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My dog is straining, constipated, pale gums. Vet's closed, what to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Male | neutered | 75 lbs

My dog is straining to poop and seems to be constipated. He is exhibiting pale gums but is hydrated and will still eat a little bit of food. As far as we know he has not ingested something that he shouldn't have. We have Given him pumpkin and still no bowel movement. What should we do since the vet office is not open till Monday and there is no emergency vet?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on September 16th, 2017

I would just keep an eye on Loki until you can get him to the vet. Straining can be caused by many different things, including rectal masses or polyps, enlarged prostate, painful or enlarged anal glands, constipation, diarrhea (it can look very similar to constipation!), intestinal obstruction, intestinal parasites, among a few less common things. After thorough examination by your vet, they may recommend diagnostics such as x-rays, bloodwork, or intestinal parasite screening to try to determine what could be the cause. Then appropriate treatment can be discussed.

If you don't see Loki have a normal urination at least every 12 hours, this would be a medical emergency. You can call around to see if there are any open vets or call your vet clinic to see where they refer after-hours emergencies to.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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