- 1). Have someone assist you in keeping your dog still. If he is not feeling well, he may be more prone to biting.
- 2). If you are taking his temperature with a mercury thermometer, you will have to shake the mercury down. If you are using an electronic thermometer, it should be ready to go. With either thermometer, you will need to lubricate the tip with either a jelly or an oil such as almond or olive oil.
- 3). Slowly and gently lift your dog's tail to insert the lubricated end of the thermometer right inside of his rectum. Do not push the thermometer too far as it may cause injury.
- 4). If you are taking the temperature with a mercury thermometer, you will need to leave it in approximately three to four minutes before reading it. If you are using a digital thermometer, wait until you hear the beep before removing it.
- 5). To read the thermometer, gently slide it out of the rectum and wipe the inserted end off with either a baby wipe or a dry tissue. Do not wipe it off with an alcohol pad until you read it. Alcohol will cause the temperature to drop quickly on a mercury thermometer.
- 6). After reading the thermometer, wipe it down with an alcohol pad or a germicide wipe to ensure that it is clean. Running it under water will not kill the germs.
- 7). If your dog's temperature is over 104 degrees, you will need to get him to the vet. If it is below 104 degrees, keep him cool and hydrated.
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