Advice all dog owners need to know following dog baiting reports

With the number of copycat dog baiting incidents in the area we asked Camp Hill veterinarian Tom Robbins what dog owners should look out for.

As a vet we rely on the close human animal bond between owner and pet to notify us if things are different.

Owners are amazing at noticing even subtle changes in their animals demeanour and behaviour.

Even vague minor changes can be the first presenting signs of something more sinister and it can allow your vet early intervention by performing the necessary appropriate diagnostics.

If your pet is dull, lethargic or listless, vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures or tremors or coughing you need to contact your vet as soon as possible.

Camp Hill veterinarian Dr Tom Robbins from Happy Pets Family Vet with his french bulldog Lacey. Picture: Brian Bennion

Importantly in light of the recent baitings and the manner in which these have been carried out, it is a very good idea to be aware of what the normal pink colour of your pets gums look like.

If your pets gums are looking paler, if you see any bruises on your pets gums, or the inside of the ears or anywhere across the body you need to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Bruising in dogs looks just the same as in humans. They can range from red to deep purple or even black. They can manifest as tiny little pink spots on the gums or big bruises on the skin. Furthermore, any change to the breathing or if you think your pets abdomen may have rapidly increased in size, then you need to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

■ SIX REPORTS OF COPYCAT DOG BAITING IN ONE SUBURB

■ MAN CHARGED OVER DOG BAITING

It goes without saying that where possible it is a good idea to always keep a close eye on what your dog is getting into when out and about.

Poisoning and baiting aside, there are countless things that dogs can enjoy eating or drinking which can manifest as gastrointestinal upsets or worse.

Throughout the years I have seen dogs eat many things that leave me scratching my head. Things like rubbish, cooked bones, old bones, rocks, wood and even socks and jocks.

Specifically with the recent and very present fears of baiting, it seems a good idea to keep your canine companions close by your side.

If you and your dog frequent the local dog park, I recommend that as a community you are thoroughly checking the area before letting them off leash.

Remain vocal on your community networking groups.

Very importantly, keep your local vet informed of anything untoward that you have identified or seen.

As a veterinarian it might be extremely helpful and even lifechanging to a patient if we can be hyper vigilant towards different symptoms and clinical signs that may present thereby allowing efficient and effective interventions where required.

– Dr Tom Robbins, veterinanian and co-owner of Happy Pets Family Vet Camp Hill