Constipation occurs occasionally in dogs. Constipation is defined as infrequent or absent defecation with retention of feces in the rectum and colon. Older and less active dogs are most prone. Signs that your dog may have constipation include straining to defecate, with or without dry feces. Causes of constipation include indiscriminate eating, for example garbage and diapers, a lack of dietary fiber, dehydration and obesity. Dogs with chronic diseases, anal sac abscesses and poorly healed pelvic fractures, are also at risk.

WHAT YOU CAN DO
* Increase the fiber in your dog’s diet. Add fresh vegetables ¼ cup of grated raw vegetables per 10 lbs. Along with cooked brown rice or wheat bran. Raw meat acts as a natural laxative. For example, liver tastes good and is a source of B Vitamins and Iron. For long-term prevention increase dietary fiber to ten or 15 percent. Increasing your dog’s fluid intake is also beneficial; try offering honey water, chicken broth and fruit juices.

* Exercise increases blood flow to the intestines and promotes motility which helps prevent constipation.

* Prolonged and/or recurrent bouts of constipation can adversely affect nerve function to the intestines. Confirm a diagnosis with your vet to help avoid long-term consequences.

(NOTE: Constipation can affect older, less active dogs that are dehydrated.)

COMPLEMENTARY TREATEMENTS
HERBAL REMEDIES
Remedy #1: Increase dietary fiber with any of these herbs: Psyllum, Cascara sagrada, Senna, and Aloe.

Remedy #2: For small dogs, soak four pitted prunes in water and mix into a bowl of oatmeal with two tablespoons of milk. Larger dogs should have six to eight pitted prunes prepared in the same way and added to oatmeal with four tablespoons of milk.

Remedy #3: Make planters of edible oats and wheat or try growing edible grass.

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES
If spoiled food is the problem try Nux vomica 6c (poison nut): one pellet every 12 hours for three days. For poorly nourished dogs, try Silicea 6c (silicon dioxide/tissue salt): one pellet every 12 hours for three days. Withhold food 10 minutes before and after these treatments.