quick question—anyone know what to do if Bella’s been struggling to, uh, do her business? Not sure if this is dumb, but she's been straining during our park walks. Is this a thing?

Hey there! I’m so sorry to hear Bella's having a tough time. It's definitely not a dumb question, and you're doing the right thing by reaching out. Straining during walks could be a sign of constipation, but let's keep an eye out for a few things to better understand what's happening.

Here’s what to watch for:

• Check if there's a significant decrease in how often she's pooping or if her stool is small, hard, or dry.
• Look for signs like lethargy, vomiting, or decreased appetite—those are more concerning.
• If you notice blood in her stool or she's showing signs of distress or pain, that’s more urgent.

You don't need to panic yet, but it's good to be cautious. Here’s what to try at home:

• Make sure she’s drinking enough water—staying hydrated can help.
• You can try adding some cooked pumpkin or a bit of olive oil to her diet; these might help move things along.
• Ensure she’s getting enough exercise, as movement can help get her digestive system moving too.

If she becomes very uncomfortable, stops eating, or if she’s been straining for more than a couple of days without improvement, it’s best to get her checked out by a vet. On a side note, always keep dangerous items like chocolate, grapes, or medications out of reach—you’d be surprised what our furry friends can get into!

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.