In 2020, a study by the University of Gothenburg showed that 40 percent of adults around the world suffer from gastrointestinal disorders. It’s a health issue that’s only been growing in the past few years.
Of course, humans alone aren’t subjected to such digestive disorders.
Like humans, dogs can suffer from a variety of digestive disorders.
These can range from mild stomach upsets to more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI).
If your dog is experiencing digestive problems, there are several things you can do to help alleviate its symptoms and improve its overall health.
I’m sharing about this topic because I’m a dog owner. The two dogs in that photo are our beloved Pablo (the mini-dachshund) and Lili (lab and terrier mutt)!
Plus I’m also a research geek on health and wellness.
For the last few decades I’ve been writing a range of bestselling wellness books and I’ve sold about 2 million wellness books globally.
With this mind, I created this article all about how to treat your dog’s digestive issues!
1. Change The Diet
One of the most effective ways to treat your dog’s digestive disorder is to change its diet.
According to the National Library of Medicine, it’s been found that a change in diet can help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal conditions in humans. Changes in the diet for your dog can also reduce the risk of it being affected by digestive disorders.
This can include switching to a food that is specifically formulated for dogs with digestive issues. For example, look for a limited-ingredient diet or a hypoallergenic diet. You may also want to consider adding probiotics or enzymes to their food to help digestion.
Be sure to search for the best dog food brands and recipes online, as some veterinarian-backed kibble has ingredients that can ease your pup’s tummy ache.
2. Provide Plenty of Exercise
Epidemiologist Prof. Tim Spector, in an interview with Vogue UK, suggested that exercise can help with gut motility in humans. That, in turn, helps us deal with digestive disorders.
Regular exercise can help you ensure a healthy digestive system for your dog too. It helps to stimulate the muscles in the digestive tract. As a result, his can help to move food through the system more efficiently.
This can reduce the risk of constipation and other digestive problems.
3. Avoid Table Scraps
Table scraps can be difficult for dogs to digest. And they can also contribute to weight gain. It’s best to avoid giving your dog table scraps altogether. Instead stick to a well-balanced diet that is formulated specifically for dogs.
4. Get Them Checked by a Vet
If your dog is showing signs of a digestive disorder, it’s important to take them to the vet for a thorough examination. Your veterinarian can run tests to determine the underlying cause of the problem.Afterwards, they can develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your dog’s specific needs. In some cases, medication may be necessary to help alleviate symptoms and improve your dog’s overall health.
5. Use Famotidine
Famotidine, also known by its brand name Pepcid, is a medication that can be used to treat a variety of digestive disorders in dogs. It can help to alleviate symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux, and stomach ulcers.
Famotidine can help to reduce the inflammation and pain associated with gastritis and can also help to prevent the formation of stomach ulcers.
You might be wondering, “How much Famotidine can I give my dog?” That answer can only be given by your vet. Famotidine tablets come in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg formulations. The vet will determine the dosage. They’ll tell you whether you should feed your dog half a tablet, the whole thing, or more than one tablet.
6. Keep an Eye on Its Weight
Obesity can contribute to several health problems, including digestive issues. If your dog is overweight, you’ll want to work with your veterinarian to create a weight loss plan that is safe and effective.
This may include…
- switching to a lower-calorie diet
- increasing exercise
- monitoring your dog’s progress closely
7. Monitor Its Bowel Movements
Regular bowel movements are important for maintaining a healthy digestive system. If your dog is experiencing diarrhea or constipation, it may be a sign of a more serious problem. Contact your veterinarian if your dog is experiencing these symptoms. They may need to run tests or prescribe medication to help alleviate the problem.
In conclusion: Treating Digestive Disorders in Dogs
The digestive problems can range from mild stomach upsets to more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI).
Key things to treat dog digestive disorder symptoms:
- changing their diet
- providing plenty of exercise
- avoiding table scraps
- keeping an eye on their weight
- monitoring their bowel movements
- getting them checked out by a vet
Remember, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has a digestive disorder. Yhey will be able to provide the best treatment and advice for your furry friend.
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