Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My dog is shaking, yelping, and won't eat. Does he need emergency vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pug | Male | neutered | 9 years and 6 months old | 27 lbs

My pug had an infection on Saturday, and he was treated for one. However, he's now shaking again and he can't eat hard food and whenever I try to touch his mouth, he yelps. I'm not sure if this is an emergency that requires the emergency vet, or if it can wait until tomorrow for our regularly scheduled vet visit.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 14th, 2017

Poor Oswald! If he is shaking from the pain and not able to eat then you could take him to an emergency clinic for an exam and treatment. He could have a bad tooth that is causing him a lot of pain and may need medications to help relieve the pain. Pain medication would make him a lot more comfortable overnight until his regular appointment tomorrow. You could also call your vet and give him/her an update and see if he/she would just prescribe a pain medication for tonight. Hope he feels better soon!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 18th, 2017

    Hello, sorry to hear about Oswald. He may have an infected tooth as well which may require a different antibiotic. You should have him evaluated for this new tooth pain as well. Your emergency veterinarian may not be able to do a dental on emergency basis but they may at least offer him some pain relief until he can be seen by your regular veterinarian whom may be able to do a dental tomorrow. Hope this helps and best of luck.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored