Charting when you medicate can be especially helpful if you’re sharing nursing duties with a partner. This way, you know if the other person has treated the dog.
If you notice your dog becoming less interactive (just lying still), he may be getting worse and need medical attention. [2] X Research source
Be prepared to tell your vet how many times in a specific span of time your dog has vomited. However, if he’s vomited just once and resumed eating and drinking again, it’s probably no cause for alarm. [4] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
Even if your dog has a little diarrhea, be sure to offer lots of fluid. Ensure that he’s getting more fluid than he’s losing.
If you notice your dog is dehydrated, you can try offering fluids. If he takes them, continue to watch for dehydration. However, if he can’t keep fluids down, get immediate medical care. Your dog may need medication of intravenous fluids to prevent organ damage. [7] X Research source BSAVA Manual of Animal Nursing. BSAVA publications
Count how many breaths your dog takes a minute (normal is 20 - 30) and keep an hourly record. If the rate steadily increases, his condition is deteriorated and you need to contact the vet. [9] X Research source BSAVA Manual of Animal Nursing. BSAVA publications
If he is liable to vomit or dribble urine, you may want to lay a puppy pad over the bed to soak up any bodily fluids. Puppy pads also prevent your dog from lying in his mess. Your dog should change positions regularly if he’s not moving around much. To prevent pressure sores, turn your dog to rest on his opposite side every hour, if he’s not sleeping.
If your dog has diarrhea, he should be able to get to a toilet area quickly, especially if he can’t make it outside. Ensure he has a flap, leave a door open, or put puppy pads down so he can easily eliminate without feeling guilty.
Your veterinarian may suggest a special diet for your sick dog. For example, dogs with sickness or diarrhea should eat a bland, easy to digest diet like cooked chicken breast or white fish with boiled white rice.
If you’re using them, remember to change soiled puppy pads for fresh ones. Your dog probably won’t groom himself often while he’s sick. Use balls of damp cotton wool to keep his eyes clean and free of discharge.
Your dog should be in a warm, comfortable place where he’s able to get rest. Check on him periodically to let him know you’re around and watching out for him.
