Q: How do I know whether my dog is in pain?
A: As veterinarians, one of our biggest tasks is knowing when an animal is in pain. Unfortunately, we can’t ask our patients: “Where does it hurt?” or “How bad is your pain?”
We rely on subtle clues to ensure that our patients are pain-free. A dog in pain will commonly show the following signs:
- Rapid, shallow breathing.
- Crying when touched or picked up.
- Grumpiness or aggression.
- Weakness or tiredness.
- Poor appetite.
- Change in the way they walk, like limping or walking with an arched back and tail between their legs.
- Excessive licking of a specific painful area.
If you notice any signs that might indicate that your dog is in pain, do not hesitate to get in touch with your veterinarian.
Dr Johan Jordaan, veterinarian
