View Full Version : how do u take a puppies temp?
iloveoscar
03-19-2007, 09:39 PM
how do i do this?:confused:
Buy a thermometer specifically for this purpose. I like the digitals with a quick read-out, because dogs are very squirmy. Then smear some KY or Vaseline onto the end of it and gently insert it into your puppies rectum, only about 1/2" though, then wait for the beep. I usually rub the dogs chest while I'm doing this so they'll hold still a bit more.
There are thermometers for ears, but I think the rectal ones give a more accurate reading. This comes after having to take over 300 temperatures in a short amount of time.
SummerRiot
03-19-2007, 09:47 PM
By using a rectal thermometer with vasaline on it so it slides in.
iloveoscar
03-19-2007, 11:55 PM
do they generally feel hot to the touch like humans do when they have a fever?
Dogs have a higher base temperature to begin with. They generally run between 100 and 102, puppies usually stay on the higher side of the spread. Is there anything else that leads you to think he has a fever? Excessive panting/drinking? Lethargy?
MafiaPrincess
03-20-2007, 12:17 PM
I lacked a thermometer in November when Cider was really sick with a viral issue. She was so freakign warm, I thought she was running a super high temperature. When we got to the vet it was only a smidge over normal..