My dog ate a dead bird. Should I be worried??

Updated On March 25th, 2016

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for dogs to eat dead animals found in the yard or on walks. Thankfully, in most cases the worst that may occur is some stomach upset (vomiting or diarrhea). Monitor for GI upset ([vomiting](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/vomiting-1/) and/or [diarrhea](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/diarrhea-1/)), lethargy, loss of appetite or abdominal pain. If your dog is behaving normally otherwise, you can [manage minor GI upset at home](https://www.petcoach.co/article/6-things-you-can-do-at-home-if-your-pet-has-diarrhea) by first withholding food for 12-24 hours. Allow small amounts of water or unflavored PediaLyte during this fasting period. Resume feeding a bland diet ( boiled boneless / skinless chicken and plain cooked white rice) in small, frequent amounts. Begin with 1 tablespoon of food every hour and gradually increase the amount if there is no vomiting. Continue feeding bland until there is no vomiting for 48 hours and/or the stool is normal then transition slowly to the regular diet. If the vomiting or diarrhea don't stop or if you see other symptoms (lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, etc.), see your veterinarian.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Usually dogs are a lot more resilient than people when eating something dead. There is a possiblility that your dog may get a stomach (gastrointestinal) upset, which will manifest itself in a bout of vomiting, maybe even diarrhea, but that should go away by itself in a day or two. If your dog does have vomiting and diarrhea for longer than that, you should take away his food for about 12 hrs, then feed a bland diet ( e.g. boiled rice with a little bit of chicken and broth), small portions in about 4 daily feeds and then this episode should be over. If not you need to take your dog to a vet.

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