Dylan & Rainey

Tag: first aid

  • Does my dog have the flu or kennel cough?

    Does my dog have the flu or kennel cough?

    Did you know that there is such a thing as canine flu? Many people have heard of kennel cough, but there are many dog owners that have no clue that their dog can get the flu. If you are one of those dog owners that didn’t know about canine flu, there is no need to feel guilty, we all have to learn sometime. That time is now!

    Canine flu and kennel cough are both respiratory infections that can affect dogs. They are caused by different viruses and bacteria, and while some of the symptoms may be common, some of the symptoms are quite different. Additionally, the treatments for both of these conditions are quite different.

     

    Do I have a dog with the flu or is it kennel cough?

    Here are some specifics regarding canine flu and kennel cough. Hopefully after reading this, you’ll be more prepared the next time your sweet pup starts to show symptoms.

     

    What is canine flu?

    Canine flu, dog flu, or canine influenza, is extremely contagious and is caused by a virus called the canine influenza virus (CIV). There are two main strains of CIV: H3N8 and H3N2. H3N8 was first identified in 2004 and is the strain commonly found throughout the United States. The newer strain of H3N2 was first identified in Asia in 2006 and has begun to be seen more recently in the United States.

    Just a quick look at your local news will show you that canine flu is making the headlines quite a bit. This cold and flu season hasn’t just been rough on us humans, my friends, it’s been bad for the dogs too! If you are curious to see US outbreaks, look at this outbreak map.

     

    What are the symptoms of canine flu?

    Symptoms of canine flu include the following:

    • Fever
    • Coughing
    • Sneezing
    • Nasal discharge
    • Lethargy

    In severe cases, canine flu can lead to pneumonia and even death, although this is rare. Dogs can have canine flu without showing any symptoms or they can show them all. If your dogs are showing any of these symptoms, be sure and reach out to your veterinarian.

    It is important to be aware that symptoms and severity can change quickly. Dylan and Rainey both caught the flu. They seemed to be improving, but the next morning Dylan wouldn’t eat and he quickly developed pneumonia. Dylan never turns away food so that immediately instigated a trip to the vet. The vet immediately put him on antibiotics and a cough suppressant. Rainey never needed a see the vet as she just got better naturally.

     

    How is dog flu transmitted?

    Canine flu is transmitted through the air, by direct contact with infected dogs, or by coming into contact with objects contaminated with the virus, such as toys or food bowls.

    Dog flu often hits groups of dogs that are kenneled or boarded together and they often share toys, bowls, and space.

     

    What is the treatment for canine flu?

    Treatment for canine flu is mostly supportive care such as keeping your dog comfortable and hydrated while the dog is sick. This helps the dog’s body build up an immune response, thereby facilitating recovery. If the vet suspects that your dog has a secondary infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. Your vet may also prescribe a cough suppressant.

    Most dogs will recover from canine flu within two to three weeks. Those dogs that have developed secondary infections, however, need to be watched closely for signs of more severe illness such as pneumonia. If your dog stops to eat or becomes very lethargic, you should immediately go to the vet as pneumonia can quickly become very severe.

     

    What is kennel cough?

    Kennel cough is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. The most common cause of kennel cough is a bacterium called Bordetella bronchiseptica, but other viruses and bacteria, such as parainfluenza and adenovirus, can also contribute to the infection.

     

    What are the symptoms of kennel cough?

    Symptoms of kennel cough include the following:

    • Dry, hacking cough (these coughs often sound like a “honk”)
    • Runny nose and nasal discharge
    • Low fever
    • Lethargy
    • Reduced appetite

    Kennel cough is usually not serious and will resolve on its own within a few weeks, but it can be more severe in puppies, elderly dogs, or dogs with compromised immune systems.

     

    How is kennel cough transmitted?

    Like the canine flu, kennel cough is also highly contagious and is transmitted through the air or by direct contact with infected dogs. Kennel cough is a big concern for dogs that are kenneled or boarded together. It can also be very rapidly spread between dogs at dog parks, training groups, as well as dog shows.

     

    What is the treatment for kennel cough?

    Kennel cough is typically treated with a week or two of rest, however oftentimes a veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics in an effort to prevent a secondary infection as well as cough medication to ease symptoms and make your dog more comfortable.

    If your dog has kennel cough, make sure to use a harness as opposed to a collar for walking them so as to not aggravate their trachea further. Additionally, if you are a home with more than one dog, it is likely that all of your dogs have been exposed.

     

    Are there preventatives available?

    Both canine flu and kennel cough can be prevented with vaccines. The canine flu vaccine is available for both strains of CIV and is recommended for dogs at high risk of exposure, such as those that go to dog shows or boarding facilities. The kennel cough vaccine is also available and is often required by boarding facilities and doggy daycares. You should discuss vaccinations with your vet to assess if these are advisable for your dog.

    Many people like to try home remedies before taking their dog to the vet. While there are benefits to that, it is important to at least speak to your vet if they are suffering severe symptoms to ensure your vet doesn’t think you should rush them in.

    The most important treatment for both of these conditions is supportive care which can include home remedies. Home remedies that are often used in the case of canine respiratory illnesses include:

    • Rest
    • Fluids (lots of fluids)
    • Food (encourage your dog to eat, maybe spoil them with treats to encourage eating)
    • Raw honey (1 teaspoon, 4 times per day helps clear nasal fluids)
    • Chicken soup (avoid onions, salt, and garlic), serve cold
    • Coconut oil (add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to your dog’s food every day)
    • Steam vaporizer (helps clear respiratory tract)

    So do you have a dog with the flu or kennel cough?

    In conclusion, canine flu and kennel cough are both respiratory infections that can affect dogs. They are caused by different viruses and bacteria and have different symptoms and treatments. Canine flu can be more serious than kennel cough and can lead to complications such as pneumonia, however both can be prevented with vaccines.

    Also, in general, healthy dogs are better able to fight these illnesses naturally. Feeding a fresh, nutrient-rich diet will also help to build your dog’s natural immune system. Also, highly socialized dogs tend to have stronger immune systems. So, even if they get sick, it may not last as long or be as severe.

  • Parvo in dogs: What you need to know and why

    Parvo in dogs: What you need to know and why

    The last thing you need as a new dog owner is a diagnosis of parvo. This is a common disease, especially in puppies, with deadly consequences. It is, therefore, essential for anyone dealing with a dog to be aware of the different symptoms and know what to do about parvo in dogs.

    Parvo is a disease of the small intestines and the stomach. It does the most damage here by destroying cells, disrupting the gut barrier, and impairing absorption. Parvo can also affect the lymphopoietic tissues, the bone marrow, and the heart. Here is everything you need to know about identifying and treating parvo in dogs.

     

    How does a dog get parvo?

    Parvo in dogs is caused by a canine parvovirus. The virus is highly contagious, and it spreads through indirect contact with a contaminated object or direct contact with an infected dog. Therefore, your dog can be infected whenever they lick, sniff, or consume infected feces.

    Indirect transmission can occur when your dog interacts with a person who has been exposed to an infected dog. Furthermore, your dog can get parvo if it comes into contact with contaminated objects like leashes, collars, and a water or food bowl.

    Parvovirus can be found in dog parks, kennels, lawns, homes, etc. The virus is hardy outside the host, and it’s resistant to common household cleaners. Parvovirus can also survive winter conditions. The virus typically takes five to seven days to incubate. However, this period can be as short as three days or as long as 14 days.

    After exposure, your dog can shed infected excretions, which can intermittently go on for up to two weeks. Therefore, the dog can be contagious for up to a month.

     

    Ways to prevent parvo in dogs

    Parvo is one of the most dangerous viruses that can harm your dog or puppy. It’s easily transmitted, thus making it hard to avoid. The good news is, you can prevent parvo without any hassles. Below are a few things you can do to keep your dog safe from parvo.

     

    Vaccinate your dog

    Vaccination is the best way of preventing your dog from a parvovirus infection. You should start the vaccination early, at the age of six to eight weeks. After this, your dog will require boosters every three weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Since parvo is harmful and contagious, your dog will require annual booster shots. While this schedule might seem more than necessary, you get to have some peace of mind that your dog is safe from parvo.

     

    Limit exposure

    If your dog hasn’t finished their first round of vaccines, it is advisable to keep them away from other dogs. Any accidental exposure can get your dog sick. Therefore, keep your dog indoors until they have finished their first round of vaccines. A fully vaccinated dog may be resistant to parvovirus, but they can still carry the virus. This puts unvaccinated dogs at risk, especially puppies with weak immune systems.

     

    Limit your contact with other dogs

    Humans cannot contract parvovirus, but they can easily transmit it. If you aren’t taking any precautions, you can easily infect your dog with parvo. It’s advisable to steer clear of other dogs when you have an unvaccinated dog at home. Even when you come across vaccinated dogs, they can still carry and transmit the virus. Therefore, taking precautions, like changing your clothes once you get home, washing your hands thoroughly, and keeping your shoes away from your dog until you wash them, can help keep your dog safe.

     

    Disinfect everything

    You should also protect your dog from parvo at home. Everything around the house can carry parvovirus, and it’s hard to kill with ordinary house cleaners. Instead, you should bleach surfaces once in a while to ensure that you kill the virus. Remember that it can survive for five months or more on most surfaces. If you can’t disinfect anything within your house, you should discard it. This helps keep your dog safe until they’re vaccinated.

     

    How do I help my dogs if they catch parvo?

    If you suspect that your dog is infected with parvo, rushing to the vet for tests can help prevent much suffering. Your vet will diagnose the virus based on blood work and clinical signs. The vet may also run a test known as ELISA to look for any antigens in the feces.

    Parvo can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, fever, lethargy, sepsis, and dehydration in dogs. Even though there isn’t a treatment for the virus, your vet will provide treatment to support the dog’s body systems. This helps the dog’s immune system fight the virus.

    Treatment begins immediately, and it entails efforts to prevent secondary infections and combat dehydration. Dogs should also receive good nursing care and stay warm. It’s critical to recognize the symptoms early, thus leading to successful treatment outcomes.

     

    Is there a way to disinfect my lawn after parvo in dogs?

    You can disinfect your yard by carefully removing all visible feces repeatedly. You can also flush your yard with water and let it dry if possible. Applying a disinfectant with potassium peroxymonosulfate or AHP can also help disinfect your yard.

    If your yard has cement rather than dirt and grass, you can clean or disinfect it with bleach. There is no guarantee that this will be 100% effective, but frequent cleaning can help disinfect the yard and give you some peace of mind. You can also prevent your dog from going to the yard until they are fully vaccinated.

     

    Parvo is a highly contagious and serious disease. Understanding its symptoms, how it spreads, prevention measures, and treatment options can help keep your dogs safe. For more information on dealing with or treating parvo, it is advisable to always speak to your vet. You should also be on the lookout for symptoms, especially if your dog is unvaccinated. Besides watching out for the symptoms, observe different preventative measures to help keep your dog safe from parvo.

     

    Additional information

    1. Baker Institute for Animal Health, “Canine parvovirus,” Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, accessed June 12, 2022.
    2. “Everything you need to know about parvo in dogs,” PetMD, accessed June 12, 2022.
  • Pros and cons of CBD for dogs

    Pros and cons of CBD for dogs

    It has been around for centuries and known for its medicinal benefits in the mainstream for decades, and now the popularity of CBD oil has grown massively. You see friends talking about it online, you see it in grocery stores, and countless other advertisements just about everywhere you look. Everyone seems to be discussing the pros and cons of CBD for dogs. Chances are, someone very close to you uses it for themselves, their children, and maybe even their dogs. That’s right, my friends, many people use CBD oil for its benefits to their dogs. 

    Those of us with pet dogs know that, just like us, they can get sick. Of course it’s important to get a vet’s opinion of what your dog needs, but whenever you feel ready to look into the use of alternative medicines (specifically CBD oil) to help your pooch, we want to help you make the best decision that you can by talking about some pros and cons of CBD for dogs.

     

    What is CBD oil exactly?

    CBD is a cannabinoid which contains naturally occurring chemicals that can act on the brain and body. The oil is extracted from the cannabis plant.

    There are two common strains of cannabis—hemp and marijuana. Hemp is a cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3% of THC. Marijuana has more than 0.3%. CBD products for pets are typically sourced from hemp. It has no psychoactive properties like the THC found in marijuana.

    CBD is processed as an isolate or as a full-spectrum oil combined with other related cannabinoids. Oils made with full-spectrum extracts are thought to have superior therapeutic effects vs. cannabidiol-only oil.

     

    CBD products available for dogs

    Before we get into the pros and cons of CBD for dogs, let’s talk about what types of CBD products that are out there for canines. When you shop online, or head to the store, these are the type of CBD products that you will typically find for dogs.

    • Oil/tincture. Oils/tinctures are an easy way to give your dog CBD to help with their ailments. The oil can be mixed into their food, given in treats, or just put directly into their mouths (although that’s not always the easiest option). Many dogs don’t like the taste of the oil, so mixing it into foods is a great option. 
    • Capsules. CBD oils can be put into capsules which can then be hidden in dog treats. 
    • Treats/chews. Just like for human consumption, CBD oils are put into edible treats made just for your dogs. 

     

    Pros and cons of CBD for dogs

    First and foremost, while most states have relatively liberal laws as it pertains to CBD oil, it is always wise to do your research to ensure that you are following the law. But again, keep in mind, that most products for dogs come from hemp-derived CBD oil. 

     

    Pros of using CBD for dogs

    These are just some of the pros that we have discovered in our research for using CBD for dogs. 

     

    Lower anxiety levels

    If you have a dog that is prone to high anxiety, CBD may be a great option for you. The reality is, we simply cannot be with our dogs 24/7 so we just aren’t able to be there to comfort them at all times. CBD oil has been found to ease anxiety and calm some of the destructive behaviors that come with said anxieties. 

     

    Help with cancer treatment and seizures

    Some promising research shows that CBD oil may help fight cancer cells and seizures.1, 2 With over 6 million dogs per year developing cancer, this is a battle that many can use help with.3  

     

    Increase appetite

    If your dog is older or sick and struggles with appetite, CBD can help increase appetite. 

     

    Works as a painkiller

    CBD is often used as a painkiller because it is known for its painkilling properties.4 Many people report that their dogs move around with more ease once they begin administering CBD to them for their pains. 

    Dylan actually gets CBD oil twice daily with his meals. He is having some hip and knee issues. We are finding that this is helping with his mobility and pain levels.

     

    Cons of using CBDs for dogs

    There doesn’t seem to be many studies which show significant cons to the use of CBD for dogs.5 Here are some symptoms that you may notice when using CBD for your dog:

    • Diarrhea
    • Lethargy
    • Excess drooling
    • Slight increase in a liver enzyme after long-term use6

     

    What to do before giving your dog CBD

    Before you make the decision to give CBD to your dog, it’s important to talk to your vet about your pet’s health and any concerns that you may have. While using CBD for dogs is a decision that is 100% up to you, it is highly recommended that if you do make the decision to use it, you use a product that is made for canines and not for humans. There are several reasons for this. 

    • To ensure that the concentration is appropriate for canines
    • There are no harmful added ingredients. Many edible CBD treats contain products like Xylitol which can be harmful to dogs. 

    The fact remains that as much as we love our dogs and even though they are a part of our families, humans and dogs are different and the products we use should reflect that. You can ask your veterinarian for a CBD product that they recommend, or check with your pet supply store for a veterinarian-approved, high-quality product.

     

    What to look for when buying CBD oil

    The market seems to be flooded with new companies selling CDB oil. So, how do you know what to buy? Here are some things to consider when looking for a product to buy.

     

    Check where the CBD was grown

    When purchasing a CBD product, the first thing you should check is where the hemp was actually grown. We advocate looking for US companies certified organic. The company should have a website. And should indicate where they grow their hemp. If the company sources their hemp from outside the United States, check the farming regulations in the country of origin.

     

    View the lab results

    Every company should perform 3rd-party quality testing. They should be able to provide a certificate of analysis (COA). These certificated verify the quality and potency of the product.

     

    Find out how the CBD was created

    The CBD oil is created through extraction of the hemp plant. The two most popular extraction methods are CO2 extraction and alcohol extraction. Both methods work and are commonly argued about in regards to which is better. However, CO2 extraction seems to be a more clean and effective method.

     

    Identify the type of extract the CBD features

    CBD products can be extracted and the hemp processed in three different ways.

    1. Full-spectrum. This uses all of the hemp plant—leaves, flowers, and stalks. Therefore, this extract is home to all of hemp’s cannabinoids. But, there will still be less than 0.3% THC (so no one is getting high on this). Due to the wide-range of chemical components, it allows for all of the compounds in the plant work to work synergistically together for maximum benefit and effect.
    2. Broad-spectrum. This contains pretty much the same components as a full-spectrum, but has 0% THC.
    3. Isolate. This is created when a manufacturer separates CBD, a singular cannabinoid, from the rest of the over 100 cannabinoids in the hemp plant. This is the purest form of CBD, but it’s also the most processed form of hemp. It will provide the benefits of CBD, but is missing the cannabinoids that make full-spectrum and broad-spectrum oils potentially a more powerful approach.

     

    What’s the best dosage?

    Additionally, be sure to use the correct dosage and to pay close attention after administering for the first time to watch for reactions. In a recent article by Dr. Becker, she cites that new dosage recommendations for pain relief is 1–2 mg/kg twice daily and adjusting to achieve the desired effect.7

    While using CBD for dogs may be a relatively new thing, more and more people are opening up to the idea and many are jumping on board. We love our pets and we want the best for them. We want them to feel their very best!

    Dylan uses CBD daily to help with the discomfort in his knees after two TPLO surgeries and his hip from early onset arthritis. We are happy to say that we are having great results using this with Dylan.

    I would love to hear from anyone who has experience with using CBD for dogs. Has it been a positive experience for you?

    last updated: April 8, 2021

     

    REFERENCES
    1. “U of G Researcher Investigating Cannabis as Treatment for Animal Cancer.” University of Guelph. October 29, 2019.[↩]
    2. McGrath S et al. Randomized blinded controlled clinical trial to assess the effect of oral cannabidiol administration in addition to conventional antiepileptic treatment on seizure frequency in dogs with intractable idiopathic epilepsy. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2019;254(11):1301-1308.[↩]
    3. “Facts.” FETCH a Cure. Last visited May 3, 2020.[↩]
    4. Gamble LJ et al. Pharmacokinetics, safety, and clinical efficacy of cannabidiol treatment in osteoarthritic dogs. Front Vet Sci 2018;5:165.[↩]
    5. Johnson C. CBD: Forget the legal issues—does it work in veterinary patients? Dvm360. December 18, 2019.[↩]
    6. McGrath S et al. A report of adverse effects associated with the administration of cannabidiol in healthy dogs. J. Am. Holist. Vet. Med. Assoc. 2018;52:34–38.[↩]
    7. Becker K. Should You Give CBD to Your Pet? Healthy Pets. April 12, 2020.[↩]

  • How to keep your dog’s paws safe

    It doesn’t matter if it is cold out or a beautiful day, when you get ready to go outside you usually stop to put your shoes on. Why do we wear shoes? To protect our feet from the elements outside. When you let your dog out, there is a good chance that you just hook your dog up to its leash and out you all go. Outside elements can be pretty harsh on your dog’s paws. That is why it is important to keep your dog’s paws safe from any of the harsh elements your pup could come across while outside.

     

    Winter Elements

    Winter is probably one of the harshest seasons on your dog’s paws. Everything from the cold freezing them to salt irritating them. Here are some of the ways your dog can hurt its paws during winter:

    Ice Melt

    Many ice melt brands work wonders on our sidewalks, patios, and decks, But, when your dog’s paws are exposed to them they can become very irritated. Not to mention if the ice melt is ingested it can be deadly.

    This is why I recommend that you look for a pet-safe ice melt. These aren’t completely safe, but they are far less toxic than non-pet friendly brands (and usually better for wildlife and plants as well).

    Ice

    When it comes to ice it isn’t just the slipping that can be an issue for your dog (although this is a big concern). If the ice is jagged it can cut your pup’s feet, in-between its toes, or under its nails. If your dog is left standing on the ice for too long it can also damage the pads on their feet and potentially cause frostbite.

    Slush

    Slush isn’t so much of an issue while you are out walking (aside from just being cold and usually mucky) if it is a puddle or two. The only time slush would be an issue is if your dog’s paws were exposed persistently during the walk. If your route is mostly slush it is best to find a new place to walk or avoid it altogether as you don’t want to freeze your dog’s paws. Potential damage can also happen if there are little rocks and other sharp objects mixed into the slush.

    What Happens

    When your dog’s paws are exposed to the winter elements it can make for an unhappy canine. Depending on what they were exposed to it could mess with not only their paws but also their whole body.

    Heat Loss

    The pads on the bottom of your dog’s feet are a major source of heat loss when they are exposed to icy and snowy conditions for too long. When your dog has been outside in cold conditions for too long, the blood flow to the pads on their feet minimizes and focuses on their core.

    The automatic switch in blood flow is a safety mechanism meant to keep the core temperature of your dog at a safe level for a short period of time.

    Chilblains

    When your dog is outside for extended periods of time, their fur (including the hairs around their paws) gets wet and can freeze. This freezing can cause snowballs and blocks of ice to form. Yes, it looks really cute when your dog comes bounding in looking like a snowman but this can be dangerous.

    The ice that forms on their paws can be sharp and cut into your dog’s toes making it painful to walk. And while their paw pads are pretty thick, the ice can cause cuts which can eventually lead to chilblains. Chilblains are red sores which may only show up days later and can cause severe infections if left untreated. These can also appear on the ears and tails of your dogs as well.

     

    How to Protect Your Dog’s Paws

    Short Walks or Stay In

    During the winter it is still important to get your dog out for walks but they should be shorter walks. There are many factors that determine how long a dog can be outside—their size, type of coat, and how accustomed they are to that environment. Here is a general chart that can help you determine how long your dog can be outside for walks this winter:

    Size of your dogTemperature*       Time

    Small Dog

    > 20℉

    15-20 minutes

    Medium Dog

    > 20℉

    30 minutes

    Large Dog

    > 20℉

    30 minutes

    *All temperatures include the windchill.

    PetPlan1 created a guide based on the Tufts Animal Condition and Care (TACC) system which easily shows how cold is too cold for your pet.

    dog's paws

    There comes a point during the winter when it just isn’t safe to take your dog for a walk. Small dogs shouldn’t be out if the temperature is less than 20℉. Medium and large dogs can be out when it is a bit colder but should stay inside if it is 0℉ or colder.

    Dry Your Dog’s Paws

    After walking or playing with your dog outside, take a few minutes to gently clean their paws off with a towel. While doing this make sure to pay close attention to between each of your dogs’ toes, around their pads, and under their nails.

     

    Booties

    Dog booties have led to some pretty funny videos online (including this one of Dylan trying on booties for the first time several years ago). But, they are good for more than some pretty good laughs. Putting booties on your dog’s paws will help protect them from any and all elements outside during walks. Their feet may still get a bit cold depending on the type of booties you choose, but they will stay clean and dry.

    You go through great lengths to keep your feet warm and dry while you are out during the winter months. So, why not do the same for your precious pup? It is important to not miss walks (since exercise is important for dogs too). But it is even more important to keep them safe while doing it. I hope you found some useful information to help you keep your dog’s paws safe. If I forgot your favorite tip please leave it below so I can check it out too.

    REFERENCES
    1. Kim Smyth, “How cold is too cold for your dog?” PetPlan, November 08 2018.[↩]
  • My dog has an upset stomach

    My dog has an upset stomach

    The Holiday Season has passed and we are left feeling overstuffed and pretty sluggish (but honestly all the goodies were worth it!). Not only do we spoil our friends and families (ourselves too) with delicious goodies but, we also tend to spoil our furbaby as well. This means that our dog can be left feeling sluggish and potentially even with an upset stomach. Just like us, a stomach ache is less than comfortable for our four-legged family member. Thankfully, there are many things we can do to help your dog feel better.

    Potential Causes of Your Dog’s Tummy Upset

    It’s pretty common for dogs to get an occasional upset stomach. Sometimes there may seem to be no cause and it’s a one and done type of thing. Other times, there is a cause. It is then that it is our job to try to figure out what that cause may be. Here are a few things that may cause these occasional upset stomachs:

    • Allergies (food or seasonal)
    • Weather (this is mainly for senior dogs)
    • Eating something they shouldn’t
    • Aging
    • Stress
    • Nervousness
    • Too much, too fast

    dog stomach ache

     

     

    How to Figure Out the Cause of Your Dog’s Upset Stomach

    Now that you know what may cause the upset stomach, it is time to try to narrow the possibilities down so you can hopefully avoid another upset stomach later. Here are a few questions to ask yourself (you should know some basic first aid in case this is an emergency situation):

     

    dog upset tummy

     

    Symptoms of an Upset Stomach

    Since our furry family members can’t tell us verbally how they are feeling there are a few signs we can watch for that might give us a clue they aren’t feeling well:

    • Eating grass
    • Change in appetite (not eating as much)
    • You can hear their stomach gurgling
    • Diarrhea
    • Passing more gas than normal
    • Extra drooling
    • Vomiting

    First Step in Curing Your Dog’s Tummy Troubles

    Fasting

    The first thing to do when you notice your dog has an upset stomach or is vomiting is to begin fasting. This doesn’t mean eliminate liquids though, it just means limit it.

    Simply eliminating food and limiting water intake allows their digestive tract to begin resetting and healing itself. Fasting also helps to calm any possible inflammation that may be occurring in the intestines.

    Not feeding your dog may seem harsh but, if their stomach is upset they (just like you) aren’t really hungry anyways. Plus they need to empty their stomach out before they can begin to feel better.

    How Long Should This Last?

    You should continue this fasting for 12 to 24 hours.

    What’s Next?

    Once the fasting is finished and they are feeling a little better, it is time to start feeding them a bland food diet. Giving your dog a bland food diet will help to minimize the chance that something may agitate their digestive tract and make it worse. Continue this diet until they are better and completely back to themselves.

    What Types of Food are Safe?

    Many of the bland foods that you feed yourself or family during times of sickness are great for your dog when they have had an upset stomach. Here are a few of our go-to foods:

    • Rice—made in water or low-sodium chicken broth
    • Diced chicken breast—boneless/skinless and boiled in water or low-sodium chicken broth
    • Pure pumpkin puree

    Beginning to Feel Better

    As your furry family member starts to come around, you should slowly start to add some of their regular food into the bland food. Slowly increase the amount of their regular food over a few meals to make sure their tummy can handle a close to normal amount of food.

    After They Feel Better

    Once your dog is feeling better and they are back to themselves, it is time to go back to their regular diet (with the occasional treat of course). To make the adjustment back to their regular food a bit easier on their stomach you can mix a few things to their food. These are a few of our favorite mix-ins:

    • Pure pumpkin puree
    • Oatmeal
    • Bananas
    • Sweet potatoes
    • Rice

    What Not to Do

    Unless you have been instructed by a veterinarian, never give your dog an over-the-counter medication. Yes, several are safe for dogs but, the only person that can tell you the correct medication and dose is your veterinarian.

    When to Seek Professional Help

    While an episode or two of vomiting may not warrant a visit to the vet, there are some instances when it is necessary to take your dog in. Here are some pointers on when it is important to take your dog to the vet.

    • If you suspect your dog may have gotten into a plant outside
    • If your dog has been ill for an extended time (more than a day or two)
    • Their symptoms don’t seem to improve
    • If they look like they are in distress or disoriented
    • Dry heaving and coughing, unable to vomit
    • Lethargy
    • If you notice their stomach is distended
    • Any sudden change in demeanor
    • Consistent vomiting
    • Nervous pacing
    • If dehydration is suspected
    • Blood in vomit, urine, or stool
    • Fever
    • Bloating
    • Biting/chewing at their sides
    • Unable to poop

     

    These tips should help ease your furry family member’s upset stomach but, as always, if you have any questions or concerns contacting the vet is your best plan of action. They can help you determine if a visit is needed or if home care is okay. Much like when we are sick, our dogs feel pretty similar even though they can’t verbally express it. The best thing you can do is love them through it.