Our Vets are Available 🟢
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.
Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial Guidelines
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
Resources
Lorem ipsum dolor
PricingHow it WorksContact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Can a dog wearing an elizabethan collar for several months develop vitamin D deficiency?

I'm really worried about my dog, Max. He's a five-year-old golden retriever and he's been wearing an Elizabethan collar for a couple of months now due to a persistent skin condition. The vet assured me it was necessary, but I've noticed he's been lethargic and his coat seems duller than usual. I'm starting to wonder if this long-term use of the collar could be affecting his ability to get enough sunlight, and if that could lead to vitamin D deficiency? Has anyone else experienced something like this or have any advice? I really want to make sure I'm doing everything I can to keep him healthy while we're dealing with this issue. Thanks in advance for any help!

Answer:

Hi there! It sounds like you're doing your very best to take care of your dog. To address your question, wearing an Elizabethan collar, or "cone," isn't directly linked to causing a vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency usually results from dietary issues or lack of sunlight exposure. Most dogs synthesize enough vitamin D through their diet, as they don't rely heavily on sunlight for vitamin D production like humans do.



If your pup has been wearing the cone for an extended period, it's important to consider their overall well-being. Ensure they're eating a balanced diet, as good nutrition is key in preventing deficiencies. If you suspect a deficiency due to symptoms such as lethargy, weakness, or poor appetite, consider these as signs that warrant further investigation.



Also, make sure the cone isn’t causing any stress or discomfort that might indirectly affect their eating habits. A harness walk or some time outdoors—with supervision—can help lift their spirits.



It's always good to rule out any underlying issues. If you're concerned about your dog's health or notice any persistent unusual behaviors, it might be a good idea to book a video consult with one of our vets here at Dial A Vet. We're here to help and ensure your furry friend is in the best possible health!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 20, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Idiopathic chylothorax, fluid every 2-3 days. How many chest taps?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sudden concerning symptoms in dog w/ CHF starting furosemide
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cats & steroids (the M E O W edition)
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cat in her last 24 hours of life - ok to stop some meds?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links