Dog Stomach Problems
Tips for Dealing With Dog Stomach Problems
If you own a dog, you are probably well aware of some of the dog stomach problems that must be dealt with once in a while. Vomiting and diarrhea are common problems with a lot of dogs. There are a number of causes for dog stomach problems; they range from a simple problem with diet, to infections, chronic disease, parasites, and poisoning.
When a dog simply has an occasional upset stomach, the problem will usually correct itself with time, or you may choose to treat the upset stomach with over the counter remedies, such as Pepto Bismol. If dog stomach problems like nausea that leads to vomiting lasts more than a couple of days, or worsens, it will likely be necessary to take your pet to a veterinarian.
With a situation of dog stomach problems that causes persistent and severe vomiting and diarrhea, delaying treatment could lead to dehydration, impeding the dog’s recover. It may also delay treatment for a serious or life threatening health problem.
With diarrhea being such a major problem with dogs, when it does occur it is often left undiagnosed. This is especially if the episodes happen suddenly, but clear up just as quickly, or if they happen infrequently. One of the most common methods of treating infrequent diarrhea is to withhold food for about 24 hours; in most cases this should cure the problem.
If the diarrhea is severe or bloody, it is essential that you take your pet to the vet as soon as possible. Although in most cases of dog stomach problems and diarrhea, the cause is related to diet, food poisoning, a bacteria infection, or virus, such as, parvo or distemper can also cause it. These types of viruses usually attack puppies, but there are some less serious viruses that can make an adult dog ill.
A variety of different parasites can also contribute to dog stomach problems and diarrhea. These include such parasites as Coccidia, hookworms, and whipworm. Coccidia is fairly rare, and in most cases will involve puppies that have been kept in crowded conditions, such as in a kennel, or pet shop. There is a treatment available for this parasite, but along with treatment, the living area of the dog must be disinfected.
Dog stomach problems are frequently one of the main causes of vomiting. When a dog is retching and vomiting food, it is different than regurgitation, which is when they spit up food after a meal. Also, if a dog is retching but not vomiting anything, this could be a sign that the dog has torsion, which is when the stomach has twisted. This condition can cause rapid death within a couple of hours.
In most cases vomiting is not a case for concern. A dog may vomit if they eat too much, or too fast. To help with this problem you can feed your dog smaller, more frequent meals. Another cause of vomiting is when a dog eats grass; this is also not usually an indication of a problem.
In some cases, dog stomach problems that cause vomiting can indicate a serious health condition, such as a problem with the liver, pancreas, and the stomach itself. If your dog continues to have incidents of frequent vomiting, or it is severe, it is best to take him or her to the vet as soon as possible so that you can get a diagnosis.
If eating plants has poisoned your dog, you can usually induce vomiting to help, but check to be sure, as this can be dangerous in the case of ingesting some plants. Also, if a dog has ingested any petroleum products, give the dog a couple of tablespoons of cooking oil and take him to the vet right away.