My dog is lethargic, withdrawn, and warm. Does she need the ER?

Question

My 4 yr old Stratfordshire Terrier is withdrawn, lethargic and very warm. We do have guests staying here with their dog but I think it's more than changes in the home with her being warm. Should I give it a day or take her to ER. I can't afford ER but if you think it's urgent I will. Pet's info: Dog | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 40 lbs

Ricardo Fernandez, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hi there! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Lethargy, changes in behavior and possible fever are usually signs of something concerning going on such as systemic infections, pancreatitis, immune-mediated conditions, among many other conditions. If she is otherwise eating and drinking well and she was doing perfectly fine before your guests arrive, it may be something transient. However, given that she is acting so abnormally and there is concern for a possible fever, I recommend that you check her temperature rectally when she is calm. You can use a regular thermometer from your local pharmacy or you may already have it at home. If her temperature is more than 102.5F, have her evaluated right away as that could be something serious. If normal (99.5-102.5F) and really was fine before your guests arrived, and she is otherwise doing fine with normal appetite and water intake, you can continue to monitor her for another 24 hours and if not improved then have her examined. On the other hand, if she does not have a fever but is not eating or drinking, have her evaluated right away to rule out anything concerning such as conditions previously mentioned. Hoping for a quick recovery!

My dog is lethargic, withdrawn, and warm. Does she need the ER?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?

My 4-week-old chick is sick and sleeps standing. What should I do?

Why is my chicken pale, tired, not laying, and pooping neon yellow?

My sick small pet is breathing mouth open. Did I drown her feeding?

Share