What to Feed Your Dying Dog
A dying dog will most likely experience changes in their appetite. They may lose it entirely and no matter what food or treats you offer your dog, they may refuse to eat. They may even reject water. You might start noticing visible weight loss as your dog continues to refuse eating. This could be due to an illness or old age. During this time their digestive system starts to shut down, such that they will not feel any hunger or thirst. You know your dog is soon going to die, but you want to make your dog as comfortable as possible. There are various feeding methods, especially if they cannot feed themselves, or have trouble walking. The following are ways in which you can feed your dog in its last stage here on earth.
1. Change your dog's dry food brands
If your dog is refusing to eat the dry foods they have been eating, then you may try changing the brand. But first you need to try a sample pack to observe how your dog reacts to it. Alternatively, you could mix his dry food with some wet food to stimulate your dog's appetite. This may actually be better than just feeding your dog only dry food.
2. Give your dog a special treat
Just as with human beings, dogs may resent their usual food especially when sick. Try adding special treats such as baby food or foods we eat such as chicken. This could end up being so irresistible that your dog will at least be eating some food each day. Start with tiny amounts. Also, try mixing the special treats with their dry food diet. You may try different variations of baby and human food and see what works best for your dog. You can try out the following:
a. Chicken Broth
Chicken broth has a good taste that your dog may like. It also sits very well in a dog's stomach.
b. Chicken and Rice
Rice and chicken are used as ingredients in most dog foods. Make sure the chicken is thoroughly boiled and cut up in very tiny pieces so that it's easy for your dog to swallow. Do not season the chicken or rice.
c. Bone Broth
Bone broth is very nutritious. If your dog has not been eating and has a suppressed appetite, then bone broth is the best for your dog.
d. Pumpkin
Pumpkin is very good for your dog's digestive system. It has a considerable amount of fiber, vitamins, including magnesium and iron. However, do not feed your dog pumpkin pie as it has sugars and seasonings which will just upset your dog's stomach.
e. Baby Food
Baby food is definitely easy for your dog to eat. In addition, it is nutritious. Give your dog meat-based baby foods that don't have garlic or onion in them. Turkey, lamb, and chicken are good options.
3. Use an appetite stimulant
In the beginning when your dog refused to eat, you might have given it some time. Dogs can go for many days without eating. But if they refuse to eat for very long periods then you may have to use an appetite stimulant. However, you have to talk to your veterinary doctor to get the right medicinal stimulant. Since your vet will know why your dog is refusing to eat, he will prescribe the most suitable one. This is because there are those that can cause nausea to your dog. The appetite stimulant works by mimicking the hormone that makes your dog hungry and only your vet can prescribe the correct one so as not to cause any other adverse reactions.
4. Use a Syringe
Using a syringe is actually forcing your dog to feed. This method should only be administered when all other methods have failed. If your dog has not eaten for two days, then a syringe may be the solution. You can put in wet food or broth and feed your dog. However, do not attempt to use this method until you have visited your vet. If done wrong, it can have negative effects on the health of your dog. Your vet will show you how to use it without harming or causing discomfort to your dog.
5. Heat up your dog's food
Heating your dog's food will increase the smell and palatability. Dogs that are unwell have a hindered sense of taste and smell; therefore warm food will provide the fragrance that can awaken the appetite. The food also tastes better which your dog will love.
6. Add Broth
Adding broth to your dog's food like chicken broth will improve the smell and palatability. The flavor added to your dog's food will improve the taste, enticing them to eat again.
7. Feed by Hand
You may opt to feed your dog by hand. This is done by feeding them one piece at a time. Despite this process taking much time, it is a good method to feed your dog who has lost appetite.
8. Encourage water intake
You may end up being so focused on food intake that you forget that your dog also needs to take enough water. Their water intake is just as important as their food intake. You need your dog to remain hydrated even though they are dying. Even though your dog may not refuse to take water like they would food, if they do not take any water, you may try the following methods.
- Try giving them an ice cube to lick.
- Offer your dog water on your fingers.
- If your vet recommends it, you may offer a pedialyte.
- Put the iced water in their bowl.
Conclusion
In general, feed your dog in moderation at this particular time. Do not feed them on rich foods as they can easily upset the stomach. Don't force your dog to eat. You will have to wait until they have their appetite again. Finally, ensure your dog has a comfortable bed to rest in and make sure they get lots of rest.
Source: https://www.heartmyhound.com/how-to-feed-a-dying-dog/
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