loose stool

Question
I have a 2 1/2 month-old Shih tzu and ever since her visit to the vet about a week ago, she has had loose stool. Prior to the visit (I had had her for a week before I took her to the vet), her stools were normal. The vet gave her a dose of dewormer (drontal plus). When I called the vet, the receptionist informed me the dogs usually have loose stool after being dewormed. However, because it's been going on for a week, I am concerned.

Please advise.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Lisa

Answer
Hi Lisa!  I have a shih tzu too!  Aren't they just the best?
As for the loose stool...
Is your baby acting normal?  Playing, eating/drinking, ect.?  If so, it most likely is from the dewormer, and I know for a fact that drontal really does cause loose stools.  Usually though, it's only for 2-3 days, so a week is pretty long for this to be going on.
If your puppy is seeming lethargic to you and has a loss of appetite, she could be experiencing an ailment and a vet visit would be most beneficial.
Have you changed any foods or treats during this time?  This could cause a stomach upset.
Here's a tried and true method to stop loose stool.
Boil boneless, skinnless chicken breast until completely done.  Mix with some white rice.  The chicken is extremely gentle on the digestive system and the rice works as a firming agent.  Feed this mixture for 3 days.  On the fourth day incorporate some of her normal puppy food in with the mixture.  Each day, add some more of her puppy food and eliminate some of the chicken and rice.  By the 7th day, she should be completely on her puppy food.
If you notice loose stools continuing to the 2nd day of this diet, a vet visit would be best.  If this is just a stomach upset, the chicken and rice should firm her stool up within a day or two.  I hope this helps and please let me know how she does!
From one "smooshy face lover" (as I lovingly refer to them as) to another,
Hilary