Undoubtedly, dogs are super charming and loyal support systems of their owners. They stand strong to protect us and accompany us even through the sick and rough days. Considering all that they do for us, the least we can do for them is take care of their health, and help them heal from any injury, illness, or general discomfort. Out of all the illnesses, an upset stomach in dogs is the most common one. A dog suffers from an upset stomach more than humans do, and there are various reasons.
In this write-up, we shall discuss the causes and symptoms dogs show when they have trouble in their stomach. And of course, we cannot just keep discussing the problems without mentioning practical solutions to them. And that is exactly why we shall have a detailed look at the numerous ways by which you can relieve your dog’s pain. Let’s get started!
Just like humans, even dogs don’t have a single cause behind their upset tummy. There are various causes behind it, and likewise, the intensity of the illness also differs. It is not practically possible to narrow it down to a single cause. However, the most common causes are consumption of human medications, toxic plants, inappropriate human food, or harmful chemicals around the house. Apart from the consumption of unusual items, excessive stress, bacteria imbalance, stomach bloating, irregular or unsuitable diet, weakened immune system, and food allergies can also lead to digestive upset among dogs.
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What Are The Symptoms Indicating Your Dog’s Upset Stomach?
Vomiting or diarrhea are two of the most common symptoms among dogs in case of an upset tummy. Other than that, if you see your dog excessively gulping, that may also be a prominent symptom as the dog is probably trying to combat reflux. Similarly, if you catch your dog eating grass, it can indicate an upset tummy, too, because dogs usually try to eat grass to relieve their stomach or induce vomiting. Apart from these distinct symptoms, loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, tiredness, and bloating may also be symptoms of a dog with an upset stomach.
Now that we have the problem addressed, let’s start talking about the solutions.
Before we start enlisting the possible solutions, know that these are all just home-based natural remedies that may or may not work on your dog. If the problems continue to persist or the symptoms tend to intensify, it would be best if you consult your veterinarian as soon as possible to get the issue diagnosed and rightly treated.
Hydrate
Sometimes, the cause behind your dog’s upset stomach is nothing but dehydration. Dogs are prone to dehydration, and with all the vomiting and diarrhea, it can intensify and lead to more stomach problems. The first thing to do whenever your dog starts throwing up, along with showing other symptoms, is to offer water to restore the fluid level in the body and relieve dehydration. However, it may so happen that drinking water would cause your dog to feel even more uncomfortable in the stomach. If such is the case, try offering ice cubes to cool the digestive system down.
Food Break
Food is the most likely problematic issue when the stomach is upset, so giving a food break can prove helpful in relieving the excess pressure or pain. Keep your dog away from food for about 12 to 24 hours, particularly in case of extreme vomiting and diarrhea. Another alternative to this would be treating your dog with baby food for a couple of days. Such a diet is easy on the stomach as it is low in fiber which slows down stool production and eventually stops diarrhea. This home remedy usually works in favor of the dog.
Canned Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin has properties that can relieve digestive problems, causing the easy passage of food through the stomach and out. Veterinarians often advise dog owners to offer sugar-free canned pumpkin to their dogs, especially in case of vomiting. However, make sure that it is not the pumpkin pie mix because that may cause the dog’s stomach to upset even more. On the other hand, canned pumpkin should be plain and without any extra ingredients and fillers. Small dogs only need about a tablespoon, and large dogs need a few tablespoons.
Probiotics Or Pepto Bismol
Probiotics can practically heal several health issues because they can boost the immune system, promote gut health, improve the body’s bacteria balance, and even normalize bowel movements. Similarly, if your veterinarian approves of it, you can even feed a little bit of Pepto Bismol to your dog. Another alternative to this can be crushing a Pepcid, mixing it with water, and feeding it to your dog. This will be easier to feed as compared to other solid tablets. But, before feeding any medicinal element to your dog, consult your veterinarian.
Conclusion
All in all, there are quite a few considerable options to relieve your dog’s upset stomach. But, in case the symptoms continue to persist or intensify over a period of 24 to 48 hours, book a visit to the veterinarian to treat the issue professionally.
