Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

In all cases of house soiling, it is important to clean the soiled areas to prevent
odors that might attract the dog to return to the area. Do not punish the
dog. Most likely, the dog is unable to control himself. Scolding and punishment
only produces fear and anxiety, which makes the problem worse. Special
dog “diapers” can be used to help reduce soiling in the house.
CONSTIPATION
This is a common problem in geriatric dogs. Older dogs tend to drink less
water and this produces hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. Other contributing
factors are lack of exercise, improper diet, reduced bowel activity,
weakness of the muscles of the abdominal wall, and prostate problems. An
enlarged prostate can narrow the rectal canal and cause straining to defecate.
Older dogs with reduced bowel activity can be helped by soaking their kibble
with equal parts of water and letting the mixture stand for 20 minutes.
Some older dogs are simply reluctant to get up and move to the water bowl.
Delivering the bowl for a drink a couple of times a day can be helpful. Always
use clean bowls and fresh, clean water.
Nearly all older dogs can benefit from adding fiber to their diet. The best
way is to choose a high-fiber food. Dog foods advertised as “for seniors” usually
contain more fiber. Compare the analysis on the labels of various products.
High-fiber diets are also available through your veterinarian. Adding a small
amount of plain canned pumpkin to the dog’s regular food can also add fiber
to the diet. For information on preventing constipation, see page 280.
DIARRHEA
Older dogs with chronic diarrhea experience weakness and weight loss, and
may develop kidney failure due to chronic dehydration. Like puppies, older
dogs can dehydrate quickly and may need additional fluids, either subcutaneously
or via an intravenous line.
Diarrhea that persists for more than two or three days is abnormal. It can
be a sign of kidney or liver disease, pancreatic disease, malabsorption syndrome,
parasites (especially whipworms), or cancer. The dog needs to see a
veterinarian.
ABNORMAL DISCHARGES
GERIATRICS • 553
Abnormal discharges are those that contain pus or blood. They may have an
offensive odor. Discharges from the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, penis, or vagina
suggest infection. In older dogs, cancer must also be considered. If you see any
such discharges, take your dog to the veterinarian.