Flatulence, or gas released as a result of the digestive process, can make a dog an unpleasant and odorous companion. All dogs have flatulence to some degree. Excessive, unusually foul-smelling gas, or gas accompanied by diarrhea and abdominal pain, can be treated with anti-flatulence medication.
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Description
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Flatulence that might require treatment with medication can be the result of a dog eating too fast and gulping air, low-quality dog food, intestinal disease or other underlying medication conditions.
Veterinary Analysis
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Excessive flatulence should be evaluated by a veterinarian. An examination will rule out digestive tract disorders, food allergies and other health problems. The first course of action is usually a therapeutic diet. Veterinarians also can prescribe anti-flatulence medications.
Medical Intervention
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Carminatives are anti-flatulence medications. GAS-X, or simethicone, is available over-the-counter as a human medication, and can used to treat dog flatulence. The adult large dog dose is the same as an adult human dose; reduce proportionately for smaller dogs. Prescription anti-flatulence medication includes odor-controlling yucca schidigera and zinc acetate, or antibiotics to reduce intestinal bacteria.
Natural Remedies
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Exercise is one of the best remedies for flatulence in dogs, although it is suggested that dogs wait at least 1/2 hour after eating before physical exertion. Digestive enzymes, vitamin B, peppermint, cardamom and chamomile--available at a natural dog food supplier--also may have anti-flatulence properties.
Expert Insight
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Bloat is a life-threatening condition caused by intestinal gas that is not expelled. Dogs that do not have flatulence risk gastric distention and stomach torsion. Any signs of bloat should receive emergency veterinary attention.
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