Expert: Delores Beck - 1/16/2008

Question
QUESTION: I adopted a 3 year old Cocker Spaniel from the SPCA.  I was informed that the dog was potty trained and I noticed he had a red bump on his eye.  I was informed that it is called a cherry eye and can be removed.  
I brought the dog home and he has pooped everywhere, I take the dog out every 4 hours but he does not like to do his business.  He walks from pole to pole lifting his leg.  He also refuse to get dog food only human food.  What do I do?  What is a good dog food to keep his black coat shinny and healthy?  Is there any long term effects of having a cherry eye?


ANSWER: I'm assuming you've only had this boy for a short time?

He's in a new environment with new owners..so be patient and make sure he gets out after each feeding and after every nap.
Probably best to back up and begin as if he's not housebroken.

As to food - what are you feeding him?  I strongly advise no kibble for cockers and some good canned foods are:
Canidae (go to Canidae.com to locate a store)
AvoDerm (PetSmart).

The cherry eye needs to be attended to by your vet and the sooner the better.  Also take a stool sample in to the vet to check for parasites.  

If you got him from the spca they probably gave you his vac records.  At age 3 he'll have had his puppy shots and a booster at 1 year - so he's due for nothing until age 4.
Any vet who tries to talk you into annual vacs needs to be replaced.

Adding a supplement to his food daily is a good idea.
Missing Link is a good one.

Do write if you have any more questions.
Delores

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Do you have any recommendations for dry food for cocker spaniels?
What type of shampoo and conditioner is good for black dogs?

Answer
As I said, I do NOT recommend kibble for cockers.  It has too many carbohydrates (50%) as opposed to a premium canned food (about 8%).  cockers are extremely prone to skin problem and a high carb diet exacerbates this. Canidae and AvoDerm are two of my favorites canned foods.

Use an oatmeal/aloe vera shampoo but don't overbathe him.
He'll need a professional grooming once a month and inbetween keep him well brushed..daily.

I also recommend Revolution for flea & heartworm protection.
Much safer and does flea/heartworm/intestinal parasites/some ticks all in one.  He'll need a bloodtest before the vet will give it to you to ensure he doesn't have heartworm.  Usually you do this in the Spring if you live up north.
Delores
p.s.  And start brushing his teeth.