Your dog isn't feeling well, and you feel helpless. If your dog has an upset stomach, it may have a case of colic. Its course of treatment will rely on what is causing the pain in the first place, so work closely with your veterinarian in order to help your dog feel better as soon as possible.
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Colic
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Colic is a condition in dogs that causes them stomach pain. The pain is usually due to a build-up of gas. The condition can be very painful and uncomfortable. Dogs may become weak and lethargic, restless, lose their appetite, or have bad gas; in extreme cases, the dog may thrash around or even collapse. Depending on the cause, it can become very serious to your dog's health.
Causes
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Colic can be caused by many things. A dog may develop flatulence from eating spoiled food, garbage, or something toxic. The dog may have an infection, parasites, or a condition such as kidney disease, liver failure, pancreatitis, or an ulcer.
Determining Treatment
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Before you decide which course of treatment you will take, make an appointment with your veterinarian. If your dog has an underlying condition, such as a parasite infestation, it will need to be treated in order to bring your dog relief.
Natural Treatments
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Certain herbs, such as chamomile, ginger and peppermint, can help with gas. Slippery elm can be used to reduce inflammation and help with ulcers. Feeding probiotics may help regulate your dog's digestive tract.
Precautions
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Before using any herbal remedies, discuss their use with your veterinarian. You can help prevent colic by feeding your dog a high quality diet, keeping garbage and toxins out of your dog's reach, and having regular veterinary exams that include tests for parasites. Do not make sudden changes to your dog's diet.
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