A few weeks ago, we adopted a 2mo old Pit Mastiff puppy from a shelter. A couple of days after we got her, she was diagnosed with parvo. After vet treatment, she's completely recovered and is almost as good as new. The problem we're having is feeding her. She is obviously ravenous and can eat a lot of food super fast if we let her, but she's quick to vomit if we feed her too much or if we let her eat too fast.
The only food she'll touch is her large breed puppy kibble - she hates people food, the healthy, puppy-approved people food like chicken and rice, and wet dog food. So we've been measuring out her food and through trial and error have discovered she can keep down 1/4 cup of kibble three times a day (a fourth feeding and she throws it up, at 1/2 cup at each feeding she throws it up). We've been able to try 1/3 cup today, so far it's been successful.
But, by restricting her food, and with her being a giant breed mix, I fear we're starving her. She's been home a week and hasn't really gained any weight. How much should be feeding her? Are there any tips to help her get what she needs without eating too much and too fast for her recovering GI system?
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It appears that you are handling this correctly. I had 2 dogs that survived parvo and feeding them was a hit and miss. I was lucky that both of my dogs loved pasta, rice, and boiled chicken. This made it easier on their system and easier to feed them like this.
Try feeding smaller meals and maybe adding a little more as her stomach gets stronger. Parvo takes time, more for some than others. She is small but she will get there. Be sure to follow the Vet's advice!
You're doing fine, the pup's stomach will get better. If you're concerned about nutrition, maybe try a liquid (ensure) or something similar and see how the puppy tolerates it.
Parvo survivors do well with soup and other soft foods. Also just whatever he wants to eat.
Your feeding him just right.Your introducing it back to him slowly.
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