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Why is my senior Lab panting, shaking, and not eating after vet visit?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 8 years and 7 months old | 82 lbs

I have a 8 year old chocolate lab and she started panting, shaking and not eating or drinking. Took her to vet and they xrayed her belly and did blood work. Nothing on xray and only abnormal blood is ALKP. They didn't seem worried and sent me home. Lots of cash spent for no outcome. She stays in here bed and you have to force her to do anything. I will be taking her to another vet I guess?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 27th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Bailey. I may be worth seeking a second opinion. Do you know of she was tested for pancreatitis on her bloodwork? This is a cause of abdominal pain and anorexia in dogs. If not, you may consider asking if it is warranted for her. Another consideration is if she is experiencing orthopedic pain. This will make a dog shake, pain and can even affect her appetite. I would have her assesed for this as well. It is good that her tests so far have been fairly unremarkable. That rules out a lot of potentially serious issues. In the meantime, do you best to encourage her to eat. Offer only small amounts and try hand feeding her. You can syringe water if necessary. Do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!

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