Advice please!! V lethargic Border Terrier

kirstyl

kirstyl

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Hi, I would be really appreciative of any advice regarding this dog. He belongs to my parents, his story is as follows:-

My parents bought him from a rescue centre 2 years ago as approx 2yr old. He had been brought in as a stray with no history. He was castrated shortly after. He is a nice natured little chap but shows absolutely no get up and go at all, in fact, he seems to be getting more lethargic. When my parents take him for a walk (he gets walked twice a day off the lead) he is like a little old man, pootling along behind them. He shows no interest in chasing a ball etc and isn't really interested in other dogs. He does occasionally get a tiny bit more lively when he goes out with my lurcher bitch but not for very long.
Because of his lack of enthusiasm for going out and running about, weight is becoming a problem. My parents are really careful with the amount they feed him - he is fed a tiny amount of James Wellbeloved Light with a little tinned meat twice a day. This dog has had problems with a very sensitive stomach, vet has mentioned colitis and he is fed a solution to calm his stomach before eating. My mum mentioned tonight that it is very difficult to get his attention, it seems that he is always gazing into the distance.
So there it is, the story of A. Would be so grateful for any advice or words of wisdom you can offer. K x
 
I would be concerned that he could be aneamic or have a heart problem did the vet check for this? In any case if he was mine I would be taking him to the vet and getting this investigated.
 
He is going to the vet tomorrow for a specific talk about his lack of energy, but he is a regular visitor because of his dietary problems
 
Sounds like the vet should be looking into this to be honest. They would probably start with some general bloods and go from there.

Re the food issues, Hills Science Plan do a low allergen and no allergen versions which may help him with his stomach.
 
Bit of a guess here but if he has dietry problems, maybe he isnt absorbing all the nutrients he needs ? Maybe hes anaemic ?
Not an expert, but thats what i'd be thinking.
Good luck with him.
Kx
 
Update on my parent's Border Terrier. They have taken to the vet, wherehe has been checked extensively, bloods taken etc. Awaiting blood tests and thyroid test but vet feels that he is a fit and healthy dog carrying problems from his previous life. She feels that because he does get a bit giddy when our lurcher comes to stay, that he needs more stimulation from another more lively dog. We'll wait and see what the results bring, thanks for your comments and I'll let you know what's happening!
 
You're right, Circe! Unfortunately we live 130 miles away so play dates are not so often. The Border Terrier is coming to me for two weeks in June when my parents are on holiday so perhaps he will be transformed into a lively boy in that time!
 
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