One of the biggest challenges a dog owner faces is caring for a sick pet. While a bout of diarrhea or lack of appetite can be scary, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to take him to the vet right away. But if the problem persists for more than a day, it’s probably a good idea to call your doctor. Is my dog’s condition serious or am I just panicking? Knowing when to bring your furry friend in for a checkup can be confusing, especially for new pet owners.

Here are 5 signs that you should take your dog to the vet:

Abdominal pain or bloating

Abdominal pain is a warning sign of a medical emergency and your pet should be taken to the veterinarian immediately. When you feel your furry friend’s abdomen and it shows signs of pain, it may mean that he has a twisted stomach that has a complete obstruction. It is called gastric dilatation-volvus or more commonly known as bloat. Fluid distention from heart disease and internal bleeding due to a ruptured spleen can also cause abdominal pain in dogs.

collapse or lethargy

There are days when your dog may seem lazy and lethargic, but if this continues for 24 to 48 hours, it’s time to take him to the vet. If you notice your dog having prolonged periods of sleep, disinterest in interacting or playing, hiding in unusual places, and not wanting his daily walk, he may be experiencing a meltdown. This is usually caused by anaphylactic shock, an allergic response, hypoglycemia, internal bleeding, dehydration, metabolic disorders, and even Addison’s disease.

leg paralysis

If you notice that your furry friend suddenly has difficulty using one or more of his legs, it is most likely a hernia in part of his spinal cord. This is generally a medical emergency in dogs. If left untreated, it can lead to changes in your dog’s mental state.

eye problems

Red eyes, bulging eyes, as well as extreme swelling and tearing are considered eye emergencies in pets and should be taken to the vet as soon as possible. If left untreated, eye problems will get worse and can lead to blindness.

seizures

A seizure, especially when experienced in groups, indicates a medical emergency. It can be caused by serious underlying conditions, such as a brain mass, electrolyte imbalance, toxin ingestion, or epilepsy. Have your pet checked out by your vet right away.

If you notice any of these 5 signs in your pet, don’t hesitate to seek help from your veterinarian as soon as possible.