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	Rescue Dog with the Runs Q: HELP! We got a six month old xgsd from our local animal sanctuary yesterday (1.4.2000). She had one normal motion but since then she has had severe and uncontrolled diarrhoea. We were advised to feed her on the same food that she was fed in the sanctuary (Pedigree chum complete dry food - not puppy) which we are doing, but she did manage to eat about 1/2 lb cooked roast lamb left within her reach!. Should we take her straight to the vet or is there something we can do at home?

A: The cooked lamb could well be the cause of the diarrhoea, but so could stress at just moving house, an infection, some problem with her intestines that means she doesn't absorb or digest food properly.........there are many causes of diarrhoea. If she seemed unwell in herself, or blood was seen in the diarrhoea, or there was no lessening of the diarrhoea over 12-24 hours I hope you did take her to the vet as severe diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and serious illness. At the first signs of diarrhoea you can withold food for 24 hours and then introduce a bland diet, while making sure plenty of water is drunk little and often. The situation may improve if you do this, but if it doesn't then veterinary attention is required. As previously said, if the dog seems very unwell then immediate veterinary advice should be sought. Jen Campbell BVMS MRCVS
(PetPlanet Vet)

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