Warm-blooded species, such as dogs, contain a complex set of physiological systems to control their body temperature within a small range. The normal body temperature of a healthy dog is between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 to 39.2 degrees Celsius). It is essential to remember, however, that various variables, including age, breed, size, and activity level, might cause modest deviations from their usual range.
If pet owners see fever, hypothermia, or other indicators of disease, they should seek veterinarian treatment promptly. Dogs must maintain their health and well-being through the management of their body temperature. These are three methods for taking your dog’s temperature.
Use a Rectal Thermometer
A rectal thermometer is the most precise way to measure a dog’s body temperature, and it is frequently used by veterinarians and pet owners.
The use of a rectal thermometer to test a dog’s temperature may be unsettling for both the dog and the pet owner. Nonetheless, it is a quick and straightforward process that provides dependable outcomes. It is vital to grease the thermometer with petroleum jelly or a water-soluble lubricant prior to insertion. This facilitates smooth and effortless implantation. Furthermore essential is the usage of a digital thermometer, which delivers rapid and precise readings.
To test a dog’s body temperature using a rectal thermometer, owners must carefully raise the animal’s tail and place the thermometer approximately an inch into the rectum. The thermometer should be kept in position for sixty to ninety seconds, or until it beeps or emits an alert to indicate that the reading is complete. The thermometer should be cleaned with soap and water or an alcohol-based solution once the reading is complete.
When measuring a dog’s temperature using a rectal thermometer, it is essential to take measures to prevent causing the dog damage or suffering. To prevent injury, pet owners must ensure that the thermometer is properly lubricated and placed with care. In addition, pet owners should be warned that dogs experiencing discomfort or agony during the procedure may bite or become aggressive.
Take Temperature by Ear
Despite its convenience, ear thermometers are not regarded as a trustworthy tool for monitoring a dog’s temperature. The accuracy of the reading can be affected by the structure of the dog’s ear canal, the presence of earwax or debris, and the dog’s activity.
Ear thermometers are meant to measure the temperature of the human body by detecting the infrared radiation emitted by the tympanic membrane (eardrum) and the surrounding tissues. Yet, because the architecture of a dog’s ear canal differs from that of a human’s, it is challenging for ear thermometers to deliver reliable readings. The ear canal of dogs is longer, thinner, and more curved than the ear canal of humans, which might impair the measurement’s precision.
In addition, earwax, moisture, or other material in the ear canal might impede the accuracy of the reading. Several variables can cause infrared light to be absorbed or reflected, resulting in an erroneous temperature measurement. In addition, the temperature of the ear canal may not accurately reflect the dog’s true body temperature due to the effect of external variables such as the surroundings and level of activity.
Some dogs may resist having the thermometer placed into their ear canal, causing discomfort or anxiety. As a result, precise readings might be difficult to get, since the dog may move or resist throughout the operation.
How to Check if Your Dog Has Fever Without a Thermometer?
Rectal temperature measurement is the most precise method for determining whether or not a dog has a fever. In rare instances, pet owners may lack access to a thermometer or feel uneasy taking their dog’s temperature rectally. In such instances, pet owners might search for indications of fever.
A warm or dry nose is one of the most prevalent symptoms of canine fever. It is essential to note, however, that this symptom is not necessarily symptomatic of a fever, as a dog’s nose might be warm or dry for other causes, such as dehydration, allergies, or stress. Thus, pet owners should check for further symptoms to confirm a fever.
A dog’s trembling or shaking is another symptom that may suggest a fever. A dog’s body may attempt to regulate its temperature by shivering or shaking. In addition to lethargy, lack of appetite, elevated heart and respiratory rates, and red or warm ears and paws, other symptoms of canine fever include lethargy and red or warm ears and paws.
It is important to remember that these symptoms are not necessarily symptomatic of fever and may be caused by a variety of other conditions. Hence, dog owners should monitor their pet’s behavior and take note of any strange symptoms. If pet owners believe that their dog has a fever, they should periodically check the animal’s temperature and seek veterinarian care for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
In conclusion, measuring a dog’s body temperature with a rectal thermometer is the most accurate way to determine if a dog has a fever. However, pet owners can also look for signs such as a warm or dry nose, shivering, lethargy, loss of appetite, increased heart and respiratory rates, and red or warm ears and paws to indicate a possible fever. Nevertheless, these symptoms are not necessarily symptomatic of fever and may be due to other causes. Hence, dog owners should observe their pet’s behavior and seek veterinarian care for a precise diagnosis and therapy.
