Effective Medications and Treatment for Dog Fever
What to Do If Your Dog Has a Fever:
First and foremost, it's crucial to confirm whether your dog is indeed running a fever. Typically, a healthy dog's body temperature hovers between 38℃ and 39℃. If your dog's temperature reaches 39.5℃, it's considered a fever, and anything above 40.5℃ is classified as a high fever.
Once your dog has a fever, opt for caninespecific feverreducing medication. Experienced pet parents can purchase these from a pet pharmacy and administer them at home. However, new pet owners without experience are advised against giving medication without consulting a professional.
It's important to note that fever can be a symptom of various serious diseases, including infections and meningitis. Simply lowering the fever without treating the underlying inflammation can lead to recurrent high fevers and may also mislead a veterinarian's diagnosis.
While there are numerous articles online suggesting that human medications can be given to dogs, Dr. Oxygen Pet does not recommend this approach. Incorrect use of human drugs can cause bleeding or perforation in a dog's stomach.
What Medication Should a Dog Take for Fever?
It's best to take your dog to a veterinary clinic first to rule out any serious illnesses before administering any feverreducing medication. Under a veterinarian's guidance, you can then provide your dog with medications like Wenoan feverreducing tablets, and manage the care at home.
Parents should not only use feverreducing medications correctly under a vet's advice but also ensure physical降温 (cooling) for their dog. Gently wipe the dog's belly, ears, and paw pads with 75% alcohol to help lower body temperature. Additionally, you can place a cold pack wrapped in a towel on your dog's belly to assist with cooling. Be cautious not to overheat your dog, as this can hinder heat dissipation and exacerbate fever.
During a fever, dogs may experience a lack of energy and appetite, often accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea. Therefore, it's advisable to feed your dog a liquid diet if they have gastrointestinal issues. If your dog is uninterested in eating due to discomfort, don't force them. If your dog remains feverish after about three days at home, it's essential to take them to the vet immediately for a comprehensive checkup. It's crucial to rule out serious conditions like meningitis as soon as possible. For more information on dog fevers, you can read our article "Symptoms and Treatment Methods for Dog Fever."