I need to get meds into my little dog.

Does anybody have any suggestions? I have tried liver, ground beef, roast beef, four kinds of cheese (his favorite) and chicken, which he also loves. I just don't know what else to try. He has an appointment for a re-check, at the vet's, since his problem was a bad cold that could have turned into pneumonia. He's had two vet visits for this and was much better, but I just can't get his pills into him, today, despite his being given a liquid herb, which he's been given, which is supposed to increase his appetite. When I made his appointment, today, the kind lady there recommended a special kind of Irish cheese which has worked for her small dogs, which I'll get, tomorrow. My tiny dog is eight pounds. I'm just weary from trying, so any advice would be appreciated.

What I do with my little one is place the pill in the back of the throat, then massage it down. It can be difficult, but effective as the pup's swallow reflex will take it down. Is it a large pill or small?

I could easily split it, but that's yet another dose which he may not go for. You can see that I am weary with this, but I love my little dog.:-)

I can get the liquid herb into him, though he fights me like the devil, but he just won't eat. And I have been cooking for him, on my vet's recommendation. This vet is very good, and also offers alternative treatments, but he has said, if my little guy will not eat, he'll have to be hospitalized, which he will not like at all. He is used to sleeping on my pillow.:-(

I just went throught the same problem...

Take a Kraft American slice, tear it in half. Cut the pill up (important) and put the pieces on the end of one half, folding the other end over and squishing it down.

That sucker will slide so fast down his throat you won't believe it...:D

But, now, he won't touch it. It was suggested by his vet's office that I try different cheeses, so I did. He liked Munster, LOL, but now won't touch that, either. And this is a small dog who has issues with men, but would have taken cheese from Freddy Kruger.:shrug:

your dog likes munster cheese! he has good taste...

:)

I guess I had better get the same brand I got before, at my neighborhood market. And the lady at the deli at my local market wanted to know how he was doing. I stopped there on my way home from my last visit to the vet. She loves animals.:-)

cheese, but better. Dogs love it.
---
We had a huge (185 pound) Great Pyrenees that our daughter (about 90 pounds) was (supposedly) giving pills to, using a slice of cheese. She was gone for a couple of days and we had to give the Yeti the pills. No matter how we hid them, she would gulp down the cheese then spit out the pill. We scolded her, and that just resulted in her learning to wait for us to turn our back before spitting out the pill. We finally resorted to cramming the pill so far back in her mouth she had no choice but to swallow it. (Fortunately, she was very deferential and would let us get away with this. This dog could fetch a basketball in it’s mouth.)
When our daughter came back we told her that there was no way those pills she had been giving had gone down. She insisted they had. We said the dog spit them out when she wasn't looking. She insisted that was impossible. We asked her to show us.
She took a slice of cheese, and a pill.
"Yeti! Eat this!"
Handed the pill to the dog on her open palm. Dog cheerfully obeys.
"Good Girl! Have some cheese!"

I felt like an idiot.

My friend also suggested bread. Most dogs love this. I'll try peanut butter, just plain, first, and see if he runs from the room. You can see my problem. :-(

I still feel that my best bet is cheese, since he loves that, and it's malleable, but it's tough with a dog that won't eat.

How are you, anyway?:hi:

We use to put the medicine in a eye dropper and squirt it down our dogs throat. I feel terrible for you because I know how much you love your little dog. ?..100% better on my end how about you. Same Vet? :hug:

Yes, same vet. He is the best I could hope to find, despite everything. I'm so glad to hear that things are looking up for you. I'm much the same. You are so talented and only deserve the best.:pals:

Do you know how old he is? How many years ago did you take him in? Your very talented and I miss you :hug:

My kind friend, in rescue, who told me about him, also knew his previous vet, who I called, to find his health history. I knew more about him than the guy who adopted him, including his real name by the time that I met him. He was born in 1993, but they didn't know the exact date, so my vet's office had me pick one. So it's 10/11, the same as mine. I have had him for two years, as of December. All of my guys have been rescue, as you know, and are older, since they're the ones who need me most. But I have such high hopes for this tiny dog. My beloved cocker, Barney, was at least 18:-)

My vet said he'd have to be hospitalized, if he wouldn't eat. So keep your fingers crossed. He's used to sleeping on a pillow, and not in a cage. And I've missed you, as well. I'm so glad to hear that things are looking up for you. And thanks for the support.:hug:

I love your little pup and you know that. :pals: Your Cat died a while back and I wouldn't want to see anything happen to your little pup. If you have to leave him at the Vets office in order for him to get better then you should do that. Is he having problems going to the bathroom? Have they x-rayed him yet?

Chop that pill up or empty the capsule into some water. Put it in an eye dropper and squeeze it into the back of his mouth. Take it from me I had a biting dog that would attack you if you went near his mouth. The only way that we got his medicine down was to squirt it into his mouth quickly or he would attack us. :hug:

Another ten years, at least. I adopted my beloved Barney at 10 or 11 and had him for eight years. You know I feel for my guys as you do. And I still miss my kitty, even though she was a difficult rescue, but this vet worked wonders with her. The poor cat just needed dental surgery. My vet e-mailed me back and he's going to get them to do a liquid compound in a flavor that my little guy will like. And, yes, they did X-Ray both of my dogs during their last visit. My little guy had some fluid in his lungs, hence the aggressive treatment and my desperation in getting his meds into him. And he did finally poop. He has been urinating a lot, because of the diuretic, but hasn't pooped, until today, because he wasn't eating much. But I cooked for him, again today, ground chicken, this time, which was suggested by my vet's office, and he ate quite a bit! I was going to post my vet's reply, but I wanted to tell you, first. Thank you.:hug:

Have they checked him for congestive heart failure yet? :cry::hug: My toy poodle had it and he lived a very long life after he was diagnosed with it. The Vet use to drain the fluid off of his chest with a large needle. Ask your Vet to check his heart and don't be afraid it's a condition that they have medicine for. Buy some ground lamb, mix it with cooked rice and a jar of beef flavored baby food. Since he is so small I would use a food grinder and mince it up even more.

Is he lifting his head up like he is trying to catch his breath? Email me and let me know how he is doing. I will be worried about him until I find out. If you need a shoulder to lean on I am around.
:pals::hug:

I actually got baby food for him, yesterday, but didn't use it yet. There are so many things that I'm trying. He actually ate quite a bit of chicken, and three out of four pills, in it. I'm bringing him back to the vet, today, with his meds, and they can try their luck and see what I'm facing with him. And they always do a very thorough exam.:-)

His breath is much better. He seems to be much better, but still should have all his meds, until they're gone. Thanks for your support, but don't worry. And I will let you know. I have had a tough two weeks with both dogs. My Sara also had surgery, a week ago, on Friday.

My kind friend, in rescue, who told me about him, also knew his previous vet, who I called, to find his health history. I knew more about him than the guy who adopted him, including his real name by the time that I met him. He was born in 1993, but they didn't know the exact date, so my vet's office had me pick one. So it's 10/11, the same as mine. I have had him for two years, as of December. All of my guys have been rescue, as you know, and are older, since they're the ones who need me most. But I have such high hopes for this tiny dog. My beloved cocker, Barney, was at least 18.:-)

My vet said he'd have to be hospitalized, if he wouldn't eat. So keep your fingers crossed. He's used to sleeping on a pillow, and not in a cage. And I've missed you, as well. I'm so glad to hear that things are looking up for you. And thanks for the support.:hug:

Hides any pill and they all love it.

And now he won't eat cheese, because I've "spiked" it.:shrug:

How about cream cheese or jelly? Anything sticky that he might eat that you can hide the pill in.

Barring that - you'll just have to shove it down his throat. You have my sympathy - I've had to do that and I hate it.

But I got a very prompt e-mail back from my vet who said he could make liquids of his meds. My tiny dog has a re-check on Tuesday, so we'll see what he still needs. And something to keep in mind. Here's what he said:

Hello:

The easy way is to compound the medications into liquid with the flavor he likes. We have a pharmacist that does that. If you like we can do that Monday or when you come Tuesday we can call her and have the medications done that way.

see you Tuesday

It also sounds like you have a great vet.

I have you in my thoughts and prayers. I've had so many troubles w/ my guys over the years, I really sympathize. Let us know how he does.

My vet is just the best, willing to take on anything, and he offers both traditional and alternative treatments. I have brought my beloved cat and two dogs to him for acupuncture. And I have posted his advice on DU, since somebody posted a desperate question, and he answered it. He's a fellow liberal, actually a John Edwards supporter, but he also liked Kerry and Kucinich.:-) Anyway, my little guy has another appointment tomorrow, so I hold out every hope. He's my baby, as these guys know. Nobody wanted this tiny dog, but they practically fight over him at my vet's office, he's such a rare breed and so small and is cute. I understand about your troubles with your guys. I have lost far too many, and I have tried everything. Thank you. I will let you know.

:grouphug:

After he hurt his back and was still (after steroid treatment) partially paralyzed. He ended up making a full recovery (though he eventually died of an unrelated illness.)

Good thoughts to you and the baby!:hug:

At one point, he couldn't walk, due to calcification of his spine, but the vet did electro-acupuncture, and on the last day of his life (he was at least 18), he was again walking fine. I am so sorry about your little dachshund. I know that they have a tendency toward this and acupuncture can really help. I have a friend who has two, brother and sister, and they are so adorable.

Today, on my way to the car, I passed a couple of guys just coming in, who had a cute little Westie, who was trailing a cart behind him, to support his back legs. I don't know if acupuncture can help this little guy, but I made it a point to tell them about my vet and how much he helped Barney. I just hope that they look into it. Thanks for the support.

Rhiannon:pals:

On edit: My Barney:

We went to the vet, today, and THEY had a hell of a time getting meds into him, he's so difficult. So I now know it's not just me. Here's my update, so you wouldn't miss it. Thanks so much.

Rhiannon:hi:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=105&topic_id=2918590&mesg_id=2945131&page=

He is a tough little character. You probably love him all the more for that!

Best wishes for a speedy recovery for all!

And I've had this dog for two and 1/2 years and he sleeps on my pillow. His choice, since I think this what he must have been used to. He formerly belonged to an older and wealthy older lady, who died, and did not make provisions for my little guy and his sister. So he became lost, until he found me. And there's not much I won't do for him. He loved my cocker, Sheena, who became the sister he lost. But we lost her, despite doing everything their vet could come up with, and he's excellent. I eventually found him another sister, my sweet little Sara, but it's not the same for him. Life should not be so rough for a rare little dog! BTW, he's so good that I can take him anywhere, and I have. He is not happy, alone, since he lost Sheena.:-(

My little guy and his "sister:"

It is hard when they lose their animal friends. I've seen that w/ all of mine too.

And they are so guileless, happy, and loyal most of the time - it is so difficult when we have to see them suffer. I think what makes me the saddest is when they look at me beseechingly as if asking me to make it stop.

I have done the best I could for my guys, have explored every option, and found a few miracles, but, eventually, lost them. And I am haunted by their eyes, when I could not help. All I could do was sit there, and hold them, trying to give them my strength. Sorry to be maudlin, but I identify with what you're talking about.;(

My tiny Meneken was placed separately from his biological sister, after nine years together, when their owner died. The sister was the leader. And he found me, after I lost Barney. But he immediately bonded with my other cocker, Sheena, who also loved him. He looked to her for everything. But then she got sick. I implored both of my vets, since I had already lost my beloved Barney, and I didn't know what my little guy would do without his "sister." There were heroic efforts, special food, herbs, weekly acupuncture, but we still, eventually, lost her. And her eyes continue to haunt me. I did whatever I could. But it breaks my heart, both for me, and my little guy, who has not been the same dog, since.;(

Meneken and Sheena:

he is just adorable. I wish you luck, cheese always worked for me but I know those little scamps can manage to spit out the pill and still eat the cheese. Good Luck!

I have had seven dogs in my short life, so have had so many complications, and serious vet visits, but I have never had a dog this small. I can't even find his mouth! Yikes! But he is my baby and I love him. *sigh* My vet is great and has had me cook for my dogs, but it just doesn't seem to be working this time.:shrug:

Now I think he believes I'm trying to poison him. And he is cute, but more difficult than dogs ten times his size. But he's my baby and I love him.
:loveya:

Except for his sister's. He'll eat that, so I don't discourage him, since he's eating something, but it's of no help with the pills.:(

Rub that little cutie's throat and slip the pill in and KEEP rubbing his throat. Voila! (friend who worked for vet told me about this)

That was my complaint to my vet when they suggested I slide his liquid med into the side of his mouth. I am used to cocker spaniels, but this tiny guy has no mouth that I can find, when he's fighting me! Yikes! But he is my love and I will try, yet again. I will always keep trying. As for getting pills into a cat, Mother of God, you're better than I am. I've also had to do this with my beloved kitty, and we both went through hell.:-(

I get my cat to swallow a pill in about 15 seconds max. I used to try food, but couldn't get him to go for any of my tricks.

Here's what I do:

Pick up the little guy and then sit on the floor with him positioned so that he's sitting between my legs, and his front legs are up draped over my arm holding him. Hold him firmly so that he can't squirm away.

Hold the pill between your thumb and forefinger. Put it in the back of his mouth. I usually have to open his mouth, because he resists. So I gently push the pill and separate his teeth on the back of his cheek. And put the pill into the back of his throat. Quickly...gently stroke his throat, which will make him swallow.

Then I let him go, praise him, and give him a treat.

It really only takes a few seconds.

But I have to tell you, he's even harder to pill than my cat, who was not easy. But, at least, I could find her mouth. But, for my little guy, I'll try anything.:shrug:

I wish I had THAT kind of luck with my cat. The way it is with my cat is something like the version found at this link(one version of this gives an idea about how to give a dog a pill -use Bacon! bacon! bacon! bacon! bacon!-like the beggin strips commercial):

1. Pick cat up and cradle it in the crook of your left arm as if holding a
baby. Position right forefinger and thumb on either side of cat's mouth and
gently apply pressure to cheeks while holding pill in right hand. As cat
opens mouth, pop pill into mouth. Allow cat to close mouth and swallow.

2. Retrieve pill from floor and cat from behind sofa. Cradle cat in left
arm and repeat process.

3. Retrieve cat from bedroom, and throw soggy pill away.

<snip>
more...
http://www.ronleon.com/catpill.html

And it has become impossible for my dog, who is even smaller. My friend sent me this e-mail, but she has a dog and two horses, and not a kitty, so she can't begin to understand.:shrug:

> > HOW TO GIVE A CAT A PILL;
> >
> > 1. Pick cat up and cradle it in the crook of your left arm, as if
holding
> a
> > baby. Position right forefinger and thumb on either side of cat's mouth
> and
> > gently apply pressure to cheeks while holding the pill in right hand.
As
> > cat opens mouth, pop pill into mouth. Allow cat to close mouth and
> swallow.
> >
> > 2. Retrieve pill from floor and cat from behind sofa. Cradle cat in
left
> > arm and repeat process.
> >
> > 3. Retrieve cat from bedroom, throw soggy pill away.
> >
> > 4. Take new pill from foil wrap, cradle cat in left arm, holding rear
> paws
> > tightly with left hand. Force jaws open and push pill to back of mouth
> with
> > right forefinger. Hold mouth shut for a count of ten.
> >
> > 5. Retrieve pill from goldfish bowl and cat from top of wardrobe. Call
> > spouse from garden.
> >
> > 6. Kneel on floor with cat wedged firmly between knees, hold front and
> rear
> > paws. Ignore low growls emitted by cat. Get spouse to hold head firmly
> > either one hand while forcing wooden ruler into mouth. Drop pill down
> ruler
> > and rub cat's throat vigorously.
> >
> > 7. Retrieve cat from curtain rail, get another pill from foil wrap.
Make
> > note to buy new ruler and repair curtains. Carefully sweep shattered
> > figurines and vases from hearth and set to one side for gluing later.
> >
> > 8. Wrap cat in large towel and get spouse to lie on cat with head just
> > visible from below armpit. Put pill in end of drinking straw, force
mouth
> > open with pencil and blow down drinking straw.
> >
> > 9. Check label to make sure is not harmful for humans, drink one beer
to
> > take taste away. Apply Band-Aid to spouse's forearm and remove blood
from
> > carpet with cold water and soap.
> >
> > 10. Retrieve cat from neighbor's shed. Get another pill. Open another
> > beer. Place cat in cupboard, and close door onto neck to leave head
> > showing. Force mouth open with dessert spoon. Flick pill down throat
> > with elastic band.
> >
> > 11. Fetch screwdriver from garage and put cupboard door back on hinges.
> > Drink beer. Fetch bottle of Scotch. Pour shot, drink. Apply cold
> compress
> > to cheek and check records for date of last tetanus shot. Apply whiskey
> > compress to cheek to disinfect. Toss back another shot. Throw T-shirt
> away
> > and fetch a new one from the bedroom.
> >
> > 12. Call the fire department to retrieve the cat from the tree across
the
> > road. Apologize to neighbor who swerved to avoid cat and crashed. Take
> > last pill from foil-wrap.
> >
> > 13. Tie the little bd's front paws to rear paws with garden twine
> and
> > bind tightly to leg of dining table, find heavy duty pruning gloves
from
> > shed. Push pill into mouth followed by large piece of fillet steak. Be
> > rough about it. Hold head vertically and pour 2 pints of water down
> throat
> > to wash pill down.
> >
> > 14. Consume remainder of Scotch. Get spouse to drive you to the
> emergency
> > room, sit quietly while doctor stitches fingers and forehead and
removes
> > pill remnants from right eye. Call furniture shop on the way home to
> > order new table.
> >
> > 15. Arrange for SPCA to collect mutant cat from hell and call local pet
> > shop to see if they have any dogs.
> >
> >
> > HOW TO GIVE A DOG A PILL:
> >
> > 1. Wrap the pill in bacon.

I have not laughed this hard since I don't know when!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Really. I just scared my cat from laughing so hard!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm going to email this.....

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

But I had an easier getting pills into my cat than this stubborn little dog!:shrug:

Try sardines. They stink to high heaven, but most dogs will either roll in them or eat them or both. It's an old wive's tale that sardines are a second wind for sick dogs who seem to not respond to other food. It has worked for me before a lot. Oddly enough it works in most cases. If you slip the pill in the first try, it may work. I'd make it the second try, because the dog will most likely like it enough that he won't notice the pill.

Also, you may want to try to outsmart the dog if he'll eat his sister's food. Is the medicine something that would be a problem if the sister got it? If not, spike both of their foods and pat yourself on the back that you outsmarted the dog. I've done that with my cat before. I had fought with her and begged and pleaded for half an hour and I finally got the pill in her. I sat down to watch television with this satisfied smirk on my face. Next thing you know I heard this strange slurping sound and looked over. Even though I thought I had the pill in her and honestly it was ten minutes later, she spit it back out and rewarded my pride and self satisfaction with this hideous line of drool that seemed to be made of pure slime. She sat there foaming at the mouth until I got so tissue and wiped her mouth. I had a rough time getting it off the carpet (it would slip off the paper towel and wouldn't seem to absorb into it) and she hid from me for a few hours AFTER letting me wipe her mouth.

I evenutally won because I was more determined than she was. I waited until she eventually fell asleep and I snuck up behind her (ambush) with a fresh pill and she didn't stand a chance. I won. I have had to resort to changing several different complicated strategies around in a random pattern coupled with the element of surprise to get her pill in her every other day. She's very smart and very crafty and she knows me. Vet says she'll need her pills for the rest of her life. I intend to try my best to make it a long life. It's worth it. Even if I have to think so hard it gives me a headache sometimes. She outsmarts me routinely and with ease, might I add. I'm supposed to be smarter than she is, but anyone who says that hasn't met my Sunday Girl. She's like the Einstein of cats. Also I think she has ESP because she knows when I think about the medicine. I will think about trying again thinking she has forgotten our last little go 'round. Even before I get up off the couch to go get the medicine bottle she will stretch, sharpen her claws a little, and begin giving me that look they give the dog when they see you blaming the dog for what they have done. Sunday Girl actually grins when she is getting ready for our little ritual. I wonder about cats sometimes. I wonder about her a LOT.

thank you ... we will share this by posting it on a bulletin board in town today.

With good reason. But my little dog is proving more difficult than the kitty.

How are you, and your lovely girl and your beautiful bird?:hi:

A good friend of ours has a young male the same breed as your little one. It seems as if they're more are prone to problems with the trachea.

Miss Frodie, Pookie, Keria and Lady Leigh are all doing well. Frodo continues to chip the tip off of her beak as she's playing, which means I get to hand-feed her soft foods until she reshapes it.:shrug:

My breed is cockers, as you know, and he was supposed to be one, LOL, but that particular dog, who I called about, had been placed. But I wouldn't trade him for anything. He's my baby. I made a point of reading up on the breed and learned that they are tough to housebreak (check), one person dogs (check) and not good with small children, which he has proved to be the exception. However, I convinced my dentist, who just loved him, but has six kids, that this was not the breed for her.:-)

And he is stubborn, like most terriers, but also very fierce, like that does him much good, at eight pounds. I should have adopted a Dobie or a Rottie, if I was looking to intimidate!:D

I'm so glad that your guys are doing well, but don't know much about the beak chipping. I don't know if you have a good bird doctor, but my vet's partner, in Saratoga, considers this her specialty. Her license plate reads "Bird Dr." She was excellent with my Rhiannon, the first pet of mine I consulted them about.:-)

And I got the following prompt e-mail back from my vet, so I now have hope again:

Hello:

The easy way is to compound the medications into liquid with the flavor he likes. We have a pharmacist that does that. If you like we can do that Monday or when you come Tuesday we can call her and have the medications done that way.

see you Tuesday

I'll let you know how he is. Thanks for letting me know how your guys are.:pals:

If there has been a sick bird visiting the vet before your visit. When the bird droppings from that sick bird drys out and turns to powder it becomes an airborne dust that can transmit the sickness to a healthy bird.

The closest avian vet is over an hour's drive away. Luckily we do quite a bit with alternative medicines for ourselves and our pets.

And I have overheard people talking to her, about their birds, and how grateful they are. They really are good, and take every precaution, as I learned with my dog's dental surgery. I was told that they treat them as "human." This place was recommended to me as a last-ditch effort to save my beloved Rhiannon, and they are excellent. I then brought Barney there, also for acupuncture, because of calcification of his spine. At one point, he could not walk. On the last day of his life, he was walking just fine, through the use of electro-acupuncture. I recommended that vet to somebody, just today, when I was taking my Sara back to the car and met up with a couple with the most darling little Westie, who had a cart supporting his back legs, so he could walk. Broke my heart. This lady is my vet's partner, and very competent. She was the first vet I saw there. I will pass on the info, if you ever need it, or would like it.:-)

Finding an avian vet isn't always easy. One who comes with glowing recommendations is always nice to hear about :hug: thanks.

And I promise you, she is really good.:hug:

large and small. (And cats too.)

Sometimes you just have to get those pills in them, whether they feel like it or not.

Here are the steps that I use (a variant of an earlier post). And use rubber gloves to avoid damaging tissue with your fingernails (or whatever). You can also cut the pills as necessary.
1) Restrain dog as necessary.
2) Hold his head with muzzle facing up.
3) Open his mouth.
4) Push tongue down lightly.
5) Pop or place pill as far back as you can.
6) Push it a little further back if you need to.
7) Close the dog's mouth and hold it closed, still pointing up.
8) Massage the throat from top down until the bastard swallows. (Repeat steps as necessary until all pills are "swallowed".)
9) Tell him what a good dog he is and give him a scratch or a treat.
10) Keep an eye on him to see where he spits the pills out. (Repeat steps as necessary.)

Now this may seem a little harsh, but when you are dealing with a crafty dog (or a big tough one), he may well not make it easy on you -- and he may come up with just about as many tricks not to swallow those damn pills as I imagine a child might.

And you can get the process down to where it just takes a few seconds and causes essentially no discomfort. And you can get to the point where the animal knows as well as you do that this is going to happen -- no matter what. Makes it easier.

This dog is eight pounds and I am lucky to even find his mouth. But I will take your suggestions. So, thank you, so much. I'm used to cocker spaniels, and this would work with them. but this tiny guy is so small, I've totally run out of ideas.:-(

I have done this with miniatures and with cats.

You can move your fingers around on it to get some idea of what might go where, before you start. Have a specific procedure in mind (how you hold the pill etc) and be firm.

And I do tend to end up with the veterinary duties. I had to force feed a cat for a time once (just some junk stuck in the back of its mouth -- but not their idea of fun). I got to where I could grab, restrain and feed the sob in jig time -- and without using any form of restraint except for my body (but generally I recommend a towel wrap when dealing with a cat that has any fight left in it -- they'll cut you up good).

That cat never did like me much after that -- but it lived. And that's what really matters.

Took my mind off my little guy for a few minutes. I tend to fuss, which may be part of my problem, so I'm bookmarking this and hoping it will help. He is just so small and very furry, so I even have trouble finding his mouth to insert the syringe, with his liquid med. Thank you.:hug:

"That uncle so-and-so can be a mean sonofabitch -- he don't put up with no shit."

"But he can't do nothing when mommy's around."

"Mommy? Mommy? Mommy?"

"Oh shit! Pill time!"

He was separated, at age nine, from his biological sister, when his owner died. He ended up in a really bad place, for him, and was rescue, despite being such a rare breed, a Brussels Griffon. He completely bonded with my cocker the day I brought him home and he loved her so much. And I think she enjoyed the adoration. But I lost her over a year ago, despite heroic treatment from her vet, and he hasn't been the same dog since. These small dogs tend to be skittish, but he's become more so. He only has me, now. And I'm trying to shove pills into him. I have since adopted another dog, who is very sweet, but, of course, it's not the same. He looks to her for leadership, as he did with his sister, but not protection. He expects that from me.

My Sara, on the other hand, just loves pill time. She's on thyroid meds. I just pick up the bottle and she gets all excited, since it means roast beef or chicken.:-)

if you let them.

My neighbors' dog (who is spoiled rotten and who almost always gets his own way), when I won't do what he wants (which normally means a good scratch), puts on this big act in an attempt to get his "owners" to make me do what he wants. And they go for it every time, especially after his illness.

But I don't (there are rules -- and I set these rules insofar as I am involved). So I piss all three of them off -- like that does them any good.

Dogs pick up on what you are broadcasting -- and if are broadcasting hesitancy (and etc), then even if they don't try to take advantage of it (which they may well), it is liable to discomfort them.

If the dog needs his pills, then help him to ingest them. It is not torture -- it is necessary treatment. And if you are unable to do so, then see if the vet can give you liquid medications for everything -- or find out if there is some way to dissolve the pills and to give them to him this way. (But this is kind of, well, ah, feeble.)

With me, dogs, cats, birds or whatever "take their medicine" -- under any and all circumstances -- and I haven't killed one yet, while saving a number. It's best this way, regardless of how pitiful the circumstances are.

Either you are the top dog -- or they are -- and the latter doesn't work out. But as top dog, you have to be strong. It's expected.

And I sure know all that about being pack leader. But I'm still putty in their tiny paws! I just worry so, that is my problem, and the fact that this dog is so small that I can barely find his mouth, let alone open it! I found the courage to pill my beloved cat, so I should be able to get meds into my dog. They gave me a liquid herb, since they knew he wasn't eating, so why all these pills?!:shrug:

Yes, I hesitate, which I learned was fatal when dealing with my cat, but this little guy is definitely tougher to deal with. But thanks for the pep talk. I know that you're right.:-)

They might look silly for a while, but it grows back.

And worrying never helped anyone -- except as it provides a form of motivation -- an extremely crappy form of motivation, one that often has quite the opposite effect, that of making sure that the object of worry never gets properly dealt with.

Brave up.

both my dogs need grooming, but I've put it off because of illness. However, my usual groomer, who was excellent, is no longer practicing, so I take what I can get, at PetsMart. This lovely woman, who works for my vet, makes sure my little guy is okay, and they take him at Banfield, when he's done. I told them that his face needs more trimming, but they just didn't get it. My previous groomer got a special blade and really trimmed his face, each time. And I can't help worrying, since I have lost so many, but you are totally right.:-)

I have a large dog who is a picky eater and I used to try to get him to eat pills by hiding them in meat or cream cheese or whatever- and he would ignore it or I'd find the pill later.

Now he needs arthritis meds every day. I learned that I could get him to open his mouth by putting my index finger behind a large side tooth and touching the roof of his mouth. Once his mouth is open, the pill goes on the back of his tongue. I hold his muzzle shut until he swallows, and thats the end of that. Pat on the head.

He knows its coming and he doesn't resist me on it any more.

And I'm glad that you have gotten your dog used to his meds. My Sara loves pills because it means chicken or roast beef. But this little guy is another story. I once called the vet's office because I just couldn't find this little dog's mouth. They told me to slip it in the side, like you did, as with a horse. My dog is eight pounds! His mouth has nothing in common with a horse's! Yikes! But my vet has come up with an excellent solution. Here's his e-mail, in response to my desperate plea:

Hello:

The easy way is to compound the medications into liquid with the flavor he likes. We have a pharmacist that does that. If you like we can do that Monday or when you come Tuesday we can call her and have the medications done that way.

see you Tuesday

coat the pill with butter and it will slide right down the throat. Those powdery pills can get quite stuck without lubrication.

Hold snout shut. Massage throat. Once they know they have to, it seems to work. Good luck. Your dog looks really sweet.:hi:

Mine is an eight pound bundle of stubbornness! I have enough trouble just finding his mouth and the vet had a hell of a time with him, even using the piller. What she said to me was that we can only do what they allow us to do. *sigh* I see his regular vet on Thursday, and he's just the best. He did come in and examine him, since he was that worried, even though we drew his partner. And this vet will never give up.

I appreciate your advice, but, if the vet had a hard time with this tiny stubborn pis, what can I say? But the good news is that he's now taking his meds, down to two small pills, in roast beef and Munster cheese, and he's, finally, eating again. Cottage cheese worked for him and he must be feeling better. Thanks so much for caring. I appreciate the help and advice I've received here more than I can say. I was so scared.
:grouphug:

I gave my dog pill by calling her, rubbing her and holding her head wayyyy back then dropping the pills to the back of the throat. If you get it to the back of the throat, they can't spit it out. You have to reassure the dog though, hold it, keep its head back until it swallows. It shouldn't be too hard.

If the dog doesn't want to open it's mouth, hold something it likes over its head like you're going to feed it to them. You should be holding them around the neck and be ready to grab the mouth and hold it open when you do this.

Be sure to give a nice pat and an attaboy after givng them the pill and lead them to the water bowl. My dog understands when I say "water"--she drinks.

Hold the little sucker, hold her head back and put the pill into the back of her throat and then gently stroke his throat to make him swallow.

Let me know how it works!!!

I manage to get his liquid herb into him, but I need to find his mouth, first.:-(

I can just tell if he's going to refuse to eat when he goes for his water bowl. He is thirsty and one of his meds is a diuretic. My problem is not just getting him to take his pills, but just to eat, at all. I've followed my vet's instructions, and have cooked for my dogs, but it doesn't seem to be working for my little guy. I'll do whatever I need to. I guess I'll try the Irish cheese and call them if he still won't eat. He rejected peanut butter.:-(

I usually use peanut butter because my little guys (Japanese Chin) just love it (and they rarely get peanut butter unless there is a pill hidden inside). Even my vet uses peanut butter to pill my boys.

You can also hold the dog, open his mouth, place the pill in the back of his mouth near the throat and then rub his neck to get him to swallow.

There are also pill guns available so that you don't have to put your finger into the dog's mouth. You should not need to use a pill gun on a small dog.

There are also pill pockets that are commercially available. They are like doggie treats with a pocket in which to hide pills.

I've used all of the above methods with success. One of my dogs is a renal insufficiency dog (and has been since 5 months of age). He eats a restricted prescription diet and takes a pill everyday. He will find that pill and spit it out if it is hidden in any other food. Because this is a daily routine he became resistant to me placing the pill in the mouth. Peanut butter is sticky and adheres to the pill - since it goes down rather quicly I don't think he can tell that some of the chunks are pills rather than peanuts.

it has always worked for us.

then one day it stopped working. They just started spitting it out. Now we use Cheese Whiz. You stick it to the roof of the dog's mouth and they smack it right down. When that stops working, I don't know what we'll do.

It's my misfortune that my little guy does not.:-(

But we went to the vet's today, and he's much better. I posted an update. Thanks.:-)

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=105&topic_id=2918590&mesg_id=2945131&page=

Works like a charm.

And will it work with cats?

It's a lot like a syringe but it holds the pill. You put it in the side of the mouth, like you would a liquid dropper and push the plunger. It shoots the pill to the back of the throat where they have no choice but to swallow.

My dogs take their pills in hot dogs. Except for Bailey, who prefers cream cheese. But the cats? I'd rather give them a bath.

He is much smarter than I ever imagined. She had two pills to give him, and shot the first one in, successfully, but then he knew what was up. She did the second one, smaller, but told me to watch him. She was right, since, a good ten minutes later, he spit the pill out. She ended up giving it to him in a syringe, with water. I guess it's just finding what works for your pets. But I now know that I was just not incompetent.:shrug:

And I have pilled my cat and given baths. I'd rather pill. Yikes!
:scared:

his mouth shut till he swallows.

Holy Christ! I took a ride with my mother, last week. I couldn't say much, since she was kind enough to drive me to my dentist, over an hour away, so I could bring my little dog, who needs to go out often, since being on a diuretic. And my dentist just loves him, so he's always welcome there. But my mother had Rush Limbaugh on the radio in her car! Fortunately, the sound died out, and she shut it off. Otherwise, I would have probably have jumped out of the car on the highway! Yikes!!!
:scared:

a picture of Limbaugh might be the ticket. Sorry I didn't think of the scare factor.

Nor is he a junkie! My friend, who likes to make fun of his unusual looks, has told me he's a very staid Republican, but I know better. All my guys have been liberals, especially the cats!:D

Holy Christ! I took a ride with my mother, last week. I couldn't say much, since she was kind enough to drive me to my dentist, over an hour away, so I could bring my little dog, who needs to go out often, since being on a diuretic. And my dentist just loves him, so he's always welcome there. But my mother had Rush Limbaugh on the radio in her car! Fortunately, the sound died out, and she shut it off. Otherwise, I would have probably have jumped out of the car on the highway! Yikes!!!
:scared:

I tried this with my first dog, years ago, and found the pill attached to my shoe, several hours later.:shrug:

dogs are incredibly sensitive to the "vibes" that their humans give off ... if your dog can ferret out a sense of desperation or a sense that you are trying to force this pill on him, he may become even less cooperative ...

first, i too would recommend peanut butter ...

but perhaps more importantly, i would put the pill away for a few hours and try to setup a game where your dog achieves something (like sit, roll over, get the ball or whatever) and receives a small food reward (like a piece of chicken encased in peanut butter) ... repeat this over and over and over so the pattern is "i do something and then i get a reward" ...

then try to substitute the pill for the chicken (still encased in peanut butter) as a reward for some achievement ...

the idea is to make the pill fit into a pattern of rewards rather then giving off the "vibes" of "come here and take your medicine because i said so" ...

no guarantees but it might be worth a try ...

Important. I just want him to get well, and I've been so scared, but, of course, he doesn't understand this. The one being he trusts is trying to give him something unpleasant. He turned away from peanut butter. I managed okay with cheese, yet again, but now it is time for a second dose. I just hope he's hungrier and will accept it.:shrug:

As for playing, this tiny dog is a "couch potato" as the guy who I adopted him from described him. I must get him out more, as the weather gets better. His sister definitely needs more walks and I'm hoping he'll follow. When I took him on his own, after I lost my cocker spaniel, the sister he loved and would follow, he just didn't know what to do and I usually ended up carrying him home. It didn't help that my neighbor made fun of me, trying to walk such a tiny dog. But every dog needs exercise. After my Sara gets her stitches out, we'll try again.:-)

Thanks for the advice. I need all the help I can get.:-)

He's very cute! Welsh Terrier's advice sounds like it's worth a try.

Hope he gets better soon!

:thumbsup:

I have lost several pets in my life, since I tend to adopt older animals who are rescue, but this tiny guy sleeps on my pillow. I just cannot lose him, ever. When I lost my beloved cocker, at 18, I thought the world would end, but I found this tiny dog who needed me. Thanks for the support.:-)

had to do that with an ill-behaved cat once. :(

And it's a 40-minute trip for us. I hoped to be able to manage until then, since we have been there three times in the last two weeks, not mentioning the calls I've made and they've made to me. And my other dog just had surgery. It's been a rough time.:-(

But I do hope that Skittles is okay. What a lovely cat, like my Rhiannon.:-)

I've never actually coated a pill for a dog in honey, but I know they love it, and a drop of honey might make him more cooperative. Worth a try, anyway.

And, if he's not eating at all but drinking, and he's got a cold, see if you can coax him to drink some warm echinacea tea. I use this for colds for both dogs and self - it's good stuff. It just doesn't taste all that great, so again you have to resort to the honey - taste it to make sure the liquid is sweet, and give him a few swallows every few hours over the course of a day or two. (No longer than that.)

Good luck to him....

Is what he has. And anything is worth a try, for me, since I'm totally at the end of my tether. Cheese, which he loves, failed again, as did chicken. He is drinking a great deal, so this could work. I will try anything, so thank you so much.

Rhiannon :-)

or from your Vet. You insert the pill in the end -- pull back the plunger and it has a rounded end. You put that into the mouth and when you are at the back of the throat you depress the plunger. The dog has no option but to swallow the pill. I've used this pilling tool on my 6 pound chihuahua and cats and a 24 pound dog.

Good breeders will teach tiny puppies to allow their mouths to be manipulated so that you can use your fingers to insert the pill. (This is called desensitization training). But even these dogs may bulk at some nasty tasting pills. The pilling tool puts the pill way back in the mouth and even the nastiest pill can be given. I've seen Vet Techs use this tool.

My dog is so small that I'd worry about choking, which I once had to take him too the Emergency Clinic for, but your dog is small, as well, smaller than mine, which is saying something.:-)

And my vet is at Banfield, at PetsMart, so I can ask him about this.:shrug:

As for this dog's breeder, I have no idea. He may be a rare breed, but he is rescue, like all my pets. I would think that a breeder of such a rare type of dog would have been careful, especially since they have few puppies, and rarely (I have read up on the breed), but I cannot know. My dog is skittish, not unusual, and the one person he trusts is trying to stick something he doesn't want into his mouth.:-(

I kid you not. Here's my update.:wow:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=105&topic_id=2918590&mesg_id=2945131&page=

I've always placed pill at back of mouth, used index finger to push pill gently down throat then held mouth shut with one hand while massaging throat with other hand. Never fails. Might be problematical with a little critter like yours.

My cat, but this little dog is smaller. And I cannot find his mouth. We have an appointment, tomorrow, and they told me to bring his pills, which they can give him, and my vet said that they can make a compound to make them them into a liquid, which would be much easier, with such a small dog. But the lady I spoke to had no knowledge of what my vet said, and she returned with the message that this would have to be sent away and sent to me by mail and didn't know what it might cost.:-(

next time. (Why vets give pills I don't know....)

Okay, first off, since he's a little dog, swaddle him in a towel, just like you would with a baby. Get all those limbs under control so you don't have to worry about him getting loose, and don't have to try to control with one hand while pilling with the other. Then try the shove, massage and watch method.

If he has a cold, he may not want to eat the cheese because he can't smell it, and dogs, though less picky than cats in general, won't eat what they can't smell. So a good, stinky food might be in order. For us, when the cats need meds, we crush the meds up, and mix them with dried, shaved bonito (the Japanese fish used to make dashi stock). It stinks up the house, but the cats can smell it though a sinus infection. (So can we.)

Crushing the pills and mixing in wet food might work, but if he's not hungry, he's not going to eat.

Can the meds be given as a suppository? I know it's gross to think about shoving a pill up the dog's butt, but you might want to ask the vet if that's an option if all else fails. Many pills will dissolve rectally.

Good luck. If I were closer, I'd come help!

They gave me the herb, with vitamins and to perk his appetite, as a liquid, because they knew he wasn't eating. They were so concerned that they said they might keep him, if he wouldn't eat. But then, they give me all these pills to get into him! Yikes!
:wow:

And they know me well enough that they know that I'd do anything. They showed how me how to administer subcutaneous fluids to my 18-year-old cocker, and trusted me to do it. I would do meds rectally, if I could just find it. As I said, I have a hard time finding this tiny guy's mouth!:shrug:

And I certainly wish that you were closer to help. Hell, I'm desperate! I'd meet you halfway!:-)

But my vet e-mailed me back very promptly with a very good solution. Here's what he said:

Hello:

The easy way is to compound the medications into liquid with the flavor he likes. We have a pharmacist that does that. If you like we can do that Monday or when you come Tuesday we can call her and have the medications done that way.

see you Tuesday

Depending on their mood, these have worked for me. Hot dogs - usually a favorite, banana - weird I know but they like it, and canned green beans.

For my dogs. PM me, anytime, for how I prepared it. My problem is that this little guy just won't eat. His favorite is cheese, ideal for administering meds, but I have now tried five kinds. *sigh* But my vet e-mailed me back, with a solution. Liquids would be easier. *sigh*

Hello:

The easy way is to compound the medications into liquid with the flavor he likes. We have a pharmacist that does that. If you like we can do that Monday or when you come Tuesday we can call her and have the medications done that way.

see you Tuesday

they will not eat it in their food. I used to have to do this with my cat. Basically you have to find a way to crank his throat wide open and stick the pill so far back he has to swallow. He's little so it shouldn't be that hard. Sit down with him on your lap, tilt his head back, and you look for some muscles along the side of mouth that control swallowing. You hold those while your prop open the mouth and stick the pill down his throat.

She had trouble doing this. The fact that he's so small and stubborn is the crux of the problem. She probably spent 45 minutes, fussing with him, so I know that it's not just my incompetence. And my regular vet also checked him, because he was that concerned. This little dog was a challenge, even to a vet.:-(

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=105&topic_id=2918590&mesg_id=2945131&page=

tilted back. Pop the pill onto the dog's tongue, and close the dog's mouth...while simultaneously blowing softly on the end of the dog's nose. This will cause a gulping reflex, and the dog will swallow the pill inadvertantly. Sometimes you need to blow softly on the dog's nose more than once...because sometimes it takes more than one gulp to get the pill down the throat. Plus if your dog "catches on," he may try and roll the pill under his tongue, and hold it there.
My dog was a Jack Russell, so that should give you an idea how "willful" and clever she was. But she had Epilepsy, and I had to give her meds daily, and this worked better for me than trying to put it into her food...which she was clever enough to eat the food, and spit out the pill.
You might also try stroking her neck softly with the one hand that's not holding her nose closed. That also helps the gulping reflex.

Good luck!

He's an eight-pound Brussels Griffon with an undershot jaw, with a terrier stubborn streak, a tough combination. The vet used a "piller," and he DID still manage to hold the pill there! But I thank you. I totally identify with you and your Jack Russell, with epilepsy. I struggled with two cockers who also had seizures. It can be a nightmare, as you know. It sounds as if you have a special touch. I just lack the confidence, and look to cheese, though I sure also love my dogs. What was your dog taking? My Samantha was on primadone, but I found more success, with my Sheena, with herbs and then potassium bromide. Thank you for this. It may work with my other dog, but not for this stubborn little one!:-)

I honestly don't remember the name of the Epilepsy medication (I think they were tiny white octagonal pills). That was over 20 years now. The medication kept her functiong for several years. She's been gone a while now, but I still have dreams about her, and think of her often...especially since Russell's have become the "in" breed the last few years, and I see them everywhere.

Your dog will be fine though. You just have to work out an "understanding" with her. (I also use to "pet sit", and pet psychology is a real art.) Though about getting the pills in your dog...blowing softly in the direction of her nose should work well...since it causes a reflex action for dogs to gulp. If you rely on food to get the pills down, it seems you dog will just keep goading you into feeding her more and more snacks. Then you'll have more health problems for your dog!

Good luck!

wrap it in boloney.
I don't know why, but this generally works.
Good luck.

But he doesn't seem to like peanut butter. Even my vet's office has suggested this, but he just turns his head.:shrug:

I had a fussy dog once and that was the only way she would take her pills!

It sounded like something that would be easy to conceal pills in, but I was worried how his tummy would react to it.:shrug:

Which I will post, since you all have been so helpful and supportive that you certainly deserve to read what he said. BTW, I tried cooking ground chicken for my little guy, today, also suggested by my vet's office, and he ate quite a bit, but it was of no help with the pills. Anyway, here's what he's proposing for the meds and thank you all, again!

Rhi :grouphug:

Hello:

The easy way is to compound the medications into liquid with the flavor he likes. We have a pharmacist that does that. If you like we can do that Monday or when you come Tuesday we can call her and have the medications done that way.

see you Tuesday

combine the pills with some cat poop and VOILA!

I was thinking of MY dog, Budward, when I suggested the catppop solution.

On second thought, I could hide the pill on top of the trash and if the lid's open, he'd find and eat it. He's not too bright.

He's rejected five kinds of cheese, usually his favorite. but I did get three pills into him, yesterday, using chicken breast. *sigh* I'm bringing his meds with him to the vet's, later today, and they can try their luck. *sigh* And I'm sure that you're dog is both bright and that you also love him. :-)

He went there, today, and seems to be doing better, though both vets examined him, they were so concerned. He's off all of his meds except the two smallest pills, and the liquid, so I should be able to manage, especially since they got them into him, today, though THEY had a very tough time. My dog, apparently, is a very tough, stubborn case, all I need, but, at least I know that it's just not my incompetence. But all I need to do, for the next 24 hours is get the little guy to eat something, which he already has, so things are looking up. Thanks.:-)

Dogs wolf food down so quick they hardly notice. Which is why I rarely share my good stuff with them, they can't possibly have time to enjoy that lovely steak I'm cooking.

Hot dog, but this is about the only option I haven't explored yet, so I may try it, tomorrow. I've tried everything else I could think of, including beef. Thanks. *sigh*

My dog has to take cortico steroids for his arthritis and he loves butter.

How did you manage it? My personal favorite is cheese, since my little guy loves the stuff, and I can wrap it around a pill. I've tried five different kinds of cheese.:shrug:

I got an e-mail solution from my vet, which I'll include, but we still have to get through tonight and tomorrow. Thanks!:-)

From my vet:
Hello:

The easy way is to compound the medications into liquid with the flavor he likes. We have a pharmacist that does that. If you like we can do that Monday or when you come Tuesday we can call her and have the medications done that way.

see you Tuesday

Some pet meds can be "compounded" into a substance that can be rubbed inside the pet's ear, where it is absorbed. This preparation is done in a retail pharmacy that can do it. It's worth asking about, if you have no success.

Have you tried muzzling the dog and then slipping the pill in through the side of his mouth where the teeth don't quite meet? Maybe that combined with throat massage would work.

This is the e-mail I received back from, my vet, who is proposing this very thing. Thanks so much!:-)

As for slipping anything into the side of this little guy's mouth, or muzzling him, just take a look at his photo. He is eight pounds and has such a small mouth! And I totally failed with throat massage with my cocker. I am an old hand at this, but this dog is just so small that I even have a hard time getting the syringe into his mouth. I had a much easier time pilling my kitty. But my vet may have come up with an answer:

Hello:

The easy way is to compound the medications into liquid with the flavor he likes. We have a pharmacist that does that. If you like we can do that Monday or when you come Tuesday we can call her and have the medications done that way.

see you Tuesday

http://shop.store.yahoo.com/healthypetscom/pillgun.html

You can probably get one from your vet.

I have one to give pills to the cats... it makes things much easier.

To the Emergency Clinic for a choking incident. But if it is okay for cats, who are mostly his size, eight pounds, it should work for him. I will ask when he sees his vet, tomorrow.Thank you so much.:-)

He is a stubborn little pis, all I need. Here's my update on my vet visit. *sigh*

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=105&topic_id=2918590&mesg_id=2945131&page=

When you do manage to get the pill down into his throat area, lift his head gently by the chin, keeping his mouth closed, so he's sort of looking up and then stroke his throat. You'll need to be positioned behind him. My vet told me that animals then have a reflex to swallow. I used this on our dog and cats over the years. Good luck getting to the point where you can get the pill in there! Btw, he's a cutie.

But I've learned that he's also extremely stubborn and catches on immediately! Here's my post on my experience at the vet's, today. He gave them a pretty hard time, so I now know it's not just me.:shrug:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=105&topic_id=2918590&mesg_id=2945131&page=

I took him to the vet today because I was that worried, and also my other dog was scheduled to have the stitches removed from her recent surgery. I don't know which one had a most unpleasant time.:-(

Anyway, the vet even had a very difficult time with him. She said that he is remarkably stubborn and that he clamped his little jaws shut when she attempted to open his mouth. Plus, he has the little pushed-in face. The good news is that he is much better and he only needs the diuretic and the thyroxine which are the smallest pills.:-)

The vet decided to try the "piller," since he was so resistant. I was worried about him choking, since he has before because he's so small, but the vet didn't think that there would be a problem. She did the thyroid med first and got that into him, then the lasix. By that time, as with the food, he's figured out what's coming. She used the "piller," and shot it into the back of his throat, and I rubbed it, but she said to watch him. Sure enough, a good 10 minutes later, he spit the damn pill out!:D

She crushed it up and put it into a syringe with some water, and that worked, though he fought like the devil, and she gave me the syringe to take home. Anyway, if the vet had this much trouble, it's not just that I'm incompetent!:shrug:

Thanks for all the terrific advice! I have gotten a real education about pilling pets!:hi:

You have a family here who understand your plight. good luck...and keep us posted, if you can.

And I do know that I have a family here, one who is much kinder to me than my own. I was feeling pretty desperate and my regular vet was concerned enough to come in to examine him, today, even though his partner already did. People on DU are the best, and always come through for you. I have been helped, when I've needed it, so I try to respond in kind. You have to have experienced it to understand, but the Freepers have no such "family." Until recently, they had nothing resembling The Lounge, let alone our new forums. I will always be grateful that I found DU.
:grouphug:

:pals: :hug:

Two words "prime rib" he won't refuse it. No wonder you couldn't find his mouth,I didn't realize that he was clamping his mouth shut. :hug:
I went through years of a biting dog and the only way that we could get his medicine down him was to find the area where his one tooth was missing and shoot it in with an eye dropper or syringe.

If he doesn't start eating for you use the syringe or eye dropper method so that you can build his strength back up. Keep me informed and email me. If you need any help let me know. :hug:

All I need. But they were pleased that he hadn't dropped any weight, and I was surprised. And I have tried pretty much everything! He is a nut for cheese, in particular, and just turned it down, but did eat a little deli roast beef that I gave my other dog. *sigh*:shrug:

This vet office always calls back, the next day, to ask how the patient is doing, and the girl who is there, tomorrow, is the one I know best and will be there on her own, so we can really chat. And she loves this little dog. I found out she's also a fellow liberal and Kerry supporter, which surprised me, but I had to ask, when things were heating up, just before the election. I found I was speaking to anyone who wasn't running away from me, LOL, so the person who will call knows what's gone on with me, is sympathetic, and loves my little dog. I left him with her when I took my distraught Sara out the car, since she was just so anxious to leave, and I heard this woman whisper to him that she liked him better than anybody else who comes there. Pretty amazing for a little dog that nobody wanted.:-)

And I'll keep you informed. Thanks!:pals:

I hope things get better for him! :) :hug:

Wouldn't open his mouth for her! He is, evidently, a tough case, all I need, but at least I know that it's not just that I'm incompetent!:shrug:

And he did eat, a little, tonight. He IS better and on only two small meds now, so I am hopeful. He just has to get back to normal. Also, he has not lost weight, which is encouraging. Thanks so much!:-)

I've always wanted to dart big game for science!
and once the little guy is down, you could tag his ear and fit him with a radio collar!

And this eight-pound dog is hardly big game!:shrug:

then a little cream cheese.
I have to take my big doggy to the vet tomorrow, and I'm sure I'll be picking up peanut butter and cream cheese :)

There are so many suggestions, but not many work, like the peanut butter. I was told that they either like it or they don't. Well, my little guy does not. *sigh* But he does like cheese, and cream cheese is mild. I must pick this up, as well! Thanks! Munster cheese, sliced, from the deli, has also worked for me. Good, if sliced thin, for concealing pills in. Just a suggestion, if our guys have the same tastes.:-)

the pill ball of cheese with another one immediately after that so that he would rush and swallow the pill one to get the next one.

also, of course, you can pry his little mouth open, put the pill as far back in his mouth as you can make it go and then clasp his snout shut. They will usually swallow the pill. Break the big one in two unless it has a coating on it kind of like a candy coating. That would mean its meant to dissolve in the intestines and not in the stomach.

Since Thursday, he's had his pills, in either cheese or roast beef, which he's actually taken from me. The key was to get him eating, again, and that was cottage cheese. And he is only on the two smallest pills, and only once a day, which makes things so much easier. He goes back to the vet on Thursday, but I really do think he's out of the woods. I was just so scared for him. And he is just so small, placing the pill in his mouth was just impossible. The vet tried using a "piller" and he outsmarted her! This is not good news, that my dog is that smart, but at least I'm prepared for it! Who would have thought?! He weighs eight pounds. LOL! But I'm just so relieved, thanks so much!:-)