Following my dogs throat surgery she is now at constant risk of aspiration pneumonia and one of the early signs is fever and so it has been suggested to me that I obtain a rectal thermometer and take her temperature regularly to learn what it is when normal so that I can see ealy stages of AP and seek treatment. Do any of you have experience of doing this on a regular basis or better still do you use one of the thermometers that you can use in the ear? Are they as accurate? I know that this is not a substitute for seeking veterinary treatment but I fear otherwise every time she is a bit 'down' or off her food I am going to be racing to the vets..

It was my own vet that gave me a thermometer - ask your vet for one.

i use a rectal thermometer, it is very easy to use, but it is better if you have someone with you to help keep the dog in a stand position while you insert the thermometer, i normally use vasaline to lubracate the end of the thermometer, and the instructions are very clear to follow. 

I use an ordinary digital thermometer these days.  I ask my bitches to lie down and while I'm tickling their tummy with one hand, I'm inserting the thermometer with the other and they're happy to lie there all day!

just a digital thormometer from your chemist will do the trick they beep when temp reached so you know when to stop.
Just add a bit of vasaline on the end you only need to insert the tip. Best to get someone to hold the head if your a bit worried.

A digital thermometer from Tesco labelled DOG DOG DOG - unfortunately it looks similar to the family one so it's also kept in a diff place and wrapped in labels!!  A bit of KY jelly and my OH to help...

I have located a canine ear thermometer, not sure if they are any better than the others, maybe a bit moer expensive but i bet easier to use??

http://www.canineconcepts.co.uk/item--Pet-Temp-Instant-Ear-Thermometer--dog-thermometer---dogs

>but i bet easier to use??

To be honest I doubt it. You still need to be very careful when you put anything into a dog's ear canal, and they can easily pull away and shake their heads, possibly hurting themselves. An ordinary rectal thermometer is probably just as simple.

my lot wouldnt like the ear thermometer they hate me plucking thier ears so are a bit wary when I lift up thier big floppy ears . Prefer the old fashioned way.

Thanks everyone, we have been on a long journey my Scarlet and I and I think we are about to start a new chapter!!!!