Many people dream of having a little dog of their own, but due to a lack of knowledge about dogs, they hesitate to keep one for fear of buying a “weekend dog”. Today, let’s find out what a “weekend dog” is.
What is a “Weekend Dog”?
A “weekend dog” refers to a dog that appears very energetic, lively and lovely when you buy it, but starts to get sick a few days after being raised, and may even die in severe cases.
What Causes a “Weekend Dog”?
- Unscrupulous sellers keep all puppies together without any isolation measures or immunization procedures. On the day of sale, they inject serum into the puppies and fast them, creating the illusion that the puppies are energetic and have a good appetite when purchased. After the owner takes them home and raises them for a few days, they start to get sick.
- Some owners, as first-time dog keepers, do not know how to take care of dogs. Since puppies are generally weak, improper feeding methods can make them sick, creating the illusion of a “weekend dog”. For example: taking them out everywhere just after buying; letting them run around the house freely and sleep wherever they want; giving them a bath on the first day of bringing them home, etc.
How to Distinguish If the Purchased Dog Is a “Weekend Dog”?
Generally, it is impossible to tell a “weekend dog” through ordinary observation. This is because these dogs are injected with immune serum and stimulants, so they will be very excited when you visit. In addition, because they have been hungry, they will be very excited to see people. However, the effect of the drugs usually does not last long. If the dog gets sick within 3 days of being raised, you need to be careful that it may be a “weekend dog”.
How to Know If a Puppy Is Sick?
- Too Thin: Dogs that are too thin have weak constitutions and are not easy to take care of. Moreover, overly thin dogs may have some diseases themselves. Once they change their environment, their resistance will decrease and they may get sick. Therefore, it is not recommended to buy a dog that is too thin.
- Abnormal Stool: The frequency, shape and smell of stool can all reflect the health status of the dog. If the dog you bought has diarrhea, you need to be careful if the puppy is sick.
- Abnormal Eyes: If you find that the dog’s eyes are congested, the conjunctiva is flushed, or there is a lot of tears or eye discharge, it means that the dog is unwell and may be a sick dog.
- Abnormal Nose: A healthy dog’s nose should be moist and feel slightly cool. If you find that the puppy has a lot of nasal discharge or a dry nose, it may indicate that the dog has a respiratory disease, such as a cold, canine distemper, pneumonia, etc.
What to Do If You Get a “Weekend Dog”?
If the dog you bought accidentally gets sick after a few days of raising, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time so that the dog can get treatment as soon as possible.
When buying a dog, it is best to choose a dog that is over 2 months old and has received at least 2 vaccinations. Such puppies have relatively strong resistance, are not easy to get sick, and are easy to raise. It is recommended to buy puppies from regular pet stores, kennels, hospitals or reliable individual sellers. If you can choose carefully when buying a dog and do some research before buying, I believe you will definitely buy a satisfactory beloved dog.