- LOSS OF APPETITEIt is one thing to skip a meal or two, but refusal to eat for days is a sign that your dog is in distress and needs medical attention.
- EXCESSIVE GROOMINGA dog will groom a source of pain, whether it's a visible wound or not. Inspect the area carefully, and follow up with veterinary care, if your dog persists in grooming a localized area.
- ACCIDENTS IN THE HOUSEWhen an otherwise "housebroken" dog starts to have accidents, this can have many different causes...such as a urinary tract infection or being too painful to get outside in time.
- BEHAVIORAL CHANGESYour once friendly dog has become shy and hides and avoids being petted or shows aggression towards family and friends. He may snap at you. This is his way of communicating he hurts and does not want to be touched.
- HEAVY PANTINGIf it's on a hot day or after strenuous exercise, this is normal, but if it comes outof nowhere, heavy panting is a sign your dog is stressed possibly due to pain.
Since a dog cannot tell us what they are feeling, being aware of early signs of pain can lead to treatment of a condition before it worsens, and a comfortable outcome your dog. Learn to listen to what your dog cannot say. By doing so, you both can enjoy a happy, peaceful and joyful life together.
