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A persistent misconception continues to run on the subject of whether your dog has a fever or not is to feel its nose. As per popular lore, a healthy dog's nose is cool and wet, and fever will manifest itself with the nose being hot and dry. The problem is that fever detection in dogs is not as simple as it seems. One fundamental problem with fever detection in dogs is that canine body temperature is naturally higher compared to humans. Dogs have a body temperature range from 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. In humans, it ranges from 97.6 to 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit. If the body temperature of your dog exceeds 103 degrees Fahrenheit, it is said to suffer from fever. Keep in mind that such a temperature can be reached if your dog is stressed or extremely excited.
Causes of fever
Infection and inflammation are common reasons for canine fever. Tick-borne diseases are a major fever source in northern climes. The list of tick-borne diseases includes rickettsia. Lyme disease, babesiosis, and a number of others. The list of other causes includes an infected wound. Auto-immune diseases like Lupus can cause fever without infection. A study published in the 2012 edition of the Canadian Veterinary Journal revealed that an overwhelming majority of fever in canines is due to inflammation sans infection. However, it is a cause for worry if fever is accompanied by vomiting and a plethora of digestive distress. This indicates your dog has a virus infection or a foreign body is lodged in its stomach. The symptoms of fever in dogs include lethargy, shivering, vomiting, nasal discharge, depressed mood, appetite loss, and coughing. Taking the rectal temperature is the definitive way to tell whether your dog has a fever or not.
What to do if your dog has a fever
Call the veterinarian if your best friend has a temperature of more than 103 degrees Fahrenheit. Rush your dog to the hospital if its temperature goes above 106 degrees Fahrenheit. In case the fever is below 105 degrees, then you can cool its temperature by applying cold water to its body, especially around the feet and the ears. Use a fan to further bring down the temperature. Provide your dog with small quantities of water regularly to keep it hydrated. Whatever happens, do not provide human fever medicines like ibuprofen, as they are unsuitable for canines. A dog may die if given human medication.In case your dog seems worse than usual, always consult the veterinarian before giving him any kind of medicine. Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are strictly prohibited. Do not forget to make an appointment with the veterinarian to determine whether you need to conduct a standard visitor journey to the ER. Do not try to take the dog's temperature from its rectum by yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dog's fever go away on its own?
While some minor infections or illnesses in dogs may resolve on their own as their body fights off the infection, there are other more serious infections or illnesses that require veterinary intervention. It is always advisable to monitor your dog's health closely and seek veterinary care if your dog has a fever, especially if the fever is accompanied by other symptoms or if it persists for more than a day or two. A veterinarian can help determine the underlying cause of the fever and recommend the appropriate treatment to help your dog recover. In some cases, prompt veterinary intervention may be necessary to prevent the infection or illness from becoming more severe or causing long-term health problems.
How can I check my dog's fever at home?
Checking your dog's temperature at home can be a helpful way to monitor their health, but it's important to note that taking a dog's temperature rectally can be uncomfortable for both the dog and the owner. If you are uncomfortable doing this, it is best to have a veterinarian or veterinary technician do it for you. Use a digital rectal thermometer - never use a glass thermometer. You can purchase a digital rectal thermometer at a pet supply store or from your veterinarian. Lubricate the thermometer with a water-soluble lubricant, such as KY Jelly or Vaseline. Have another person help you hold your dog still, or if your dog is calm, you can do this on your own. Lift your dog's tail and insert the thermometer gently into the rectum, no more than 1 inch. Hold the thermometer in place until it beeps or for about 60 seconds. A dog's normal temperature ranges from 99.5°F to 102.5°F (37.5°C to 39.2°C). If your dog's temperature is higher than 102.5°F (39.2°C), it may indicate a fever, and you should contact your veterinarian for further advice. If your dog's temperature is lower than 99.5°F (37.5°C), it may indicate hypothermia, and you should also contact your veterinarian immediately.
Can I give paracetamol to my dog for a fever?
No, you should not give paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) to your dog without first consulting with a veterinarian. While paracetamol is commonly used to treat fever and pain in humans, it can be toxic to dogs, especially in high doses. Dogs are much more sensitive to paracetamol than humans, and even small doses can cause liver damage, anemia, and other serious health problems.
What is a natural fever reducer for dogs?
There are several natural remedies that may help reduce a dog's fever, but it's important to note that these remedies may not be effective for all dogs and should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care. Encourage your dog to drink plenty of water to help prevent dehydration, which can be common in dogs with a fever. Place a cool, damp towel over your dog's forehead, neck, and paws to help lower their body temperature. Keep your dog in a cool room with good ventilation to help keep them comfortable and reduce their body temperature. Certain herbs, such as ginger and turmeric, may have natural anti-inflammatory and fever-reducing properties. You can add a small amount of these herbs to your dog's food or consult with a holistic veterinarian for guidance on the appropriate dose. Homemade bone broth may help provide nutrients and hydration to dogs with a fever. Elderberry flakes, honey, and warm water are sometimes used as a natural remedy to help support the immune system and reduce fever in humans, but there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness in dogs. While elderberries and honey are generally safe for dogs in small amounts, dogs have different nutritional needs than humans and may not tolerate certain foods or supplements well.
Can you tell if a dog has a fever by touch?
It may be possible to tell if a dog has a fever by touch, but it is not always accurate. If you suspect your dog has a fever, you can touch their ears, nose, and paw pads to see if they feel warmer than usual. However, these areas can also become warm due to environmental factors, such as being in a warm room or lying in the sun. Feeling your dog's ears, nose, and paw pads can give you a general idea of their body temperature, but using a thermometer is the most accurate way to determine if your dog has a fever.
