My 22 lb Shiba Inu (12 yrs old) had ACL/CCL surgery 3 days ago and is home recovering with a cast on the leg for the remainder of the week. She’s doing pretty well except that she hasn’t pooped yet! (What can I say, horsepeople and the focus on poop …)
I sent a question to the vet about how to help her, since I don’t know if it’s due to the meds/dehydration due to meds or if she can’t physically, er, “assume the position.” (Most likely both?) She’s peeing pretty well but wants to come in right away because she’s shaved and it’s cold out.
Anyone have any experience here? I saw online to feed her pumpkin so I’ll share the acorn squash I’m planning to cook today. (Probably won’t hurt and is yummy for her.) And later, pick up some pumpkin puree. I have no idea what happens next … gentle laxative or stand back? If it is a physical stance thing, how on earth do I support her to squat? She is a bit private and usually needs to go pretty far away and circle and doesn’t like anyone approaching while she poops. (Usually, ok by me!)
Has anyone else sent girl dogs through ACL surgery? Any advice? Help - I feel like I’m not helping her very well and not as well versed in getting dogs to poop as horses, lol. Yikes!