Something's wrong with my dog, just not sure what

howitzer · New member Joined: 19 Jun 2006 Posts: 2

hi. two weeks ago, my five-month old poodle received a shot through her left hind leg. since then, that same leg hasn't stopped shaking. i asked her vet what was wrong, but he merely instructed me to place some hot compress on that leg. i did, but nothing changed (i'm considering changing vets). meanwhile, my puppy has become more lethargic, refusing to get out of her play cage and has started losing weight. she used to be very playful but now she refuses to come when called. any advice would be very much appreciated. thanks.

Jamiya · Moderator Joined: 19 Mar 2004 Posts: 5593

Yikes! Do you know what the shot was?

DeLaUK · Posted: Mon Jun 19, 2006 7:41 pm Post subject:

Was the shot into the muscle? Its normal to give some shots there but there is a risk of hitting the sciatic nerve, Ive never seen one that hasnt been okay though after a couple of days at the most.

I would definately take your pup to the vet, I dont know whats wrong but from what your saying your pup needs a general check up, something obviously isnt right.....well....unless the heat is getting to her, some dogs can get a little lethargic and lose their appetite during the summer (if your in a hot area), all of my dogs were like that on and off....still, I would go and see the vet.

howitzer · New member Joined: 19 Jun 2006 Posts: 2

She was diagnosed with a respiratory infection which she picked up from the other poodle which I got after her. The shot was given as treatment for the infection. A while ago I called my vet and told him that the shaking hasn't stopped, and he told me it was because the infection may manifest that way (through the leg shaking). I'm not thoroughly convinced though, that doesn't explain the lethargy and loss of appetite.

DeLaUK · Posted: Tue Jun 20, 2006 9:10 am Post subject:

No but the infection itself can cause lethargy and loss of appetite....however if this infection has been going on for over 2 weeks now and your dog is getting worse then....well if I was you I would see the vet again. If this one wont see you then yes....I would go to another vet.

Respiratory infections can take a while to get rid of, is your dog still on antibiotics? if there is coughing is your dog on a cough supprssant? some antibiotics can cause nausea (could lead to loss of appetite) and some cough suppressants can make them groggy (lethargic).....I would play it safe and take your dog back to a vet.

About the leg again, if the only leg that is shaking is the one that had the shot in it....did the shaking start as soon (within a couple of hours) as the shot was given? If it hits the sciatic nerve it is painful at the time....doesnt take long to see the shaking or in some dogs they will limp or hold the leg up.

See a vet.

Jamiya · Moderator Joined: 19 Mar 2004 Posts: 5593

I think I would find a new vet and take your dog for a second opinion.