#MiddleburyCT #CanineFlatulence #Gas
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My Labrador mix, Barney, has a gas problem – a bad gas problem. I monitor his food intake and have even tried putting him on a special diet food, but he continues to emit noxious odors – not just after eating, but throughout the day. Barney is about 9 years old and was adopted from the shelter. Any ideas on how
to solve his problem? Thanks. – Jesse B., Independence, Mo.
DEAR JESSE: If you haven’t taken Barney to the vet lately, go ahead and do so. As a senior dog, Barney could be developing some problems, including digestive issues, that manifest in a stinky way.
Take note of your dog’s overall physical state and any changes in his behavior or daily routine, and report them to the veterinarian. If his coat is rough or oily, if he seems agitated, if he is constantly panting or whining, if he drinks water constantly – these can be signs of a problem. Check his stools when he eliminates; loose or runny indicates a problem – perhaps minor, perhaps not.
If Barney spends any unsupervised time outside, even just in the backyard, consider whether he has eaten anything he shouldn’t. For example, dogs love to root around and roll in smelly carcasses and other animals’ droppings, and sometimes eat them (yeah, it’s gross, but there it is). He could have picked up a parasite.
Dogs also have a tendency to overeat when given the chance. Secure his dog food well and monitor his eating, just in case. Gorging on dog food or leftovers can cause a life-threatening condition.
Barney may just need a diet that is designed for senior dogs, but let the veterinarian make recommendations based on his diagnosis.
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