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Ever wake up to a pile of vomit or diarrhea on the floor next to a guilty-looking pup? Let's face it, being a pet parent isn't always glamorous; it's hard not to feel a little helpless while scrubbing the carpet and wondering what's wrong. You just want to take away their discomfort and make everything okay. What can you give a dog for an upset stomach? Knowing this can be the difference between a quick recovery and a more serious situation. From gentle home remedies to recognizing the signs that signal a necessary vet visit, understanding what to do is key.
When to Seek Help for an Upset Stomach in Dogs
Common signs of GI upset include vomiting and diarrhea. While these are always concerning to owners, one-off instances do not always require a veterinary visit. When to be concerned about dog vomiting and diarrhea depends on the frequency, duration, appearance of the vomit or diarrhea, and whether or not other clinical signs are present. Consider a trip to the vet if your dog exhibits any of the following:
Persistent or frequent vomiting or diarrhea: If vomiting or diarrhea is profuse, frequent, or persists for more than 24-48 hours
Blood in vomit or stool: The presence of blood in dog’s stool or vomit
Loss of appetite or refusal to eat: Refusal to eat for over 24 hours
Lethargy or weakness: Extreme tiredness or weakness can range from being unusually sluggish to struggling to stand or walk
Abdominal pain: Signs of abdominal pain (such as whining, guarding the belly, or a hunched posture)
Some causes of GI upset require specific medications or even surgery, so prompt intervention leads to better outcomes in these cases.
Common Causes of Upset Stomach in Dogs
I get it. You just want to know: "What can I give my dog for an upset stomach?" But before we get to that, we need to figure out why their tummy is upset. Gastrointestinal upset, or gastroenteritis, can be caused by a variety of underlying issues, most commonly from a dog eating something they shouldn’t have or something their system is not used to.
This can include table scraps, the introduction of new dog food or treats, or eating non-food items like garbage, pieces of a dog toy, or other household objects. Ingestion of non-food items can lead to intestinal obstruction which is a surgical emergency. If you suspect a blockage as the cause of your pet’s GI upset, take them to the vet immediately.
Certain types of infections can cause intense diarrhea and vomiting, such as worms or certain viruses, like parvo in puppies. In some pets, stress or anxiety can also lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or a decrease in appetite.
So, how do you pinpoint the problem? It's often a process of elimination, considering the possible causes of your dog’s upset stomach and vomiting and looking for any accompanying signs. Think back to the last 24-48 hours: Did they get into the trash? Have they had any changes in their food? Are they acting differently?
What Can I Give My Dog for an Upset Stomach?
Just as there are many potential causes of an upset stomach in dogs, there are many safe and accessible remedies as well. When it comes to a minor upset stomach, knowing what to give a dog for an upset stomach and vomiting can make all the difference.
Fasting: A 12-hour fast can help rest the digestive tract. However, avoid fasting young puppies, senior dogs, and those with certain health conditions as they may have trouble maintaining their blood sugar.
Bland Diet: For a couple of days, offer a bland, easily digestible diet. Good options include:
Boiled, unseasoned chicken and rice
A prescription diet from your vet (like Hills i/d)
Hydration: Ensure your dog has constant access to fresh water and is drinking enough, especially if they're losing fluids through vomiting or diarrhea.
Over-the-Counter Medication: Famotidine (Pepcid) at 0.5-1mg/kg up to twice daily may help with minor nausea. Always consult your vet before giving any over-the-counter medications.
Anxiety Management Dealing with dog anxiety as a cause of upset stomach is different. Try to maintain a consistent routine and feed your dog in a quiet, safe space, free from distractions.
If your dog doesn't improve within 24 hours of home treatment, or if their symptoms worsen, it's essential to consult your veterinarian. They can rule out underlying health issues and provide stronger medications if needed.
How Pet Insurance Can Help Your Dog’s Upset Stomach
The diagnostic workup and treatment of different gastrointestinal issues can be stressful for owners, not only physically and emotionally, but financially. You might be surprised how quickly the cost of diagnosis can climb with tests like X-rays, bloodwork, and abdominal ultrasound, on top of the initial exam fee. Vet bills for diagnostics alone can easily cost $500-$1000, and that’s not including the cost of treatment! Treatment depends heavily on the diagnosis made by your vet and may vary from supportive care to urgent exploratory surgery and/or hospitalization.
Don't let finances dictate your pet's care. Pet insurance empowers you to make prompt, potentially life-saving decisions without hesitation. This can lead to better health outcomes for your pup and peace of mind for you. Getting your dog insurance can mean quicker intervention, which leads to better health outcomes for your fur baby.
Dog Upset Stomach
Forget the glitz and glam; real pet parenting is about love, care, and sometimes, cleaning up messes. Knowing the signs, understanding the common causes, and having a plan for treatment—whether it's what to give a dog for an upset stomach or when to take that trip to the vet—is the best way to keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Tummy troubles happen, but armed with a little knowledge and a lot of love, you can help your furry friend navigate those occasional digestive bumps in the road.