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Could my dog's penis infection cause high WBC, fever, and lethargy?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | English Springer Spaniel | Male | neutered | 11 years and 5 months old | 22 lbs

Dog has been lethargic, temp of 103, dehydrated, had scans on abdomen and also X-ray on chest and abdomen, nothing shown. Bloods show high white blood cells. Infections somewhere but don't know where. Foreskin not covering penis. Dog licking it a bit. Looks like there is slightly yellow discharge and a bit red and inflamed. He's on Doxycycline. Would a penis infection show in the blood tests?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on November 12th, 2016

If Leo is that ill and had elevated WBC counts, it is possible that the penis infection is what is causing it, or there may be something more systemic going on. However it would be hard to give a definite answer to that without seeing the full blood work and examining him. If the area is infected, keeping it clean and continuing antibiotic treatment is best. If the penis is not fully retracting into the sheath, it could be an issue called paraphimosis causing it, which is caused by either swelling or other obstruction preventing it from retracting fully. Your vet may want to monitor the area and may recommend surgically opening the sheath some to allow the penis to retract if needed. If the medications don't seem to be helping, hospitalization with more intense therapy may be needed to help him feel better.

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