Rat Terrier Poop problems

Question
QUESTION: Hi Nancy,
I hope you can answer my question  My rat terrier which was adopted from a shelter is having a problem pooping.  When he poop he squeals real loud and barks at his behind.  I have taken him to the vet hospital where he has stayed.  they have observed his problem and seen videos that I have taken.  They have also put him on a high fiber diet (dry and can) to soften his poop and checked his anal glands.  None of this has worked.  He is now not playful and trys to hold his poop.  We have to carry him outside and rub his back to try to ease his discomfort.  If you are unable to assist me can you please send me in the right direction.  Note, I plan to take him to a different vet tomorrow.

ANSWER: Sandra,
Hi, I am pretty sure this will help you.  Give him a half teaspoon (to start) of mineral oil.  If you need to, you can work that up to one teaspoon.  Let him lick it off the spoon if he will.  Also, give him some magnesium, a very small dose,  quarter of a pill, you can mix that in his food.  Make sure none of the food you are giving him has rice in it, because that is very binding.  Add some string beans to his meal and give him some real dark meat chicken as well.
Get back to me in about five days and see if this does the trick, ok?
nancy


how you making out

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Nancy,
He's still having the problem but not so bad.  I can see that his back end is still red.  I'm going to give him this a little longer and see if it helps.  I'll check back with you later this week with results.

Answer
You can increase the mineral oil if you need to.  I personally think he needs an antibiotic, but it will be impossible to convince a vet of this.  He is definitely having intestinal things going on.
I would like you to also try some baby food, chicken and vegetables.  The baby food is already broken down quite a bit for him. Remember No rice cereal, you can also mix in some tuna in oil.  These are all temporary measures so his intestines can rest and heal.
You might also try some of that Dan activia yogurt, the one with the intestinal help.  That has a natural bacteria in it that may help.  Just put one half teaspoon mixed in with his food.  Yoghurt is good for dogs in small amounts.
I am glad he is doing a bit better.  Keep it up, it may straighten him out, and I hate to see him crying when he goes to the bathroom.  Has he stopped crying?
nancy