Dog Has Acid Reflux
From LoveToKnow Dogs
What can you do when your dog has acid reflux? One visitor seeks tips to relieve her dog's condition.
Dog Has Acid Reflux
My dog has been vomiting and coughing a lot lately. He does have reflux, but it is getting much worse. Any suggestions?
Expert Reply
Hi Stacy,
It sounds like it's time to take your dog back to the vet for another check up. Acid reflux is sometimes linked to a condition called megaesophagus. This is an enlargement of the esophagus, and it weakens this muscle's ability to move food down the throat to the stomach. This means food build up in the esophagus until it expelled.Although this initially seems like a dog is vomiting, an examination of the contents reveal the vomit is actually undigested food.
If this seems to be what is happening to your dog, it's more important than ever to take him back to the vet.
If it really is just simple acid reflux, you can try giving your dog a natural product called Manuka Honey. This product is soothing to the esophagus and promotes healing. It also produces no side effects, so unless your dog has diabetes, it is safe to use.
Thanks for your question, and I hope you can get your dog's condition under control.
~~ Kelly
Comments
Hi Angie, and welcome to the site.
I've always believed that it's most important to get a proper dignosis from a vet before attempting to treat a dog's illness. That's because it's possible to inadvertently do more harm than good by temporarily masking the symptoms while the illness quietly progresses.
Once your vet makes a diagnosis, you can ask if an antacid would be beneficial for your dog. Typically, it's better to administer a liquid antacid because it presents less of a choking hazard than the chewable tablets. If your vet believes Manuka honey would help your dog's digestion, it's widely available on the Internet, but you will also likely find it next to the other types of honey in your local grocery store. It is also often sold at health food stores.
Thanks for your question, and I hope your dog is feeling better very soon. :)
-- Contributed by: KellyMy dog vomits yellow bile and sometimes undigested food. And he will make this horrible noise through his nose like he is trying to clear his throat. Could he have acid reflux or liver damage? Some of the symptoms that have been described in previous emails from other concerned dog owners match my dog. Can I give him a small dose of Tums or Rolaids? And can you tell me where I can purchase the Manuka Honey? Thanks for the help.
-- Contributed by: AngieHi Jane,
Frequent vomiting of yellow bile is sometimes a sign of liver problems. You might want to ask your vet to do some bloodwork to determine your dog's current liver function. Hopefully the problem isn't a serious one.
Thanks for your question, and best wishes.
-- Contributed by: KellyThis page has been accessed 1,437 times. This page was last modified 01:03, 27 March 2008.
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