Much like humans, dogs may suffer from a bout of constipation, diarrhoea or vomiting from time to time, without it being a serious problem. However, should a dog continue to suffer any of these symptoms for longer than twelve hours, a vet will need to be consulted.
Constipation in Dogs - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
A common reason a dog may suffer from constipation is related to a poor diet; for example if they are not getting enough fibre. Other causes of constipation, may include age, lack of exercise or an obstruction in the digestive tract, as a result of swallowing something that is indigestible. As identified by Jack Russell Terrier UK, key symptoms associated with constipation in dogs are as follows:
- Straining to have a bowel movement without success
- Abdominal discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating
- Long periods without a bowel movement
- Hard, impacted stools
While constipation which does not last more than a day or two is perfectly normal, treatment for dogs suffering from persistent constipation may require switching their diet to one that is higher in fibre, adding a teaspoonful of mineral oil, or soaking biscuits to make them easier to digest. If none of these treatments are successful, or the dog's symptoms worsen, it is crucial to seek vet care as soon as possible.
Diarrhoea in Dogs - Causes and Treatment
As any dog owner will know, as unpleasant as a bout of diarrhoea is in a dog, it is often something that quickly resolves itself, without any need for treatment. Causes of diarrhoea include a mild bowel infection, having eaten something which the body has disagreed with, or allergies. More serious causes associated with diarrhoea relate to bacterial infection and ingesting poison. Taylor (2009) in Jack Russell Terrier: An Owner's Guide, suggests that treatment for mild cases of diarrhoea in dogs may involve:
- Cutting out solid food
- Avoiding milk or anything fatty
- Increasing fluid intake
- Introducing glucose and water
- Ice cubes for licking
- Keeping the dog indoors
- Ensuring the dog remains warm
While mild cases of diarrhoea are usually nothing to worry about, should the symptoms either worsen or persist, it is important to get the dog properly examined by a vet. This will then help to rule out any more serious causes, such as bacterial infections.
Vomiting in Dogs - Causes and Treatment
Another rather unpleasant, yet common, symptom in dogs is vomiting, which may be caused by travel sickness, mild stomach infections or poisoning. One will often notice that before a dog vomits, large amounts of grass may be consumed, this is done to help settle the stomach. Also, one will likely become attuned to the distinctive sounds a dog makes before vomiting, warning that all is not well. As with diarrhoea and constipation, the odd episode of vomiting is usually nothing to worry about and may be treated simply through upping fluids and introducing a teaspoonful of milk of magnesia every three hours.
However, should a dog's vomiting persist or worsen, Taylor (2009) recommends taking the dog to the vet immediately. This is because persistent vomiting, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, may be due to serious conditions, such as distemper, hepatitis or leptospirosis.
As highlighted above, whilst the odd bout of diarrhoea, constipation or vomiting in dogs, is unlikely to be anything serious, should they persist or additional symptoms occur, vet care is advisable. Home treatments for diarrhoea and vomiting in dogs will typically include upping fluid intake, whilst constipated dogs may benefit from increasing intake of fibre.
Sources:
Jack Russell UK Site
Taylor, D. (2009) Jack Russell Terrier: An Owner's Guide London: Collins
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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