Your dog is usually a happy ball of fluff that is excited anytime you open up the pantry door where his treats are located, or is bouncing around at the sound of the garage door opening because you're finally home, but what happens when he isn't? What happens if you notice your dog is acting differently or is possibly in distress, do you know what signs to watch for or what to do? Read on for signs to watch for if your dog is in distress and tips to help guide you on what to do to help your furry pal.

Heavy Panting

If your dog is panting heavily, he may simply have to go outside. Your dog may have a bit of a stomachache and needs some extra time outside to alleviate himself. He may also need to go outside to eat some grass to help ease his stomachache. Allow your dog extra time outside as needed and keep an eye on him out there to see what may be coming out. If your dog has loose stools for too long, mix some of his food with rice and boiled chicken for a few days to see if his stools harden and if he starts to feel better. If you still notice your dog panting, or is still having issues with his stools, take him to the emergency veterinarian for a thorough checkup.

Throwing Up

If your dog is throwing up, isn't eating, and can't keep anything at all down, you can try giving him moist dog food (his regular food mixed with water), or you can try to give him chicken and rice. If this isn't working either, get your dog to the emergency veterinarian for help. Your dog may have ingested something toxic or could have something in his stomach that isn't agreeing with him (such as a toy). Take your dog to the emergency vet for an exam.

Hot Ears/Paw Pads

Your dog can run a fever just like you, and you can tell by feeling his paws and his ears. If they feel warm to the touch, your dog may have a fever. You may also notice heavy panting and a lack of energy as well. If you spot these signs in your dog, get your dog to drink water, and keep him cool and calm. If this persists, take your dog to the emergency veterinarian for treatment. This can occur for a number of reasons. Your dog could have ingested something poisonous, he could have an infection, he could have some other type of medical issue as well. Take your dog in for treatment right away to prevent your dogs illness from worsening.

Your dog can't tell you when he's in distress, but he may have some signs that you could easily miss. Keep a close eye on your dog and watch for these and other signs in your dog. If you think your dog is in distress, take your dog to an emergency pet care clinic for help.