What to Do if Your Puppy Eats Rat or Mouse Droppings: A Comprehensive Guide

As a pet owner, it's natural to react to unexpected situations with concern, especially when it comes to the health of your puppy. If you've recently discovered that your puppy may have ingested rat or mouse droppings, it's important to act promptly and cautiously. Here’s what you need to do.

Immediate Actions and Cleaning the Mouth

First and foremost, contact your local veterinarian if possible. If you’re a zoo owner, you can call the vet there. Otherwise, you can utilize technology to your advantage. For instance, you can use Siri by texting “call my vet” if she’s set up to receive messages this way.

Even if your puppy seems fine at the moment, there are proactive steps you can take to ensure they remain healthy. After calling the vet, immediately bring your puppy inside and place them on an exam table or a clean, flat surface. Your next step is to clean their mouth to reduce the risk of bacterial infection.

To do this, dip a clean finger into a small amount of mouthwash and apply it to one side of their mouth, then the other. Clean their tongue as well. Following this, use your puppy’s toothbrush and some toothpaste, and thoroughly brush their teeth. Vigorous brushing can help eliminate any bacteria that may have entered their system.

The Danger of Rodent Poisoning

While eating poop might gross you out, it is not necessarily the worst thing your puppy could ingest. Dogs often consider chicken poop to be a delicacy, and horse poop can even be a favorite snack. However, if your puppy ingests droppings from a rat or mouse that has consumed rodent poison, this can be a critical situation.

It’s crucial to monitor your puppy closely for any signs of distress. Symptoms of rodent poisoning in dogs can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, or if your puppy appears unwell, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Handling Diarrhea and Other Symptoms

If your puppy begins to show signs of diarrhea, it’s important to provide them with some relief. A common recommendation is to give your puppy about 3 ml of Pepto Bismal to help settle their stomach. However, always consult with your veterinarian before giving any medication.

Once your puppy is on a medication regime (if needed), you should increase their fiber intake. Canned pumpkin, such as Libby’s brand, can help firm up their stool. Offering about 5 tablespoons of canned pumpkin can be beneficial in managing diarrhea and providing additional fiber to support their digestive system.

Preventive Measures and Outdoor Safety

Your puppy’s health and safety extend beyond immediate action. Remember that dogs in rural or wooded areas are more likely to come into contact with rodent droppings compared to city dogs. This is particularly true for countries like the United States, where the prevalence of rodent infestations is higher.

To prevent your puppy from ingesting harmful substances, it’s essential to maintain a safe environment. Avoid areas where there is a high risk of rodent activity, and clean up any spilled food promptly to reduce the attraction of rodents. Additionally, ensure that your puppy is not allowed to roam freely in areas where there is a known risk of encountering poisoned rodents.

Final Word

I cannot stress enough how critical it is to seek professional veterinary advice when dealing with your puppy's health. Many questions on pet-related forums often revolve around the health concerns of puppies, and yet, the owners wait to ask their vet, risking the health of their pet. Caring for your pet involves taking prompt and appropriate actions, and consulting a professional is the best way to ensure your puppy remains healthy and happy.

To avoid any potential issues, always get your pets regular check-ups and keep them up-to-date with vaccinations. If you ever have doubts about your pet’s health, do not hesitate to contact a veterinarian. The health of your pet is too important to wait for.

Additional Resources

To find more information on pet health, visit reputable websites such as the American Veterinary Medical Association and American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). These resources can provide you with expert advice and guidance on various pet health topics.

Have a fantastic day and a wonderful puppy!