How to entice dog to eat?

Jimbrown · Feb 15, 2016

I am very sorry, but have had two dogs and two cats die from the same systems. It is classic kidney failure. For some reason the vets never want to admit it or tell you. The best you can do is to pet them, hold them let them know you love them and hope for the best until you know otherwise.

Richard · Feb 15, 2016

Well, I don't know what all to say.... (thanks for thoughts & well wishes)

She was at vet on Friday and then again today. They did two blood tests, one they sent out, awaiting for results and the other they did in house. The in house shows everything being in line with expectations.

There were two of them (don't know what) that "normal" was say, 3-5 and she was like 2.8 and another where normal is a "45" and she's "45.3"

Those are made up numbers, but the point is she was so close to the range, the numbers didn't bother the vet.

I realize it might be her time.

Regarding the metallic taste comment.... I don't recall the name of the pain killer (is that the Tramadol?) but she took a distinct fowl look on her face once I put the pain killer in the food. It was like she was avoiding it (perhaps she was)

Wife is on way home. I'm going to have her get another type of canned food so any association of a foul taste with this food can be mixed up a bit.

We all know these days are going to come, it doesn't make them any easier though.

Citydude · Feb 15, 2016

I'm sorry your going through this. It's one of life's trials that is never easy.

dragoneggs · Feb 15, 2016

My thoughts are with you... sounds like you are doing what you can. Lots of good comments/suggestions here. People differ on the use of pain meds but I know I would want them if I was in that situation. She might eat a little more if the meds are stopped but if she is really in decline it probably won't help. I also like the liver idea better than salty bacon. Hydration is important. I also like the milk/water mix.

MossRoad · Feb 15, 2016

If the dog won't eat, and the tests come back with everything in line, the Vet might want to check the dog with an Xray for a blockage.

SARG · Feb 15, 2016

Regarding the pills ....... my wife simply grabs our bowser by the nose ...opens his mouth and tosses the pill to the back of his throat ......... tells him to swallow while rubbing his throat.... and then follows it up with a favorite treat. She doesn't hesitate or give him options and he's learned to accept the medication.

2458n · Feb 15, 2016

When my dog finally stopped eating I would feed him what I was having. He was so trusting, that he would eat pickles. I have a older dog now and will find this hard. Our thoughts are with you.

dragoneggs · Feb 15, 2016

SARG said:
Regarding the pills ....... my wife simply grabs our bowser by the nose ...opens his mouth and tosses the pill to the back of his throat ......... tells him to swallow while rubbing his throat.... and then follows it up with a favorite treat. She doesn't hesitate or give him options and he's learned to accept the medication.

That's right! I remember now my mom did that (grabbing the lower jaw and pinching my dog's cheeks with her finger and thumb) for awhile when she was sick. Mom tried to get me to do it but I just couldn't then.

Otto Syracuse · Feb 15, 2016

The pill down the throat will work, just wait for him to lick his nose so you know they swallowed the pill.

Have you tried beef or chicken broth on the dry food? That worked with our Lab. Raw egg over the top worked too.

Good luck, hope you get a quick recovery.