10 Ways To Stop Diarrhea In Dogs
My dog has diarrhea! This is one of the most common problems that dog owners face. Although they are cute and fun, they sometimes like to play naughty. They like eating whatever they find on the floor, neighbors yard or even at the garbage disposal bin.
Even though dogs have a much more sophisticated and stronger digestive system than ours, they are certainly not immune from diarrhea. While we can always use a site like waggedy to get the best health tips for our dog, they’re certainly not immune to problems in their health, diarrhoea being one of them. Below are 10 ways to stop diarrhoea and vomiting in dogs.
1. Withholding Food
Whenever your dog experiences a bout or diarrhea or vomiting, the first line of treatment should be cutting its food supply for up to a maximum of 24 hours. This allows the dog’s body to heal itself. However, note that it should be done in a that doesn’t stress the dog.
The first step should be denying the dog food and water for about 6 hours while monitoring its progress. After the 6 hours has elapsed, start giving the dog water every few hours so that it can hydrate itself. Ensure that the water is clean. If the diarrhea and vomiting stops, the dog will be ready to eat again. Remember to light feed it until it fully recuperates.
2. Introducing Probiotics (Yogurt) to Stop Diarrhea
Diarrhea in dogs usually occur when there is a decline of gut flora that help in fighting harmful micro-organisms. This means that the dog’s defense system is at its weakest which if not taken care of immediately can cause the dog to suffer other ailments. This is where probiotics comes in.
Probiotics are basically bacterial culture that help to repopulate the healthy bacteria found in the dog’s intestines. This in turn help to boost the dog’s immune system. Probiotics are not only limited to aiding in stopping diarrhea but also helps when the dog is in stressful conditions or while traveling. Once administered, probiotics should be accompanied with rice water.
3. Chicken and Pumpkin Meal to Stop Diarrhea
Remember when mom used to bring you a hot boiling soup of chicken whenever you down with a flu? Did she also at one point give you pumpkin puree when you had a stomach up set or just wanted to get rid of worms in your stomach? Since time immemorial, chicken and pumpkin dishes have used to treat various human ailments. It has also been observed that cats and dogs also benefit from this natural remedy. Simply give it boiled chicken and pumpkin puree with no seasonings and you will be amazed at its results.
4. Prebiotics to Stop Diarrhea and Vomiting
Confusing as it may be, prebiotics and probiotics are actually not the same. Prebiotics are food components which move undigested all the way to the colon where they ferment. Once they ferment, they produce a chain of fatty acids which inhibit growth of harmful bacteria. They also act as a source of energy to the colon cells while maintaining electrolyte and fluid balance. However, it is important to note that they work well with probiotics. A good example of prebiotic is beet pulp.
5. Salmon and Pasta
Pasta and meat balls is one of the all time special meals for many. However, did you know that it can work wonders if your dog falls victim to diarrhea and vomiting? First, boil about 2 cups of pasta and mash it until it is in a paste form. Next, add a drop or two of salmon. Canned salmon should also work fine. Give the dog little portions over a period of 24 hours while ensuring that it doesn’t eat anything else.
6. Slippery Elm
Although most people would go for modern day medicines to treat their dogs, they are usually not the safest. The problem with these medicines is that they usually come with side effects which may manifest immediately or at a later date when used over long periods of time. However, herbs such as the slippery elm are most of the time free from side effects. This is because they are organic. Slippery elm is good in fighting recurring diarrhea and bowel inflammation problems. The herb should be taken 1 or 2 times daily in dosage of 20 mg per pound of weight.
7. Bentotine Clay
Use of Bentotine clay is one of latest natural ways to treat ailments both in people and animals. Although the name sounds like one of those over the counter drugs, Bentotine clay is actually a clay made up of volcano ash. It was named so because it is mined in a place called Fort Benton. You may have also heard names like montmorillonite clay which are basically means the same thing. Preparation is easy. Simply cut a small piece of the clay and add drops of water to it. Let it soak for about 20 minutes before you prepare it into a paste. Now give your dog the clay paste and wait for 24 hours for the results.
8. Cayenne
Cayenne is a small pepper that has been proven to tackle bouts of diarrhea and other dog problems such as constipation. Cayenne pepper when mixed with water will help burn out any unwanted chemicals in the dogs body. Administration is quite easy. Simply fill up the dog’s bowl with water and add cayenne to the water.
9. Kaopectate
Many of you may be aware of this drug. Although it was designed to stop diarrhea in humans, it has also worked to treat dogs suffering from the same condition. It is ingested orally. However, note that since it was not designed for dogs it should administered with caution. Cats on the other should not even take a whiff of Kaopectate.
10. Green Tripe
Tripe is basically the stomach of a ruminating or grazing animal. These includes cows, goats and sheep. Green tripe (uncooked) contains an array of enzymes and amino acids which will aid in breaking down harmful bacteria in your dog’s digestive system. Dogs too know how valuable it is and you will be surprised at how hard your dog will lick its lips after eating it.
Other Useful Tips When Treating Diarrhea in Dogs
- When you are treating your dog through the starvation method and starts shaking, give it honey or any form of sweetener which the dog can handle. This will help to restore its sugar levels.
- Probiotics can be found on yogurt. However, cheese can also act as a supplement. However, remember not to over feed as they may find it sweet.
- Squash is also another of pumpkin. You can mix it up with garlic to form a new remedy all together.
- Dogs can be stubborn when they are not feeling well and may refuse to eat anything. To over come this, use a syringe to feed it. Note that the food should be in liquid form.
- In all the remedies listed above, always ensure that you give the dog rice water. It helps with hydration as well as boosts the functionality of the remedy.
- If ever notice symptoms like bloody diarrhea in dogs or continued vomiting, it is advisable to visit the Vet as soon as possible (you could even make use of Vet Care At Home).
- You could also take a look at sites like topdogvitamins.com to see if they have any tips on how to help your dog and their situation, and hopefully improve their overall health!