My small dog has abdominal pain and won't jump. What can I do?

I am very sorry to hear that Poppy is experiencing these problems, I am sure it is very unsettling for you both. There are a number of potential causes of such clinical signs, including dietary indiscretion, pancreatitis, parasite infestation, infection, and ingestion of a toxin or poison. I would believe the most likely cause based on your description is that Poppy has a mild gastrointestinal infection or she ate something she shouldn't have. Because you have only noticed these signs over the course of a few days I would continue to monitor Poppy at home. Here is what you can do to help her; Rest Poppy's gastrointestinal tract by holding back food for a few hours. Then you can continue with a bland and easily digested food of the boiled chicken breast and white rice diet and provide plenty of fresh water. I also find that boiled, mashed skinless sweet potato is helpful for diarrhoea if she develops any. If Poppy does not improve, has profuse vomiting or diarrhoea, you notice fresh blood, Poppy seems lethargic, in pain or depressed I would advise a trip to the veterinarian. Here are some links to helpful resources for you in case dirrhoea starts: https://www.petcoach.co/article/most-common-causes-of-diarrhea-in-dogs/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/6-things-you-can-do-at-home-if-your-pet-has-diarrhea/ I hope that answer was helpful and more importantly that Poppy feels better soon. Warmest regards to you both.

Hello, Maggie looks like she is a real cutie. Not wanting to jump is a very clear indication of either back or abdominal pain. Since her BMs are normal, I would guess her back is bothering her a bit. Rest & antiinflammatories are the best cure for this type of thing. You can apply a little warmth to her back for about 10 minutes 2-3 times a day but speak with your veterinarian about some pain medication. She is, after all, getting to be a senior citizen. I would also encourage you t consider x-rays of her abdomen & back just to make sure nothing is being missed. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

The abdominal pain and inability to jump may be a sign of spinal cord trouble. Seeing that Scruffy is is a dachshund, there is always a possibility that he has a slipped disk (Inter vertebral Disk Disease). This is very serious and time is of the essence. Please take Scruffy to a vet or Pet ER now. The longer you wait the worse the condition may get. This is also very painful. He could also have a serious tummy ache, which would need to be ruled out.

It sounds like your dog has a problem with her back as that is a common sign of back pain. Dogs are usually reluctant to jump because it causes pain. Your vet can check her for back pain and then prescribe medications to help. She may need an anti-inflammatory, muscle relaxer, and/or pain medications to help. Also, it would be a good idea to restrict her activity for a few weeks, no running, jumping, etc. Hope she feels better soon!

Thank you for more information on Shaggy's current symptoms. Squeaking in pain when jumping down from the couch can indicate a problem with his spine, neck, hips, or legs. He could be in pain when laying down, such as joint pain, again causing him to squeak. Because he is making painful noises when jumping, I would be more inclined to think it's a problem with his musculoskeletal system rather than his stomach or GI system. I would rest him tonight, no running, jumping, or playing. Take Shaggy out to toilet on a lead only and bring him right back in when he's done. Tomorrow morning, I would have him seen by a vet to diagnose what is causing him pain so he can be treated. Please do not give him any human pain medications as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. The vet can give him pain medications as needed.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding your mom's dog. I am glad that she is being seen today as she sounds very painful from your description. If she is a small breed dog, neck or back pain are common sources of pain. The muscles that line the spine can spasm causing the dog intense pain. In worst case scenarios, pressure can be put on the spinal cord resulting in neurological problems. If this is not the case, abdominal pain from GI upset or even constipation could be the source of pain. Her examination should tell the doctor the source of her pain so that treatment recommendations can be made. Keep her very quiet up until her appointment this afternoon. I hope this information helps!

If I had to guess based on your description I would say disc herniation. In my experience dogs that have primary gastrointestinal disease or pancreatitis causing abdominal pain do not have a normal appetite. A veterinarian who is able to physically examine Beatrice in person and has access to all diagnostic results would be able to make the best assessment.