Puppy Diarrhea
I just
brought home an 8 week old mastiff puppy last night. She has been
vaccinated with her first series of shots on Feb 10, including parvo.
I'm concerned because she started having diarrhea today that has
decreased in volume but has become increasingly watery. She still has an
appetite, is playful but is sleeping a lot. I'm worried because
it's the weekend and I won't be able to call my vet until Monday.
Any ideas?I'd be very grateful for help you can offer.
There are many causes of diarrhea in puppies, and you are right to be concerned. No matter what the cause, diarrhea causes a young dog to loose valuable water, electrolytes and nutrition quickly. If untreated, a puppy can succumb to the weakness and even die.
Sudden changes in diet can result in diarrhea. The digestive system is quite sensitive. Changing from one food to another should always be done gradually over a weeks time. When purchasing a new pup, you should always find out what diet was fed by the breeder or previous owner. This diet should be fed in the new home for at least one week. Then, you can change the diet gradually if necessary.
Parasites, such as tapeworms, flukes, whipworms, coccidia, giardia, and many others can cause diarrhea. These do not resolve on their own, and worsen with time. Your first visit by your veterinarian should include a fecal analysis for parasites. Routine deworming by breeders and pet shops is inadequate, for no single worming medication kills all the different parasites.
Parvovirus, rotavirus, coronavirus, distemper, and Salmonella are just a few of the diseases which affect puppies, and cause diarrhea. A veterinarian is necessaryu for help in this area, for specific diagnostic tests and special treatments may be necessary.
Sometimes puppies become nervous in a new home, and have mild diarrhea just because they evacuate their lower intestines prematurely. This is usually mild, and intermittant diarrhea.
Most over the counter anti-diarrhea medications should not be used in puppies, for they merely cover up some symptoms and may cause delay in seeking veterinary assistance.
The bottom line: Take your pup and a fecal sample to your vet as soon as possible.
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