It is not just the humans who suffer from acid reflux. Dogs too are prone to acid reflux. Let’s elucidate what acid reflux actually is. Have you ever felt a burning pain around your chest? The burning sensation is experienced at the lower areas of the chest. This is nothing but the stomach acid that flows backward to the food pipe. This is the most common health problem that many of us suffer.
The similar thing happens to the dogs. It causes discomfort and pain if not diagnosed immediately.
The causes
I am not going to be technical and sound like a doctor (because I am not a doctor!). Although it is important to know how the chemical reactions that take place in the stomach, it is better to understand in a layman’s language, isn’t it? Acid reflux occurs when your pet has eaten a high fat meal or has gorged on the food like never before (in short, your dog has eaten more than required!). The stomach has the ability to combat the acid; however, the esophagus does not have such a lining. What happens is, the strong stomach acid is pushed backwards or against the valve that eventually lands up in the esophagus. This irritates the lining and causes acid reflux.
There are other reasons too like hiatal hernia and surgery that can cause this terrible condition.
Symptoms that will alert you
How will you know that your dog is suffering from acid reflux? Sadly, they can’t speak, but still you can examine them through the way they behave. If you think that your dog has eaten more than usual, just see the symptoms.
- Your dog may have excessive drooling.
- When the condition is severe your canine buddy may even run a fever.
- What happens when you are ill? You become inactive, irritated and want peace near your surroundings right? You would see exactly the same thing in your dog. He would appreciate a quiet place than a playground.
- If your dog is suffering from acid reflux, chances are he would have less food (because he won’t feel like having as a cause of pain and irritation) and may even start losing weight. Of course, if your dog does not have proper food, he is sure to lose weight.
- There is a high tendency of vomiting. Look for it.
What is the solution?
The best possible solution is to knock the vet’s door. Acid reflux can be treated with home remedies, but it will take longer time (you don’t want your pet to suffer for a longer time right?). You can go for the home remedies once your buddy is done with the checkup. The treatment is pretty straightforward and is hassle free. The vet will prescribe some medicines and will instruct you to offer limited food to your dog. Frequent meals with small portions are usually recommended by the vet.
In my opinion, I feel that dogs should be fed with only the prescribed foods. Go as per the vet’s recommendations. We cannot play with their life and so, it is our responsibility to take good care of dogs. Do not offer excessive food out of love. Offer foods (like vegetables) that can improve their health and not something that will worsen their appetite.
How can you help your dog?
Follow some simple rules-
- Let your dog fast for at least two days. In the meantime the esophagus will get a chance to relax and come back to the normal condition. Once the fasting is done, it is advised to change the feeding schedule.
- As already said, do not offer large meals. The meals should be broken into small parts and offered 4-6 times a day.
- The food offered should be in a dry state. Adding water can exacerbate the situation.
- Avoid legumes, grains, refined sugar, high fat meals, starchy vegetables, and the commercial products.
Make sure that you offer only those foods which can improve the condition. In case you have any doubt, consult the vet immediately. Don’t get carried away by your doubts as this may worsen the condition. Let us know if you have treated your dog with some useful home remedies. Remember, sharing is caring!
