, talk to your vet immediately.” 

Abnormal signs include white or green discharge or any noticeable change in your dog’s normal eye discharge, which may be a sign of infection or irritation.

Redness in the white part of the eye (sclera) and swollen, puffy eyelids can also signal inflammation.

If your dog frequently paws at or rubs its eye or appears to be in pain, it’s important to take this seriously.

Other concerning symptoms include an eye that remains closed, a cloudy appearance, visible damage to the eye’s surface, or a protruding eyeball.

3. Coat and skin

Another hidden sign lies within your pooch’s coat and skin. “Your dog’s coat and skin should look clean and healthy.

“If it doesn’t, this may be a sign of illness, parasites like fleas, grooming needs, or a nutritional imbalance. It might also be due to pain which stops them being able to comfortably groom themselves,” reported the Dog’s Trust. 

Signs to watch out for include increased hair loss, fleas, mites, or ticks, lots of scurf (white skin flakes in the coat) or a dull coat.

If your dog has any sore-looking areas of skin, any lumps or bumps, or scabs, then contact your vet. 

Other symptoms include discolouration of hair, greasy feel to skin and/or coat, increased odour of skin/coat any cuts or grazes.