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My dog is shaking, warm, lethargic, with diarrhea. When to go to ER?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 4 years and 3 months old | 46 lbs

My dog was shaking all night, he feels a little warm, he’s a little lethargic, and he had diarrhea last night and this morning. The photo is from this morning. At what point should we take him to the emergency? He has very similar symptoms Memorial Day weekend, but they were more extreme. He was much warmer and much more lethargic. They gave him an IV and blood tests but couldn’t find anything wrong with him. He also vomited last time At what point should we take him to the emergency vet again?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Eryn Taormina, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 1st, 2018

Hi there! I'm so sorry to hear about George's troubles. Diarrhea can be the result a of a few things - eating something unusual or not good for dogs (dietary indiscretion), toxin ingestion, bacterial or parasitic infection, metabolic diseases, obstruction, etc.
Based on George's history of having to go to the emergency hospital before for this, I wouldn't wait much longer. He may have a very sensitive gastrointestinal tract and need more intervention than other dogs when he has an issue like this.
Another reason I'd have him seen is because he is shaking and lethargic. He could feel painful (maybe he swallowed or ate something strange) and need some help there too and because he's starting to become lethargic.
Also, gastrointestinal illnesses can sometimes encourage pancreatitis to develop (inflammation of the pancreas) which can be painful.
Also to keep in mind is that the longer diarrhea continues the more likely it is for a patient to become dehydrated, even if they're drinking.
I know my answer is pretty long, but I hope it explains why George may need to be seen right away by a doctor. Again I wouldn't wait much longer based on his history. He also seems like he's uncomfortable since he's shaking, so after a few more hours, if there's jo improvement, I'd take him in.
Best of luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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