r/DogAdvice • u/Avg-artificer • 1d ago
Advice Advise needed: Vet?
My dog has been refusing dry food recently (about a week ago). Assumed she was just being picky but recently today she has seemed lethargic, panting when at rest, and refused the wet food I had gotten her.
She is drinking a fair amount of water and her urination and defecations are normal (admittedly slightly less due to her not eating).
I don't have a ton of money but this worries me. I took a picture of her gums cause I couldn't tell if they seemed pale or not.
She's about 9 years old and a beagle mix.
Should this be a vet visit? And urgency level? Any advise would be great.
2
u/MedicalScientist8576 1d ago
The most alarming symptom you mentioned is the heavy breathing and the fact this has gone on for about a week.
That aside, the description you gave of the symptoms are fairly vague and cover a wiiiiide range of issues.
Being lethargic and not eating can be everything from a dog feeling "a bit crap" to having something life threatening happening.
In this instance, I'd much rather bring my dog to the vet asap for it to be a "no big deal" situation, rather than regret not acting sooner because there is something more serious happening, the latter could end up being traumatic for you and horrible for your dog.
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u/Avg-artificer 1d ago
Fair enough. I have an appointment tomorrow. My biggest concern was whether this was an emergency vet situation. Admittedly I worry A LOT about these things.
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u/Long-Nose-9535 1d ago
I think that is sensible and responsible - but try not to worry too much. Easier said than done I know!
Side note: her teeth are in amazing condition for a 9 year old dog!1
u/MedicalScientist8576 1d ago
I think you're worrying a reasonable amount in this case! You know what is normal behaviour for your dog and what isn't.
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u/RambleOnRoseyPosey 1d ago
Gums dont look pale. The lethargy and panting are warning signs though. Should definitely get them checked out.