My senior dog hit her head and is very sick. Is it an emergency?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | spayed | 12 years and 8 months old | 20 lbs
Hello. I think my dog has concussion, she is 13, has cataracts and has run into 3 very hard concrete object over the duration of the weekend. She is lethargic, has lost her appetite, panting erratically in intervals and has been vomiting. Is this an emergency?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 2nd, 2017
Poor Molly! I'm sorry to hear that she's having this problem. Yes, if she has hit her head hard enough to cause these symptoms, I'm afraid that this is definitely an emergency - head trauma is a serious, life-threatening problem in dogs just as it is in people. Even if her symptoms are due to something else, they are still a sign that something is seriously wrong so I would really recommend having her seen regardless. It would be best to take her to your nearest emergency clinic right away for an exam - the vet there can do some diagnostic testing if needed to determine what's wrong and get her started on appropriate treatment.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on April 30th, 2018
Poor Molly! It certainly seems like she has something going on. I would recommend taking her in for an exam by a veterinarian. She is considered geriatric, so blood work would be a great start. Some dogs are very good at hiding pain, a good vet exam can make sure there is no pain. After the exam- the veterinarian will determine a treatment plan for her. It could be something simple like a blocked anal gland or something more complex. Thanks for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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