Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Expert Advice Leads to Explosive Reaction

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

When it comes to medical opinions, your dog’s health is best left in the hands of a vet, not a guru. The Hairy Dogfathers deal with the messy consequences of free medical advice.

Dear Hairy Dogfathers,

My recently rescued dog had a skin condition, so I followed the advice of the “dog guru” I adopted her from. Let’s just say the advice didn’t go so well. She recommended that I top off her food with some supplements from my kitchen cupboard. Seemed like sage advice, so I did it. To, umm, explosive results. My dog had a bout of diarrhea that lasted for eight days! I brought her to the vet, who cleared up the skin issue and helped us resolve the diarrhea as well. Now my problem is this what do I tell the woman who gave me this advice?

Signed, Not Pleased

Related:Avoiding Holiday Hangover

Of course you aren’t pleased; no one likes dealing with diarrhea, especially the explosive kind. Just like people, some dogs have sensitive stomachs, so toying around with diets without can lead to some not so fun times for you and your pooch. I doubt this guru of yours meant any harm, but if she continues propagating this advice, your community may soon have an explosive epidemic. My advice here is simple: be straight up with this person, tell that following her advice lead to a week from hell with a vet bill to boot, and since you’re a nice person you’re simply telling her. If someone else has the same experience they may be tempted to share their pain… and they may not be as polite as you!

Related:Animal Overshare On Facebook

When it comes to medical advice, ask a medical professional. Sure, a trip to the vet is going to cost you some money, but less money than treating whatever treatment you made up with the free advice in the first place. You adopted this dog, and with that, you promised to care for her. Next time, step up and consult with your vet. Your dog is lucky that the problems have not had more serious, longer term side effects.

Now, as far as dealing with this guru, it sounds like she was trying to help. I would send them a note telling them that the dog is fine now, but that they didn’t react well to free-advice treatment. Keep the tone happy and not accusatory. After all, it was your fault that you listened to the free advice in the first place. But they do need to be notified in a gentle way, so they don’t continue with their “helpful” advice giving.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Effective Alternative Treatments For Dog Arthritis

Arthritis affects many adult dogs, as many as 1 in 5. For those looking for a non-traditional route, here are a few alternatives for treating dog arthritis.
Pinny Poo

The feisty Pinny Poo brings together the protective nature of the Miniature Pinscher and the playful personality of the Miniature Poodle.
Griffon Vauve De Bretagne

Primarily kept as a hunting dog, the medium-sized Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is actually one of three Brittany hound breeds.
How Do You Introduce Your New Dog to Your Partner?

They are two of the most important things in your life and you want them to get along. Here''s how to introduce your new dog to your partner.
Labrottie

The Labrottie is a cross between a purebred Labrador Retriever and Rottweiler. These dogs are known for their affectionate and devoted personality.
Border Collie

The Border Collie is famous for its ability to effectively work as herder dogs. Intelligent and energetic, this dog is eager to work for its owners.
Javanese

Closely kin to the Balinese, the Javanese is a talkative philosopher that is fine alone during the day, but wants your attention in the evenings.
What Pet Parents Need To Know About Reverse Sneezing In Dogs

Before you freak out, you should know that reverse sneezing is fairly common in dogs, and that flat-face breeds are more prone than others.
Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Doggy Bag Deal Breaker?

There’s nothing wrong with bringing home a restaurant doggy bag for your dog when you’ve got food left over on your plate. But what about leftove…
Frenchton

The Froston is a cross between a purebred Boston Terrier and French Bulldog. These dogs are playful, but they are also calm and laid-back.
Mountain Boarding With Dogs: Off-Roading Adventures Powered By Pooches

A close call with a car ends Kevin Roberts’ pastime of skateboarding with his dogs. But that can’t slow him and his high-energy pack down. That&r…
Touch of Coconut Dog Treat Recipe

We''ve talked about the benefits of coconut oil and wanted to add it to a treat recipe. Viola - the Touch of Coconut Dog Treat Recipe.
Italian Greyhuahua

The Italian Greyhuahua blends the spunky Chihuahua with the Italian Greyhound for a fun family dog. They are curious, playful yet timid family dogs.
Squirrelfish

Squirrelfish are a family of ray-finned saltwater fish. They are characterized by their large eyes and long, sharp dorsal spines.
Cockapoo

The oldest of the designer dogs, the Cockapoo is a sweet and loving companion. He is accepting of strangers as well as other new animals, and loves people.