Can a dog be given pepto-bismol for diarrhea?

Diarrhea is a common illness. Most people have had a bout of this digestive system disorder at one point or another thus an over the counter medication in a vibrant pink bottle is easily recognized. Pepto-Bismol (Bismuth Subsalicylate) an anti diarrheal formulation is available in caplet, chewable tablet, paste and oral suspension. This medication has a less than pleasing taste, blackens the tongue and results to a black-grey greenish stool but noted to be an effective medication for stomach upset and a mild case of diarrhea. The black coloration of the tongue and the stool is caused by the bismuth-sulfide compound that forms when the bismuth content of the medication reacts with the sulfide in the mouth and on the digestive tract.

Diarrhea is common in dogs as well. If pepto-bismol works for humans will this medication be effective for man’s best friend as well? Would it be safe to treat a dog’s diarrhea with pepto-bismol? A lot of over the counter medications for humans can be consumed by canines and other animals as well. In fact some of these medications should be included in the pet’s first aid kit. Pepto-bismol can have adverse effects in cats because of its aspirin content but it can be safely given to dogs.

Diarrhea is a common canine disorder. Most puppies have a bout of soft pudding textured stool or uncontrolled and projectile watery squirts. Canine diarrhea can result from viruses or internal parasitic infestation. The diet or an introduction of new food, excitement and nervousness due to a change in environment can cause a dog to have runny poops. Moreover, dogs are scavengers. Although these animals are said to have stomachs of “steel”, ingesting spoiled food and toxic substances would still have an effect on the digestive system. Diarrhea is a common ailment. Normally, the soft stool will be gone after a day or two. However, there are cases when the diarrhea would need immediate attention as it can result to the death of the dog. Diarrhea, especially in puppies should not be ignored as a secondary problem can develop. The greatest worry of owners of dogs suffering from diarrhea is dehydration. This usually happens in severe bouts of the disease. The dog has to have immediate treatment. The pet must be taken to a veterinary facility as in serious cases of diarrhea intravenous fluid has to be administered.

When would it be OK to treat the dog’s diarrhea with pepto-bismol? Mild cases of vomiting and diarrhea can be treated at home. The soft stool can be gone in a day or two or it can progress into a serious condition that will endanger the life of the pet. The trick to treating this disease is to administer treatment at once before it can turn into a secondary severe diarrhea. Early treatment can be done at home with pepto-bismol. One half to one teaspoon of the liquid pink pepto-bismol is given for every 10 lbs body weight every 3 to 4 hours with the use of a syringe. This medication is used to treat stomach disorders caused by dietary indiscretion as the chalk-like compound of the bismuth agent in the formulation soothes the stomach and the lining of the intestine. Pepto-bismol is an OTC medication. Nevertheless, a vet consult would always be wise for the correct dosage and for the duration the treatment. Pepto-Bismol is generally safe for dogs but allergies and other health concerns can result to an adverse reaction to the medication. Pepto-bismol should not be given to nursing dogs as well.

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