When should I take my lethargic, warm, and isolating dog to the vet?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 4 years and 2 months old | 87 lbs
My usually very happy go lucky 4 year old dog is acting very lethargic and isolating himself from us. He seems a little warm doesn't want to shake. At what point should we take him to our vet?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on June 4th, 2020
It sounds like BeR is not feeling well. Just like people, there are many conditions that can make pets feel sick. This could range from bacterial over growth to intestinal blockage. Also like us, diseases are best addressed early and this may result in a better prognosis. You need to monitor your pup closely. If he is not eating or drinking well, if there is vomiting/diarrhea/coughing or signs of pain, I recommend to have him examined by the veterinarian today. If the lethargy lasts for 24 hours, your pup also needs to be examined. The doctor will need to learn the underlying cause in order to give appropriate treatment. Bring in a stool sample in case the doctor needs to test it. At home, your pup should rest today so no walks or playtime. Encourage eating and drinking. Fluid intake is very important when pets and people don't feel good. You may try offering a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken and white rice (this should all be plain). You can add extra water as well to increase the fluids. Hopefully this will pass quickly. I hope BeR starts feeling better quickly! Please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 20th, 2019
You did absolutely the right thing by taking Cosmo into the ER vet. It's good that he's eating his breakfast, and has had no vomiting or diarrhea. I would expect he would be lethargic, as he sounded quite sick, and it will take a couple of days for him to return to normal. If he starts vomiting again, had diarrhea again, or loses his appetite, then I would take him back into a vet right away. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on July 22nd, 2017
Lethargy is a very general sign that something may be wrong, so it is difficult to say what it means. Many things could cause it, from a little stomach upset to something more serious. Watch Billy as he goes through his day. Is he eating and drinking as usual? Does hes show any interest in treats? Are his stools normal? Any additional behavior that is "off" for him, or prolonged lethargy, would indicate that he needs to be seen by the vet for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on September 21st, 2018
Hello! I'm doing well today, and I'm sorry that you are so worried about Kamilo. Lethargy is a very common symptoms of many illnesses such as a systemic illness, infection, inflammation, kidney disease, liver disease, injury, or cancer. I'm not sure if he's eating or drinking, but if he is, I would keep an eye on him for now. Should he still be lethargic in another 24-48 hours, take him into the vet for a check up. If he develops other signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, and stops eating or drinking, take him into a vet immediately. Best of luck, I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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