We are pet parents. We always aim to do the best for our dog. From diet to basic check-ups, we have always dreamt of our pet leading a healthy life but often in this journey we forget some basic complications. These complications are less likely to occur but are very important for our pets. I suffered the same problem when I became a parent for the first time.

For me becoming a pet parent was like a dream come true. I used to do all the things that a parent would do for their child. From everyday brushing to proper bedding for the night, I arranged everything for my Lucy. Things were going very smoothly.

I used to introduce Lucy, a Labrador to everyone and used to feed whatever I ate. Things were good until one day Lucy started showing some unaccounted behaviour. Behaviour such as not eating anything, behaviour change, and many more.

For me, it was disturbing. This goes for 2-3 days. I ignored it because I thought it was Lucy who didn’t want to eat but on the 4th day, she vomited. This frightened me.

I took Lucy and rushed to the veterinarian. The doctor performed all the check-ups, and when the reports came, the doctor asked me what I used to feed my pet.

This was confusing because I used to feed all the things that I used to eat, nothing different. Then the doctor told me that Lucy was suffering from Gut health problems.

Often, we ignore the gut health of the dog. It is very important to understand the delicacies of canine gut health and its role in their overall digestive health. At supertails, we understand that most of our pet parents are not aware of gut health problems and it is normal. What is not normal is ignoring those problems when your pets are suffering.

Sometimes it can be hard to understand the problems faced by our pets. Although it can look like a minor problem, we never know. That’s why we brought you a total guide on how you should take care of your dog’s gut health because in the future you never know when this guide can help you identify some major problems in your pet.

Just like humans have enzymes that break down the food in our stomachs, dogs also have an enzyme called microbiota. We can understand this as a fluid that performs the function of absorption of nutrients and trains the immune system to respond against pathogens. It also maintains gut health and prevents overgrowth of harmful bacteria and reduces the risk of digestive problems.

As a pet parent, you will always want your dog to remain healthy. A dog’s gut is a delicate system. If not treated well, it can create a big problem for your dog. Several reasons can alter the function of the gut. Some are listed below.

1.Diet

The body responds according to the food they eat. A pet owner needs to determine what are the food items that can affect their dog's health. Every food is not meant for them, they have a weak gut. Processed foods or oily foods can harm them, they need foods that are high in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

2.Hydration

Hydration promotes better digestion. Ensure that your pet has easy access to fresh, clean water all the time especially during hot weather or after a vigorous physical session. Proper hydration keeps the gut healthy and keeps your pet’s body cool. It also helps soften tools and prevents constipation.

3.Exercise

Adding some physical activity or routine playtime can help your pet improve gastrointestinal function. Indulging in physical activity can improve mobility and agility. It prevents any unwanted weight gain and also improves bowel movement. Aim for daily walks, play sessions, or activities that keep your pet active.

4.Stress Management

Dogs are delicate creatures. Their minds are not built to handle a lot of stress, which can alter their gut health. Always try to keep your dog in a stress-free environment. Proper playtime or interactive activities can help them engage and interact, which can help with mental stimulation. Create a routine for their playtime, take them out when needed, and play with them.

Whenever something unusual happens to a pet, it starts acting differently. You can see a lot of changes during those days. By recognizing the signs, you can take a proactive approach against them and will be able to address the gut health problems properly.

1. Digestive Issues

Persistent signs such as diarrhoea, constipation, and vomiting are early signs of gut problems. It can be an indication of an imbalance in gut microbiota. The dog faces difficulty in digesting food as well as any medicines during that period. A pet parent should consult a veterinarian when they see these problems.

2. Loss of Appetite

When the digestive system imbalances, the urge to eat dies. If your dog resists eating anything, it can be due to irritation or infection in their gut. At this point, microbiota stops absorbing nutrients from the food which makes your dog weak and more prone to other infections. It imbalances the nutritional health.

3. Weight Changes

Sudden loss of appetite can lead to a decrease in weight. Dogs often tend to eat less when they are suffering from any gut health problem. During these periods, the microbiota do not function properly, leading to poor nutrition absorption.

4. Skin and Coat Issues

Skin and coat health is linked to the dog’s gut health. Any minor changes in their gut can lead to itchiness, dryness, or sometimes even a dull coat. Pet parents should be cautious about these things, they should consult a vet as soon as possible when they counter these things.

Gut health can be cured at home, proper diet and timely medication are enough for your dog. But there are times when things do not go as planned. Gut health can get dangerous too, it usually gets to that level when the dog is not given medication on time or his diet is not proper. There are some signs and symptoms where a pet parent should understand that it is mandatory to consult a vet. These symptoms can be:

• Blood in stools

• Difficulty defecating

• Sudden dehydration

• Sudden weight loss.

• Severe Vomiting.

At Supertails, we believe It is never too late to take action. If you think that your dog needs immediate consultation or medication, we are there for you. We understand the urgency that is why we provide you with the facility of Supertails Clinic.

At our clinic, doctors provide expert clinical care to all pets while ensuring their safety. Our hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art clinical equipment, species-specific pheromone diffusers, and dedicated entries for trauma cases. We prioritize your pet’s peace of mind. That's why our hospital is pet-friendly and has separate spaces for cats, dogs, and other animals.

Tired of using home remedies to cure your dog’s gut health problems? Sometimes it can be hard to cure those problems through medicines, so it is important to use medications for them. Prescribed medications from experienced doctors are important as they are given after a proper analysis of the condition of your dog. Still, we will list down some of the medicines that you can consider for your dog’s gut health.

• Venkys Gutwell Pre & Probiotics Powder

  • Supports healthy digestion and relieves stomach worms in dogs.

  • Easy to administer with daily meals.

• Dr. Goel's Diafine Drops

  • A reliable solution for upset stomachs and vomiting.

  • Perfect for pets with dog stomach pain symptoms.

• Furlicks Gut Health Supplement

  • A balanced formula for dog gut health and prevention of gut infection in dogs.

  • Enriched with prebiotics and probiotics for overall wellness.

• Natural Remedies Natgut Digestive Tablets

  • Ideal for pets with recurring dog stomach aches.

  • Helps manage dog stomach making sounds effectively.

A healthy gut is the key to your dog’s happiness. Prioritizing their gut can help them to remain fit and active. Being a pet parent is not easy but it is your responsibility to understand the problems that your dog is going through. Commonly, they will show signs and symptoms when they undergo any health-related issues, you just have to stay aware. Understanding their approach can help you implement a proactive approach for your dog such as a balanced diet and routine physical activity. Keep in mind that their healthy life depends on you, every action matters.

After reading this blog, do you think that your dog is undergoing some health-related problems? If yes, rush to Supertails clinic. We are there for you and your dog.

Absolutely. Stress can significantly impact a dog's gut health. When a dog experiences stress, their body releases stress hormones like cortisol, which can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and negatively impact digestion. Stress can also weaken the immune system, making dogs more susceptible to infections that can further disrupt gut health. Providing a calm and stable environment, engaging in regular exercise and playtime, and minimizing exposure to loud noises and stressful situations can help reduce stress and support gut health.

Signs of dehydration in dogs include lethargy, dry gums, sunken eyes, and decreased skin elasticity. Dehydration can worsen digestive issues and make it harder for the body to absorb nutrients. Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Diet plays a crucial role in supporting gut health. Feeding your dog a high-quality, balanced diet with appropriate levels of protein, fat, and fibre is essential. Incorporating prebiotic-rich foods like vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes) and fruits (apples, blueberries) can also promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. However, diet alone may not be sufficient for some dogs, especially those with underlying health conditions.