Building a strong gastrointestinal (GI) and immune system in dogs is crucial for their overall health and to protect them from gastrointestinal issues like gastroenteritis.
The GI system plays a vital role in nutrient absorption, digestion, and immune defence, making it essential to support its function. By providing a balanced diet, proper hygiene, regular wellness checks, and minimising stress, dog owners can help strengthen their dog's GI and immune system, reducing the risk of gastro-related problems and promoting their overall well-being.
PetWell DIGEST - Digestion Relief can help in supporting a dog's GI and immune system health.
DIGEST is formulated by a pet naturopath and includes all-natural, human-grade ingredients that promote optimal digestion, and a healthy gut microbiome, which are essential for a strong GI system.
The enzymes in PetWell DIGEST assist in breaking down food and enhancing nutrient absorption, ensuring that dogs receive maximum nutritional benefits from their diet.
The inclusion of probiotics in the supplement introduces beneficial bacteria into the gut, further enhancing digestion, immune function, and overall GI health.
By incorporating PetWell DIGEST into a dog's routine, pet owners can help optimise their dog's gastrointestinal function, promote a robust immune system, and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues.
What Are the Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Issues?
Dog gastrointestinal issues symptoms can present with various forms that can vary in severity depending on the underlying cause. Some common symptoms of gastrointestinal problems in dogs include:
Vomiting: It can be occasional or frequent and may be accompanied by other symptoms as follows;
Diarrhoea: It can range from mild to severe and may contain blood or mucus.
Loss of appetite: A decrease or complete loss of interest in food. Dogs may show disinterest in meals or refuse to eat altogether.
Abdominal pain or discomfort: Dogs may exhibit signs of abdominal discomfort such as restlessness, whining, or a hunched posture.
Excessive gas: Increased flatulence, often accompanied by a foul odour.
Dehydration: Dogs with gastrointestinal issues may become dehydrated due to vomiting, diarrhea, or reduced fluid intake.
Weight loss: Unintended weight loss may occur if the dog's ability to absorb nutrients is compromised.
Lethargy: A general lack of energy or enthusiasm, with decreased activity levels and increased sleepiness.
Changes in stool colour or consistency: Stools may appear abnormal, such as being pale, black/tarry, or containing undigested food.
Straining during defecation: Dogs may have trouble or discomfort when trying to pass stools.
Excessive drooling: Increased salivation, especially if nausea or discomfort is present.
It's important to note that these symptoms can be non-specific and may indicate various gastrointestinal issues or other health conditions. If you observe any of these symptoms or suspect that your dog may have gastrointestinal problems, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
How do I Care for my Dog if They Have Gastrointestinal Issues?
When your dog has gastrointestinal issues, it's important to take appropriate care of them while minimising the risk of spreading the illness to other dogs. Here are some steps you can follow:
Provide Fresh Water
Ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water always. Hydration is crucial, especially if they are experiencing vomiting or diarrhoea. Monitor their water intake to prevent dehydration.
Adjust Their Diet
Depending on the severity of their gastrointestinal issues, your veterinarian may recommend dietary modifications. This could involve a temporary switch to a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and rice, to soothe their digestive system.
Monitor Their Symptoms
Keep a close eye on your dog's symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, lethargy, or any other concerning signs. Note the frequency, consistency, and colour of their bowel movements. If the symptoms worsen or persist, consult your veterinarian.
Maintain Hygiene
Practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of pathogens. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your sick dog or cleaning up after them. Use disposable gloves when cleaning up feces and properly dispose of them.
Clean and Disinfect
Regularly clean and disinfect your dog's bedding, toys, food/water bowls, and any other items they come into contact with. Use pet-safe disinfectants or a mixture of water and mild detergent.
Veterinary Consultation
If your dog's symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning signs, it is important to seek veterinary care. A veterinarian can properly diagnose the underlying cause of the gastrointestinal issues and recommend appropriate treatment.
Can Dogs Spread Gastrointestinal Issues to Other Dogs?
YES, Dogs can spread gastrointestinal issues to other dogs in various ways. Here are a few modes of transmission:
Direct Contact
Close contact between dogs can facilitate the transmission of gastrointestinal infections. This can occur through activities such as sniffing, licking, or grooming each other.
Fecal-Oral Route
Dogs can contract gastrointestinal infections by ingesting the feces of infected dogs. This can happen when dogs encounter contaminated surfaces or when they eat grass or soil that has been contaminated with feces.
Contaminated Objects
Dogs can transmit gastrointestinal pathogens through shared objects such as toys, bedding, or food/water bowls. If an infected dog has come into contact with these items, other dogs using them may become exposed to the pathogens.
Environmental Contamination
If an infected dog eliminates in an area, the environment can become contaminated with pathogens. Other dogs that come into contact with that area, either through direct contact or by sniffing and exploring, can be at risk of contracting the infection.
Aerosol Transmission
Certain pathogens, such as certain strains of canine cough (kennel cough), can be spread through respiratory droplets when infected dogs cough or sneeze. Although primarily associated with respiratory infections, some gastrointestinal infections can also be transmitted through this route.
It's important to note that not all gastrointestinal issues are contagious. Some problems, such as dietary indiscretion or pancreatitis, are not contagious and typically result from individual factors rather than being transmitted between dogs. However, diseases caused by infectious agents or parasites can pose a risk of spreading to other dogs.
If your dog is experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, it is advisable to keep them away from other dogs and seek veterinary care to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Remember, early veterinary intervention and proper care can help your dog recover faster and minimise the risk of spreading gastrointestinal issues to other dogs.
How Does a Dog Develop Gastrointestinal Issues?
The most common way for a dog to develop gastrointestinal or gastro-related issues is through dietary indiscretion, which refers to the ingestion of inappropriate or non-food items.
Dogs are known for their curious nature and may eat things they shouldn't, such as garbage, spoiled food, foreign objects, toxic substances, or even certain plants. This can lead to various GI problems.
Other common causes of gastro-related issues in dogs include:
Sudden dietary changes: Abruptly switching a dog's diet can disrupt their digestive system and cause gastrointestinal upset.
Food intolerance or allergies: Dogs may develop sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients in their food, leading to digestive issues.
Bacterial or viral infections: They can contract infections from consuming contaminated food or water, resulting in gastroenteritis or other GI infections.
Parasites: Intestinal parasites like worms or protozoa, such as roundworms, hookworms, or giardia, can cause gastrointestinal problems in dogs.
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by eating fatty, processed foods and can result in digestive disturbances.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): A chronic condition characterised by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and weight loss.
Stress or anxiety: Dogs experiencing stress, anxiety, or changes in their environment can develop GI issues like diarrhoea or loss of appetite.
How do I Prevent Gastrointestinal Issues in my Dog?
Preventing gastrointestinal issues in dogs involves implementing several preventive measures. While some factors may be out of your control, here are some general guidelines to help reduce the risk:
Maintain a healthy diet: Provide your dog with a balanced and appropriate diet that meets their nutritional needs.
Avoid dietary indiscretion: Prevent your dog from accessing and ingesting inappropriate or non-food items. Keep garbage bins securely closed, avoid leaving harmful substances within reach, and supervise your dog during outdoor activities to prevent them from eating potentially harmful objects.
Gradual dietary changes: When switching your dog's diet, do so gradually by mixing the new food with the old one over a period of several days. This allows their digestive system to adjust and reduces the likelihood of gastrointestinal upset.
Provide clean water: Ensure your dog always has access to fresh and clean water. Regularly clean and refill their water bowl to prevent the growth of bacteria or other contaminants.
Proper hygiene: Practice good hygiene habits to reduce the risk of contamination. Wash your hands before and after handling your dog, especially after cleaning up feces. Clean and disinfect food and water bowls, toys, and bedding regularly.
Avoid high-risk areas: Limit your dog's exposure to areas known for potential contamination, such as stagnant water sources or areas frequented by stray or sick animals.
Stress management: Minimise stressors in your dog's environment and provide them with a safe and secure living space. Stress can contribute to gastrointestinal issues, so ensure your dog feels secure and comfortable.
Be cautious during social interactions: When your dog interacts with other dogs, ensure that the dogs they socialise with are healthy and up to date on vaccinations. This helps reduce the risk of infectious diseases that can cause gastrointestinal problems.
Promptly address health concerns: If you notice any changes in your dog's appetite, behaviour, or stool quality, or if they exhibit signs of discomfort or illness, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can prevent potential gastrointestinal issues from worsening.
By following these preventive measures and maintaining a proactive approach to your dog's health, you can significantly reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues and help your dog lead a healthy and happy life.
THRIVE Imune Support
Boosting the immune system is essential to help our pets gut stay strong and resilient. PetWell THRIVE Immune Support is expertly formulated to provide the vital nutrients needed to enhance their immune response. Suitable for pets of all ages.
All PetWell ingredients are human-grade and sourced from natural, premium sources. We take pride in being an Australian-made product, ensuring that every supplement meets the highest standards of quality and safety
Read more about Poor Gut Health in Your Dog – Recognising the Signs
In Summary
Gastrointestinal issues are common in dogs and can be caused by factors such as dietary indiscretion, infections, allergies, or underlying health conditions.
Proper prevention, early detection of symptoms, and veterinary care are essential for maintaining a dog's gastrointestinal health, including providing a balanced diet, avoiding harmful substances, practicing good hygiene, and seeking prompt veterinary attention for any concerning symptoms.
The Science Behind It
Don’t just take our word for it, here are some evidence-based studies for you to review.
Prevalence of common canine digestive problems
Disorders of the Stomach and Intestines in Dogs
Gastrointestinal disorders in dogs with excessive licking of surfaces
Disclaimer: The entire contents of this email and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd trading as PetWell encourages you to make your own pet healthcare decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.
