Gum Color

Determining a pet’s health status can be challenging, especially with fur-covered animals. However, assessing their gums can provide valuable insights.

Typically, healthy gums appear pink, although some may have brown or black pigmentation. Any deviation from this color warrants attention.

Pale gums may indicate shock, while blue gums suggest oxygen deprivation, signaling potential suffocation. Bright red gums could signal carbon monoxide poisoning or heatstroke. Liver issues may manifest as yellowing of the gums and whites of the eyes.

In cases where pets lack pink gums, the inner rim of the lower eye can serve as an alternative indicator of health status.

Capillary Refill Time

Another crucial test for assessing health status is capillary refill time (CRT). This test evaluates blood circulation by briefly halting blood flow to an area and observing how quickly it resumes. Normally, CRT should take 1-2 seconds. If it takes longer, it may indicate a need for veterinary attention.

To perform the CRT test, press a fingertip against the pink area of the gum for one second, then release. Count the seconds it takes for the spot to return from white back to pink.

Hydration

The final test for assessing signs of health is dehydration. Even a slight decrease in water levels, as small as 5% of normal body water, can manifest signs of dehydration with reduced skin elasticity. However, older dogs and those with lower body fat may not exhibit accurate results with this test due to their already reduced skin elasticity.

To evaluate a dog’s hydration level, gently grasp some loose skin on the top of the dog’s head between your thumb and forefinger. Hold it for a few seconds and then release. If the dog is healthy and hydrated, the skin should return to its normal position. However, if the skin is slow to return to normal, it may indicate dehydration, warranting a visit to the vet. If the skin stays in place, immediate veterinary attention is required. Additionally, a dehydrated dog’s gums will feel dry and/or tacky. The video below demonstrates the normal elasticity of a well-hydrated dog’s skin.

Poisoning by ingestion can present with any or all symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, excitability, lethargy, and seizures.

Dogs have access to various poisonous household items, ranging from seemingly harmless substances like chocolate, coffee, grapes, onions, and macadamia nuts, to more evident dangers like alcohol, pest poisons, prescription and over-the-counter drugs, cleaning products, and antifreeze. It’s essential to note that while some antifreeze manufacturers have shifted to using propylene glycol, which may induce seizures, ethylene glycol remains a significant risk, potentially leading to fatal kidney failure. Additionally, household and garden plants pose a poisoning hazard, emphasizing the importance of being cautious about what is grown around the home.

You can find an extensive list of plant toxicity information on the ASPCA website by clicking here.

How to induce vomiting

If you’re aware of the specific poison your dog consumed and are unable to reach a veterinarian, you may consider inducing vomiting. However, it’s crucial to read the substance’s label, paying close attention to safety precautions. Do not induce vomiting under the following conditions:

– The ingredients are acidic (cleaners), alkaline (antacids, detergents), petroleum-based (gas), or caustic (cleaning chemicals). In the event one of these items were ingested, give one to three tablespoons of mineral oil to protect the stomach lining and slow absorption.

• If the dog is already vomiting
• If the dog is unconscious.
• If the dog is experiencing convulsions.
• If the dog is having trouble breathing.
• If ingestion occurred more than two hours ago.
• If you suspect the dog may have ingested a sharp object.
• If the product label explicitly advises against inducing vomiting.

To induce vomiting, start by giving the dog a small amount of food to facilitate the process. Bread is a suitable option as it’s soft and easy to swallow.

Then, administer 3% hydrogen peroxide using a syringe or meat baster. Ensure it’s the standard dilution available in stores and pharmacies, and not a more concentrated solution.

Follow these steps:

– Use one teaspoon for every 10 lbs, or one tablespoon for every twenty pounds. Do not exceed 3 tablespoons.
– Hold the dog’s head upward, ideally by the muzzle. Insert the syringe or baster between the back molars and cheeks, and dispense the solution slowly.
– If the dog hasn’t vomited after 10 minutes, repeat the process up to two more times.
– If the dog still hasn’t vomited after the third attempt, seek further assistance from a veterinary clinic.

[Video demonstrates a black lab sitting quietly. A woman steps next to her, gently holds the dog’s head, and inserts the syringe into the side of the dog’s mouth. She presses the dog’s jowls closed around the syringe while dispensing plain yogurt into the dog’s mouth. The dog licks as she swallows the yogurt, and gets pets when finished.]

Snake bites

There are thankfully few venomous snakes in Canada, but they do exist and can cause fatalities if a dog steps on or chases a snake.

Thankfully, Canada has few venomous snakes, but they do exist and can be fatal if a dog encounters one. Venomous snakes inject venom through two distinct fangs, leaving behind one or two well-defined puncture marks. On the other hand, nonvenomous snakes leave a simple horseshoe-shaped bite mark.

Although identifying the snake can be helpful, it’s not worth risking injury to do so. Symptoms of snake bites may not appear immediately and can take several hours. Therefore, it’s best to monitor the situation and seek veterinary care promptly if necessary.

If your dog is bitten by a snake, limit its movement to reduce blood flow and slow venom spread. Avoid struggling with the dog, gently wash the bite with soap and water, and if feasible, carry the dog to a veterinarian for monitoring or treatment.

If you find the stinger, remove it with tweezers and apply a cold compress to the affected area. Dogs can experience anaphylactic reactions to bee stings, which may manifest immediately or up to 30 minutes later. If you notice any signs of anaphylaxis, seek veterinary assistance promptly.

Signs to watch for include:

– sudden, acute breathing problems
– swelling around the face, specifically the eyes, mouth and throat
– restlessness
– red marks
– vomiting
– sudden diarrhea
– severe itchiness
– seizures
– shock
– collapse

If a pet inhales toxic fumes, presume airway inflammation. Watch for additional poisoning signs like bright red gums, coughing, breathing difficulties, intoxication, and discharge from mouth, nose, or eyes. Take swift action by removing the pet from the toxic environment and assessing airway, breathing, and circulation. Immediate transportation to a veterinarian is essential.

If you suspect absorption poisoning, watch for telltale signs like coated skin or fur and symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, tremors, or seizures.

Prioritize your safety by wearing protective gear like rubber gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, and safety glasses. Rinse the affected area with cool water away from the rest of the pet’s body, then wash it with mild soap and water. Avoid using paint thinner or other harsh chemicals. Instead, try rubbing mineral or vegetable oil into paint-covered fur to loosen it. If the substance persists, consider trimming the fur. Monitor your pet closely for any worsening symptoms and seek veterinary assistance if needed.