I'm kind of freaking out and need some advice. I just took my Labrador, Daisy, to the groomer this morning for her usual wash and trim. She seemed completely fine when I picked her up, just the usual happy self. But a few hours after we got home, I noticed her breathing seemed faster than usual. I counted, and her respiratory rate is around 70 breaths per minute, which seems way too high. She's usually pretty active, but she's just lying on her bed now, not moving much. I’m super worried. Could it be stress from the groomer or something else? Has anyone else experienced something like this? I’m debating whether I should rush her to the vet tonight or wait to see if it calms down. Any advice would be really appreciated. Thanks!
Hello there! I'm glad you reached out with your concern about your dog's rapid breathing. A normal respiratory rate for dogs is around 15 to 30 breaths per minute, so 70 breaths per minute is certainly elevated. There are a few potential reasons for this:
1. **Stress or Anxiety**: Grooming can be stressful, and some dogs might have lingering anxiety after their visit.
2. **Overexertion**: If your dog was particularly active or excited at the groomer, increased breathing might result as they calm down.
3. **Heat**: Was it particularly warm during your dog's grooming session? Sometimes, excessive heat or stress can cause an increased respiratory rate.
4. **Underlying Health Issues**: Conditions such as heart or respiratory problems could also cause increased breathing rates.
As for at-home care, make sure your dog is resting in a calm environment with plenty of water available. Monitor her breathing for any changes. If you notice signs such as continuous panting despite breathing slowly, wheezing, coughing, or if her gums appear pale or blue, it might indicate a more serious condition that requires prompt veterinary attention.
It's always good to have a professional take a closer look, especially if the fast breathing persists. Consider booking a video consult with Dial A Vet so we can assess your dog more thoroughly and guide you further.
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