My dog is lethargic, butt tucked, not eating. ER vet or wait?

Question

My dog is lethargic, walking w her butt tucked under, drinking a lot of water but not eating her usual amount of food. She may have a fever. 10 pound miniature pinsher 10yo. Question is can I wait to take her to the vet when it opens tomorrow or do I need to take her to the emergency animal hospital today. Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Pinscher | Female | spayed | 10 years and 1 month old | 10 lbs

David Darvishian · Accepted Answer

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Pixie. This is a tough question. If she has a fever that could certainly cause a decreased appetite and increased water intake. I see she is spayed so that rules out a uterine infection. It's difficult to say what is going on without an examination. She could be experiencing anal gland swelling/pain/possible infection or the problem could be somewhere else. I would advise watching her very closely today. If she gets worse, I would advise an immediate vet evaluation. Worse meaning she stops eating, doesn't want to move, or other signs develop. If you look at her rear end and you see a lot of swelling/redness at the 4:00 and 8:00 positions around the anus, then she is having some problems with her anal glands. You could make her soak in some warm water and Epsom salts with her butt down in the water for 10 minutes a few times per day until you get her to the vet. If an anal gland is infected, it may open up and rupture before you see your vet. Again, closely monitor her. A history and physical exam may tell a lot about what is going on especially if this is anal gland related. Good luck with Pixie and have a great holiday.

My dog is lethargic, butt tucked, not eating. ER vet or wait?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

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

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

Share