Fainting/Dizziness (Syncope)
Fainting is the sudden loss of consciousness or a sudden and marked weakness. It may be associated with anything from low blood sugar to severe heart disease. Bee stings are frequently a cause of syncope.
What to Do
** Immediately position the pet with the head down and the hind quarters elevated.
** Cover the pet with a blanket to preserve body heat.
** If the pet vomits, make sure he does not inhale any of the vomitus into his lungs.
** Seek veterinary attention.
What NOT to Do
** *Do not administer anything by mouth. It can be aspirated into the lungs and cause serious problems.
** Do not slap the pet or douse him with cold water trying to shock him into consciousness.
** Do not fail to seek veterinary attention just because the animal recoverd quickly and seems fine now. Several of the conditions that cause syncope are extremely serious.
Fever
Fever is the elevation of body temperature in response to infection or inflammation (Also see hypothermia).
What to Do
** *Take and record the rectal temperature. If it is above 103 degrees, you should call your veterinarian. Temperature elevations above 106 degrees are life threatening and demand immediate attention.
** If the animal's temperature is over 105 degrees, mix one half water and one half rubbing alcohol. Sponge this on the pet and direct a fan on the moistened area.
** Apply a cool pack or a alcohol and water compress to the top of the head to help protect the brain.
** Encourage (but do not force) your pet to drink small, frequent quantities of water.
What NOT to Do
** Be careful not to overtreat! Discontinue cooling once the rectal temperature reaches 103 degrees.
** Do not give aspirin or other drugs. Many of these drugs are poisonous to pets. When a pet is lethargic, depressed, shivering a lot, or there is any other reason to suspect that he is not well (not eating, or is vomiting, coughing, has a running nose), you should suspect fever. The only way to confirm this is to take the animal's temperature using a medical thermometer. Detailed information on taking rectal temperature can be found in the temperature section of the Physical Exam Checklist.