Guide Dog pups live in a rather sterile environment while at the GDB campus.  There are no leaves, twigs, and such for them to get to.  Then they have a long and somewhat stressful trip across the States to come to us in Colorado.  And now their world has broadened - - it includes so many things to explore - - with their mouths!

It is very common for our young pups to get diarrhea.  It could be from “exploring” (aka eating everything they can get a hold of), from stress, a change in activity, or a number of other things.  But when should we be concerned?

First, let’s figure out the difference between diarrhea and loose stools.  If you could clean it up with a baggie, it would be loose stools.  Loose stools still have some form to them, though not a regular stool.  Diarrhea would be too runny to pick much up.  There is no form to the stool; more of a puddle.

For loose stools, we need not be too concerned unless it continues for more than 2 days.  You may have the pup skip a meal to help them get back on track.  If it continues more than 2 days, contact your leader.