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Why is my senior dog swollen, not eating, and unable to stand?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 11 years and 11 months old

its been three weeks and i've been observing my dog, she seems to have an accumulation of fluid in her right arm and leg, and also in her neck. she's not eating but she drink water, she has no interest in trying to stand up but when she tries shes shaking. im a nursing student and ive looked up possible diagnosis, like peripheral edema or ascitis please help me asap, i dont want to loose my baby, she's already 11 years old

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 23rd, 2019

Usang sounds like she us very ill and I recommend you have her seen by a veterinarian immediately. She may be dealing with edema, but there could be many reasons for the edema ( including infection, tumours, trauma, endocrine or autoimmune disease, etc) and the fact that she is not eating and unwilling/unable to stand and walk indicates severe illness. Please have her seen by a vet right away so they can examine her and recommend diagnostics and treatment as needed to help prevent further suffering.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 13th, 2016
I think you should take her to your veterinarian for a geriatric exam including blood tests, then sit down with your vet and have him tell you all that is in need of treatment. Arthritis can be made very bearable with NSAIDs or pain medicine, Skin problems could be a hormonal problem or she may just need some Omega 3 fatty acids added to her diet (or feed a good quality senior diet). The swelling concerns me, you did not say where the swelling was. If it is abdominal swelling there may be a tumor or liver problem. Once you know her overall condition you can decide with your vet what is necessary to improve her quality of life and whether it is time to let her go.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on August 16th, 2019
Poor Kayla! I would recommend taking her to the vet for an exam to find out what's wrong, as a starting point. If she has arthritis, this can often be treated with pain medication to improve her mobility and quality of life. Urinary accidents can be caused by a number of different medical conditions such as a bladder infection, diabetes, or Cushing's disease, which are also treatable with medication once a diagnosis is made. Your veterinarian can give you an honest opinion on her current quality of life, and give you options for diagnostic testing and treatment to help you decide on the best course of action.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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