Common Pet Conditions

lethargy (2) a pot-bellied appearance (1) and excessive panting. Owners often notice a “pot-bellied” abdomen due to enlarged liver and weakened abdominal muscles. The skin thins and hair loss occurs – often a symmetric alopecia along the flanks. Recurrent skin infections or delayed wound healing can happen due to cortisol’s immune suppression. Muscle weakness (1) and infertility in intact dogs are other possible signs (1) and often have an arched back or look at their abdomen. As shock sets in (1) and pulses weaken. Eventually (1) and recurrent infections (1) Dogs typically exhibit increased appetite (1) gums turn pale (1) increased appetite (often very food-motivated) (1) increased thirst and urination (1) may pace or have difficulty getting comfortable (1) panting (1) Signs come on suddenly. The dog’s abdomen becomes distended (bloated) and firm to the touch – often most noticeable behind the ribcage on the left side. The dog may retch unproductively (trying to vomit but nothing comes up except maybe foamy saliva). Drooling and panting are common due to pain and nausea. Affected dogs appear extremely restless or anxious (1) Symptoms tend to develop gradually. Common signs are increased thirst and urination (dogs may begin having accidents or need more frequent outings) (1) the dog may collapse (1) the heart rate rises (1) thin skin with hair loss (1)