How to care for this dog, lots of questions just after more opinions?

Question

I've asked a couple of questions recently about this dog but thought I'd type up a big question with all of my queries one last time.

All right, this is Richmond. He's 4 months old, a Maltese Cross Silky Terrier, not neutered at the moment and was rescued from a puppy mill a few days ago.
I'm a foster carer and he's my current rescue.
I'll just outline the problems I'm facing, what I'm doing, what the vets said etc.
1. His size and weight. He is very underweight and under developed being smaller then most 8 weeks old of this mix. We've put him on a high protein and high fat raw food diet with supplementation and he eats it (he won't eat dry food period and isn't into canned food much) but not nearly often enough or in high enough amounts. The vet recommended more supplementation of nutrients to boost him a little bit and to always have food available as it's his best chance to eat. That's what I'm doing. What do you think?
2. His muscle development. His muscles in his legs have basically wasted away from lack of movement so when he moves rather then walking/running straight his legs fly to the side as he moves. The vet recommended slow, secure exercise. But he doesn't want to move 90% of the time, he wants to sit and sleep. Don't know what to do, what do you think?
3. Social skills. He has no social skills, he just sits and stares h doesn't want to be played with and won't accept food from me and will start shaking or freeze when he's touched. He likes my cats though. Also, he has almost no hair (had to be shaved off due to the coat) and shakes if he isn't wrapped up in a heated blanket most of the time. Vet said patience, I don't know what to do what do you think?
4. His teeth and jaw. He has an under bite that's not very severe but is noticeable when opening his mouth to clean teeth or check everything out. The vet didn't mention it at all but it concerns me. What do you think?

THANKS FOR ANSWERING!

Answer 1

1. GREAT!

2. Have you tried swimming in the bathtub? Or even just walking in the tub? I did this with my Shih-Tzu after his back surgery. Just fill up the tub until the water is at his belly and walk him around. It's less stressful on his muscles but yet exercises them! Do this at least 2 x per day for several weeks.

3. I think that he needs to get more weight and muscle built up. Then start with training. Poor guy! Get him a sweater to wear! When my Shih-Tzu was shaved for surgery - I bought him a warm sweater to wear. He was a cute as a button.

4. The under bite - consider it a characteristic trait! He has enough to worry to about about. Just leave it. If he's eating and getting back "into shape" that under bite is nothing.



Good luck and thanks for rescuing him. Sounds like he really needed someone like you!

Answer 2

1. I think keeping his food out all day is your best bet, and he'll eat when he's hungry

2. maybe... if you have a friend who has a small dog or can take in another dog with less issues who he can sorta play with, sinse he likes the cat. that sort of movement should improve and build a little muscle

3. same as number 2 with getting him used to other house hold animals as for the people thing, I left an answer on your last which I think addresses this problem.

4. I would not worry too much about the under bite, if it courses no problems to eating then its doesn't really matter, my grandma's Maltese has an under bite and I think its cute lol

Answer 3

Puppy farms can be very very scary for young puppies. However, it is all he has been used to. When I got my dog as a puppy, I fed him mushed up wheetabix in milk, and scrambled egg every day. Try giving him a nice warm bath! It will will warm him up, loosen his muscles, and will be a great way to bond! As for the social skills, see what he does with the cats that makes him happy. Do they rub against him? You should too! Give him lots of cuddles, and stroke him. He'll get used to it. Try several vets, see what they say. All I can suggest is time might heal.

Answer 4

you should ask for a second opinion from another or several different vets but right now I believe your current vet gave you good advice and you are doing a wonderful job





Agree with Erika

Answer 5

these symptoms are common for puppies who had been rescued from a puppy mill, the only thing U can do is try your best and introduce him to other dogs of his height and temperament...

Answer 6

Why are you asking when you're obviously refusing to hear the truth?



Do *NOT* use "high-protein" feed!!!

Does NOTHING but ruin kidneys! CALORIES,not protein!

FORCE exercise!

TRAIN "social skills"!

A bad-bite is just a bad-bite,causes NO PROBLEMS.....ever!



Why are you trying to "foster" when you don't have a clue,dear? Why isn't it placed w/someone who does?

Answer 7

Rather than asking us, you really need to make an appointment with his vet. Your vet will address all of your concerns and help you develop a game plan.