My older dog is walking funny, won't walk, and drooling. What's wrong?

I am so sorry to hear about Peppa. Her symptoms are very concerning. If she is unable to walk/use her legs we would worry about things like a herniated disk in her back, a fibrocartilaginous embolism, a stroke, and a traumatic injury. Some of these conditions may improve with conservative treatment by a vet such as steroids, pain medication, and muscle relaxers. I would be concerned she is shivering due to discomfort. I would recommend bringing her into hte vet as soon as possible. Unfortunately we cannot advise you on treatment for her because without examining her we cannot know for certain what is wrong with her. For ideas on paying for veterinary costs you can consult http://m.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html

Excessive drooling can be a sign of nausea, eating something toxic or bitter, tooth problem (such as infection), or a salivary duct blockage, among other things. If the excessive drooling continues, Scoopy should be seen by a vet to determine what's causing the drooling. However, if it has already resolved then you can simply monitor Scoopy for any further symptoms.

Too much drool, or hypersalivation, can be a sign of illness. Here are some causes: Heat stroke and heat exhaustion, nausea and anxiety can cause episodes of drooling. Mouth disease and tooth decay: Tarter buildup can rub against the inside of your dog’s lip, causing drool. To check, pull his lip back toward his ear. Do his teeth look like concrete? Are they brown? Are his gums red, swollen, or bleeding? If so, try a professional cleaning and then daily brushing. Your vet can check for gingivitis, mouth ulcers, and tumors as well. Organ disease: Liver and kidney diseases, for example, can cause drooling. As they age, dogs are more likely to get sick. Vets suggest annual checkups to diagnose and treat diseases early. Poisonous plants: Common plants like tulips, azaleas, and chrysanthemums can not only make your dog drool, but also make him sick. Keep your dog from eating them. For a list of poisonous plants, consult the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Stomachaches: Dogs don’t tend to think before eating. Vets report pulling some strange items from their stomachs, from tennis balls to socket wrenches. This can cause nausea, discomfort and pain. Keep dangerous items away from him. Upper respiratory infections: Drooling can signal an infection of the nose, throat, or sinuses. Dogs that live in homes or shelters with other pets have a higher risk. Stress is also a factor. Only your vet can properly treat an infection. But you can take steps to protect your dog: Keep him indoors, away from other pets, and wash your hands between handling different animals. You’re the best judge of your dog’s behavior. If he’s acting strange for more than a day, he seems stressed, or he is not eating and playing as usual, it’s wise to see a vet.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding your dog. I recommend that he sees a veterinarian right away if at all possible. The symptoms you have described can be the result of an intoxication, orthopedic pain such as arthritis or a neurological problem. An examination will be performed and x-rays may be needed to diagnose the problem. From there, appropriate treatment can be prescribed. I hope this information helps!

Luna does sound pretty bad off, and she could be nauseous or have a severe dental problem. I think it's best she sees a vet now. Please take her into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Drooling can be a sign of nausea and this with a decreased activity level can be observed with many conditions such as gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, kidney disease, pancreatitis, among many other possibilities. I recommend that you have Rufus evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check for these possibilities and others depending on the findings on exam. Treatment would be based on findings. Good luck and have a great day! Hoping for a speedy recovery!

It sounds like there are a couple of things going on with Scout at the moment. The drooling and blood from his mouth suggests a dental problem, which can be common in older dogs. It would also cause him to not eat as much, and he would eat the softened food because it won't hurt his teeth as much. As for the thick mucus from his eyes, that can be a sign of an eye infection. Finally the panting can be a sign of being hot or something more serious such as heart disease. It's very concerning to me that you think there is blood in his drool and his eating has decreased. You need to take him into the vet first thing in the morning, this is not something that can be treated at home or should be left untreated. The vet can treat his myriad of problems. Best of luck, I hope this helps.