older Schipperke

[tazsteele]

Taz (my Schippy) is 12.5 yo and is in good health (confirmed by the vet). He has begun to have less-than-firm stools and askes to go out more frequently. Also, since he was a pup, he has been bothered thunderstorms (& fireworks) which is a daily occurance this time of year in SW FLA. I'm told that the first stool issue is most likely age related, coupled with the daily storms that it may not be abnormal, but I'm curious to get other opinions from pet owners and/or professionals.

[Prin]

Have you tried feeding him just a bit less?

[tazsteele]

No, but I'll try that. Anything to help him feel better.

[Prin]

It might help. If he has too much to digest, he might not digest it all. Otherwise, people suggest canned pumpkin sometimes (not pie filling).

At his age, probiotics might help too (they can help any age, really....). You can get them in the fridge of health food stores.

[tazsteele]

Has anyone had experience with this? What are the options?

[OntarioGreys]

Stress like thunderstorms like the vet mentioned can result in softer stools, you can try adding a spoonful of plain canned pumpkin(not the already prepared pie filling type) to his meal to firm him up