What to do if my unspayed dog is lethargic, won't eat, and in pain?
I'm sorry Scruffy isn't doing well! I see that she isn't spayed, which makes me concerned that her symptoms could be caused by a pyometra. This is an infection of the uterus that is fatal without treatment. It would make her lethargic, not want to move much, reduce her appetite, and will be painful. It could also be that she injured herself causing these symptoms. Because I can't see her in person and rule out a pyometra, my recommendation would be to monitor her very closely. If you see any discharge coming from her vaginal area, her belly becomes larger, she starts vomiting, and/or won't move at all, these can be signs of a pyometra and she absolutely cannot wait until tomorrow to see a vet. In that case, rush her into an ER vet; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet will be found on a clinic's answering machine or website. I would hold off on food after midnight tonight and do not give her any breakfast in the morning in case the vet wants to take x-rays and needs to sedate her. She can have water, however. Rest her as much as possible. Get her into a vet as soon as possible if the symptoms you describe continue in the morning. If she does have a pyometra, spaying her is part of the recommended treatment. Good luck, I hope this helps!
Updated on September 23rd, 2025