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My senior dog is vomiting, tired, won't walk, and in pain. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 10 years and 6 months old | 5 lbs

I have a 10 year old female chihuahua, about to be 11 in less than 5 months. These past 3 days she hasn't been as bright and alert. She's been very tired and doesn't want to walk or listen to commands. She's thrown up thick white fluids and some food. She looks like she's in pain and I'm worried. What should I do?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 20th, 2016

Poor Chika sounds very ill! If she has been throwing up for the past three days, doesn't want to walk, and is very lethargic, she needs to see a vet right away. She could have a foreign body, severe GI illness, pancreatitis, or even cancer (which is unfortunately common in older dogs). The vet can do a physical exam, routine blood tests, a urinalysis, and possibly x-rays to diagnose what is causing her symptoms and can treat accordingly. Please take her into an ER vet now.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 24th, 2018

    It sounds as Lola is suffering from a serious gastrointestinal condition, possibly an infection. it could also be due to ingestion of a foreign body material. i would recommend taking her to the vet the first chance you get, she will need to be checked first, if the vet thinks it's a simple gastrointestinal infection she will need an anti vomiting injection, antibiotics and a special food for a few days in order to get better. if the vet thinks it is more serious she will need a blood test and possibly an ultrasound in order to find out what is wrong.

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    Answered By Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

    Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

    Published on January 1st, 2017

    I am so sorry to hear Tinker Bell is in pain. The best thing to do in this situation is to have her evaluated by a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of her pain, thirst, and weakness. They can at least provide pain medication to make her more comfortable. Some veterinarians will even do house calls if you that is better for Tinker Bell.

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