Constipated Shepherd
I've
had my 55lb Shepherd Mix for about 4 yrs. Six months ago, he was in pain,
shaking, and trying not to move. The vet said he was constipated. Two
enimas, x-rays, and wheat meals later he finally had several bowel
movements. Now, he has the same symptoms, so the vet checked his anal
glands, which were full, so they were expressed. He seemed a little
happier, but still wimpered. Then he played ball today, but now..tonight
he appears to be in extreme pain. He doesn't want to move at all, and
cries. We had given him his usual low fat dry food with shredded wheat
squares for breakfast, and then his usual carrot for dinner. What could
be wrong?
Constipation can be quite painful. A diet very high in fiber and low in moisture content can bulk load a colon, and result in blockage. Ingestion of foreign material, such as bedding can constipate a dog. Abnormal contractility of the colon and rectum may be due to a nerve disease, cancer or slipped disc in the lower back.
Laxatives and enemas are often used successfully in relieving acute constipation. Then, the source is identified and eliminated. In recurrent constipation, with proper diet, one must run diagnostic tests to determine the cause. Repeated enemas is not an adequate solution. Radiographs may be able to identify a pinched spinal nerve, cancers or mega colon. Blood panels may help identify internal disease, tumors and other ailments.
A regular diet of a commercial dog food with the proper balance of nutrients, fiber and water is preferred over homemade diets. Consistency is very important, for the food does not mix well down the digestive tract. ie. The vegetables may loosen the bowels, while the shredded wheat may be binding. Fed simultaneously, the mix may be perfect, but difficult to replicate consistently. A regular diet of commercial food is predictably consistent.
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