My 7 y.o. dog went from healthy to dead in under 12 hours, where can I request a test to find cause of death? (suspected ingested poison, San Francisco bay area)

I'm so sorry to hear about the sudden loss of your dog. Losing a pet so quickly is incredibly distressing, and it's understandable to want answers. Based on your suspicion of poisoning, there are several potential causes, such as ingesting toxic substances like certain plants, household chemicals, or even harmful foods.



To determine the cause of your dog's sudden passing, you can consider having a necropsy performed, which is an animal equivalent of a human autopsy. This procedure can help identify potential toxins or other underlying health issues. In the San Francisco Bay area, you can reach out to local veterinary hospitals or veterinary schools, as they often have the facilities to perform this type of examination. UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine is one such institution that offers these services, and they might be able to guide you further.



While you're processing this loss, keep an eye on any other pets at home just in case there’s a risk from the same source. If you notice symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy in other animals, seek veterinary care promptly.



If you have further questions or need support, consider booking a video consult with one of us on Dial A Vet. We're here to help you through this difficult time and provide any additional guidance you may need.