UrbanAnimal

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Dear UrbanAnimal,

My four-year-old Labrador retriever, Muggins, has been out of sorts lately. He's always been a calm, gentle, happy dog but he's spending more time lying on his bed, looking quite sad. He's eating well, going for walks (sometimes grudgingly) but my big concern is he's recently begun snapping at us when we try to brush him. He's always enjoyed being brushed in the past. Any suggestions?

Jeanne

Dear Jeanne,

I'm sorry that Muggins isn't feeling well. My advice is to get him to your veterinarian as quickly as possible for a checkup. Changes in behaviour can signal many things and only a veterinarian can help solve the mystery.

The word "mystery" is exactly what you're dealing with right now.

If Muggins' environment and lifestyle hasn't changed recently (for example, a new baby or pet in the house, change in exercise or diet) I would suspect Muggins is telling you he's suffering from some type of pain.

Many people believe that animals don't "feel" pain in the same way as us but neurological and physiological studies prove this is not true.

They DO feel pain. The difference is they don't always display their discomfort in ways that are easily identified. A sudden, sharp pain will most likely elicit a yelp but other injuries and illnesses can be difficult for us to discern.

According to Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, an animal in pain may show any number of these symptoms:

* retreating from the family; hiding

* pacing, restlessness

* vocalization: crying out, whimpering, growling, grunting

* arched back, forelegs held out from chest in a prayer position

* excessive panting

* reluctance to move

* decrease in appetite

* decreased personal hygiene

* snapping

* licking or biting at the area that is painful or, if possible, tucking the painful spot (leg or tail) under the body in a protective manner

Other symptoms can include anxiety, depression, sleepiness, trembling, falling or stumbling.

A veterinarian can identify additional markers such as dilated pupils, increased heart and respiratory rate and increased blood pressure.

The association advises that pet owners should learn the signs of pain in their pets but cautions that "painkillers should never be administered without consultation with a veterinarian. Many painkillers, such as ibuprofen, naproxen and acetaminophen, can be extremely toxic while others, such as ASA or acetylsalicylic acid aspirin, need to be administered with extreme caution.

Wise words indeed!

While humans can often identify the source of our own aches and pains and medicate ourselves appropriately, our sentient creatures can't tell us exactly what they're feeling, which means it's our responsibility to find answers on their behalf.

Self-diagnosing a pet can be dangerous.

I've been living with cats and dogs for many years and have learned first-hand that diagnosing my animals' aches and pains is a bad strategy. For instance, while it may appear that my lethargic dog is simply a tired dog who will be up and at 'em again tomorrow, I continue to monitor her carefully for any additional behavioural changes.

"Better safe than sorry" has become my mantra when it comes to changes in my pets' behaviours. If something doesn't look right, I check with my veterinarian. I hope you'll do the same with Muggins.

Please keep in touch - let me know you're able to find answers to the changes you're seeing in Muggins.

E-mail jacque-newman@rogers.com with a question, comment or suggestion.