Show Dr. Jeff Werber is an Emmy Award-winning, nationally renowned veterinarian and former president of the Association of Veterinary Communicators. For more from Dr. Werber, find him on Facebook or on his website at www.drjeff.com. So when is that “problem” really serious? When should you panic and take your pet to your veterinarian immediately? As a general practitioner who fields phone calls from anxious clients on a very regular basis, I thought it would be a good idea to share with you some guidelines to help ease your minds (or not), and help you answer these questions. Mind you, from experience, I’d venture to say that 80-85% of “emergencies,” aren’t! That being said, let’s talk about a few of the “common” complaints: Vomiting/Diarrhea As far as diarrhea is concerned, we typically see two types—small intestinal and large intestinal. Small intestinal diarrhea is typically characterized by very loose or watery stool. These dogs are often more depressed or lethargic and seem “sick.” In contrast, large intestinal diarrhea is often more soft or “mushy,” more like “cow patties,” and can even appear to be encased in mucus or even frank, or red, blood. Dogs with large intestinal diarrhea are more often than not still happy and animated. Though this stool with blood may look scary, it’s usually not something to panic about. If dogs with the very watery, small intestinal diarrhea, are still acting okay, and will eat, we recommend feeding them a very bland diet, say boiled white meat chicken, or low-fat cottage cheese, mixed with white rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. This is fairly easy to digest and will act to help bind them. Dogs with the large intestinal soft/mushy stool will usually still want to eat, but should be fed bland food high in fiber. The bland chicken or cottage cheese is still appropriate, but for the carbohydrates you want to feed high fiber, like cooked oatmeal, bran or bran flakes (no Raisin Bran, of course), or canned pumpkin. You can even add some psyllium powder. Again, if the symptoms persist past a few days, actually worsen, or if your dog’s general attitude, energy, or appetite diminish, it’s time to see your veterinarian. Limping If a soft tissue strain is likely, you can try applying an ice pack or wrap the limb in a cold towel to help relieve any inflammation. In a pinch, you can give your dog an aspirin or Ascriptin (one baby aspirin per 15 to 20 lbs of body weight, or one adult aspirin or Ascriptin per 60 to 80 lbs of body weight) once! Do not use any Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen without first consulting your veterinarian! Likewise, if you think you need to use a second dose of aspirin because the limping has not resolved at all, we recommend you consult your veterinarian first. If signs of limping or limb pain persist with no resolve within the first 24 to 36 hours, then it is time to visit your veterinarian. In part II of this article, we will cover the problems of Shivering/Shaking, and Weakness/Lethargy. If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian – they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets. Why is my dog not eating and throwing up and diarrhea?Vomiting and diarrhoea can have a wide range of causes including parasites, a viral infection, a bacterial infection, toxin ingestion, a gut obstruction, a new food allergy or sensitivity, pancreatitis etc.
What do you do if your dog has diarrhea and won't eat?Most cases of diarrhoea in dogs are not serious and dogs will get better by themselves. But if your dog has diarrhoea and other symptoms, such as frequent vomiting, lack of appetite, lethargy or bloody diarrhoea, contact your vet or find your nearest emergency vet.
When should I take my dog to the vet for diarrhea and vomiting?However, here are some signs that you'll want to bring them to the vet sooner rather than later: Multiple occurrences of vomiting or diarrhea. Vomiting for more than 12 hours or diarrhea that goes on for more than 24 hours. Noticeable loss of energy, lethargy, or an inability to stand and walk.
Will dogs with parvo drink water?Dehydration is very serious; dogs with canine parvovirus refuse water and quickly dehydrate due to their constant vomiting and diarrhea symptoms.
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