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Dr. Good Veterinary Clinic — Care, Heal and Connect

Common symptoms and treatments

A simple guide to the most common reasons for a visit. It helps you know when to come in and how the veterinarian supports your pet.

Common symptoms and treatments
  • VomitingIt may be due to a change of food, something your pet ate, or more serious illnesses.

    When to see a vet

    If it keeps happening, there is blood, lethargy, abdominal pain, or if your pet is a puppy or kitten.

    How it is approached

    The veterinarian examines your pet, looks for the cause and defines the right treatment and diet.

    In the meantime: Avoid giving medication on your own. Note how many times your pet vomited and what they ate.
  • DiarrheaCommon with changes of food, parasites or infections.

    When to see a vet

    If it lasts more than a day, there is blood, or your pet is lethargic, a puppy or elderly.

    How it is approached

    The cause is assessed (for example parasites or infections) and treatment and supportive feeding are prescribed.

    In the meantime: Make sure fresh water is always available.
  • Itching and skin problemsThey may be related to fleas, ticks, allergies or fungus.

    When to see a vet

    If there are wounds, hair loss, a bad smell, or the itching does not go away.

    How it is approached

    The cause is identified and a treatment plan is defined, along with flea and tick prevention.

    In the meantime: Check the coat often, especially after walks in grassy areas.
  • Ear problemsHead shaking, scratching the ears, a bad smell or discharge.

    When to see a vet

    At any of these signs, especially if there is pain or a head tilt.

    How it is approached

    The veterinarian examines the ear, identifies the cause and prescribes the right cleaning and treatment.

    In the meantime: Do not put any objects in the ear.
  • LimpingIt can come from a wound, a sprain or joint problems.

    When to see a vet

    If your pet will not put weight on the paw, or there is swelling, pain, or the limp lasts more than a day.

    How it is approached

    The area is examined and, if necessary, tests are requested to define the treatment.

    In the meantime: Limit exercise and avoid stairs or jumping.
  • Coughing and sneezingThey may be mild irritation or respiratory illnesses.

    When to see a vet

    If there is difficulty breathing, a persistent cough, heavy discharge or lethargy.

    How it is approached

    The respiratory system is assessed and treatment is defined according to the cause.

    In the meantime: Keep your pet in a ventilated, smoke-free environment.
  • Eye dischargeRed, watery or crusty eyes deserve attention.

    When to see a vet

    If the eye is closed, or there is pain, intense redness or a change in appearance.

    How it is approached

    The veterinarian examines the eye and defines the treatment. Eye problems can worsen quickly.

    In the meantime: Keep your pet from scratching the eye.
  • Loss of appetiteIt may be temporary or a sign of illness.

    When to see a vet

    If more than a day goes by without eating (less time for puppies, kittens or cats).

    How it is approached

    The cause is investigated and your pet is supported with the right plan.

    In the meantime: Note since when your pet has not eaten and whether there are other symptoms.
  • OverweightExcess weight affects the joints, the heart and quality of life.

    When to see a vet

    If you notice your pet has gained weight or tires easily.

    How it is approached

    A feeding and exercise plan suited to your pet is defined.

    In the meantime: Avoid too many treats and table scraps.
  • Teeth and bad breathTartar and dental disease are more common than they seem.

    When to see a vet

    If there is strong bad breath, red gums, bleeding or difficulty chewing.

    How it is approached

    The mouth is examined and we decide whether a cleaning or other treatment is needed.

    In the meantime: Regular brushing helps prevent problems.

Ask about my pet

A simple guide to the most common reasons for a visit. It helps you know when to come in and how the veterinarian supports your pet.