Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 7/14/2008

Question
Hello,

My foster dog Lily has had several health issues previous to coming to stay with me. These include a nail infection which spread to the bone requiring the removal of her toe, several teeth being removed, stiffness in her hips from a previous trauma and being severely underweight.

I am writing because she has another nail infection and the vet believes she has weak nail beds which increases her risk of infections. She is on antibiotics and I have started giving her a supplement that the vet gave me but I'm wondering what else I can do. Also, Lily has gained weight but she is still not where she needs to be despite my feeding her meat with her dry food and feeding her as much as she will eat.

I am also curious. Does it mean anything that her poop has a smooth texture? With most animals and humans alike you normally notice the ridges and bumps and valleys from the intestine but she doesn't have any of that. Her poop is completely smooth on a consistent basis. Does that mean anything? I ask because I'm wondering if she is having digestive problems and is not absorbing all the nutrients from her food it may be contributing to her other health issues.

Thank you for your help,
Melissa

Answer
Melissa -

It is hard for me to answer these questions without actually evaluating your foster pet.  Diseases of the nail bed can be serious, so it is wise to continue with the advise of the veterinarian.  

Because the dog is underweight, there is a possibility that she can have digestive problems.  Once again, you would have to talk it over with your veterinarian regarding the condition of her digestive tract.

Sorry I can not offer more help, but it is best for you to continue consulting with your veterinarian because she/he has a  working knowledge of your foster pet.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM