Expert: Delores Beck - 3/15/2009

Question
We have a 4 month old cocker named Niko. Last evening we went out for dinner, was gone for about 3 hours. We always put Niko in the laundry room with plenty of his toys, pillow and water. When we returned he had pooped and vomited twice. He has never done this before and he has been left for this length of time before. I have also noticed when he is deeply asleep he shakes and trembles. When you wake him up it stops instantly, is this a problem?
I don't want him to have separation anxiety as he does have to be left alone a few times a week for about 3-4 hours. Please advise. Thanks-Sandra

Answer
The sleep tremors can be just due to "puppy dreams".  As long as it stops when he's awakened, it's not something I'd worry about.

I think Niko may well have had an upset tummy and I'd advise not feeding him at all until late in the day and then use some scrambled egg and plain white rice in small amounts for maybe 4 small snacks.

Just scramble 3 eggs - use no oil or milk.
Cook enough for 1 cup of white rice (use extra water and overcook)
Give a big spoonful every 2 hours.

If he doesn't want to eat, don't coax him.  Just make sure he's drinking water.  See how he is tomorrow.

Sandra, what are you feeding him?  And how often?
Delores