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?
1 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.
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