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Fever

A representation of Fever

Fever is a common illness in dogs that can have various causes. Fever is a natural reaction of the immune system to fight pathogens. However, fever can also be a symptom of a serious illness that requires veterinary treatment. In this article, you'll learn how to recognize a fever in your dog, what you can do to help him and when you should see a vet.

How do you recognize fever in dogs?

The normal body temperature of a healthy dog is between 38 and 39 degrees Celsius. If the temperature rises above 39.5 degrees, this is known as a fever. To measure your dog's temperature, you need a digital thermometer, which you carefully insert into your dog's anus. Make sure that you wet the thermometer with a little lubricant or Vaseline beforehand and that your dog is calm and relaxed. Hold the thermometer in place for about a minute and then take a reading.

There are also other signs that may indicate your dog has a fever, such as

However, these signs are not always clear-cut and can also have other causes. That's why it's important to take your dog's temperature to be sure.

What are possible causes of fever in dogs?

Fever in dogs can have various causes, such as

Depending on the cause of the fever, your dog may also show other symptoms, such as

If you suspect that your dog has a fever, you should observe him closely and look for possible triggers. For example, have you recently fed your dog something new or has your dog come into contact with other animals? Has your dog had a vaccination or worming treatment? Does your dog have an open wound or an insect bite? Questions like these can help you find the cause of the fever.

What can you do to help a dog with a fever?

If your dog has a fever, you should first offer him plenty of fresh water so that he doesn't become dehydrated. You can also give him some chicken broth or rice water to stabilize his electrolyte balance. However, avoid giving him solid food if he has no appetite.

You can also put a damp cloth on your dog's head or stomach to cool him down a little. However, make sure he doesn't freeze or shiver. You can also give him a hot water bottle or a blanket if he feels cold.

You should keep your dog in a calm and stress-free environment and give him plenty of rest and attention. However, avoid pampering or pestering him too much. Instead, let him decide at his own pace when he wants to play or cuddle.

When should you see a vet?

A fever is not always a reason to panic, but it should not be ignored either. If your dog's fever lasts longer than 24 hours or rises above 40 degrees, you should definitely consult a vet. This also applies if your dog shows other symptoms that could indicate a serious illness.

A vet can determine the exact cause of the fever and initiate the appropriate treatment. Depending on the case, your dog may be given antibiotics, painkillers, anti-inflammatories or other medication. In some cases, surgery or chemotherapy may also be necessary.

You should give your vet all the information you have about your dog, such as their medical history, vaccinations, diet and symptoms. This can help your vet to make the right diagnosis and choose the best treatment.

Fever in dogs is a common problem that can have many different causes. If you notice a fever in your dog, you should keep a close eye on him, give him plenty of water and let him rest. If the fever does not go down within a day or other symptoms appear, you should see a vet. With the right treatment, your dog can recover quickly.

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

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