Dog Fever

Sam Meisler DVM, a small animal veterinarian discusses fever
in dogs. Dog fevers are usually caused by inflammation
somewhere in the body that is setting off a cascade of
events that in turn sets the dog's temperature reference
point at a higher level.

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Fever in Dogs

A fever in a dog is defined as anything higher than
101.5°F. An elevated temperature of 102-103°F is usually
caused by some type of inflammation occurring inside the
dog. The higher fever is a systemic response where the
body is resetting the set point reference to a higher level.
The inflammation, in turn, is caused by either an infection,
cancer or a virus. If the vet, upon examining the dog,
cannot find an obvious indication for the infection, such as
an abscess or ear infection, then blood work will be
performed. The blood test results will show other markers of
information and if other organs seem to be affected. Other
methods include x-rays, a fecal test, which shows the
presence of parasites or heartworms or a urine test to check
the bladder for infection.

- Sam D. Meisler DVM

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