My dog's neck is sore, he's gagging, and his bark changed. What's wrong?

I would be very concerned about this level of pain and would recommend an exam by a veterinarian. It could be neurological, a disc problem, a strain in the bones or muscles of the neck or possibly an infection somewhere in that area. The vet may recommend x-rays to get a diagnosis. Please do not give any human pain medication as these can cause serious side effects in animals. It is best to get pain medication that has been prescribed by your veterinarian that is safe for dogs. I hope this helps and that Miky feels better soon!

He may have some spinal cord problems, especially with the cervical spinal cord, such as a slipped disk or arthritic changes that press on nerves and are painful. Ob is apparently very much in pain and therefore should be seen by a veterinarian tonight. The vet will do a thorough physical exam, palpate the spine to find where the pain is coming from, and also do a neurological exam and then x-rays. He will then discuss the exam findings with you and possible treatment. Your dog will get pain medicine and other medications as necessary. Dogs with pain often do not eat, and eating also may be painful as he has to chew, open his mouth and move the jaws. This may be more painful than lapping up water.

An immediate check up is required as these signs seems to be compatible with a neurological problem. Intervertebral disc extrusion/protrusion in the cervical area can cause commonly nerve/spinal cord and meninges (around spinal cord) compression. The compression may be dynamic, showing up signs when moving the neck in certain postures. X rays and more specific and advanced imaging procedures may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Poor Baby! It sounds like he may be suffering from some neck pain. This could progress causing neurological problems if left untreated. I would have your vet take a look at him to localize the pain and to ensure nothing else is going on. Your vet will be able to do x-rays if needed. In the meantime, I would keep him confined and do not let him jump, run or play until you can get in to see your vet. I would not give him any human pain meds as most are toxic to dogs. I hope this helps.

This could be due to a degeneration of the laryngeal nerve that is innervating the larynx being in charge of its movement (vocal chords included). Inflammation of this nerve and upper respiratory airways infection is possible as well. A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

It sounds like Chuck potentially has some neck pain. This could be due to many different issues, but most common would be a slipped disc. I would encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. If he is really painful then he should be treated by and emergency clinic veterinarian tonight. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

It’s possible he has pain in his neck. This can be from a compressed or calcified disc or an infection in the vertebra. I recommend to have him examined again by the veterinarian with deep palpation of the neck. He may need a radiograph as well. If a lesion is discovered, he will start medication and likely pain management. I hope this helps.