Canine Intestinal Distress

What causes canine intestinal distress?

Canine intestinal distress happens when your dog eats something he shouldn't. Usually this involves non-digestible items such as cat toys, your socks, a rock or some such. Sometimes CID occurs when your dog eats something so nasty and revolting that his tummy just shuts down. Known causes include cow afterbirth, rotting elk, or dog turds from the neighborhood.

How do I know if my dog has CID?

You will most certainly know, but just in case here are some general guidelines. Generally, your dog will become very lethargic, arising only to violently expel vomit or diarrhea on your carpet. He won't want to eat anything except treats, and they usually end up on your carpet in short order.

What do I do if my dog gets CID?

First, you have to clean up the mess. Then you call the vet (usually it's late at night on a weekend so you have to call the vet at home) and get your credit card ready for a serious workout. When you go to the vet, your dog will get x-rayed and palpated. Then the vet will give you a bunch of drugs and a hefty bill and send you and your sorry mutt home. For three days you will wake up in the middle of the night to the most horrendous stench imaginable. When this smell ends, your dog will be ready to go outside and play with you again.