Stomach upset, or gastroenteritis, is a fairly common ailment that can occur in dogs from time to time. Fortunately, it usually resolves on its own within a day or two and poses no major health risks; most dogs will recover on their own within this period of time.
Symptoms
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A dog's stomach is one of their most sensitive organs. When something inflames it, it may cause abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
An occasional upset stomach is perfectly normal, but if it occurs frequently it could indicate your pet has an underlying issue. Typically, signs of diarrhea will dissipate within 24-48 hours; however, in some cases digestive problems may last longer.
Fortunately, many of these issues can be taken care of without needing a trip to the vet. Common home remedies include withholding food for 12-24 hours to allow your digestive system to rest and recover.
Causes
If your dog has a stomach ache, it could be indicative of an underlying medical issue; thus, it's essential to get them to the vet promptly. Your pup could have eaten something they shouldn't or contracted an infectious disease which would explain why they feel queasy.
Distemper and parvovirus, particularly in puppies that haven't yet received their full vaccination, can cause gastrointestinal issues in dogs. They may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration or even death if not addressed promptly.
Bacteria are another potential culprit. These infections often arise from eating improperly prepared foods or even a change in diet.
Home Remedies
When your dog's stomach hurts, it's essential to determine if the issue is mild enough for self-treatment at home or more serious and should be seen by a veterinarian. Stomach pain can be caused by several things such as intestinal parasites, food allergies, disease or stress.
Thankfully, there are several easy home remedies you can try to help your pup recover from an upset stomach. These include giving them ice cubes, providing canned pumpkin or bone broth and adding probiotics to their food intake.
Veterinary Care
If your dog's stomach hurts, they may require medical assistance. A veterinarian can diagnose the situation quickly and take steps to ensure it does not get worse.
In some instances, your veterinarian will perform blood tests, x-rays and ultrasound to make a diagnosis. In certain circumstances, they may need to perform exploratory abdominal surgery in order to obtain more information.
Your vet may suggest an anti-inflammatory diet to alleviate any digestive distress. Some pets may require probiotic supplements as well.
