my dog may have swollen glands or....

[jjcavale]

i noticeed that my 7 yr old pit has a small ball on either side of her neck right below her jaw...she has been somewhat lethargic and has a loose stool..and dosn't have much of an appitite ..

someone help !

thanks
jason

[ginger899]

If the Benadryl helped, and she also vomited a lot of mucus, then she could have some gastro-intestinal inflammation possibly caused by an allergy of some kind. This is just a possibility. Don't take my word for it. I am not a vet, and often get things wrong!

It still would be a good idea to have her checked over by a vet. Vomiting large amounts of mucus, unexplained neck swelling, loss of appetite, and lethargy are all symptoms which need proper attention.

Yes, sometimes dogs have an upset, then get better of their own accord, and we are glad we didn't panic (and run up a bill at the vet's office!) Sometimes that happens. But it is a fine line to balance. In my opinion, anything that is pretty dramatic, of sudden occurrence, or worsening.....or anything that doesn't automatically get better within 24 hours needs veterinary attention. The skill is in knowing your dog. What signs mean your dog is ill? What signs mean your dog has just had a bit of an upset, and will be just fine after a night's sleep...?  You have to use your instincts and your wits.

[jjcavale]

I gave "baby" some benedryl last night. she woke up this morning. the size of the balls were reduced greatly .
she vomited lots of phlegm and seems to be a little better.
should i give her more benedryl.
thanks
jj

[ginger899]

This could be swollen glands. The most likely cause would be some kind of infection, but there may be other causes, such as problems in the lymphatic system. Whatever this could be, it is a job for the vet.
I do think you should take her in to be checked out. Then get whatever it is treated, and hopefully she will get better soon.