A dog’s normal body temperature varies between 38 and 39°C (≈ 100.4 and 102.2°F). This variation is generally due to the different physical activities that the dog takes on and types of movements they make throughout the day. However, sometimes your dog’s temperature can be higher or lower than this. This change of temperature can be caused by a serious illness or health condition. To avoid any negative surprises, it is important to take your dog’s temperature. This is necessary to guarantee your dog’s health. To accompany you, Letsgetpet will propose efficient methods to take your dog’s temperature.
Use an infrared thermometer
The infrared thermometer is a useful tool to take the temperature of your dog. This device is used often because it is simple to use. It allows you to take your dog’s temperature without coming into contact with them. This is because it has a sensor that allows it to measure your dog’s temperature thanks to the heat released from their body. To use this type of thermometer on your dog, you just need to face the device towards your dog’s flank or ear. Keep it in this position until you hear a sound. You will then be able to see the temperature written on the screen. We recommend, however, consulting the instructions of the device if you are using it for the first time.
Use an digital thermometer
To take your dog’s temperature quickly and precisely, the digital thermometer is the perfect choice. It is a reliable device that is easy to use. There are two different models depending on the type of use. To take your dog’s temperature, you can choose between a rectal thermometer and an ear thermometer.
Rectal thermometer
When you take your dog’s temperature with a rectal thermometer, it is very important to not traumatize your pet. We recommend choosing a suitable space to take your dog’s temperature. You can, for example, use a small room so that your pet cannot run away. It is also recommended to put a muzzle on your dog to limit the risks of getting bitten. In addition, it is ideal to do this with the help of someone else. Do not hesitate to ask for someone else’s help, ideally someone close to you. They will be able to help you reassure your dog and keep them still. You can then take your dog’s temperature.
To do this, you need to take the thermometer out of its case and lubricate it so that it can be inserted more easily. After this, you need to lift your dog’s tail and insert the end of it delicately in your dog’s rectum. Insert the device to a reasonable depth by taking into account the size of your dog and then do not move it anymore. When the device is finished taking your dog’s temperature, it will make a sound and then you can take out the thermometer gently. You can read the temperature on the digital screen of the device. Lastly, clean the thermometer with alcohol and cotton, and congratulate your dog.
Ear thermometer
This type of thermometer allows you to take your dog’s temperature from their ears. This method is less unsettling for your dog. The ear thermometer measures heat sequences emitted by the animal’s ear canal. To use it, keep it horizontal towards the ear canal of your dog and keep it in place for around 45 seconds.
To obtain precise and efficient results, we recommend taking the temperature of both ears. In addition, it is important to purchase this type of thermometer from a vet or specialized store. However, this method is less efficient than the rectal thermometer. That is why it is generally used as an alternative method for a dog that is extremely unwilling to use the rectal thermometer.
Use a gallium thermometer for dogs
Using a gallium thermometer is a delicate operation since this device is suitable for a rectal temperature. This type of thermometer is made up of a tube of graduated glass and a liquid (Galistan) that dilates when under heat. To use it, you first need to shake it. Then, lubricate the end of it and insert it delicately into your dog’s anus. Keep the thermometer in place for 3 to 5 minutes. Once this period is finished, take the thermometer out and read you pet’s temperature by consulting the scale. This procedure is a a bit longer and may be a little less precise. As it is made of glass, it can break if your dog fights against it while you are taking their temperature. It is, therefore, important to be careful when using this to have the best results.
How do I know if my dog has a fever without a thermometer?
If your dog develops a certain nonchalance, it means that they do not feel well. If this is the case, it is important to take their temperature. This is necessary to verify if they are suffering from a fever provide them the adequate treatment. Even if the choice of thermometers is efficient and reliable, you do not really need to use them to see if your dog shows symptoms of a fever. In this regard, there a several techniques.
Observe your dog
Observing your dog consists of keeping an eye on them attentively. This is useful to verify if there are any changes in your dog’s behavior. In addition, it allows you to understand your dog’s body language and identify potential ills that are affecting them. For this, it is important to spend time with your pet.
Check if your dog presents any fever symptoms
To know if your dog has a fever, you need to also stay attentive to the symptoms that warn of them. You can do this by feeling their ears and paws. This lets you know if these parts of your pet’s body are warm. In addition, it is important to check your dog’s nose. If you notice that it is starting to run, it is probable that your dog is suffering from an infection, which can cause a fever. A dog that has a fever can also have gums that are yellow and dry. Outside of these symptoms, they can have diarrhea and lose their appetite. Also, your dog can have humid eyes and a haggard look.
Dog fever: how can I bring the temperature down?
If your dog has a fever, it is important to bring their body temperature down to avoid certain complications. Here are a few things that you can do to help your pet. If you notice that they are just starting to have a fever, you can moisten a towel and wrap your dog in it for a few minutes. This will allow you to lower their temperature. You can also place a bag of ice between their hind legs. However, make sure that they are not wet for too long.
To lower the temperature of your dog, vets also recommend having them drink water. This is important so that their body stays hydrated and cools their body down. However, be careful. A dog’s fever may be a symptom of a more serious condition. If your dog’s temperature doesn’t go down after these steps, we recommend that you contact your vet. He or she will be able to examine your pet to determine the cause of the fever and prescribe the appropriate treatment.