Bismuth subsalicylate, commonly found in medicine cabinets, is harmless for dogs (but not for cats). It is used to treat stomach distress, vomiting, and diarrhea. But first, a word of caution: you should only give your dog a few doses of Pepto-Bismol because it contains salicylate, which can upset the stomach and result in gastric hemorrhage. Following those few dosages, you should speak with your veterinarian if your dog’s condition has not improved. Find out more about Pepto Bismol for canines.
Imodium
Most dogs and cats can safely take Imodium (loperamide) to treat diarrhea. After 24 hours, if the diarrhea doesn’t get better, call your veterinarian right away since diarrhea can quickly produce dangerously high levels of dehydration.
WARNING: Imodium may have negative side effects in several breeds that are related to collies. Collies, Shelties, Australian Shepherds, and long-haired Whippets should not be given this medication.
Pepcid-AC, Tagamet and Zantac
The OTC drugs Famotidine (Peptid-AC), Cimetidine (Tagamet), and Ranitidine (Zantac) are frequently used to treat or prevent heartburn and symptoms connected to stomach ulcers. They often work well and are secure for pets (and cats). Once or twice a day is sufficient to administer the recommended dosage.
It’s acceptable to use them for irregular dietary transgressions, such as when your dog eats all of your salsa or gets into a bag of chips. If your dog’s gastrointestinal issues persist, consult a veterinarian to rule out other issues.
Dosage:
- Each of these over-the-counter medications has a different tablet dosage, so go to your doctor to find out how much to give your dog.
Can dogs receive human stomach medications?
On your vet’s guidance, you can use several over-the-counter (OTC) gastrointestinal medications in dogs for issues including diarrhea. Imodium, a medication used by “humans” to treat diarrhea, lowers stool fluid and slows bowel movement, which lessens diarrhea.
Can dogs take Pepto-Bismol or Tums?
Although Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is safe to give to the majority of dogs, AKC Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein says he rarely advises it because the medication’s salicylates may cause gastrointestinal bleeding and the bismuth may conceal any ensuing bleeding by turning the stool black. If it must be administered, he advises speaking with your veterinarian first and giving no more than one or two doses. Instead, your vet may advise using the Corrective Suspension bismuth subsalicylate medication designed for dogs. Any form of bismuth subsalicylate should not be administered to dogs with bleeding disorders, those who are pregnant or nursing, or those who are receiving non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Rimadyl and Deramaxx. Bismuth subsalicylate is hazardous to cats and should never be given to them.
- Dr. Klein advises giving dogs 1 teaspoon of pepto-bismol for every 10 pounds of body weight. The dog can have it every 6 to 8 hours, but if the diarrhea persists after a few doses, stop giving the medication and contact your veterinarian. Additionally, if you’ve never administered Pepto-Bismol to your dog previously, clarify the dosage with your vet.
- Pepto-Bismol administration for dogs: Give your dog the medication using a plastic syringe that is empty (no needle). He should first open his lips, insert the empty syringe below his tongue, push the plunger, and then hold his snout for a brief moment to make sure he swallows it.
Another over-the-counter drug that can be given to dogs to treat diarrhea is Imodium (loperamide). Consult your veterinarian before giving Imodium to your dog if they have any medical issues or are taking any drugs. Before administering this drug to a cat, seek veterinary advice. Cats may react to it.
- Imodium Dosage For Dogs: According to Dr. Klein, a dog can take one 2-milligram pill for every 40 pounds of body weight, two to three times each day. To confirm the dosage, please call your veterinarian. Give this drug to patients for no longer than two days. If the symptoms continue, get veterinarian help.
- Imodium administration for dogs: The GreeniesTM brand of pill pockets or food-wrapped tablets should be given to your dog (like cheese). Use just enough food to cover the pill’s taste in order to avoid further upsetting your dog’s stomach.
Many veterinarians advise Pepcid (famotidine) if your pet has problems with stomach acid buildup, gastric ulcers, or other stomach- or GI-related concerns. Although the FDA has not approved this medicine for use in animals, it is common for veterinarians to suggest its usage in some dogs and cats. If your pet is pregnant, nursing, or has a medical problem, talk to your veterinarian before giving it to them.
- Pepcid Dosage for Dogs: According to Dr. Klein, the dosage for both dogs and cats is one 10-milligram tablet for a 20-pound dog every 12- to 24-hours. Giving this medication an hour before meals is recommended. For confirmation that the dosage is correct for your pet, consult a veterinarian. Make sure to choose Pepcid Original Strength if you decide to buy Pepcid (10 milligram tablets). Pepcid Maximum Strength and Pepcid Complete both include more active components and medication per pill, respectively.
- How to Give Pepcid to Dogs: Giving Pepcid with meals can reduce the medication’s effectiveness. Instead, softly touch your dog’s throat or blow into his nose to encourage swallowing while tilting his head back, placing the pill on the back of his tongue, holding his mouth shut for a brief period of time. Ask your veterinarian for guidance if you have never given medicines to your dog without a treat.
Rice and pumpkin are two meals that can aid dogs with gastrointestinal problems. Find out more about that here.
According to Dr. Klein, he has also recommended probiotics like Pro-Viable or Fortiflora to treat diarrhea. “Results are noticed within 24 hours, he explains, if diarrhea is not severe. Ask your veterinarian where you can buy comparable products.
Emergency First Aid for Dogs
A sudden injury or illness cannot always be prevented, even by the most diligent pet owner. Receiving emergency medical care for your pet could mean the difference between life and death. To find out more about what to do in an emergency, download this e-book.
Pepto-Bismol is okay for dogs, right?
The most popular brand of bismuth subsalicylate is Pepto Bismol. Do not treat different products interchangeably because some of them have unique formulations. Pepto Bismol functions as both an antacid and an oral anti-inflammatory. When taken as directed, Pepto Bismol is safe for both humans and dogs (but not cats!).
What remedies do veterinarians prescribe for dogs with stomach upset?
The diagnosis made by your dog’s veterinarian will determine the course of treatment.
Parvovirus. If they have parvovirus, they will need to be hospitalized and kept away from other dogs. Your dog can receive intravenous fluids from the vet to rehydrate them and keep their immune system strong enough to combat the infection. Antibiotics may be prescribed by veterinarians to treat any bacterial infections that develop as a result of the illness.
Inflammation. Veterinarians typically advise short-term fasting and a lot of fluid consumption to keep your dog hydrated for diseases that cause irritated stomach tissue and frequent vomiting.
other circumstances Immediate surgical techniques, such as open surgery or less invasive methods to remove obstructions, are necessary for bloating, cancer, and obstructions.
Rarely, if an ulcer has perforated a portion of the digestive tract, it may be necessary to remove it surgically.
Common practice. To treat a dog’s upset stomach, veterinarians frequently advise a bland diet. Remove the irritating ingredients from food with rice and chicken or a more specialized diet to assist your dog’s digestive system in regaining its equilibrium.
While they work to identify the source of your dog’s stomach issues, veterinarians will treat the symptoms of your dog with medicine. Probiotics are frequently used to treat stomach issues in dogs.
Call your veterinarian if your dog seems to be experiencing stomach issues for advice. Even though they may merely be experiencing stomach pain, it may require prompt veterinary care.
How can an unhappy dog’s stomach be calmed?
Many individuals find themselves dealing with a dog whose stomach is disturbed, which frequently results in vomiting. Even though many home cures are quite effective, they are frequently not the only option. Here are some of the most effective home cures for your dog’s upset stomach and vomit that have undergone comprehensive testing.
One) Ginger
Due to its anti-spasmodic properties, ginger is one of the finest natural treatments for your dog’s vomiting and upset stomach. It is thought to ameliorate nausea and upset stomach, making your dog feel better. It also functions as a simple-to-digest antacid for your dog.
For at least a week, add a tiny bit of ginger to your dog’s food or water at least three times per day. This will aid in easing the discomfort and motion sickness.
Vinegar made from apple cider
You can add apple cider vinegar to the water that your dog drinks. It can soothe upset tummies and is a wonderful source of carbonation. Use the following formula as a general rule:
Your dog will be able to easily drink it if you add small quantities frequently. Try adding two additional teaspoons of water and re-mixing if your dog vomits after drinking. Make sure the apple cider vinegar is fresh as well. Numerous dogs have proven that these natural cures for dog vomiting and upset stomach are quite effective. To check if they help your dog’s vomiting and upset stomach, buy some of these at pet supply stores or give them a go at home.
What OTC antacids am I allowed to give my dog?
Famotidine, also marketed under the name Pepcid, is a medication that can be administered to dogs to treat a number of digestive issues. It functions by lowering dog stomach acid production, which can help treat gastritis, acid reflux, and stomach ulcers.
Veterinarians can safely prescribe medication even though it is not FDA-approved for veterinary usage. When administering any type of medication to your dog, you must always go by the recommendations of your veterinarian.
With a prescription from your veterinarian, you can easily get famotidine from Chewy’s pharmacy online. The usage, dosage, and negative effects of famotidine for dogs are listed here.
What Our Vet Has To Say
In response to our inquiry, Whitehouse Veterinary Hospital’s Dr. Sara Redding Ochoa (DVM) provided the following insight.
“I frequently take Pepcid to temporarily reduce stomach acid. For pets who regularly use NSAIDs to avoid stomach ulcers, some vets advise it. However, it is best to see your vet to determine the cause of any major gastrointestinal issues that do not improve after a few days of taking Pepcid.
We would also add that it can be challenging to determine whether Pepcid is genuinely the best course of action for your dog’s unique condition.
Instead of taking a risky hit or miss strategy, get a proper diagnosis. To put it another way: Don’t go it alone!
A Safe Dose For Dogs?
True, many proprietors provide Pepcid AC without a doctor’s prescription. That does not, however, exclude abuse of it.
Try to be safe! Be cautious and only administer the medication on an empty stomach as a bare minimum.
As a point of reference only, the following
Never go beyond 0.5mg of caffeine per pound of the dog’s body weight. The recommended dose of Pepcid AC is 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg (1 half) for each pound, either once or twice daily.
Follow your vet’s instructions very carefully. Their knowledge is essential, especially if your dog has had stomach problems for a while.
Dogs that are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from liver or renal problems should not take Pepcid. This usually holds true for comparable antacids as well. too dangerous
Diagnosis Difficulty
Dogs can get esophagitis (esophageal inflammation), acid reflux, upset stomach, or GERD for a variety of causes.
Dogs that go through trash are inevitably going to have an upset stomach. A delicate gut balance is typically disrupted by any abrupt diet changes.
Constant vomiting and stomach discomfort are indications of a more serious condition.
What dosage of Pepcid is safe for my dog?
Your dog’s symptoms, age, and weight will all affect the dosage strength and frequency. For a 20 lb dog, the usual dosage is 10 mg up to twice daily. However, before giving Pepcid to your dog, always get advice and a formal diagnosis from your veterinarian as some diseases may be covered up and made worse by this drug. Pepcid functions best when taken without food.
Does Pepcid treat canine diarrhea?
Famotidine (Peptide) does not need a prescription. The typical usage period is 3 to 5 days. Some vets suggest Kaopectate (for dogs only!) or Pepto-Bismol. Subsalicylate and bismuth are often the active components.
Does Tums work for dogs?
Avoid giving your dog anything that contains the sugar substitute xylitol since, according to Dr. Bris, some Tums include it.
Additionally, xylitol-free Tums should be avoided, advises Dr. Bris, because they may conflict with other drugs your dog is on and result in dangerously high calcium levels in the blood (which is particularly detrimental for canines that have kidney problems). Additionally, while this may seem counterintuitive, he adds that Tums can give your dog diarrhea and an upset stomach.
He adds that while occasionally giving healthy dogs xylitol-free Tums is unlikely to cause harm, it won’t have the same effects as in people.
Since calcium carbonate neutralizes stomach acid, Tums function in humans. Dr. Bris clarifies that because dogs digest food considerably more quickly than humans do, any neutralizing effects would last just a short time.
Given the risks and side effects, it doesn’t seem worth giving your dog Tums for this temporary, unreliable comfort.
What can I feed my dog to treat diarrhea and upset stomach?
Contact your veterinarian if your canine pet exhibits any symptoms that worry you. If your pet’s symptoms call for an examination, your veterinarian will inform you of this.
How to Treat Diarrhea in Dogs
Never administer human drugs to your dog without first talking to your veterinarian. Many over-the-counter drugs that are safe for humans but hazardous to dogs can be used.
You might want to give your dog some time to recover by just fasting for 12 to 24 hours if they have had one or two runny or mushy stools.
A few days of bland food can potentially alleviate your dog’s problem. Your dog’s stomach may feel better if you serve it plain-cooked white rice with a little chicken and some canned plain pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling). Reintroduce your dog’s regular diet gradually after they feel well.
Natural yogurt, probiotics, peeled boiled potatoes, cottage cheese, eggs without extra oil, specially developed dog diets, and drugs prescribed by your veterinarian are additional items that may help calm your dog’s upset stomach.
Always err on the side of caution when it comes to your best friend’s health. By bringing your dog in for a checkup, you give your veterinarian the chance to identify the underlying reason of your pup’s diarrhea and suggest the most suitable course of action.
