Common Causes of Dogs' Fever: Understanding the Reasons
There are numerous reasons why a dog might develop a fever, with one of the most common being due to a cold. It's important to note that dogs naturally have a slightly higher body temperature than humans, so we consider a dog to have a fever only when their temperature reaches above 39°C. Besides colds, here are several other causes of fever in dogs:
1. Heatstroke due to extreme heat: During the summer, prolonged exposure to the sun can easily lead to heatstroke in dogs.
2. Infectious diseases: Illnesses like canine distemper and parvovirus can also cause a dog to develop a fever.
3. Internal inflammation: Conditions such as enteritis, pneumonia, and severe skin infections can trigger a fever in dogs.
4. Calcium deficiency postpartum: Female dogs may experience high fever and seizures if they are calciumdeficient after giving birth.
What to Do If Your Dog Has a Fever?
1. Hydration: Ensuring your dog drinks plenty of water can help with urination and temperature regulation. Alternatively, you can prepare a mixture of antiviral medication or syrup and offer it to your dog.
2. Alcohol Compress: You can use alcohol to gently wipe your dog's paw pads, belly, and ears to help cool them down quickly. Alternatively, you can wrap ice cubes in a towel and place them on your dog's belly for about a minute, repeating this process a few times.
3. Feverreducing shots: If your dog's fever is severe, with a temperature over 40°C, it's crucial to take them to a veterinarian immediately for a feverreducing injection.
How to Prevent Dog Fever?
Since a weak constitution can make dogs more susceptible to illness and fever, pet owners should encourage regular exercise and provide supplements that boost their dog's immune system. Opt for a highprotein, nutritionally complete dog food to enhance your pet's overall immunity.
During hot summer months, it's essential to keep your dog cool, as dogs have very limited sweat glands. You can help by trimming your dog's coat, and avoid taking them out for walks during the peak heat of the day.
For More Information: If you're looking for more articles on dog fevers, check out "Symptoms and Treatment of Dog Fever" for detailed insights.