Why is my dog chewing paws, gassy, and nauseous after playing in mud?

Question

malamute / border collie mix, 11 years old but active and otherwise healthy - has been fine all winter, but has suddenly become obsessed with chewing on his paws. Seems to be concurrent with the return of mud in the adjacent irrigation canal. he also pants constantly, "chews cud", and has suddenly got vile gas problems. No diet change. What did he get into, and what can we do about it? We are financially strapped, and paying a vet a couple hundred bucks is not in the budget. Pet's info: Dog | Alaskan Malamute | Male | neutered | 11 years and 2 months old | 100 lbs

Christie Long, DVM · Accepted Answer

So sorry to hear that this is happening to Ozzy. Your very astute observation about the irrigation ditch may definitely be related to the paw-chewing behavior, as he may be allergic to something that is in the mud - likely plant material - and that is causing itchiness and thus the chewing. Definitely start by washing his feet thoroughly in warm water and a mild soap -you might find one specifically for allergies at your local Petco or Petsmart - and dry thoroughly. As far as the "cud chewing" behavior, he may actually be nauseous, and that may correspond with the other digestive issues (the gas). I'd have to say again, that irrigation ditch makes me concerned for intestinal parasites - giardia for one can cause nausea and gas - so I would recommend getting a stool sample checked for parasites. This is usually relatively inexpensive - maybe $25 - and hopefully treatment will be straightforward from there.

Why is my dog chewing paws, gassy, and nauseous after playing in mud?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?

My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?

My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?

Share