I have a 4 month old Kelpie who eats rocks. I found several in her poo and the vet booked her in to do some bloods. In the week between seeing the vet and the appointment, she started vomiting at least once per day, but did not show any other symptoms. The vet suggested an xray and found a large rock that she doubted would pass through her intestine and put her straight into surgery. Since the surgery, I have been watching her closely. She has picked up at least 5 decent sized rocks (which I managed to get out before she swallowed them). I am unable to remove all of the rocks from her environment and she is inside and when outside on a lead and watched closely.
She has no mineral deficiencies, but is a bit low on protein so that will be remedied, however, there is no reason for her to be eating the rocks. I have seen her pick up rocks after a long play in the park on the way to get a drink, immediately after getting out of the car as we go to work and whilst playing with my other dog, so I can't say that it is boredom. She is in the office with me during the day and sleeps most of the time. She plays with my other dog in the morning and after work we normally go to the dog park for an hour long play with other dogs. I also walk her for around 15-30 mins every second day. We have attended puppy preschool and were enrolled for classes at the obedience club (this has been put off due to the surgery). I do small training sessions with her 2-3 times a day. She is hopeless with recall and runs away from me particularly when she has something in her mouth.
So far my ideas are muzzle (preventing her picking up the rocks), halti (able to turn her away from the rock) and training. Obviously, I need a short term fix now, so suggestions on which muzzle (baskerville or jafco) to get would be appreciated. Also, any suggestions on long term solutions would be appreciated.
Thanks
