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My senior dog is lethargic, won't eat, has diarrhea. When to see vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Labrador | Female | unspayed | 13 years and 5 months old | 65 lbs

14 year old lab has been acting very slow not eating her dog food but will eat human food. I know she is getting old and has reached her lifespan. She has recently started having loose stools for 1 day now. not sure if I Should take her to vet, she has not been running a fever just been laying around alot.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

Veterinarian

Published on April 25th, 2019

Yes it would be best to have her seen. Decreased appetite and lethargy are very common symptoms of many diseases, many of which may be treatable. The best way to know what is going on (diagnosis), how serious it is, and how to help her feel better is to have her seen. Most likely your vet will recommend some senior bloodwork and xrays to start. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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