Living with a Pomeranian, or any pet, for many years, means dealing with illness. It’s important to recognize signs of serious illness in your Pom and get help immediately. Keep your veterinarian’s number handy, and if your Pomeranian shows any of the following symptoms call your vet promptly:
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Respiration: Quicker than 10–30 breaths per minute at rest
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Pulse: Higher than 80–150 beats per minute at rest
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Temperature: Higher than 100–102.5 degrees F at rest
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Capillary refill time: Color does not return to toenail in less than 2 seconds after being pressed until it turns white
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Hydration: Skin does not snap back into position within 3 seconds of being lifted
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Anal region: Redness, swelling; also scooting or licking the area
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Behavior: Weakness, lethargy, incoordination, stiffness, aggression
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Ears: Head shaking, head tilt, bad odor, debris, crusted tips
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Eyes: Unequal or unresponsive pupils, tearing, squinting, gooey discharge
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Feet: Swollen or misaligned toes, abrasions, split nails
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Gait: Limping, especially holding up a rear leg for a hop or two
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Gums: Whitish, bluish, speckled, or any color but pink
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Mouth: Bleeding, ulcers, bad breath, loose teeth
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Nose: Thick or colored discharge; crusted top
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Skin: Parasites, hair loss, itching, crusts, sores, lumps
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Stool: Black, tarry, or bloody diarrhea
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Torso: Swollen abdomen, weight loss