Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 11/12/2009

Question
Hello. My puppy is behaving abnormally. He is very lethargic and can barely walk, eat, and drink water. He sleeps for basically the entire day and only moves when you make him move. I also noticed a patch of skin on his paws that had no more fur and the bone on his paw looked like it might be exposed and his flesh was visible. He is not barfing or vomiting. His stools are normal. Could this be potentially fatal?  He seems extremely lifeless and can barely hold his head up.

Answer
Irene -

I can hardly believe that you are writing this note instead of rushing your puppy to a veterinarian's office!!! If your pet cannot stand or hold its head up, the animal should be immediately seen by a veterinarian!!

If the symptoms you suggest are accurate, then certainly this condition can be fatal.  Extreme weakness in a puppy can mean severe dehydration and/or anemia caused by parasitism or viral or bacterial disease.  If he is still alive, please take it to a vet as soon as possible.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM