My senior Aussie is eating mud, losing weight. What should I do?

Question

I have an Australian shepherd that will be 14 in October. He has always been very healthy and until about 6 weeks ago has always acted like a puppy. He suddenly began eating mud and manure off of our farm boots. He doesn't seem to be eating much and has gotten thin. He has been sleeping more, but still has no trouble getting up to go out and use the bathroom. Are there any supplements or anything I could give him, that may help perk up a bit? Someone has mentioned he may need iron. Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd - miniature | Male | neutered | 13 years and 8 months old

Makenzie Kurth, DVM · Accepted Answer

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am sorry to hear about Oreo. The eating of manure/mud does not concern me nearly as much as the weight loss. In a dog this age, kidney disease, heart failure, and cancer are big worries for me. Take Oreo into your vet sooner rather than later. He or she will do a good physical exam (which is sometimes enough to suspect heart failure or cancer) and will likely recommend routine bloodwork to rule out organ disease. If everything comes up normal, probiotics, supplements, or pancreatic enzymes may be recommended. Best wishes to you and Oreo.

My senior Aussie is eating mud, losing weight. What should I do?

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