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

Poor Allie!! It sounds like she has a respiratory infection and an eye infection. She does have to see a vet immediately. The eye is such a delicate and important structure that any problem is considered an emergency. That's because leaving it untreated can lead to vision loss. Having difficulty breathing is also something that needs to be examined by a vet right away. The vet can diagnose her symptoms and can give her medication for them. Please take Allie into an ER vet or find a vet on call to see her now.

Red and watery eyes may indicate an issue such as an allergy to something, or even illness such as respiratory issues. You may see additional signs such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite or even nasal discharge. An increase in drinking water may be related, or may just be an attempt to stay hydrated if your dog is dehydrated from not feeling well (you can check this by gently pinching the loose skin on the back of your dog's neck- if it is quick to go back to normal, your dog is hydrated, if it is slow or sticky in returning back to normal, it is an indication of dehydration). If her symptoms do not resolve within the next day or so, or if she shows additional signs of illness or worsening of already seen symptoms, then scheduling a veterinary checkup is best.

Sorry to hear that Mavis hasn't been feeling too well. There is no telling whether or not the eye problem is actually related to the other issues you are reporting. Certainly it sounds like the eye is irritated, which can cause enough pain and discomfort to make a dog not want to eat or move around. The vomiting, however, indicates that there is something else happening relating to the GI tract. Even if this were just an eye issue, I would definitely suggest you take Mavis in to the veterinarian to verify there is no corneal ulcer (treatment can not safely be commenced until this has been determined). While there, they will be able to assess Mavis fully for any and all other issues. In the meantime, at home you can check her temperature (99.5-102.5), gum moisture / color, and skin elasticity. Hope this helps.

It does sound like Harley is feeling sick, and this lethargy could be caused by a systemic illness, infection, inflammation, or injury. The runny nose could be due to a respiratory infection or allergies, while her looking at her behind could be due to impacted anal sacs, pain, or intestinal worms. I do think it would be a good idea to have her seen by a vet tomorrow, and I don't feel you need to rush to the the vet tonight if she is eating and drinking. But definitely have her seen by a vet in the morning for a health check if she is still acting this way tomorrow.

Hi there. So sorry that Sara is not feeling well. Her symptoms are not specific for any one illness or disease process so it is hard for me to speculate as to what may be wrong. I can tell you however, that she is sick and she needs to be seen by a veterinarian for an examination. I am a bit worried that she could have a uterine infection since she is not spayed. If she is not up to date on her vaccinations she may have caught a viral disease like parvo or distemper. Those are just a few things that come to mind right away that might be going on. The bottom line is that she is ill and my suggestion is that you get her to your vet ASAP for an examination. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

I would have Lily seen by a vet. It could be that she is suffering from a respiratory infection or could have allergies. Her symptoms are something that needs to be treated, but in order for her to be treated properly, the cause of them has to be diagnosed. Once the vet makes the diagnosis, they can prescribe medication for her. I would take her into the vet tomorrow. I hope this helps!

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!