Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog is shaking, panting, and not eating. Should I go to the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | spayed | 5 years and 3 months old | 17 lbs

Hi I have a 5 year old parsons jack Russell, this evening she is not herself, she's not eating, she is shaking constantly and earlier she was excessively panting. She had drank a little water and now she is wrapped up in a blanket sleeping but still shaking. Do we need to take her to the vets. She had been fine all day, the sysptoms just started about an hour ago. Many thanks Catherine

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 4th, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I'm sorry to hear Bella isn't behaving normally. Non-specific signs like you are seeing are a little difficult to pinpoint the source of; shaking can be due to pain, nausea, anxiety, or another underlying issue. I would recommend having her evaluated by her regular veterinarian to see if they are able to find anything that could explain what is going on, and if any further needs to be done for her. Good luck!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Amber W

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on December 15th, 2017

    Aw poor Buster! Shaking and not eating could be a sign of pain, digestive problems, infection, or anxiety in Buster. You can try offering him a bland diet diet of boiled chicken and sweet potato or rice to see if this will encourage him to eat. However, if he does not stop shaking in a few hours I'd recommend he be examined by a veterinarian as he may has a serious issue like neck or back pain. Please remember there are no safe over the counter pain medications for dogs so you will need to have these prescribed by a veterinarian. This article may be of interest to you: https://www.petcoach.co/article/why-is-my-dog-shaking-most-common-reasons/ Thanks for using PetCoach and I hope Buster is feeling better soon!

    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
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
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
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