How to Give Your Dog Daily Checkups

Give your dog a checkup every day when you first get her, then examine her at least once a week to increase your awareness of her normal condition.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dog Treats
• Stethoscopes
• Magnifying Glasses

1. 

   Check the ear canals for redness, swelling or discharge. Look for swelling and scabs along the earflap.

2. 

   Check your dog's eyes for discharge or excessive tearing. Look for inflammation and swelling and notice any differences between eyes.

3. Look at the nose and check for inflammation, discoloration, crustiness or ulcers.

4. Check breathing for any noticeable respiratory abnormalities such as fast or labored breathing.

5. 

   Observe the gums for redness, irritation and growths. Check teeth for abnormal discoloration (plaque). Notice any foul odor.

6. 

   Look for hair loss, matted hair, redness and flaky skin. Run hands through fur to feel for ticks and to inspect for fleas.

7. 

   Check between your dog's toes for foxtails and other foreign objects. Look for swelling, redness and tenderness around the toes, and check paw pads for cuts.

8. Look at the anal gland and check for inflammation. Notice if the dog has trouble defecating or urinating.

Tips & Warnings

• If you notice a change in your dog's condition or behavior, consult a veterinarian.

Resources

• Dog Training

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Ask a Dog Vet Online Now

[beckylyn]

on 10/18/2008 thanks for these tips ... my girls and i appreciate them :)

[greenbriar]

on 6/19/2008 That's really too bad!

My thoughts are with you,
Pat

on 7/11/2006 When checking your dog, don't forget to run your hands under the throat. I discovered a strange swelling on my dog's throat. The vet thought it was a bite or trauma, and suggested to come back if not gone in a week. It was thyroid cancer and had progressed too far. We lost a great family member and are devastated that it might have been caught earlier.

on 4/2/2006 If you have a dog that hates going to the vet or just plain hates the vet, then make a routine out of handling your dog daily or at least 4 times a week. If you dog feels your hands in all places of his/her body then when the vet goes there he/her is less likely to be so scared. Physical contact between you and your dog is vital whether or not he is afraid of the vet.

on 11/22/2005 It's wise practice to run your hands all over you pet's body to get him acquainted to being handled. Hold his paws gently (but firmly), run your fingers along his gumline, play with his ears and run your hands against the fur to check for flea dirt or ticks daily. This way, not only can you detect possible problems early on, but you'll make it much easier on your pet and the vet when taking him to get checked up. Remember to praise your pet with affection and/or a low-fat treat after looking him over.