My dog is breathing heavily and gagging. Should I take him to the vet?

It sounds like Zeus is extremely painful, and he's quite young. I don't think you should wait to see a vet tomorrow, I think he should see a vet now. Please take him into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website.

Zeus could be quite sick from this encounter with the raccoon. He needs to see a vet immediately. Please take him into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website.

Poor Zues! There are a few things you can try at home to see if that helps him breathe better, but if he's having a lot of trouble breathing, then I would take him into the vet tonight. If he's congested, you can try using a humidifier or bringing him into the bathroom with the door closed while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity help to break up congestion and temporarily relieve symptoms associated with respiratory infections. I would have Zues seen by a vet tomorrow if you don't take him in tonight, as he may need additional medications to help with his symptoms.

Labored breathing and vomiting are very concerning signs. In an older, large-breed dog like your girl, I would be worried about bloat as a possible cause of her symptoms - this can be a life-threatening emergency, so needs to be treated right away. Many other things can also cause vomiting, including pancreatitis, liver or kidney disease, exposure to something toxic, or an intestinal obstruction. Based on your description, I would recommend taking her to the emergency vet tonight - she may have a serious problem that can't wait until morning.

I'm concerned about your dog, especially since her symptoms are getting worse. She could have a respiratory infection, or it could be something more serious such as heart disease. I think she needs to see a vet now. Please take her into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website. Best of luck.

No, it's not normal when it appears a dog is having trouble breathing. That is a medical emergency, as it can quickly lead to respiratory distress. I'd take Ice into a vet now to get checked out as I can't see him in person to know if he will be ok or not. Best of luck.

I'm so sorry to hear that! Please get him in to see a vet. Your vet will probably recommend a chest X-ray to get a better idea of what is going on. In a 9 year old chihuahua some possible causes include heart failure, pneumonia, or cancer. If he seems labored in his breathing, do not delay, please take him to the vet right away.