Q. Is My Dog Sick or Has My Dog Stopped Eating Because She's at the End of Her Life?
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Posted by Mia Carter Oct 4, 2008 |
On October 4, 2008, I got a question from a reader of Helping a Dog Who Won't Eat. This pet owner asked: "I'm not sure if my dog is sick or just old. Does a dog quit eating when she is at the end of her life? She is 14-years-old."
Unfortunately, without a physical examination, it's difficult to determine whether the dog is just ill and suffering from a curable or treatable illness or disease or whether this dog has started the dying process. Older dogs are prone to developing a wide spectrum of diseases and illnesses, many of which can be treated or cured with medication and other various treatments. A poor appetite in a dog or a dog who is refusing to eat is almost always ill.
But, considering the dog's age, there is certainly a chance that the dog could, in fact, be in the process of dying. Many dogs will stop eating near the end of their life - usually within a matter of hours before passing.
This is a situation where I would offer supportive care - tempting foods, extra fluids and hand-feeding, if necessary. I would also visit the veterinarian as soon as possible for an examination and some diagnostic testing like blood work, which will help determine whether this dog is suffering from a curable or treatable illness. Even in the case of a terminally ill dog, there are medications and treatments that can make the dying process easier and more comfortable for the dog.
I also have a few reading recommendations that should be helpful in guiding this pet owner in caring for this dog. Even a dog who is dying should be provided with supportive care to make the dying process as comfortable and peaceful as possible for the pet. The following articles should be helpful:
In addition, I would also recommend reading my article on treating vomiting in dogs, which provides information on how to feed a sick dog, how to keep a dog from suffering from hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and how to combat dehydration - three problems that will also face a dog who is not eating.
Dehydration is a big problem for a dog who's not eating and drinking properly. This excerpt is from my article titled Treating a Dog's Diarrhea at Home and it includes helpful tips that can be used for a dog who is not eating and drinking to successfully ward off dehydration:
"To counteract the dehydrating effects of diarrhea, provide your pet with unflavored Pedialyte, which can be added to the dog’s water bowl in a 50-50 mix. Pedialyte ice cubes can also help in the battle against dehydration, as many pets enjoy ice cubes as a treat, particularly in warm weather."
So in sum, I would recommend a visit to the veterinarian as soon as possible for an exam so that the exact nature of this dog's ailment can be determined. And in the meantime, provide supportive care (fluids and tempting foods, Nutri-Cal or maple syrup) to help prevent dehydration and hypoglycemia.
Have a pet question? Send your questions to Mia.Carter@Suite101.com
Disclaimer: I have extensive experience in caring for animals, including sick and special needs animals, but I am not a veterinarian. I can provide information and advice based on research and my many years of experience with pet care and training, but it's not a substitute for seeking medical attention from a veterinarian.