Veterinarians frequently recommend bland foods that will soothe upset stomachs. A few examples include boiling skinless chicken breasts in water without seasonings and making white rice without salt.
Canned pumpkin without spices is another popular food option that provides both hydration and fiber to address diarrhea and bulk up stools. Provide small doses over time until you see evidence of improvement.
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Bland Diet
If your dog has mild symptoms of stomach upset, a bland diet could provide relief until their appetite returns and normalcy has returned. Bland foods tend to be soft and easily digestible so as not to further aggravate their stomach.
An ideal diet for sick dogs often consists of boiled white rice mixed with lean proteins like boneless chicken breast or ground beef. Boiled white potatoes provide easily digested carbohydrates that may also serve as alternatives to rice; add low-fat cottage cheese and unsweetened plain yogurt for flavor enhancement!
If your dog has severe digestive problems such as pancreatitis, blockage or hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, rather than resorting to bland diet home remedies for relief. Puppies require additional medical assistance due to their physical growth and changing immune systems.
Electrolytes
Dogs that become dehydrated from vomiting often lose electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and calcium which play an integral part in muscle function, nerve impulse transmission and nutrient absorption.
Electrolyte rehydration sachets can help sick dogs recover more quickly by replenishing electrolytes that have been depleted through illness or surgery. You can find them over-the-counter at many vet clinics and pet stores and can help avoid severe dehydration. When administering, make sure that only specifically-formulated canine-specific products are used, following all directions on the label for use.
Alternative electrolyte chew supplements for dogs may be easier and more palatable than liquid forms; however, always seek professional advice prior to giving any over-the-counter supplements or trying home remedies on your dog; this will ensure they remain properly hydrated as well as identify causes that require more serious care than simple home remedies.
Pepto-Bismol
Pepto-Bismol can be given safely to dogs in low doses with the approval of your veterinarian, using an empty (no needle) syringe with your head held normally and the mouth slightly open – this enables more accurate dosage control.
Notify your vet immediately if your dog is taking any other medications, such as herbal remedies and supplements, as they could interact with Pepto Bismol. Keep in mind that Pepto Bismol may mask symptoms that indicate something more serious and interfere with any tests such as x-rays and urinalysis that your vet might want to run.
Consider all the ways home can help ease your dog’s digestive upset. Dietary changes (opt for bland foods such as boiled chicken and rice), as well as increasing fluid intake by watering their kibble or giving canned food are great strategies.
Imodium
Although Imodium is available over-the-counter to people, it should only be administered under veterinary guidance to dogs. Also known as loperamide, Imodium helps soothe stomachaches by slowing intestine movement – helping keep food and liquid from moving too rapidly through their digestive systems, potentially leading to dehydration or malnutrition.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that Imodium may worsen certain medical conditions like hypothyroidism, liver disease, kidney disease and Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) – as well as intestinal disorders – making acetaminophen and antihistamine medications less effective and increasing side effects.
If your dog is vomiting, make sure they’re actually vomiting rather than coughing up phlegm that could indicate kennel cough or another respiratory infection. Try feeding an easily digestible diet and providing plenty of fluids; however if they still vomit after these measures have been taken consult your veterinarian who can determine its source and provide Imodium recommendations as appropriate treatments or recommend dosage amounts.
