My dog is lethargic, back arched, won't eat. Is it an emergency?

Question

1 year old shih tzu pekegnise mix. she was fine when i left the house at 10am, but when we came home at 5pm, she was extremely lethargic, walking with her tail between her legs and her back arched. She won't eat, drink or go outside to use the bathroom. She is panting really hard, but it is off and on, not constant. My vet is out of town and said to give her half of a baby aspirin and see if that helps. it's been almost an hour and no change. Shoould I take her to an vet now or wait it out? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 1 year and 5 months old | 11 lbs

Lauren Jones VMD · Accepted Answer

I'm sorry to hear that Penelope is so painful! It seems most likely that she caused some degree of back injury or intervertebral disc disease while you were out of the house today. Penelope's panting, lethargy, abnormal gait and refusal to eat or go outside are all signs of pain. It sounds as though she needs to be examined by a vet now. Be sure to mention to the ER or on call vet that aspirin was already given, since there are many pain medications that will interact poorly with aspirin and cause additional problems. I hope that she feels better soon!

My dog is lethargic, back arched, won't eat. Is it an emergency?

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