10 Signs Your Rover Dog May Be Sick (and It’s Time to Call the Vet)
Your Rover dog is known for clearing the room with his farts and running around in circles. But suddenly he’s drinking water as though he’s lost in the desert and promptly throws up in the living room.
Although as a sitter you know every dog is different and their care will vary, it’s important to recognize the little signs that can make a big difference in the health and safety of a pet—and to take them seriously.
Whether you’re a pet parent, a pet sitter, or interesting in becoming one, here are 10 signs that a dog may not be feeling well, and therefore may need veterinarian assistance.
- Bad breath: Foul or fruit-smelling and uncontrollable drooling; pale or yellowed gums.
- Distended abdomen: Swollen tummy, which is sensitive to touch; gas.
- Change in appetite and/or thirst: Refusal to drink water or eat; overeating or excessive drinking resulting in over urination or an inability to urinate and associated with weight loss or gain.
- Movement difficulty: Stiffness or difficulty in rising or climbing stairs.
- Lethargy: Sleeping more than normal, change in activity level, or attitude changes such as aggression.
- Dyspnea: Coughing, sneezing, excessive panting, or labored breathing.
- Excessive scratching: Dry or itchy skin, sores, lumps, scooting or shaking of the head.
- Vomiting and/or Diarrhea: Frequent digestive and bowel upsets such as bile or soft stool.
- Nystagmus: Involuntary eye movement; dry, red, discharge, or cloudy eyes.
- Injury: Blood, laceration, signs of trauma, disorientation, or circling.
So your Rover dog is showing one of these signs? Don’t panic: You’re being proactive and responsible by noticing, but it’s time to take the next step to help get him or her better.
Call the owner to confirm that none of the signs you’re witnessing are, in fact, normal behavior. Then seek advice from your local veterinarian—they can help you to identify if you should bring the dog in or proceed with in-home care.
Always call Rover Support at 1-888-453-7889. We have a network of experts to help you through the process. And remember: Nothing heals quite like snuggle time! Give your Rover dog extra love, consult with their owner, vet, and Rover Support, and you’ll be on your way to a healthy dog once again.
The information provided in this article is not a substitute for professional veterinary help.