Chipper + Cat Food = Ick! Ick! Ick!

[RedHedd]

:D I absolutely LOVE the pics with Zam's tail draped over his face and from the looks of the wrestling matches, you would never know he'd been sick! Looks like they're having so much fun!

[pitc9]

I like his bulldog look!! :D
Oh Kim... I love this picture!!
It's so sweet!!

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y164/ramanth/chipper/IMG_1547.jpg

Has he still been doing good??

[ramanth]

He has! Thanks for asking. :D

He's been playing practically non stop with Kia and eats his food so fast I worry he's going to urp it up. I might get one of those bowls that keeps dogs from inhaling their food because I really don't want him to get the bloat.

We went for a walk last night and he started to limp. I freaked out not knowing if he had pulled a muscle or hurt his pad or what. Turns out he had a few ice balls on his feet. Poor guy.

He loves the snow though. :)

[caseysmom]

Casey gulps her food too...I have resorted to only giving her a bit at a time...my daughter said there was a commercial for a dog dish that makes them eat around these things so it takes longer to prevent bloat.

[ramanth]

Yep! That's the bowl I saw on TV too.

Kia used to pick at her food and now eats it in one sitting. She doesn't gulp hers down yet somehow they finish at the same time. It's quite interesting.

I don't think I'd be able to feed him a little at a time for fear he'd try to eat Kia's and she would not approve.

[tatsxxx11]

Great to read all of the happy updatesl!:):):) The pics/videos are PRECIOUS!
Hugs to the patient!:D

[Cinder & Smoke]

Is THIS the Bowl you're talking about ???


http://www.strangenewproducts.com/uploaded_images/brake-fast-706329.jpg


Go to this site to see a write-up AND lengthy discussion of pros & cons >>>
http://www.strangenewproducts.com/2006/05/brake-fast-doggie-bowl.html

And here's the Manufacturer's web site >>>
http://www.brake-fast.net/

/s/ Phred

[moosmom]

Kimmy,

Sounds like Chipper is on his way back to feeling his old self again. Let's hopethe virus is gone. He deserves to come back and be with everyone who loves him. I'm sure once he gets back home, he'll be fine.

If there's anything I can do, please PM me, okay??

((HUGS))))

Donna

[K9karen]

WHOPPIEDOO!!! Welcome Home Mr. Chips, you handsome devil! Hey, dude, as long as it means you're AOK, you can pee on my leg anytime..just stay healthy! You had us scared to death. NOT ALLOWED!

:( Can't see the video using Linux but the photos were awesome! Kim..I'm so happy you're all united again! Hugs and Kisses all around!

[ramanth]

Donna, he's actually home now. As long as he keeps eating, drinking, taking his meds, and pooping normal, he doesn't have to go back to the hospital. So far he's doing all of those like a champ. :D

You could come visit. ;)

Thanks for the good thoughts all. Chipper had a pee and poop accident last night when Andy got home. I think he was just a wee bit excited. Good news is that the poop was solid and easy to clean up. :rolleyes: :p :D

He didn't gulp down his breakfast meal so I think he's starting to realize that we and Kia are not going to take it from him. Plus I've added more dry and less wet and it seems he gulps down the wet faster than the dry. The only reason he gets the wet is to hide his pills in. :)

That's the bowl Phred. Thanks for the links, I'll check that out. :)

[Vela]

So glad to hear he is doing so much better! Keep it up Chipper buddy, then we can start seeing pics of you in the General section rather than having to worry about you being sick!

[Kfamr]

I am so glad Chipper is feeling well. Keep it up buddy!

I can't wait to get up there and meet him one of these days!

[anna_66]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v43/anna66/Smileys/a-exclaim12.gif Glad to hear your feeling good buddy...keep it up!

[mugsy]

Excellent!! Are you guys going to make it down on Saturday?

[cyber-sibes]

Wooooo woooooo! Atta boy Chipper, keep everything coming in and going out on schedule!

[AdoreMyDogs]

Welcome home, Chipper! I'm so glad he's doing good. You have yourself a very special boy there. He's a very precious boy :) He's so lucky to have found yourself.

[Cookiebaker]

Kimmy, I have no idea how I missed this thread for so long. :( I am so sorry that you all had to face this ordeal. What a horrible few days you had. And I am so glad that it is ending well. :) Here's hoping that Chipper STAYS well, and NO MORE SCARES like that!!!!! {{HUGS}}

[dukedogsmom]

How sweet! I just love this. Just look how he's grinning. I'm so glad he's feeling good now.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y164/ramanth/chipper/IMG_1550.jpg

[kallisto4529]

Sorry I have not posted before now, I have kept updated on Chipper, and I prayed every day for him. I am so glad that he is doing so much better and that he is home where he is truly loved!!! the pics and video are great, he is a beautiful boy.
WELCOME HOME

[mugsy]

Kimmy and Andy, have you ever noticed how much Chipper looks like our Tigger?? Mike was amazed! He is a beautiful boy!!!! I'm sorry you can't make it this weekend, but, there are other weekends....maybe another when it's not going to be so rushed.

Keep up the good work Chipper boy!

[ramanth]

Kimmy and Andy, have you ever noticed how much Chipper looks like our Tigger??
Actually that thought occured to me last night! :D

He's still doing well. Eating great and super playful.

Kia got a bit bitchy with him last night and ended up with no supper and a long time out in her crate because of it. We were wondering when the first scuffle would happen. No blood drawn, though from the sounds of his screaming, you'd think she had mangled him. :rolleyes: :o :eek:

But they were back to being buddies this morning.

Still waiting to hear from MSU. I would of hoped the test results would be in by now but I might not hear from them until early next week.

[pitc9]

Now Kia...... you just simmer down sweet thang... no one's going to take your place sweetie!
Your mom and dad love you just as much as ever!
Make sure to take good care of your new brother and help him feel better!
You're going to have a life long play buddy! :D

[Cinder & Smoke]

Kia got a bit bitchy with him last night and
ended up with no supper and a long time out in her crate because of it.

We were wondering when the first scuffle would happen.
... from the sounds of his screaming, you'd think she had mangled him. :rolleyes: :o :eek:

But they were back to being buddies this morning.

I don't think Cinder & Smokey have EVER had a cross word between them ...
but to listen to them "playing" ... you'd think it was a Fight to the DEATH!

They really enjoy appearing (tied together on their Y-Thingy) when I stop to chat
with another Hiker at the BigLake Park ...
One of 'em will either fake *bite* the other, or *snarl* & *lunge* - then they begin a LOUD Battle with lots of teeth & paws. :rolleyes:

Women grab Babies, Dads shield Kids & Dogs, jaws drop, <gasps> are heard ... :eek:

"Oh, they're just PLAYING! ... They really LIKE each other."
Yeah, right ...

[ramanth]

Yeah, they play very rough with lots of teeth, growls, and wrestling. That's actually Kia's play face in my avatar. Looks evil, but for the most part she's a push over.

So it was easy to tell that Kia was not playing when she laid the smack down on him.

I think she was a bit sore at him from the earlier incident. Chipper was chewing a bone, Kia took it away, Chipper tried to take it back, Kia attacked, so I took the bone away. Sadly Kia has that food aggression issue still.

A couple hours later while I was preparing their dinner, Chipper walked past Kia and she just unleashed on the poor boy. When I got her off him, he tucked tail and ran.

[cyber-sibes]

So it was easy to tell that Kia was not playing when she laid the smack down on him.Kia's house...Kia rules. Sometimes you just got to sit on those boys to get them in line. :rolleyes:
Glad to hear he's getting back to normal.

[ramanth]

Kia's house...Kia rules. Sometimes you just got to sit on those boys to get them in line. :rolleyes:
LOL! No way! My house... My rules! ;) :D Well... I think. :rolleyes: :D

Seriously, if he had nagged her to the point that he deserved it, then the scolding would of been to both of them and less severe.

But he didn't do anything to deserve that level of snark from her. However, yes, the boys do need to be kept in line now and then. ;)

[Fett]

Which boys are you referring to?

:p

[ramanth]

Not Raptor or Nimrod, so that only leaves three left! :p ;) :D

[lizbud]

I don't think Cinder & Smokey have EVER had a cross word between them ...
but to listen to them "playing" ... you'd think it was a Fight to the DEATH!


Same here. I know how common it is & I've always watched for it, but just
has not happened yet. Maggie does get pushy sometimes. :) I hope poor
Chipper got the message & peace breaks out again. :D

[ramanth]

Chipper continues to do well. He and Kia continue to play nice and haven't had any spats since. Kia has been making some strange whiney noises when they play though. It's pretty funny to hear. I'll have to try and get some video.

Dr. Byl called yesterday and left me a message. Said he was curiuos how Chipper was doing. I called back this morning and he was busy doing rounds so I left a message with the receptionist Judy. She remembered Chipper and was happy to hear about his progress.

I also inquired about the blood work that should be back by now. Hopefully no news is good news.

[pitc9]

STILL no results from the blood work?
Where in the world did they send it too??
Hope you get the results soon, and yes... no news very well could be good news!
Also glad to hear they've not gotten into any spats!
Yikes... you, Kay, Jess, Amy... new pups all around.... makes my mind start thinking.... hummm.... what's one more? :o

[mugsy]

Chipper was definitely acting Chipper on Saturday!! He is just SO cute!! The digital pictures turned out pretty well too. The problem is that the files are too big to send via email, so Mike is burning copies of the pictures on CD for you all...that means it will have to be mailed...unfortunately.

I'm glad that Chipper is doing well. How are the samples going?

[ramanth]

Just got off the phone with Dr. Byl! He was encouraged to hear how Chipper is doing. He said the soft stool is likely from the wet food and/or the medication. I wasn't concerned since there has been no diarreha but it's good to have an explanation. Dr. Byl is curious what Chipper weighs right now to see if he's gaining weight or holding steady. He still looks thin but a lot of it is due to his build.

The test results are back!!
The Cobalamin/Folate showed intestinal bacterial growth.

Dr. Byl is happy we all agreed on the course of antibiotics vs. the endoscopy at this point. The antibiotics should clear that up.

His TLI levels were low but not disturbingly low. His are at 4.8. What that means:

Values between 3.5 and 5.0 µg/L are rarely if ever associated with signs of EPI (Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency) but may reflect subclinical pancreatic disease such as subtotal pancreatic acinar cell destruction secondary to on-going immune-mediated lymphocytic pancreatitis. Progression of the disease in such patients may ultimately lead to EPI.

PLI was normal.

The fecal culture did show some bacteria that is associated with GI issues but the Baytril he is on should clear it up.

His course of medication ends on Friday. We'll keep a close eye on him to make sure he doesn't regress without the medication. Seeing as it's possible he could develop pancreatic issues in the future I plan to put him and Kia on Solid Gold Holistique Blendz. :)


Molly, They wolfed down the samples of Solid Gold at home same as they did in the store. I plan to switch to it once the Canidae is gone. :)

[borzoimom]

Honey- TLI numbers explain a lot. This looks really good! All treatable ... I am relieved!

[mugsy]

YEAH!! I'm glad it's very treatable. He sure seemed healthy on Saturday.





Molly, They wolfed down the samples of Solid Gold at home same as they did in the store. I plan to switch to it once the Canidae is gone. :)

Excellent! Does that mean you can come down once a month to get your food!? ;) :D

[ramanth]

We need prayers badly.

Chipper is regressing. He's had diarreha yesterday and today and both days had diarreha in his crate when I got home from work. There were spots that looked suspiciously like blood today.

He's lethargic again and refuses to eat. :( :( No vomiting though and he is drinking water.

We are so at a loss.

If his condition does not improve by tomorrow he'll need to go back to MSU and likely have the endoscopy done.

[Jadapit]

:( Oh no! I'm so, so sorry to hear that. Chipper will be in my thoughts and prayers. This has to be so hard on all of you.

[Queen of Poop]

Oh Chipper, I'm so sorry you're feeling badly again. I pray that you will get better, but you're probably going to need to see those nice doctors again.

[Sudilar]

Prayers coming your way, Chipper. Hope you start to feel better very soon. Hugs.

[ramanth]

Thanks. This is sooo stressful. :(

He was microchipped yesterday and Andy wonders if that's why he's not feeling well. He had diarreha before getting chipped though, but if it is as simple as that, it would be a blessing.

[Cinder & Smoke]

http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/eek.gif

Hi God ~

Sorrie to bother - we know You're gettin ready for Jeasus' Birfday ...
but it's purdy important ... 'bout lil Chipper ... nudder case of UppieSet Insides.
http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/frown.gif

We wuz all happie kuz he seemed to be Feelin GREAT - Eatin an Playin an Happie.
NunBuddie knowz why or how he gotz ta feelin so bad so quick ... http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/confused.gif

Kan You *Look It Up* inna Big Book - an talk it over wiffa White Coat Gang at MSU?
We'd sure like ta have him Feelin Gud fur Chrissmiss - Iffin You can arrange dat.

An how'z his Chipper Pfund ...
do we need ta kollekt summore Pennies to help get him Fixed Up??

We gotz da Prayer Kandilz all Lighted up inna winnow - kan You see em fruuma Bridge, God?
We'll keep da Prayers commin, too.

THANKS fur Your Help, God.

/s/ the Prayer Pups anna Purrayer Kat.

[lizbud]

Oh no. :( I am so sorry to hear that.What in the world can this be?
I hope you guys can get some answers soon & Chipper can start to feel
better & stay better. This must be so stressful for everyone. :(

I will pray as hard as possible to get this little guy cured.

[Ginger's Mom]

Ah man, *stamps foot*, I am so sorry to hear this. Prayers going out for our special boy.

[sabies]

Glad you are better Chipper!

[caseysmom]

My casey gets an upset stomach pretty easy, maybe he is just one of those sensitive dogs...I sure hope its nothing serious.

[ramanth]

Thanks all.

He vomited some yellow bile at 7. He's been crashed out on the couch ever since and not really interested in anything.


*small edit* Just now at 8 pm, Andy saw our neighbor out with his dog, Chubbs. With much encouraging, Chipper followed Andy and Kia out onto the patio and wagged his tail while sniffing Chubbs. His usual reaction is full out jumping up and down and whining wanting to wrestle but it was nice to see his tail up. Once back inside he curled up on the couch.

Still doesn't want food.

[ramanth]

Keep those prayers coming!!!

Around 8:30, Andy went to open a kraft single cheese slice to snack on and Chipper sat straight up on the couch and wagged his tail. So Andy gave him a small piece and he devoured it!!! So he fed him another piece and before we knew it he ate the whole cheese slice! Not sure if that's bad for him but I couldn't help cheering him on.

So we tried to think of what we could give him. We decided to put some tuna juice on the crunchies. He nibbled half heartedly at it and sat staring longingly at the tuna can. So we fed him a piece and he gobbled it down.

Just now he ate a can of tuna mixed in with a cup of rice. He didn't eat the whole thing at once as we fed it in increments. Chipper also didn't care for the rice plain and ate it grudingly since the tuna was mixed in. But he did eat!

He had a little rawhide last week and a Beggin' Strip treat on Monday. Other than that nothing but his prescription food we still have from MSU. I'm hoping the upset tummy is from that and not something else.

Keep those PT prayers coming! :D

*edit* Andy just took him out and he peed a little, had a tiny soft poop and jogged with him and greeted some people. He's now playing fetch!! :D :D

Oh keep praying.... get him better!!

EEEE! Now he's wrestling with Kia!

[Rachel]

Chipper is just going to keep us on our knees for a while, isn't he? Do you think he may have a sensitive tummy and that raw hide or the Beggin Strip might have been a bit too much for him? Sounds like he is perking up a bit tonight. I do hope that he will continue to improve. I know this has to be wearing you out.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I sure hope that Chipper is now on the road to recovery and that it's nothing serious. Lots more prayers and positive thoughts are being sent his way.

[ramanth]

Rachel, we are thinking that. So now he's not getting anything but his dog food and the training treats (that the vet said were okay).

He also shredded a tennis ball earlier this week. I thought I got it away from him in time, but I'm wondering if he swallowed a piece.

He's really perking up. After the wrestle session with Kia, Andy offered him the remaining plain rice and he gobbled it down. Andy was curious, she he offered Chipper a handful of crunchies. He ate 7 handfuls! :)

He played tug with Andy, then tug with Kia, then entertained himself with a squeaky toy. He's now outside with Andy.

I think he likes to keep me on my toes (and knees as you said ;) ) You'd think he's starved for attention or something... :p :rolleyes: :D

[Cinder & Smoke]

... before we knew it he ate the whole cheese slice!

Just now he ate a can of tuna mixed in with a cup of rice.

Chipper also didn't care for the rice plain and ate it grudingly ...
since the tuna was mixed in.

EEEE! Now he's wrestling with Kia!

:confused:

Does he by any chance go "MeeeOwe" when he speaks - rather than *Bark* ??

It's one thing to have an "I don't wanna eat" type of "funk" ...
but to have serious "runs" frequently is NOT good. :(

Even if he "seems better" - I'd chat with the MSU White Coats and try to test
for whatever is causing the runs to happen. The Tests might not need to happen before Christmas ...
but I'd think it needs to be looked at some more.

Keep Feelin "Better", Mr. Chips!!

:)

[BC_MoM]

Perhaps Chipper has something like Irritable Bowel Syndrome?? Hopefully you guys find out what's wrong with him and that he recovers fully for GOOD soon!!

I know how stressed you are -- we're having problems with Molly right now too and are having NO luck whatsoever what exactly is causing her problems.

Prayers and good thoughts his way. Glad to hear he's perking up again.

[Vela]

I would honestly not ever give him rawhide or beggin strips again. Neither is good for their digestive tract, especially for a sensitive dog. They do better with just large raw meaty bones or bully sticks. The rawhide can really do a number and is not digsetible, which can harbor bacteria in the gut and make them really sick. The beggin strip is just junk food and he doesn't need it so probably just best not to have him ingest the chemicals and colorings used in it, just to be safe.

Glad he's feeling some better. Hope he pulls out of it soon!

[Logan]

Oh dear. I hope he will continue to feel better, Kimmy. It is so hard to know what to treat and for how long. My 3 have just finished worm treatments to take care of every kind of worm possible, except tapeworms. We had to deal with some of the worst diarrhea and throwing up that I have ever known.

Give Chipper a kiss from me, please.

Logan

[shais_mom]

lots of love
hugs
and prayers sent on the way! :)

[Daisy and Delilah]

Chipper and family are all still in my thoughts and prayers. Feel better Chipper!!! :)

[ChrisH]

I don't think I have replied in this thread before but I have been following Chipper's progress (plus non :( ) and keeping him in my prayers. My heart sank when I read of his relapse then rose up again at the last two reports.

Love, hugs and prayers for the sweet boy.

[ramanth]

Looks like things are turning around.

Despite having diarreha this morning, he ate his breakfast. I also gave him an anti-diarrehal pill I had from the vet.

He played with Kia as well.

He's never going to get rawhide or any "junk-food" treats again. It's obvious he has a sensitive tummy and we'll have to give nice wholesome treats from now on. :)

Thanks for prayers. They worked wonders once again. :) We'll be sure to keep an eye on his progress and give the vets a call.

[mugsy]

Good Kim...rawhides are not good things at all...the all natural ones aren't bad, but the ones that you get at Petsmart, etc are not good! They don't digest.

I will check with Mike and maybe we can find him some good treats that will be ok for his tummy. I am wondering about the Dogswell Happy Hips that are duck breast...an alternate protein source.

[areias]

Aww Chipper, its good to hear that you're feeling better! All these ups and downs are scarin' your mom to death. Keep feeling healthy! ;)


On a side note, you may want to avoid treats/foods with "colors". Such as the beggin strips, snausages, t-bonez, k9 carryouts...in the long run, I think this is what a vet friend of mine said, a buildup of the "colors" can cause some pacreatitis and similar problems. What kibble do you feed? Do you feed raw too? Maybe it's an allergy to the colors in the treats...

[anna_66]

I just got done reading all the new updates and I'm so happy to hear he's doing better.
Do you remember my friend Jennifer with all the huskies? One of her fosters had the runs forever, just couldn't find the right food for him either.
Must be very frustrating to have this keep happening.

I have to say that I think your making a good decision not giving him any more treats. I just hope it works!

Lots more prayers being sent your way.

(((HUGS)))

[pitc9]

Oh Chipper!!
I hope and pray your tummy gets set on the right track soon!
Your new family is worried about you and your tummy!

[ramanth]

Thanks all. Molly, I think those Dogswell products are worth a try. Chipper really likes the Zukes as well. We only have the Mini Naturals training treats, but we plan to pick up some other varieties.

areias, once they are done with the Canidae, we'll be switching them to Solid Gold Holisitque. :)

When we adopted Chipper (and at the expo) we were given so many freebies and of course that's where the Beggin' Strips and other treats like that came from.

Kia is part goat and eats anything not nailed down. So dealing with a sensitive tummy is different and hard but not impossible. I'm sure Kia will enjoy the new yummier treats. ;) :D

[wolf_Q]

I'm glad to hear Chipper is feeling a bit better after he was sick again. I'm hoping all he has is a sensitive stomach. It doesn't take much to give Nebo diarrhea, he had it fairly regularly (about every 2 weeks) as well as throwing up when he was on a chicken based food (natural balance). He's had lots of tests, more than once, and they've never found anything wrong with him. He's been a lot better since he's been on a venison based food (natural balance too). I've come home to diarrhea and throwing up in his crate several timnes and rushed him to the vet only to spend lots of money and find out nothing. I've stopped buying any of the "soft" treats except Zuke's they all seem to have lots of colors, propylene glycol, etc. in them. I still give him milkbones (one in his kong each day) I know they aren't the best but he loves them and they don't seem to bother him. It's not that uncommon for Nebo to skip his dinner either, maybe Chipper is like him.

[Jadapit]

I'm so glad hes doing better! :)

[Queen of Poop]

I'm really glad to read that Chipper appears to be on the mend. I had to stop giving Sasha rawhide treats earlier this year. She got the same reaction, vomiting and dirreah. She's not had them in over 6 months now and is doing just fine.

[ramanth]

Thanks everyone. :)

He's still having diarreha but it's not explosive :eek: or bloody. He turned his nose up to breakfast but I think he's just really tired of the prescription Eukanuba that MSU sent home with us. I mixed in a little Canidae and he started to eat.

He's also been having some stinky farts. Phew! Making my eyes water. :o

[lizbud]

Poor Chipper. Tummy problems are no fun at all. I do hope he continues
to improve day by day.

[Cincy'sMom]

Sorry to hear Chipper is having more issues, but hope he continues to improve.

My BIL's dog has allergies to just about everything. His girlfriend mixes up oatmeal and bakes it for him into cookies...I don't think it is anything but the oatmeal, and he loves it. I'll see if I can find out exactly how she does it, as it might be a treat for Chipper.

[sabies]

I hope you find some good foods that Chipper and his stomach like. Feel better Chipper!

[Cinder & Smoke]

He's also been having some stinky farts.
Phew!
Making my eyes water. :o

:D
Stinky Phartz ... :eek:

A sure sign someone's visited the Hunter's Deli across the road ...
and partaken of some *fresh* Deer Burgers. :p


Happie Howly Daze!!


http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid221/pb69bc37bd70ab67439cd8390e7db30b0/eb799a2e.jpg

[Pam]

Thanks everyone. :)
He's also been having some stinky farts. Phew! Making my eyes water. :o

Maybe you can slip him a Bean-o! :p Seriously, I am wondering if there is something like that for dogs with such problems. I'm sorry to hear that his tummy has not completely settled down. Then again, he has come a long way from the sick little boy he was not long ago. I give Bella and Ripley bully sticks occasionally. They love them and they last forever. Bella is a voracious chewer and it takes her ages to finish one.

[ramanth]

Maybe you can slip him a Bean-o! :p Seriously, I am wondering if there is something like that for dogs with such problems. I'm sorry to hear that his tummy has not completely settled down. Then again, he has come a long way from the sick little boy he was not long ago. I give Bella and Ripley bully sticks occasionally. They love them and they last forever. Bella is a voracious chewer and it takes her ages to finish one.
LOL Pam! I know! There you go...something you can invent. ;) :D

Actually, the stinkies are subsiding and now if we smell a little gas, we know it's time for a bathroom break.

His diarreha is all gone and he's back to his chipper and food devouring self. Despite him giving us the "eyes", we gave him no treats and spent a lovely holiday with no ill after effects.

Thanks for the info on the bully sticks. Kia and Chipper are also voracious chewers and we have been hesitant spending $11 on something that might be gone in mere minutes.

He did get to spend a short time at the Bark Park on Christmas Day. He sorta came when we called and unfortunately was attacked by a husky mix. He's okay though and it didn't seem to faze him. He kept greeting others and played hard with a young GSD and a Toller. :D He just ran and ran and ran. :)

He starts obedience school on January 10th.

[mugsy]

Hey Kimmy, next time you come down, we have Bully Sticks at the store for $3.99. Glad that the gas has subsided.

[ramanth]

Sweet Molly! :) I'll let Andy know.

We got a lot of PetSmart gift cards from the family, so we just may indulge in the mean time. Will be sure to read and make sure it is a true bully stick and made in the States.

The Canidae is almost gone, so I'll be picking up a bag of Solid Gold soon. They've been on the SeaMeal since the 11th and seem to really like it. :)

[cyber-sibes]

Sounds like you are slowly closing in on the problems(s)! You can open an enzyme capsule & sprinkle the powder on Chipper's food to help with digestive problems too. Enzymes really do help. good to hear he's playing with others & has a good attitude - can't wait to meet that sweet boy!

[mugsy]

Kimmy, our Bullys are made of nothing but beef tendon, so they are completely digestable...so when you ask, make sure you ask them to verify that they are all natural and if they say they don't make them, tell them to call the store and talk to Mike! ;) I'm glad the Seameal is working! I'll let Mike know.

[anna_66]

So glad to hear you all had a enjoyable holiday with no problems:D
I hope he's on the mend and all these problems will be behind you soon!

And I agree...can't wait to meet that boy of yours!

[ramanth]

Just wanted to say that Chipper is doing great!

We found that Soldan's carries a lot of nice natural treats including bully sticks for not too bad of a cost.

We switched to the Solid Gold over New Years and so far so good. Nice poops, no vomiting, and no lack in appetite. He eats like every meal will be his last. :rolleyes: :p

His energy level is through the roof. We have to put him in a time out frequently to give Kia a break and have been walking him with a backpack with light weights in it to try and tire him out.

We limit the amount of treats he gets. We use Zuke's for training and Old Mother Hubbard brand for everyday treats. No reprecussions from those.

So it seems like we got his sensitve tummy issue under control. Hopefully the switch to Solid Gold will ease Kia's itchies.

[anna_66]

That's wonderful to hear Kim. I'm so glad that the new food and treats are making him feel better (maybe a little too much better eh;)).
Hope the new food works just as well for Kia.

[mugsy]

YEAH!!!! Excellent news... I am so glad the Solid Gold is working for you! You should write a testamonial about the effects with pictures and we will post it at the store. Everyone who has seen Kia's and Chipper's Christmas pictures think they are gorgeous!

[pitc9]

GREAT news!!!
Bet you never thought he's be feeling THIS good!! :D

[CathyBogart]

YAY! I'm so glad to hear that everyone is doing so well. :)

[cyber-sibes]

That's a relief! glad to hear the new food is working out well. Skritches to Chipper & Kia.

[ramanth]

I'll be sure to do that Molly. I've been waiting for some nice weather to take some outdoor shots of him... if I can get him to hold still long enough! LOL! :D

Angie, no, I certainly wasn't expecting this when he got better. He just doesn't slow down! :eek: :D

[Daisy and Delilah]

YAY!!!!! Glad to hear that that cute boy is so much better. Give him some kisses from Terry, Daisy, and Delilah!! :) :D :)

[ramanth]

So Chipper decided to sneak some cat food and is paying the price. :(

Came home Tuesday to find vomit in his crate. He was acting pretty dumpy but he had no loss of appetite. He had diarreha that night.

He woke Andy at 3:30 a.m. wanting out and had more diarreha. When I took him out at 6 a.m. yet more diarreha.

But the worst was when we got home from work and his crate was covered in diarreha. :eek: :(

Ugh the smell!! I was gagging. :p Andy took him outside and he had even more diarreha! Poor guy. Don't know where all this poop is coming from. :(

He's still semi active and drinking a lot and has an appetite, I just hope this works through him fast. He was doing so well so this set back is heart breaking.

[krazyaboutkatz]

Kimmy, I'm so sorry to hear this.:( Do you free feed the cats? If so you may need to stop doing this or only feed them when Chipper is supervised. It sure sounds like he has a very sensitive tummy. I hope he'll feel better and get better soon.

[ramanth]

I sort of free feed. I give the kitties each a small scoop of food in the morning before I leave for work. Kia and Chipper are crated so they can't get to the food when I'm gone.

Typically Chipper stays close to me in the mornings but when I heard the unmistakable sound of the cat's bowl scooting across the floor, I realized he was not in the living room.

I went to the back room and caught Chipper chowing away. The cats had already ate most of it, but what little he got is sure doing a number on him.

He's passed out on the couch right now.

On the upside, he's had three sessions of obedience class so far and is doing great! Despite the upset tummy, he went to class tonight and did very well. He did better at stay than any other in his class. :D

[k9krazee]

On the upside, he's had three sessions of obedience class so far and is doing great! Despite the upset tummy, he went to class tonight and did very well. He did better at stay than any other in his class. :D


That's fantastic!! :D

Chipper, hope you're feeling better soon though!

[cmayer31]

I have to ask my roommate to feed his cat on the counter where Frankie can't get to it. She will do anything to eat the cat's food and if she can't get to that she'll try to find the other roommate's dog's food; it's the same formula/brand as her own.

Lucky for her she doesn't have the same reaction to cat food as poor Chipper does. I'm glad to hear he is doing well in class.

[Cinder & Smoke]

So Chipper decided to sneak some cat food and is paying the price. http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/frown.gif

I sort of free feed.
I give the kitties each a small scoop of food in the morning ...

... when I heard the unmistakable sound of the cat's bowl scooting across the floor ...
I went to the back room and caught Chipper chowing away.

http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/eek.gif

Must be pretty *potent* Kat Chow!

Suggestion: Compare the list of ingredients in the KAT chow to what's listed
on Chipper's DAWG food label ...
cross off any items in both foods ...
then SAVE the remaining items from the KAT chow as a "suspected" list of alergens for Chipper.

You could even cross-check those Kat Chow items against the ingredients in the
dog foods you've tried before ... see if the same suspected items appear in any of the
old dog foods that seemed to give him trouble.

Now ... where to *hide* the Kat Chow ... ??? http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/confused.gif

[ramanth]

I don't think it's as much the ingredients as it is the protein levels. Chipper is on a low protein diet that's easier for him to digest. Cat food in general is very high in protein.

Pups eat Solid Gold Holistique Blendz:

Ingredients
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oatmeal | Cracked Pearled Barley | Millet | Ocean Fish | Tomato Pomace | Potatoes | Canola Oil | Flaxseed Meal | Salmon Oil | Natural Flavor | Choline Chloride | Taurine | Dried Chicory Root | Amaranth | Parsley | Spearmint | Almond Oil | Sesame Oil | Yucca Schidigera Extract | Thyme | Blueberries | Dried Cranberries | Lentils | Quinoa |

Protein, Min 18%
Fat, Min 6%
Fiber, Max 4%
Moisture, Max 10%
Calories per cup, 336



Cats eat Purina Cat Chow Indoor Formula:

Ingredients

Corn meal, poultry by-product meal, corn gluten meal, soy flour, beef tallow preserved with mixed tocopherols, cellulose, salmon meal, soybean hulls, malted barley flour, brewers dried yeast, natural flavors, phosphoric acid, calcium carbonate, tetra sodium pyrophosphate, potassium chloride, choline chloride, salt, taurine, zinc sulfate, ferrous sulfate, l-alanine, vitamin supplements (E, A, B12, D3), niacin, added color (red 40, yellow 5, blue 2), manganese sulfate, parsley flakes, calcium pantothenate, thiamine mononitrate, copper sulfate, riboflavin supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride, citric acid, folic acid, calcium iodate, biotin, menadione sodium bisulfite complex, sodium selenite


Crude Protein--min. 30.0%
Crude Fat------min. 9.5%
Crude Fiber----max. 9.0%
Moisture-------max. 12.0%
Linoleic Acid--min. 1.25%
Calcium--------min. 1.0%
Phosphorous----min. 0.8%

Selenium-------min. 0.30 mg/kg
Vitamin A------min. 10,000 IU/kg
Vitamin E------min. 35 IU/kg
Taurine--------min. 0.125%


Chipper has such a sensitive digestive tract that he needs low protein food and treats that have no added preservatives and dyes. No Beggin Strips or treats like it, no rawhides, no pig ears, no greasy cheeseburgers.


Kia woke us at 3:30 a.m. and I took both pups out. Kia peed and pooped but Chipper only peed.

I went back to bed and when the alarm went off at 6, I thought I caught a whiff of a puppy fart.

We're not that lucky.

A large pile of diarreha by the bedroom door. :eek: http://bestsmileys.com/sick/9.gif

We only had a tiny bit of Natural's Miracle left. Enough to get the stain out but the smell is still there. :( We're picking up more after work and will soak it and cross our fingers.

Poor guy looks so dumpy, but his appetite is still there and he's drinking lots of water. So it's no where near critical. Just need to get that cat food flushed from his system. I gave him an anti-diarrehal pill we had from his November vet visit. Only one pill left. Thinking about calling in a refill.

Pray there is no diarreha in his crate when we get home.

[Cinder & Smoke]

I don't think it's as much the ingredients as it is the protein levels.
Chipper is on a low protein diet that's easier for him to digest.
Cat food in general is very high in protein.

Just need to get that cat food flushed from his system.

http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/eek.gif

Poor Chip! http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/frown.gif

I guess I don't understand "digestion" and high vrs. low protein! http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/rolleyes.gif

I Wonder HOW a lil bit of Kat Chow can upset his system for Soooo Long? http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/confused.gif
Maybe you could ask the Vets if there's some "fix 'er upper" medicine or coating that
could be given to him to calm, soothe, and speed up the recovery of his digestive system.

Sure hope Chip gets it flushed out and returns to Feelin GOOD again!
http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/wink.gif

[Daisy and Delilah]

Just checking in on Chipper and sorry to hear about the latest news. Chipper, that cat food may taste good but please stay away from it, sweetheart!!
I sure hope he's feeling better soon and back to his old self.

[ramanth]

I guess I don't understand "digestion" and high vrs. low protein! http://petoftheday.com/i/our_smilies/rolleyes.gif

It's okay Phred. Before November I didn't understand or know about all the differences either. Had to do some quick researching and had long chats with the vets when Chipper was at MSU. :)

I think he consumed the equivilant of a handful. Sure doesn't seem like much but it was just enough to make his tummy do the tango.

Thanks for the good thoughts everyone!

[pitc9]

Oh Chipper.... Chipper Chipper Chipper....
You poor thing, maybe this will teach you to leave the kitty food to the kitties huh??

[Queen of Poop]

Oh Chipper, do you think you'll eat cat food again??? Better not sweetie. Could you give him some Pepto Bismol to help him feel better? I've got it for Sasha. The vet said to give her 1 1/2 cc's if she's got the runny poops. If it doesn't work then we go to the pills we have for that. Now that she's 12 we have to watch what she eats as her tummy is VERY sensitive. Thankfully she's had close supervision, gastro diet and not very many instances of runny poops lately.

[ramanth]

I just got off the phone with the vet and she said to give him Immodium AD. I can also withhold his food for 24 hours to see if that'll help. If the diarreha persists until Saturday, she wants me to bring him in.

[sprokett]

hi hope he gets well soon poor thing

[ramanth]

Well we came home to find another mess of diarreha in his crate and him covered in it. Ugh.

So into the bathtub he went. He's currently on the couch trying to regain his dignity.

[Cinder & Smoke]

Oh GOSH!
:(
Poor Chip!

Maybe it's time for him to SKIP a meal or two to try to Finish the Flush;
then start with a fresh meal.

Here's Hoping things clear up before "the weekend" to avoid the White Coat Visit.

FEEL Better, Chip!
;)

[BC_MoM]

Oh, no, Chipper.. you poor boy. Just when you're doing good, you get sick again! :(

Donna, have you tried feeding him some canned pumpkin? That usually helps firming up poops ~ some rice and beef is very easy on the tummy as well.

[ramanth]

Donna? :confused: ;) :D

He went without breakfast and we're withholding dinner. Andy just took him out and he peed but no poops.

Fingers crossed. :)

[BC_MoM]

Donna? :confused: ;) :D

You know what... Don't ask ~ I really do know your true name!. :eek: Sorry KIM!!!

[Daisy and Delilah]

Get Better Chipper!!!!!!

[ramanth]

:D It's cool.

No accidents overnight.

Offered him a little breakfast which he dug right into, but ate slowly, and didn't finish it.

When I took them out this morning, he had a little diarreha. Figured it was working it's way out since it was a tiny bit.

Not a minute after we came back in, he squatted in the living room and expelled a lot of diarreha. :eek: :(

Bleah! My poor carpet can't handle this.

[BC_MoM]

YIKES! Poor Chipper ~ poor carpets!! :(

[ramanth]

Progress!!! :D

Came home and Chipper had no mess in his crate. Andy took him out and said he had a tiny diarreha.

I took him out again at 6:30 and his poop was soft but no diarreha!

Just took him out again at 9:30 and another soft tiny poop. YAY!

He's enjoying his dinner right now. :D

I think he's on the road to recovery and the cats have told him to stay the *bleep* away from their food. :eek: ;) :D

[Cinder & Smoke]

Progress!!! :D

... no mess in his crate.
... 6:30 ... no diarreha!
... 9:30 ... soft tiny poop. YAY!

He's enjoying his dinner right now. :D

;)
Sure hope Chip's Tummy has "rested" enough to tolerate a load of DAWG food!




... the cats have told him to stay the *bleep* away from their food. :eek: ;) :D

:p
:rolleyes:

Boots, da Kat, tried that "bleep" talk with Shadow (Husky/Shepherd, RB :( )
back when Boots moved in ... Shadow never seemed to *get* the message!

Our "fix" was to relocate the Kat's Krunch Bowl to the bathroom - up on the Vanity.
MUCH less of a temptation up there than when sitting beside the Dawg Bowl!

You Guys might look into a small Dawg Crate fitted with a small KAT Door to
use as the Feeding Room for the Kats.

Good Luck!
;)

[ramanth]

Dinner consisted of a half a cup of food where he normally would get two cups. And he didn't eat it all, maybe half of it. We're just happy he has an appetite and we're letting him take it slow. So worry not. It wasn't a load of dawg food. ;) :)

The cat's food and litterbox are in the back bathroom. Unfortunately it's one of those deals where it has a sink, but no counter space. I think during the day we'll place the bowl in the sink, till we can figure out how to put something large enough for the cats to comfortably sit on while they eat and that Chipper can't reach. It's a wee tiny bathroom.

Here's Logan modeling the sink.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y164/ramanth/Fur%20Kids/IMG_1292.jpg

[Cinder & Smoke]

The cats' food and litterbox are in the back bathroom.

... it has a sink, but no counter space.

... and that Chipper can't reach.

I STILL don't know WHY the Dawgs - Old Shadow and now Cinder & SmokeMutt -
didn't / don't just

* walk into the bathroom
* STAND on their back legs
* gently *pull* the Kat Krunch Dish a bit closer
* and PIG OUT on Kat Krunch! They (except poor Bowz) can EASILY reach it!
:confused:

They KNOW the Kat Krunch is in there ... sillie Kat plays Krunch Hockey with his food
and tosses pieces down on the floor every day - which the Mutts happily lick up.

Why am I complaining? :eek: Should be thankful that they DON'T raid the Kat's Krunch!

BUT --- I *DO* have to flush the Tootsie Rolls in the Sandy Box as soon as they appear or
when we come home - THEY *go* pretty quickly if not attended to! :rolleyes:

[krazyaboutkatz]

Kimmy, I'm so glad to hear that Chipper is finally improving and I hope he continues to do well.:)

The last time that Starr had bad diarrhea I didn't feed him for about 1 1/2 days and then I fed him some rice with a little bit of chicken broth mixed in. Then the next day I fed him very small portions several times a day. I know that my carpet has also seen it's share of the runs and I've found that Simple Solution works very well to clean it up and to get the odor out.:)

[anna_66]

I don't check in as regularly as I should, but I'm glad to hear that silly boy of yours is doing better:)
I was just thinking about you all this afternoon and wanted to give some hugs and kisses to those furries of yourshttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v43/anna66/Smileys/muah.gif

PS I don't think I ever thanked you for the wonderful card so...THANKS:D

[ramanth]

Thanks everyone!

Chipper is back to his chipper self. Poops are normal and chaos has resumed in the household. :rolleyes: ;) :D

Happy to hear you liked it Anna. :)

[cyber-sibes]

Update? oh yeah, ........no news is good news! :D

[ramanth]

I updated right above your post Pat. ;) :D

Chipper is back to normal. :)

[BC_MoM]

Glad to hear he's feeling better! :)