score:
0

What do I do about my suspicions of neglect? maybe unintentional neglect?

Craig M.'s profile image

The dog I am currently sitting is not only the most lethargic eight year old dog I have ever seen, but simply the most lethargic dog I have ever encountered. He doesn't enjoy walks, he instead prefers to take very very slow steps and sniff every square inch of ground in front of him as he proceeds (now he is a scent hound and I am aware of just how powerful their drive to sniff is, but this alone does not account for his lethargy).

I began inspecting his body. I noticed his teeth are caked in plaque, and I suspect that this is affecting his temperament. I have never seen so much plaque on a dogs teeth. He gets fed beneful brand dog kibble.

I don't know what to do. This dog needs this plaque removed. His gums on his right side are beginning to swell and look redder than his gums on the left side. I just want him to live a happier life.

Should I tell the owner now while she is away? should I wait until she arrives at pick up to speak with her about it?

2 Answers

Sort by ยป oldest newest most voted
score:
1
Christine B.'s profile image

I think it's worth a gentle mention to them. I have a dog that is a breed that is notorious for teeth problems. I always had them cleaned but his teeth got so bad and I did notice lethargy. I finally took him to a different Vet who told me some of his teeth should be removed and he would feel so much better. Lethargy could be because the dog is in pain :-( I never heard of this so I googled it and saw it was common. I had three teeth removed and my dog was like a new "person"! So I would mention it to them.

Comments

I appreciate your response. I did manage to convey the message to the owners, providing a little information packet as well.

Craig M.'s profile image Craig M.
score:
3
Deb A.'s profile image

I'd caution you to take a really soft approach regarding his health. There could be a lot of things we don't know about the situation. Sitters are expected to provide care while owner is away, and inform of changes noticed while in our care, but mostly we are not vets. If you suspect an infection around the gum line, it may be worth messaging the parents if they're going to be away much longer. Using a friendly tone- stating what you observed about the dog's gums.

When they return, you can certainly share that their dog may have plaque build up and ask them if they tried tooth brushing, dental cleaning or may like either tips or a referral (that is if you want to offer that). During the conversation, you can mention he walked slowly and didn't seem to enjoy walks and asked if that's something they've noticed or if they do anything different. Sharing what tips you know in a non-confrontational way, like you may speak to a good friend or an elder, might be the kindest thing you can do for the dog.

Comments

thank you very much for your response. the conversation went very well with the owner.

Craig M.'s profile image Craig M.
Related questions

Is there a way to report a sitter?

How to cancel the request?

Do you offer cat sitting?

How do I know if the dog walker showed up?

What is the cancellation policy?

When does Rover charge credit card?

do i take my dog's food to the sitter?

Advertising?

promo code refund?

Why did my future date reservation already get deducted from my credit card? The last 2 times I've booked through this site, that did not happen?

DISCLAIMER: The information made available on this forum is provided by third parties and not by Rover.com. As further set forth in our Terms of Service, Rover.com does not make any warranties regarding such information, and you should conduct your own diligence before relying on it.

Need Help?

© 2016 Rover.com. All Rights Reserved.