It is inevitable that your dog will experience an upset stomach at some point. Usually, this isn't a cause for concern, and it should resolve itself within a day or two. Learning how to settle a dog's stomach will help to alleviate the symptoms faster to make your pup comfortable again.
If your dog shows signs of an upset stomach on a regular basis, you should seek the advice of your veterinarian. He may have a food allergy or an underlying medical condition. If the upset stomach is accompanied by other symptoms, like blood in the vomit or stool, you should call your veterinarian as soon as possible.
The occasional upset stomach can usually be treated with some simple home remedies. Signs of an upset stomach include:
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- eating grass
- lethargy
- loss of appetite
- excessive gas
- gurgling noises from the stomach
Learning how to settle a dog's stomach is pretty easy. It's similar to helping a human with an upset tummy. Be sure your pet gets lots of rest while he's on the mend. If you notice more serious symptoms, be sure to seek veterinary care.
How To Settle A Dog's Stomach
1. Fasting
Intermittent fasting is completely safe for dogs as long as it's for a short period of time. A 2014 study followed 20 dogs being treated for cancer. It found that fasting helped with vomiting and diarrhea, and did not pose any dangers.
A 12-24 hour fast will give your dog's digestive system time to recover. If you still see signs of an upset stomach after 24 hours, you'll need to call your vet. They will give you guidance on what to do next.
2. Limit Water
While your dog is fasting, ensure access to cool fresh water. He needs to stay hydrated, but don't let him drink a lot of water at once time. Like us, too much water too quickly could cause your dog to vomit.
You can try feeding your pup ice cubes if you seems to be drinking too much water. This will keep him hydrated while limiting the amount of water he gets at one time. If your dog doesn't seem to want to drink water, try these tips to keep him hydrated.
3. Bone Broth
Bone broth is a very popular “food” choice for those who are fasting. It's particularly good for pets who are going through therapeutic fasting after and during bouts of diarrhea or vomiting caused by stomach upset.
When your pet is hungry for more than just water but isn’t up to solid food yet, bone broth is a good compromise. You can cook it yourself or buy pre-made broth. When buying, read the label carefully and make sure there are no spices like onion or garlic.
4. Pumpkin
Because of its high levels of fiber, feeding dogs pumpkin can help with all sorts of digestive issues. Increased fiber levels can help with constipation or diarrhea. It's often recommended by veterinarians and canine nutritionists as a home remedy for GI issues in dogs.
The fiber in pumpkin also acts as a prebiotic, meaning it stimulates the activity and growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. It also works to eliminate the growth of harmful bacteria by lowering the pH levels in the gut and providing the nutrients that good bacteria needs.
These simple home remedies may help a dog suffering with an upset stomach. Remember, if your dog has an upset stomach for more than 24 hours it's important to consult your veterinarian. It's unlikely, but it is possible that an upset stomach could be a symptom of a more serious health condition.
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