Business time

When it comes to trying to diagnose your sick pet with…. bathroom issues, one of the most frustrating things owners can do is be a poor historian.  Now I know the whole poop issue is kind of gross, but it’s important!  For those of you who take your dogs on leashed walks and do the scoopin, it’s easy.  I’m talking about the types that open the back door, let them do their bidness and run back in.  We are all busy but a little info can go a long way during the vet visit.  So don’t be shy- its ok to invade Skippy’s PBT (or personal bathroom time -as my best friend calls it).  

http://dogs.icanhascheezburger.com/2007/12/20/cant-poop-wif-you-watchin/

 

(This next section is not for those currently eating dinner or with a weak stomach.  You’ve been warned.) 

If you can’t be bothered to keep an eye on your pet’s “eliminations” then at least try to pay attention the next time they aren’t feeling so hot.  Some highlights your vet may ask about your pet going number two include:  Is there straining?  blood?  loose stools?  mucus?  scooting?  more/less than usual?  These are important points which help us differentiate the types of problems that can cause a rumblin in the tummy.  Other pertinent history includes any recent diet changes, medications they have received, any toys/raw hides that have gone missing recently and/or travel history.  There is an endless list of diseases that can cause loose stools that range from diet changes, parasites, and food allergies to more serious problems such as inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, or enzyme deficiencies. 

(OK, it’s safe to read again)

Another pet peeve of vets is that it drives us crazy when we cannot speak with the pet’s owner.  If you are the mom/dad and have all the information and your significant other/pet sitter/hobo you met on the street brings Max to the vet, then the first point is moot.  Please be present or at least reachable.  We and your pet thank you in advance. 

Before I close, I just want to mention that there is NO anti-diarrhea injection!  Many clients come into the hospital wanting a magical shot to stop potty problems.  This does not exist.  To help calm the bowels you need to either find the source of the problem and correct/manage that, or treat supportively with diet or medications to decrease inflammation or to decrease the risk of bacterial translocation (bacteria moving from the GI tract into the blood stream).  If your pet is very sick then hospitalization with fluid therapy may also be necessary. 

To summarize, my main points of the day include:

1)      Keep a watchful eye on your pets “gifts”  

2)      Doo be able to actually relay the information to the doctor

Ya hearrrrrd????

http://www.zastavki.com/eng/Animals/Dogs/wallpaper-13707-16.htm

With a complete history, physical exam and maybe even bringing in a "donation" from your pet, you can help us to do our jobs better.  (Depending on the problems we are seeing, additional tests may be suggested such as a fecal exam, bloodwork or radiographs. But lets take things step by step.) 

Take care and good poops for all!

Dr. Chu

(BTW, did you like how many synonyms I used for the word poop?)