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My senior dog falls, struggles to get up, has accidents. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cocker Spaniel | Male | neutered | 12 years and 8 months old | 32 lbs

My Cocker Spaniel is going to be 13 years old. He is falling down and having a hard time getting up, what can I do to help him? There have been times that he has lost his bowel while struggling to get up if I am away or don't get to him in time.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on October 25th, 2018

Poor Tanner! I highly recommend bringing him to your vet for a complete exam and workup to rule out any more serious health issues such as neurologic problems, illness, metabolic issues, nerve or muscular problems, etc that could be causing this. Since he is a senior, issues such as severe arthritis or other senior-related illnesses could also be a cause of his trouble getting around and holding his stool. Your vet can work with you to see if anything can be done to help him feel more comfortable, such as pain or arthritis meds, or even changes in routine to help get him up and outside to potty a bit easier such as taking him out more often or keeping him in an easy to clean area if you aren't home.

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