4 Tips That Could Save Your Dog's Life

Summer can be a dangerous time for man's best friend, so to ensure that your furry companion is in tip-top shape, it's important to know the canine vital signs you need to be checking for. Knowing these four tips and tricks could mean the difference between life and death, so it's best to be prepared, so you can make sure you have a happy and healthy dog. If any of these vital signs seem off, it's best to seek medical assistance immediately from your local veterinarian. 

1. Mucous Membrane

Check the color and general condition of the mucous membrane. If it's wet and pink, everything is fine. But if the mucous membrane is dry, red, dark red, blue, or white, something is off and you should see your vet right away.

2. Pulse

A normal canine heart rate is 120 beats per minute or two beats per second. To check the pulse, place two fingers on the left side of the chest, under the elbow, and apply gentle pressure to the ribs. Alternatively, you can check the pulse by feeling the femoral artery in the thigh.

3. Body Temperature

The normal body temperature in dogs is between 100 and 102.5°F. The best way to measure a dog's temperature is with a digital rectal thermometer. Before inserting the thermometer, make sure to first lubricate it with oil, petroleum jelly, or a water-based medical lubricant.

4. Breathing

Count the number of times the chest rises and falls in a 10 second interval and multiply this number by 6. The regular respiratory rate is 10 to 35 breaths per minute.

If you've noticed anything unusual while checking these four vital signs, get your dog to a vet immediately for an examination. Now you know these dog health hacks, you can help your pooch feel good, whatever the weather.