Fever

A dog’s normal temperature range is 100-102.7. A body temperature that is higher than 103 or lower than 100 degrees will need medical attention.

Symptoms

If your pet has a warm nose or ears, lack of appetite or is lethargic, it could have a fever. To take your pet’s temperature, you will need a rectal thermometer or pediatric digital thermometer. Lubricate the tip with petroleum jelly. Keep the dog in a standing position and hold the tail up. Carefully put the tip into the dog’s rectum until the required time for your thermometer has lapsed. Remove and read.

Treatment

If your pet does not respond to a cool wet towel applied to his head, stomach and underarm, then seek medical attention. An examination and tests will be needed to determine the cause of the fever.