While you might have heard that feeling your dog’s nose or ears for heat is one way to verify if he is feverish, keep in mind that it’s by no means accurate. You have to get your dog’s internal body temperature, and the most reliable way to do just that is with a thermometer.
Taking Fido’s Body Temperature Rectally
1. Enlist the help of a friend. Most dogs, without understanding what you’re doing to them or why, will be resistant to having their temperature taken rectally. Have someone ready to assist you in case you need a second set of hands. Even if your friend is only there for moral support, calming and soothing your dog, or feeding him treats during the measurement, it will make the process much easier on you both!
2. Prepare the thermometer. Clean the tip of the thermometer with a sterilizing agent like alcohol. Then, make use of a probe cover to avoid any cross-contamination. Add a dab of petroleum jelly to the tip of the thermometer in order to make the insertion process a lot easier.
3. Get your pooch ready. With your dog standing up (to avoid injury), lift his tail while your friend/helper keeps him calm and still. Talk to him in a soft, gentle voice as you slowly put the thermometer into your dog’s rectum about an inch. It isn’t necessary, and could harm your dog, to insert the thermometer any further. Do not force the thermometer tip into your dog’s rectum. If you have difficulty with insertion, take your pet to his veterinarian for an accurate reading.
4. Take the reading. Because having his temperature taken isn’t fun for your dog, we recommend making use of a quick-reading digital thermometer. Follow the thermometer’s instructions for taking a temperature and wait for the temperature to be displayed before removing it from your dog’s rectum. Make a note of your dog’s temperature and monitor it for changes.
5. Does your dog have a fever? A dog’s normal body temperature should be between 100.5 and 102.5. If your dog’s recorded temperature in within this range, he is not running a fever. Higher or lower than this range, however, can indicate illness. If your dog’s temperature is outside of the acceptable range by 1.5 degrees or more, immediately take him to see your veterinarian.
While some manufacturers have created infrared ear thermometers for taking your dog’s temperature, these devices do not take into account the drastic differences from one dog’s ear shape and size to the next. And, they require extreme precision and correct use to generate an accurate body temperature. A rectal temperature reading is the most accurate.
Knowing your dog’s body temperature before picking up the phone and calling your veterinarian can be a huge help in determining if immediate care is needed. Keep a dedicated rectal thermometer in your pet’s first aid kit and be prepared!
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