Dog Panting & Shaking? 5 Reasons You Need to Know Now!

Have you ever noticed your dog.panting and shaking and felt a surge of worry? Veterinarians, through their extensive experience, often see cases where these symptoms indicate underlying health concerns. Understanding canine physiology, including a dog’s normal respiratory rate and body temperature, is crucial for pet owners. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) offers valuable guidelines for recognizing when dog.panting and shaking becomes a cause for alarm. Indeed, some dog breeds, like brachycephalic dogs, are naturally more prone to these occurrences, requiring extra vigilance from their guardians.

Understanding Panting and Shaking in Your Dog: What Every Owner Needs to Know

Is your dog panting and shaking? It can be a scary sight!

As loving dog owners, witnessing such distress in our furry companions can be deeply unsettling.

Our immediate instinct is to alleviate their discomfort, but knowing how requires understanding why it’s happening.

When to Worry: Normal vs. Concerning Panting and Shaking

Panting is a natural cooling mechanism for dogs, especially after exercise or in warm weather.

Shaking, similarly, can be a normal response to being wet or cold, or even a sign of excitement.

However, when panting and shaking occur together, or seem excessive and out of context, it’s time to pay closer attention.

These behaviors can be indicators of underlying medical or emotional issues that require prompt attention.

Recognizing the difference between normal and concerning panting and shaking is crucial for responsible dog ownership.

Unveiling the Potential Causes: A Guide for Proactive Owners

Many factors can contribute to panting and shaking in dogs.

From anxiety and stress to more serious conditions like heatstroke or heart disease, the possibilities are diverse.

Understanding these potential causes empowers you to be a proactive advocate for your dog’s health.

This knowledge enables you to recognize early warning signs, seek timely veterinary care, and ultimately, improve their quality of life.

This article will explore 5 common reasons why your dog might be panting and shaking, empowering you to be a proactive advocate for their health.

Reason 1: Anxiety and Stress – When Nerves Cause Physical Symptoms

It’s easy to think of anxiety and stress as purely mental states, but for our canine companions, these emotions can have very real and visible physical effects. Just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety and stress that manifests in a variety of ways, and sometimes, those ways include panting and shaking.

But how exactly do emotions translate into physical symptoms? And what can you, as a caring owner, do to help?

The Mind-Body Connection in Dogs

The link between a dog’s mental state and its physical reactions is rooted in their nervous system. When a dog experiences stress or anxiety, their body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

These hormones trigger a cascade of physiological responses, preparing the dog for "fight or flight." This can lead to increased heart rate, rapid breathing (panting), muscle tension (shaking), and other physical manifestations of distress.

It’s important to recognize that these physical symptoms are not simply behavioral quirks; they are the body’s way of signaling that the dog is experiencing a heightened state of emotional arousal.

Common Stressors for Dogs

Identifying the source of your dog’s anxiety or stress is the first step toward helping them. Common stressors for dogs include:

• Loud noises: Thunderstorms, fireworks, construction sounds, and other sudden, intense noises can trigger anxiety in many dogs.

• Separation anxiety: This occurs when a dog becomes distressed when left alone or separated from their owner. It’s more than just missing you; it’s a genuine fear of abandonment.

• New environments: Moving to a new home, visiting unfamiliar places, or even rearranging furniture can disrupt a dog’s sense of security and trigger anxiety.

• Social situations: Some dogs are naturally shy or fearful around strangers or other animals. Crowded places, dog parks, or even having guests over can be overwhelming.

• Veterinary visits: The sights, sounds, and smells of a veterinary clinic can be highly stressful for many dogs.

Beyond Panting and Shaking: Recognizing Other Signs of Anxiety

Panting and shaking are often the most noticeable signs of anxiety, but it’s important to be aware of other potential symptoms as well. These can include:

• Pacing: Restlessness and an inability to settle down.

• Hiding: Seeking out secluded places to escape the perceived threat.

• Destructive behavior: Chewing, digging, or scratching at doors or furniture, often associated with separation anxiety.

• Excessive barking or whining: Vocalizing distress or seeking attention.

• Changes in appetite: Loss of appetite or, in some cases, increased eating due to stress.

• Yawning, drooling, or lip-licking: These can be subtle signs of anxiety, often displayed when a dog is feeling uncomfortable or unsure.

• Avoidance: Trying to escape or avoid the thing that is triggering their anxiety.

Seeking Professional Help: When to Consult a Veterinarian or Trainer

While some cases of mild anxiety can be managed at home with simple strategies like providing a safe space or using calming aids, it’s important to know when to seek professional help.

• Severity of symptoms: If your dog’s panting and shaking are excessive, prolonged, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s time to consult a veterinarian.

• Underlying medical conditions: A veterinarian can rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your dog’s anxiety. Sometimes, what appears to be anxiety could be a symptom of pain or illness.

• Behavior modification: A certified professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist can help you develop a behavior modification plan to address your dog’s anxiety in a safe and effective manner. This may involve desensitization, counter-conditioning, or other techniques.

• Medication: In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage your dog’s anxiety. Your veterinarian can prescribe anti-anxiety medications or recommend calming supplements.

Remember, addressing anxiety in dogs is a process that requires patience, understanding, and sometimes, professional guidance. By recognizing the signs of anxiety and taking proactive steps to address the underlying causes, you can help your dog live a happier, healthier, and more relaxed life.

That said, while anxiety throws the body into overdrive with a surge of hormones, sometimes the issue isn’t internal stress, but external heat. Understanding how to spot and react to overheating could be life-saving for your canine companion.

Reason 2: Heatstroke – Recognizing and Reacting to Overheating

Heatstroke is a serious and potentially fatal condition that occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels. Unlike humans, dogs have limited ability to sweat, making them far more susceptible to overheating, especially in warm weather or during strenuous exercise. Recognizing the signs and acting quickly is crucial to saving your dog’s life.

The Dangers of Elevated Body Temperature

Dogs can’t efficiently regulate their body temperature in the same way humans do. Their primary method of cooling down is through panting, which allows some heat to escape through evaporation from their tongue and upper respiratory tract.

However, this method is not always sufficient, especially in high humidity, where the air is already saturated with moisture, hindering evaporation.

When a dog’s body temperature rises above a certain point (typically around 104°F or 40°C), cellular damage begins to occur.

This can lead to a cascade of complications, including organ failure, seizures, and even death.

Why Are Dogs More Susceptible to Overheating?

Several factors contribute to a dog’s increased risk of heatstroke:

• Limited Sweating: As mentioned, dogs primarily rely on panting to cool down, which is less efficient than sweating. They only have sweat glands on their paw pads, which contribute minimally to overall cooling.
• Breed Predisposition: Brachycephalic breeds (those with short noses and flat faces) like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers are particularly vulnerable because their compressed airways make panting less effective.
• Obesity: Excess weight can impair a dog’s ability to regulate its body temperature.
• Age: Very young and senior dogs are also more susceptible, as their bodies may not be as efficient at thermoregulation.
• Underlying Health Conditions: Heart disease, respiratory problems, and other health issues can increase the risk of heatstroke.
• Lack of Acclimation: Dogs that are not accustomed to warm weather are more likely to overheat quickly.

Recognizing the Signs of Heatstroke: A Physiological Response

The physiological response to overheating is complex and can manifest in various ways. Early recognition of these signs is critical for prompt intervention.

• Excessive Panting: Rapid, exaggerated panting is often the first sign.
• Increased Heart Rate: You may notice a racing pulse.
• Dehydration: Gums may appear dry and sticky.
• Weakness or Lethargy: The dog may become unsteady on its feet or unwilling to move.
• Excessive Drooling: This is often thicker than normal saliva.
• Bright Red Gums: As the condition progresses, the gums may become bright red.
• Vomiting or Diarrhea: These symptoms can indicate severe heatstroke.
• Shaking or Muscle Tremors: As the body struggles to regulate, tremors can occur.
• Collapse: In severe cases, the dog may collapse and lose consciousness.
• Seizures: These indicate critical neurological distress.

Immediate First Aid: Acting Quickly Can Save a Life

If you suspect your dog is experiencing heatstroke, act immediately. Every second counts.

1. Move to a Cool Area: Get your dog out of the heat and into a shaded or air-conditioned space.
2. Apply Cool Water: Use cool (not ice-cold) water to wet your dog’s fur, especially around the head, neck, and groin area. You can use a hose, a bucket, or wet towels.
3. Offer Water: If your dog is conscious and able to drink, offer small amounts of cool water. Do not force water if your dog is struggling to swallow.
4. Use a Fan: Direct a fan towards your dog to promote evaporative cooling.
5. Monitor Temperature: If possible, take your dog’s temperature rectally. Aim to cool them down to around 103°F (39.4°C).

The Critical Need for Prompt Veterinary Care

While first aid can help stabilize your dog, it is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Heatstroke can cause internal organ damage that requires immediate treatment.

Take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible, even if they seem to be recovering.

Veterinarians can provide intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and other supportive care to help your dog recover from heatstroke and minimize long-term complications. Do not delay seeking professional help. Heatstroke can be fatal, and swift intervention is crucial for a positive outcome.

That said, while anxiety throws the body into overdrive with a surge of hormones, sometimes the issue isn’t internal stress, but external heat. Understanding how to spot and react to overheating could be life-saving for your canine companion. Now, let’s consider another, often overlooked, cause of panting and shaking in dogs: physical pain and discomfort.

Reason 3: Pain and Discomfort – Identifying Underlying Aches and Injuries

Pain is a primal signal, a warning system designed to protect us from further harm. In dogs, panting and shaking can be telltale indicators that this alarm is blaring.

While these symptoms are often associated with stress or heat, it’s crucial not to dismiss the possibility of underlying pain, which can significantly impact your dog’s quality of life.

Sometimes the signs are obvious – a yelp after a jump, a favoring of one leg over another. But more often, pain in dogs manifests in subtle, easily missed ways.

The Many Faces of Canine Pain

Pain in dogs isn’t a monolith; it presents itself in various forms, each demanding a different approach to diagnosis and management. Understanding the different types of pain can help you better advocate for your furry friend.

Acute Injuries

These are often the easiest to recognize. A sudden limp after a fall, a cut paw, or a bee sting – the cause is usually evident, and the pain is immediate.

However, even with acute injuries, the full extent of the damage might not be apparent without a veterinary examination.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is a persistent, long-term discomfort that can stem from conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, or even old injuries that never fully healed.

This type of pain is insidious, often developing slowly over time, making it easy to miss in its early stages.

Internal Conditions

Sometimes, pain originates from within the body, making it even more challenging to identify.

Organ-related issues, infections, or even tumors can cause significant pain that manifests as panting, shaking, and other subtle behavioral changes.

Unmasking the Subtle Signs of Pain

Dogs are masters at masking pain, a survival instinct that can make diagnosis a real challenge for owners.

They can’t tell us where it hurts, so we must become skilled observers, attuned to even the slightest deviations from their normal behavior.

Behavioral Changes

• Limping or Stiffness: This is perhaps the most obvious sign, but sometimes it’s only noticeable after rest or during specific activities.

• Reluctance to Move: A dog who suddenly hesitates before jumping on the couch, climbing stairs, or going for a walk may be experiencing pain.

• Changes in Posture: Hunched backs, tucked tails, or an unwillingness to lie down comfortably can all be signs of discomfort.

• Decreased Appetite: Pain can significantly reduce a dog’s interest in food.

• Increased Irritability: A normally friendly dog may become grumpy or even aggressive when touched or approached.

• Excessive Licking or Grooming: Dogs may obsessively lick or groom a particular area in an attempt to soothe the pain.

Physiological Signs

• Panting and Shaking: As we’ve discussed, these can be indicators of pain, especially when combined with other symptoms.

• Restlessness: Difficulty getting comfortable or constantly shifting positions can be a sign of pain.

• Changes in Sleeping Patterns: A dog in pain may sleep more or less than usual, or may have difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position.

The Veterinarian’s Vital Role

If you suspect your dog is in pain, a visit to the veterinarian is paramount.

Self-treating with human medications can be extremely dangerous, even fatal, for dogs.

Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical exam, ask about your dog’s history, and may recommend diagnostic tests such as X-rays, blood work, or ultrasounds to pinpoint the source of the pain.

Once the cause of the pain is identified, your veterinarian can develop a tailored treatment plan, which may include pain medication, physical therapy, or even surgery.

Remember, early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing pain effectively and improving your dog’s quality of life. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you notice any concerning signs.

That said, even when external temperatures are ideal and your dog seems relaxed, panting and shaking can still arise. Sometimes, the root cause lies in the complex electrical activity within their brain.

Reason 4: Seizures – Understanding and Responding to Neurological Episodes

Seizures can be a terrifying experience for both dogs and their owners. Witnessing your beloved companion suddenly lose control of their body can be incredibly distressing. It’s essential to understand what seizures are, how they manifest, and, most importantly, how to react calmly and effectively.

Simply put, a seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled burst of electrical activity in the brain. This surge can manifest in various ways, from subtle twitching to full-blown convulsions. Understanding these differences is key to providing the best possible care for your dog.

Recognizing Seizures: A Spectrum of Manifestations

Seizures don’t always look the same. Their appearance depends on the type of seizure and the area of the brain affected. Recognizing the different types can help you provide valuable information to your veterinarian.

Generalized Seizures (Grand Mal)

Grand mal seizures are perhaps the most recognizable and frightening. During a grand mal seizure, your dog will typically lose consciousness, fall to their side, and exhibit rhythmic jerking or paddling motions of their limbs. They may also salivate excessively, urinate, or defecate.

This type of seizure usually lasts for a few seconds to a few minutes. After the seizure, your dog may be confused, disoriented, or even temporarily blind. This post-ictal phase can last for minutes to hours.

Focal Seizures (Partial Seizures)

Focal seizures, also known as partial seizures, affect only a specific part of the brain. Consequently, the symptoms are more localized. A focal seizure might manifest as twitching in one limb, facial twitching, or repetitive behaviors like lip-licking or fly-biting.

In some cases, focal seizures can progress to generalized seizures. It’s important to carefully observe your dog’s behavior during a suspected focal seizure to provide your veterinarian with detailed information.

What to Do When Your Dog is Having a Seizure

Remaining calm is paramount. Your dog needs your clear-headed presence more than ever. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Stay Calm: This is crucial. Your dog can sense your anxiety, which may exacerbate the situation. Take a deep breath and focus on the task at hand.

2. Protect Your Dog: Clear the area around your dog of any furniture or objects that could cause injury. If possible, gently cushion their head to prevent them from hitting it against the floor.

3. Do Not Put Your Hands in Their Mouth: This is a common misconception. Your dog is not going to swallow their tongue. Attempting to open their mouth during a seizure could result in a bite.

4. Time the Seizure: Note the start and end time of the seizure. This information is valuable for your veterinarian. Seizures lasting longer than five minutes can be life-threatening and require immediate veterinary intervention.

5. Observe Carefully: Pay attention to the specific symptoms your dog is exhibiting. Is it a generalized seizure or a focal seizure? Which limbs are affected? Are they salivating excessively? All of these details will help your veterinarian make an accurate diagnosis.

6. Keep a safe distance: Do not cuddle or touch your dog during the seizure as they may bite you.

The Importance of Veterinary Examination

Even if your dog’s seizure was brief and they seem to have recovered completely, it is imperative to seek veterinary attention. Seizures can be a symptom of various underlying medical conditions, some of which can be serious.

A veterinarian will conduct a thorough neurological examination to assess your dog’s reflexes, coordination, and mental status. They may also recommend diagnostic tests, such as bloodwork, urinalysis, and imaging studies (MRI or CT scan), to identify the underlying cause of the seizures.

Possible causes can range from idiopathic epilepsy (seizures with no identifiable cause) to brain tumors, infections, or metabolic disorders. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan.

Untreated seizures can lead to brain damage and other serious complications. By seeking prompt veterinary care, you can help your dog receive the appropriate diagnosis and treatment, improving their quality of life and overall prognosis.

Reason 5: Heart Disease – The Silent Strain on Your Dog’s Heart

Sometimes, the reasons behind your dog’s panting and shaking aren’t as obvious as a hot day or a stressful situation. The problem may lie deeper, within the very organ that sustains their life: their heart.

Heart disease in dogs can manifest in various ways, and panting and shaking are often telltale signs that something is amiss.

The Cardiac Connection: How Heart Disease Causes Panting and Shaking

The heart’s primary function is to efficiently pump oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. When the heart is compromised, this process becomes less effective.

Conditions like congestive heart failure (CHF), dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), and mitral valve disease disrupt the heart’s ability to circulate blood properly.

This leads to a backup of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema) and other parts of the body.

The body’s response to this fluid buildup and decreased oxygen delivery is often excessive panting as the dog tries to compensate and get more oxygen. Shaking can occur due to the body’s weakened state and sometimes due to the stress and discomfort associated with the condition.

Understanding the Impact on Breathing and Circulation

A failing heart struggles to meet the body’s demands for oxygen.

This forces the dog to breathe faster and harder – hence, the panting. The reduced circulation also means that tissues and organs aren’t receiving the nutrients they need, which can lead to weakness and further stress on the body.

In advanced stages, the lack of oxygen can trigger a cascade of physiological responses, contributing to shaking and overall distress.

Beyond Panting: Recognizing Other Signs of Heart Problems

While panting is a common symptom, it’s essential to be aware of other potential indicators of heart disease:

• Coughing, especially at night or during exercise
• Lethargy or reduced exercise tolerance
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen abdomen (due to fluid accumulation)
• Pale gums or tongue

If you notice any combination of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention promptly.

Related Diseases: When Panting Signals a Larger Problem

Panting can also be a symptom of other conditions that affect the respiratory or cardiovascular system, such as:

• Pulmonary hypertension: High blood pressure in the lungs.
• Tracheal collapse: A condition where the trachea weakens, making breathing difficult.
• Heartworm disease: Parasitic infection damaging the heart and lungs.

These conditions, while distinct from primary heart disease, can still result in panting as the body struggles to maintain adequate oxygen levels.

The Importance of Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment

Heart disease in dogs is a serious condition that requires professional veterinary care. A veterinarian can perform a thorough examination, including listening to the heart and lungs, performing blood tests, taking X-rays, and conducting an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart).

These tests will help determine the type and severity of heart disease and guide the development of an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment may involve medications to improve heart function, reduce fluid buildup, and control blood pressure.

Early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing heart disease and improving your dog’s quality of life. Don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s breathing or overall health.

Reason 5 highlighted a significant concern for our canine companions, focusing on heart-related issues. But what about other, perhaps less obvious, factors that could be at play when your dog is panting and shaking?

Other Potential Causes and Considerations

While we’ve covered some of the most common culprits behind panting and shaking in dogs, it’s important to acknowledge that the picture isn’t always so clear-cut. Several other factors, ranging from breed-specific predispositions to less common ailments, can contribute to these symptoms.

Let’s explore some of these additional considerations to provide a more complete understanding.

Breed Predispositions: Genetic Factors at Play

Certain dog breeds are genetically predisposed to specific health issues that can manifest as panting and shaking. Understanding these predispositions can help you be more vigilant about potential problems.

For example, brachycephalic breeds, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers, are prone to breathing difficulties due to their shortened airways. This can lead to excessive panting, especially during exercise or in warm weather.

Larger breeds, like Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds, are at a higher risk of developing dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a heart condition that, as discussed earlier, can cause panting and weakness.

Smaller breeds may be more prone to tracheal collapse, resulting in a harsh cough, and difficulty breathing that will cause the dog to pant excessively.

By being aware of your dog’s breed-specific risks, you can work with your veterinarian to implement preventative measures and monitor for early signs of trouble.

The Senior Dog: Age-Related Changes

As dogs age, their bodies become more susceptible to various health problems. Many of the conditions we’ve discussed, such as heart disease, arthritis, and neurological disorders, are more prevalent in senior dogs.

It’s important to recognize that increased panting and shaking in an older dog may be a sign of an underlying age-related issue. Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for early detection and management of these conditions.

Furthermore, cognitive dysfunction, or dog dementia, can cause anxiety and confusion in older dogs, leading to panting, shaking, and other behavioral changes.

Nausea: An Upset Stomach

Just like humans, dogs can experience nausea due to various reasons, including motion sickness, dietary indiscretion (eating something they shouldn’t have), or certain medications.

Nausea can trigger panting and shaking in dogs, often accompanied by other signs like drooling, vomiting, or loss of appetite.

If you suspect your dog is nauseous, try offering them small amounts of bland food, like boiled chicken and rice, and ensure they have access to fresh water. If the symptoms persist or worsen, consult your veterinarian.

Toxins: A Medical Emergency

Exposure to toxins is a serious concern that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including panting, shaking, seizures, and even death.

Common household toxins for dogs include:

• Antifreeze
• Chocolate
• Certain medications
• Pesticides
• Household cleaners

If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxin, it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary care. Don’t attempt to induce vomiting unless directed to do so by a veterinarian or poison control specialist, as this can sometimes cause more harm.

Fever: Fighting Off Infection

A fever, or elevated body temperature, is often a sign that the body is fighting off an infection or illness. Fever in dogs can cause panting and shivering, as the body attempts to regulate its temperature.

Other signs of fever in dogs may include:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Red eyes
• Warm ears

A normal body temperature for dogs ranges from 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If you suspect your dog has a fever, it’s important to seek veterinary attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Reason 5 highlighted a significant concern for our canine companions, focusing on heart-related issues. But what about other, perhaps less obvious, factors that could be at play when your dog is panting and shaking?

When to See a Veterinarian: Trusting Your Instincts and Seeking Professional Advice

As loving pet owners, we often find ourselves playing the role of concerned observer, carefully monitoring our dogs for any signs of discomfort or illness. While some instances of panting and shaking may be benign, it’s crucial to recognize when these symptoms warrant professional veterinary attention.

When in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Your intuition as a dog owner is a valuable asset, and trusting your gut feeling can make all the difference in ensuring your dog receives timely and appropriate care.

Recognizing Emergency Situations

Certain scenarios demand immediate veterinary intervention. These are situations where your dog’s health is acutely compromised, and prompt action can be life-saving. Knowing these red flags can empower you to act swiftly and decisively.

• Difficulty Breathing: Labored breathing, gasping for air, or excessive effort when inhaling or exhaling are clear indicators of a respiratory emergency. This could be due to a foreign object obstruction, allergic reaction, or a severe underlying condition affecting the lungs or airways.

• Collapse: If your dog suddenly collapses or loses consciousness, seek immediate veterinary assistance. Collapse can stem from various causes, including heart problems, neurological issues, or severe dehydration.

• Prolonged Shaking or Tremors: While occasional trembling might be attributed to anxiety or cold, persistent or violent shaking can signal a seizure, neurological disorder, or exposure to toxins.

• Known or Suspected Toxin Exposure: If you suspect your dog has ingested a poisonous substance (e.g., household cleaner, medication, certain foods), contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately. Time is of the essence in these situations.

• Unusual Gum Color: Pale, blue, or brick-red gums indicate a problem with blood circulation or oxygenation, suggesting a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

• Persistent Vomiting or Diarrhea: While a single episode of vomiting or diarrhea might not be alarming, repeated episodes, especially if accompanied by lethargy or dehydration, can quickly lead to serious complications.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment

In many cases, early diagnosis and treatment are paramount for achieving a positive outcome. Many conditions, when caught in their early stages, are more easily managed or even curable.

• Delaying veterinary care can allow underlying problems to progress, potentially leading to more severe complications, increased treatment costs, and a poorer prognosis.

• Don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian if you notice any concerning changes in your dog’s behavior or physical condition, even if the symptoms seem mild at first.

• Describing what you are seeing and your concerns can assist the veterinarian in understanding your dog’s ailments to provide better care.

Being proactive and informed about your dog’s health empowers you to make the best decisions for their well-being. By recognizing when to seek professional help, you can ensure your furry friend receives the timely care they deserve.

So, next time you see dog.panting and shaking, don’t panic, but pay attention! Trust your gut, and when in doubt, give your vet a call. They’re there to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy!