Dog is Licking Floor
We are wondering why our year old chocolate Labrador Retriever is licking the floors so much. Buddy accidentally got into some turkey leg leftovers, and we are worried that he has a bone in his throat as he threw up liquid several times this evening. He is also acting as if he is constipate and has a poor appetite. Should we wait and see if this resolves or should we take him to our veterinarian?
If your dog is vomiting and unable to eliminate, or having spasms in his colon, he should be seen by your veterinarian. Since we know he has been eating turkey bones, it is possible that a bone has splintered and is stuck in his intestinal tract. This can be a very serious situation. Dogs with bones stuck across the palate may paw vigorously at their mouth and be in noticeable discomfort.
Licking the floor can be due to nausea which may be associated with the other signs you describe. Floor licking may also be associated with a small piece of bone that is stuck in your dog's teeth and is causing pain. It can also be due to an irritation of the tongue or throat; for instance, plant material that gets stuck on a dog's foot can be eaten when the dog licks his feet, and this can cause excess licking.
Your best option is to have your veterinarian examine Buddy as soon as possible.
Good luck with your dog!
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