Priority: Immediate

Overview

• This is an emergency.
• Contact your veterinarian or after-hours emergency care facility immediately.

Symptom Considerations

• Constipation/straining can have different causes.
• This is different than straining to pass frequent small amounts of feces (usually diarrhea).
• Other symptoms can help identify the cause.
• Please repeat the Pet Health Checker to assess symptoms not already addressed.
• Some questions to prepare for:
  • How long has it been since your dog last had a bowel movement?
  • How long has straining occurred?
  • What other symptoms have you noticed?
• Your dog may need diagnostic tests like:
  • Blood work
  • X-rays
  • Stool sample examination
  • Abdominal examination
  • Treatments, such as fluids for dehydration, enemas
  • Easy to digest food

---