Just like humans, dogs can experience upset stomachs from time to time. The underlying reason could be dietary indiscretion, a change in food, or underlying health issues. A dog’s upset stomach can be uncomfortable and worrisome for pets and owners. Several natural and safe remedies can help alleviate your furry friend’s discomfort. Let’s go through some of the best remedies for soothing your dog’s upset stomach.
Best Remedies for Soothing Your Dog’s Upset Stomach
To effectively treat your dog, it’s crucial to first identify the symptoms. Look for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas, bloating, lack of appetite, and abdominal discomfort. Once you have recognized these signs, you can start addressing the issue promptly.
Fasting
An upset stomach can indicate that your dog’s stomach needs a break. What you can do is put your dog on a fast for a few hours, say half a day or a full day. Only allow your dog to drink water, and do not give them anything to eat during this period. This should soothe the dog’s upset stomach.
Bland Diet
After the fasting period, you can introduce a bland diet to your dog’s meal plan. This can include boiled white rice and plain, skinless, boneless chicken or lean ground beef. A bland diet is gentle on a dog’s stomach and soothes it. Ensure you do not give food that is spicy, high in fiber, and high in fat.
Probiotics for Gut Health
Probiotics can be beneficial in maintaining a healthy gut for your dog. These supplements provide beneficial bacteria that help in digestion and reduce gastrointestinal problems.
Hydration is Key
It is important to keep your dog well-hydrated, especially if they are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. You can encourage them to drink water or provide ice chips to prevent dehydration. Electrolyte solutions specifically designed for dogs are also available and can help maintain the body’s electrolyte balance.
Avoid Harmful Foods and Substances
While addressing your dog’s upset stomach, it is crucial to avoid such foods and substances that can worsen the condition. These include chocolate, alcohol, caffeine, fatty and spicy foods, onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins.
Gradual Transition Back to Regular Diet
As your dog’s stomach settles, gradually transition them back to their regular diet. This should be done over several days, mixing the bland diet with their usual food. This slow transition helps avoid any sudden shocks to the digestive system and ensures that they are fully recovered.
When to Seek Veterinary Care?
If your dog’s upset stomach persists, worsens, or is accompanied by more serious symptoms like blood in the stool, severe vomiting, lethargy, or abdominal pain, you should immediately consult your veterinarian. These symptoms could be indicators of a more serious underlying issue that requires professional attention.
Conclusion
Dealing with your dog’s upset stomach can be a challenging experience. Although, with the right remedies, you can help your dog feel better in no time. The remedies mentioned above are meant to provide relief and comfort. However, a professional opinion is always valuable when it comes to your pet’s health and well-being.