Treating dog diarrhoea naturally
Diarrhoea in dogs can occur for many reasons, and when it occurs it’s worth considering why in the hope you can prevent it in the future. This guide delves right into diarrhoea (sounds gross, right!), with info on what to do to prevent it or treat it naturally.
What causes diarrhoea in dogs?
There are lots of reasons why dogs develop diarrhoea, the most common of which is food related. Sudden dietary changes, the introduction of new foods, allergies to certain commercial dog foods, inappropriate leftovers or picking something up outside can all cause loose stools.
Parasites can also cause intermittent diarrhoea, as can viral and bacterial infections and certain medications such as heartworm preventatives. And of course, just like in humans, sometimes stress can trigger an attack of the runs. Hunching, straining, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and dehydration are all symptoms of an upset tummy.
If your dog is otherwise healthy, an occasional episode of loose stool is not a problem and is usually over very quickly by itself. But if your pooch suffers from chronic diarrhoea, it can be a serious issue for their health, particularly if he’s a Pup or a Senior.
When to get help
If your dog has a bout of diarrhoea but then seems normal, just keep an eye on him. But if you notice she’s sluggish, there is blood in the stools, your dog feels warm to touch, or not behaving like his usual self, or if you are in any way worried, please call your Vet.
If your dog seems fine otherwise but is experiencing recurrent bouts of diarrhoea, your Vet will usually recommend a sending a stool sample off for analysis to help identify any underlying causes.
How to treat dog diarrhoea at home
If you have an otherwise healthy adult dog, it is recommended that you fast them – that is not feed them at all – for at least 12 hours. Please ensure fresh water is always available.
Then you can offer a bland, fat free diet of 50% lean chicken mince or roo mince plus 50% mashed pumpkin or sweet potato, cooked.
We also recommend adding a herb called Slippery Elm, available from your Health Food Shop. Add half a teaspoon per 5kg of bodyweight.
Please don’t use fatty meats such as beef, pork or lamb, or rice.
Once the stools start to firm, we suggest adding some Kefir Probiotic drink to the meals.
Things should improve in 3-5 days. If they don’t, please speak to your Vet.
