Is your dog acting strange? As a pet owner, it can be hard to know when your dog’s behavior is just a minor issue or a serious health emergency. While some symptoms may seem harmless, others require immediate veterinary attention.
At Bali Veterinary Clinic, we want to help you recognize the warning signs that mean your dog needs a vet visit. Learn the key signs that indicate your pet needs urgent veterinary care. Here’s what to watch for.
Sudden Changes in Eating or Drinking Habits
When to Worry:
- Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
- Excessive thirst (could indicate diabetes or kidney disease)
- Refusing water (risk of dehydration)
Emergency: If your dog is vomiting repeatedly or has bloated abdomen (possible GDV—gastric torsion, a life-threatening condition).
Unusual Lethargy or Weakness
Dogs slow down with age, but sudden fatigue can signal:
- Pain (arthritis, injury)
- Infections (parvovirus, tick fever)
- Organ failure (heart, liver, or kidney disease)
Emergency: If your dog can’t stand up or collapses, seek help immediately.
Difficulty Breathing
Rapid, labored, or noisy breathing could mean:
- Heatstroke (common in Bali’s climate)
- Heart disease
- Allergic reaction (swollen throat)
Emergency: If your dog is gasping, coughing blood, or has blue gums, go to the vet NOW.
Strange Bowel Movements or Urination
Check for:
- Blood in stool or urine
- Diarrhea or constipation lasting more than a day
- Straining to pee (possible UTI or blockage—common in male dogs)
Emergency: No urination for 12+ hours could mean a blocked bladder (fatal without treatment).
Visible Pain or Discomfort
Dogs hide pain well, but watch for:
- Whining, trembling, or aggression when touched
- Limping or reluctance to move
- Excessive licking or chewing at one area (sign of injury or infection)
Emergency: If your dog yelps suddenly or can’t put weight on a leg, they may have a fracture.
Unusual Lumps, Sores, or Swelling
- Sudden lumps (could be abscesses or tumors)
- Hot, swollen joints (possible arthritis or infection)
- Non-healing wounds (risk of infection)
Emergency: If a swelling is rapidly growing or oozing pus, see a vet ASAP.
Behavioral Changes
A normally friendly dog that becomes aggressive, anxious, or confused may be suffering from:
- Neurological issues (seizures, brain tumors)
- Poisoning (common from eating toxic foods like chocolate or rat poison)
Emergency: If your dog has seizures, disorientation, or sudden blindness, seek help immediately.
While this guide covers the most common warning signs, every dog is unique. Some pets may show subtle symptoms of serious illness, while others might appear distressed over minor issues. As a responsible pet owner, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
At Bali Veterinary Clinic, we understand how stressful it can be when your beloved companion isn’t feeling well. Our team of experienced veterinarians is equipped to handle everything from routine check-ups to emergency situations.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you notice any concerning symptoms in your dog, contact us right away. Early detection and treatment can make all the difference in your pet’s health and quality of life.