There have been cases that puppies do show signs of stress or Separation Anxiety when removed

from their littermates, (this can include but is not limited to: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, listlessness),

in this case continue to play with the puppy for small intervals of time (over stimulating the puppy

can increase or worsen symptoms), feed your puppy a bland diet of plain white rice, chicken broth

and pedialyte to prevent dehydration. You can also add corn syrup or honey to their water. If the

puppy exhibits these symptoms it can take up to two weeks for the symptoms to completely subside.

 

What defines stress for dogs?

 

Stress is the dog's reaction to stressful change. Stress is normal in that the dog's body is built to

handle everyday stress. For example, feeding the puppy an hour later than you normally would

can be a stress or going in and out in inclement weather. Although waiting to eat and bad weather

may not be a big deal to you, it can be to a dog, especially a puppy. Stress might come from

different causes, but they can affect dogs just like they can people. Any stress-related syndromes

that affect people can be applied to dogs. It’s just harder to diagnose.

 

If a dog engages in inappropriate behavior or has health problems that appear to be linked to

stress, ask yourself about changes in the household.

 

For example:

1. Is there a new member in the family?
2. Have you changed the puppy’s/dogs diet?
3. Is a companion animal suddenly absent?
4. Has it been boarded at a kennel or left with someone unknown?
5. Has it been groomed?
6. Have you moved?
7. Have unknown visitors come to stay for an extended period?
8. Has anything belonging to your dog been moved?
9. Is there a difference in the weather?

 

Any of these, and more, can cause stress, especially in a puppy. If, on occasion, you might find

a little blood in the stool and/or it has become soft, put your puppy way or some “quiet time” and

reassure the puppy that everything is fine. Consult your vet as to his/her opinion on safely dealing

with stress. There are many suggested methods and many supplements you could give your puppy

but it will be much more reassuring for you and your puppy if you involve your vet before using

any home remedies or store-bought relief.

 

Hypoglycemia

 

Hypoglycemia, (an abnormal low level of sugar in the blood) is a very serious and rare condition

that any animal (especially smaller varieties) can experience at any time including stressful

situations. Hypoglycemia is NOT considered to be a birth defect, congenital or contagious

disease and therefore is not covered by any guarantees either written or implied. You may give

honey, corn syrup, or sugar water to any animal that is experiencing this condition.

Death can result if left untreated, especially in new puppies.