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Diarrhea is one of the most common reasons why dogs are taken to veterinary facilities. A dog’s diarrhea is usually resolved after a day or two but more serious cases would last longer putting the life of the pet at risk. Although diarrhea can affect the well being of the pet, this condition is not an illness but a symptom that signifies an abnormality in the dog’s gastrointestinal system.

The frequent passing and the increased volume of soft stool can be due to a bacterial or viral infection, to food allergies or a change in the dog’s diet, intestinal parasites and the dog’s inability to digest what it has ingested. We know how dogs eat - Fido has the inclination to eat indiscriminately. Ingestion of spoiled food and substances that are not tolerated by the dog’s stomach will result to diarrhea. Dogs inclination to gnaw and swallow foreign object can be the cause of diarrhea.

Treatment for canine diarrhea calls for knowing the underlying cause of the condition and restoring the normal digestive balance. Over the counter medications can be used but the most effective way of dealing with the pet’s diarrhea is through dietary change. What can you give a dog with diarrhea?

Diarrhea normally resolves in a day or two after the normal balance of the dog’s system is restored so that a pet owner may not have to take the dog to a veterinary facility. However, pet owners should be aware that frequent passing of stool can lead to dehydration. Providing the dog with drinking water at all times is very necessary. Electrolyte imbalance is a common outcome of canine diarrhea and this can be dealt with mixing the dog’s drinking water with Gatorade or administering oral rehydration therapy. To allow the dog’s digestive system to rest, the dog must not be given food at least for 24 hours for mature dogs and 12 hours for puppies. A bland diet of boiled rice or chicken can be given to the dog after the fasting period.

Fasting empties the stomach thus it is expected that diarrhea will stop but if this is not the case, it is imperative for the dog to have immediate medical attention. It is highly probable that the pet’s chronic diarrhea was not caused by dietary indiscretion. A serious underlying concern like distemper, parvovirus, bacterial infections and internal parasite infestation can be the reason why the dog’s body is not absorbing nutrients so that system imbalance is created.

Learn more about what can you give a dog for diarrhea and first aid for dogs at Sarah’s Dogs.

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