Pets are quiet about pain. By the time something is obvious, it's often been going on for a while. Knowing what to watch for is one of the most important things you can do as a pet parent.

Don't wait — call us if you notice:

• Changes in appetite or thirst: eating much less, or drinking and peeing far more than usual.

• Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than a day, or any blood in either.

• Sudden lethargy: a pet who normally greets you at the door now hides or sleeps all day.

• Limping or stiffness that doesn't resolve overnight.

• Bad breath, drooling, or pawing at the mouth — usually a dental issue and often painful.

• Lumps or bumps that are new, growing, or changing in texture.

• Behavior changes: a friendly cat who suddenly bites, a dog who flinches when touched.

Call right away — not tomorrow

Difficulty breathing, collapse, suspected poisoning, bloated abdomen, repeated unproductive vomiting (especially in deep-chested dogs), or trauma. These can't wait.

When in doubt, pick up the phone. We'd rather hear from you about something small than miss something big.