[Shaherazad]

She has started pooping in the house randomly. Morning or evening; just ate or hasn't eaten in hours; was just let out or hasn't been out in hours; consecutive days or every couple of days... doesn't matter, there is no pattern. My chow/shep mix is 15 yrs old, diagnosed "a bit" senile, very hard of hearing, and has lost some of her peripheral vision. For all intents and purposes I'm surprised that it hasn't happened sooner considering her age, but overall she is happy and healthy. She has been examined by the vet recently, but it was before the pooping began, and got a clean bill of health. She has full run of the house, except bedrooms.

I would like to know if anyone has any suggestions on how to deal with the issue and any possible detailed explanation other than "She's just old." Has she forgotten her "place" in the hierarchy? Are the signals from her bowels just not reaching her brain in time? Should I attempt to retrain her? If not, do doggie diapers work? Are there any other ideas?

Any and all suggestions will be greatly appreciated.