Signs of illness in a pet are many and varied. Appearance of any of the following items suggest contacting Dr. Fausel for a consultation to evaluate your pet for illness:

• Vomiting – Can indicate GI disease, obstruction, or systemic illness.
• Diarrhea – Can be a sign of parasites, bacterial or viral infection.
• Constipation
• Loss of Appetite – Often a sign of underlying systemic disease.
• Coughing – Can occur with upper respiratory disease, pneumonia, or heart disease.
• Sneezing
• Weight Loss – A concern when unintended: may indicate cancer, GI disease, or systemic disease.
• Difficult or frequent urination – Associated with urinary tract infections, stones, etc.
• Itching/scratching – Can occur with fleas, allergies, and sometimes immune diseases.
• Skin irritation / sores / bruising
• Ear discharge / odor
• Red eye(s) – May occur with glaucoma, allergies, infections, dry eye.
• Discharge from eye(s)
• Squinting
• Bad breath – Frequently dental disease.
• Difficulty chewing / swallowing
• New lumps – these should always be checked for cancer, as early detection can be lifesaving.

Certain signs are more urgent, and indicate the need for immediate emergency care. Should you be unable to reach Dr. Fausel, please call Berks Animal Emergency & Referral Center at (610) 775-7535 if you see any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing
• Seizure
• Inability to urinate
• Trauma e.g. hit by car
• Pale gums
• Profuse bleeding