Hey all, Tank has been having soft stools and then one minute later he will squat again and only a little diarrea will come out after straining a bit.
We called our vet b/c Tank has an appt to get some shots on Monday and they want us to come in twice, get a fecal test, physical, and a bunch of other stuff done before they give him vaccine. I understand the importance of confirming strong immune system before vaccine, but I think our vet is really out to make money more than anything else.
Does anyone have ideas how to try to help Tank's diarrea without spending $$$ at the vet? We haven't changed his food or amount he eats.
Thanks!!
Thanks everyone!! As always very helpful
Thanks everyone!! As always very helpful
I confirm your instinct
While the diarrhea can be temporary and minimal (easier for me to say, huh) I would try "home remedies" for a day or two before the vet visit and when that does happen, I would consent to a fecal exam (microscopic examination for parasites) and I, too, would hold-off on the vaccines until dog is healthy. I also want to say that with the exception of Rabies in California, all other vaccines can be given by a technician and you should not have to have an exam appointment (and the accompanying charge) just to receive an injection or nasal in the case of bordatella. The vet just needs to write the order for the medication in his record, for it to be given by staff.

Re the diarrhea, assuming its some minor irritation from eating something in the yard or something spoiled or whatever, I try the cooked rice and lean hamburger for 2 days to begin with...bland starchy diet with no other treats (still give vitamins or other meds). If he seems gassy (and your nose or ears will confirm this) you can give 1-2 Pepto Bismol tablets or a Pepcid or Tagamet (simple formula). You can even give 1-2 Tums. Note: when giving Pepto that it may turn the stools "greyish in color" and its the medication, not any new problem.
I confirm your instinct
While the diarrhea can be temporary and minimal (easier for me to say, huh) I would try "home remedies" for a day or two before the vet visit and when that does happen, I would consent to a fecal exam (microscopic examination for parasites) and I, too, would hold-off on the vaccines until dog is healthy. I also want to say that with the exception of Rabies in California, all other vaccines can be given by a technician and you should not have to have an exam appointment (and the accompanying charge) just to receive an injection or nasal in the case of bordatella. The vet just needs to write the order for the medication in his record, for it to be given by staff.

Re the diarrhea, assuming its some minor irritation from eating something in the yard or something spoiled or whatever, I try the cooked rice and lean hamburger for 2 days to begin with...bland starchy diet with no other treats (still give vitamins or other meds). If he seems gassy (and your nose or ears will confirm this) you can give 1-2 Pepto Bismol tablets or a Pepcid or Tagamet (simple formula). You can even give 1-2 Tums. Note: when giving Pepto that it may turn the stools "greyish in color" and its the medication, not any new problem.
absolutely agree
absolutely agree
Well
you could try adding a tsp of 100% canned pumpkin (not the pie filling) to his food and that should help firm him up. Give it a try.
![[linked image]](http://dl5.glitter-graphics.net/pub/53/53265joppby0ncb.gif)
If it was my dog, I wouldn't want any vaccine given unless he was 100% I certainly agree with that. If the pumpkin doesn't help it's a good idea for a fecal - atleast.
Well
you could try adding a tsp of 100% canned pumpkin (not the pie filling) to his food and that should help firm him up. Give it a try.
![[linked image]](http://dl5.glitter-graphics.net/pub/53/53265joppby0ncb.gif)
If it was my dog, I wouldn't want any vaccine given unless he was 100% I certainly agree with that. If the pumpkin doesn't help it's a good idea for a fecal - atleast.