Dogs: Health Problems: Diarrhea

It’s messy, it can be painful, and it’s also an indication that something’s not quite right with your pet. Diarrhea is common in dogs, especially in those who raid the garbage or snack on something tasty off the street when their owners aren’t looking. With proper care, this condition usually clears up in a day or two.

If your dog has eaten something he shouldn’t, or if you have changed his diet recently, he could wind up with a bout of diarrhea; this could also be the result of eating dairy products or a food he’s allergic to. You can help clear up your dog’s simple diarrhea by putting him on a 24-hour fast. If he seems better after a day, put him on a bland diet of two parts cooked rice and one part boiled skinless white-meat chicken. Start him off with small amounts every four hours. If he still has diarrhea after two days, call the vet. If he’s doing well, feed him about 1/4 of his regular food along with the bland diet; gradually up the percentage over several days until he’s back on his normal diet.

While your dog is recuperating, make sure he’s getting enough water. Diarrhea can cause dehydration, so your veterinarian may recommend a drink enriched with electrolytes; Pedialyte, a formula for babies that’s available in drug stores and supermarkets, is often given to dogs to help replenish important minerals depleted by diarrhea. Limit your pet’s level of exercise to short walks while he’s recovering.

If your dog has explosive or bloody diarrhea, is lethargic, has lost his appetite, or if he seems to be straining, he could be suffering from a serious disease, such as colitis or inflammation of the pancreas. Diarrhea can also result from intestinal worms, intestinal obstruction from swallowing a foreign objet, or a viral infection like hepatitis, parvovirus or distemper. If his condition is serious, the ASPCA recommends that you see your veterinarian immediately.

via www.animed.org

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