If your dog seems to have a higher-than-normal temperature, it may be because he just got some playtime or exercise. If not, there are some ways to determine whether your dog is feverish with or without a thermometer.
In this article, we discuss how to identify a dog’s fever, its causes, symptoms, and when to seek veterinary care.
Disclaimer: This article’s general information shouldn’t be used in place of veterinary advice from a professional. Please consult a veterinarian for a precise diagnosis of your dog’s health condition.
What types of thermometers can I use to measure my pet’s temperature?
Using a thermometer to take your pet’s temperature is the only reliable way to determine whether his body temperature is abnormally high or low. There are two popular types of thermometers: digital and rectal. Rectal thermometers are inserted into the rectum, as the name implies, while digital thermometers are inserted into the ear canal. Nevertheless, taking a temperature in dogs and cats can be difficult because they frequently reject both options.
Old fashioned rectal thermometers contain mercury inside a glass cylinder. When heated, the mercury in a thermometer bulb is shaken down into the bulb, where it rises to the calibrated cylinder to display the temperature. Although it can be challenging to read the thermometer, horizontally rolling it makes the silver mercury column easier to see. Glass thermometers are prone to breaking, which necessitates careful cleanup because mercury exposure is dangerous.
In either Fahrenheit or Celsius, digital thermometers have an easy-to-read numerical display. They calibrate themselves after being turned on. In order to obtain an accurate reading, digital aural thermometers must be placed close to the ear drum in the ear canal. Digital temperatures are not always accurate due to the variety of sizes and shapes of dogs’ and cats’ ear canals. Additionally, accuracy can be impacted by hair, wax, and debris in the ear canal.
What To Do If Your Dog’s Temperature is Abnormal
If your dog’s temperature is dangerously high or low, seek immediate medical attention at the closest available clinic. If possible, contact them for advice on the way. Never try to administer medication to your dog at home without your veterinarian’s advice.
Never administer acetaminophen or ibuprofen to your dog as these are extremely toxic to dogs.
Use hot water bottles to help warm up your dog if he has hypothermia (low body temperature). Use only the lowest setting and do not leave electric heating pads on for an extended period of time. To prevent burns, place blankets or towels between the heat source and your dog. Ensure that your dog can escape if they become too hot. Be sure someone is supervising your dog at all times.
Provide your dog with cool water to drink if he has hyperthermia (high body temperature). If your dog is not interested in drinking, don’t make him. You can also apply towels that have been soaked in cool water to the groin area, armpits, and back of the neck. Don’t leave the wet towels in place; cooling your dog’s damp skin by allowing cool air to circulate
Never use ice because it can narrow blood vessels and raise body temperature. Ice may also over-cool your dog, leading to hypothermia.
Any techniques to warm or cool your dog may not always address the underlying cause of the abnormal body temperature. Don’t forget to take your dog to the vet for a checkup.
Step 1: Ensure that your dog is calm
You can keep your dog calm by offering him some treats during the process. Another method is to get someone else to hold your dog still (gently).
FAQ
How do you tell if a dog has a fever without a thermometer?
- Red eyes.
- Lethargy/lack of energy.
- Warm ears.
- Warm, dry nose.
- Shivering.
- Loss of appetite.
- Coughing.
- Vomiting.
Can you take a dogs temperature with a forehead thermometer?
Although non-contact thermometers can give a temperature reading in a matter of seconds, dogs did not always tolerate them, and they are not thought to be accurate enough for use in clinical settings with either dogs or cats.
What is a normal temperature for a dog?
Normal body temperature for dogs and cats is 101. 0 to 102. 5°F (38. 3 to 39. 2°C). Some people and some animals maintain a normal body temperature, but if your pet’s temperature rises above 104°F (40 °C), 0°C) or falls below 99°F (37. 2°C), take your pet to your veterinarian.
How do you check if a dog has a fever?
Rectal temperature measurement with a digital thermometer is the only reliable way to determine whether your dog is feverish. This is accomplished by lubricating the thermometer’s tip and placing it about an inch into the rectum.