Dog Remedies for Upset Stomach Problems

Pet owners have several options to choose amongst when it comes to dog remedies for upset stomach problems. Some of these options include home remedies, over-the-counter medications and prescription medications. The specific dog remedies needed often depend on the severity of the dog’s upset stomach and which symptoms he or she is experiencing.

Symptoms and Causes of Dog Stomach Upset

The first step to treating a dog’s upset stomach is trying to identify what has caused the onset of the upset stomach problems. Upset stomach problems in dogs can result in vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain, all of which most commonly occur as the result of bacterial or viral infections or ingestion of a foreign substance.

Keep in mind that it is not always possible to isolate the exact cause of upset stomach problems in dogs. It is simply too easy for a dog to chew and swallow a toy or get into a dangerous substance while the dog owner is away. However, scraping for clues about what caused the dog’s upset stomach will give you a better idea about which dog remedies might provide effective treatment.

Home Remedies for an Upset Stomach

Many dog owners elect to try home dog remedies before purchasing medication. One thing that should always be done in the case of upset stomach problems is to ensure that a fresh, clean supply of water is available at all times. The direct result of persistent vomiting or diarrhea is dehydration, so it is important to make sure that dog stays well hydrated throughout the episode.

The next step is to have the dog fast for 12 to 24 hours. Mild diarrhea and vomiting are signals of gastrointestinal upset, which could be present duet to benign or serious reasons. However, in order to alleviate the associated symptoms, the digestive system needs a chance to relax and regroup. With a continuous water supply, this gives the dog’s body an opportunity to eliminate harmful bacteria.

After the fasting period, the dog should be started on a bland diet, and this should be done as small meals throughout the day so as not to further irritate the digestive system.

Some stomach-friendly foods for dogs include:

  • chicken
  • ground beef
  • cottage cheese
  • rice
  • eggs
  • bread

Cottage cheese contains has a high content of good bacteria, and this can help clear the dog’s system of harmful bacteria.

Over-the-Counter Medications

As a general rule, most over-the-counter medications are safe for dogs, but this should always be discussed with a veterinary professional prior to administration. Antidiarrheal medications such as Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate can be given to help alleviate diarrhea symptoms when used in conjunction with a bland diet.

Prescription Medications for a Dog Upset Stomach

If symptoms of the dog’s upset stomach problems persist, it may be time to seek veterinary attention so that a more suitable treatment method can be initiated. Some of the prescription dog remedies available include:

  • Metoclopramide – treatment of nausea and vomiting
  • Metronidazole – antimicrobial antibiotic used to treat bacterial causes of diarrhea
  • Sucralfate – antiulcer medication that can be used to help neutralize stomach acid
  • Centrine Tabs – treatment of gastrointestinal inflammation and associated nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
  • Cimetidine – control of gastrointestinal inflammation
 

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