Common Problems of the Digestive System
This system is made up of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, liver, gall bladder, spleen, colon, rectum, and anus. The problems most typically associated with this system include vomiting, bloat, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, and anal sac disorders. Every dog will experience upsets of the digestive system in the course of her life; most problems are easily treated and symptoms resolve within hours or days.
Older dogs experience a certain amount of incontinence. It is a natural part of aging. Older dogs tend to experience bladder control problems first. Owners need to be understanding in these instances. Lack of bowel control also follows with some dogs. Veterinarians can often prescribe medicines to help dogs control these functions and return them to some normality.
Vomiting
Dogs sometimes gag and throw up as a matter of course. The most common cause of vomiting is simply overeating, or eating so quickly the food is gulped down and then comes back up again. Dogs will also commonly vomit after eating grass, and some dogs get carsick. If your dog infrequently vomits what's obviously partly digested food or chewed grass or is distressed by the car, don't worry about it.
This doesn't mean that if your dog is vomiting it shouldn't concern you. If it relates to anything unusual, or if you notice blood in the vomit, or if the vomiting is severe and frequent, make an appointment to see the veterinarian immediately. These are signs that your dog is truly not well.
Bloat
This condition is also called gastric dilatation, which is exactly what it is: a swelling up of the stomach due to gas, fluid, or both. When the stomach fills up this way, it is prone to twisting, which quickly leads to shock and death. The exact cause of bloat is unknown, but it's suspected that dogs can develop bloat by eating too much dry kibble, exercising vigorously after eating, or gulping their food or their water. Some breeds seem prone to it, and it appears to run in some breed lines. Dogs experiencing bloat become restless, drool heavily, try to vomit or defecate unsuccessfully, and cry in pain when their stomachs are palpated. It is imperative to get your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible if you suspect bloat.
As your dog enters his older years, he'll need some help so that accidents don't happen in places where you don't want them. Baby gates might be a good idea to keep your long-time friend out of rooms where incontinence might create a real problem for you. Remember, older dogs often lose bladder or bowel control without even knowing it.
Diarrhea
Like vomiting, the type and consistency of diarrhea vary depending on what's really wrong with the dog. When all is normal, the dog eats and drinks and her digestive system absorbs nutrients from the food and water and passes along undigested materials in the stool, which should be firm and consistent in color. Any irritation to the intestines or the bowel will trigger diarrhea. These irritations can vary from a change in food or water to overexcitement to eating something that can't be digested or is toxic or that produces an allergic response. The color, consistency, odor, and frequency of the diarrhea can help you and your veterinarian determine the underlying cause and set about providing the proper treatment.
Certain medications can cause loose stools, so be sure you ask your veterinarian and read about the potential side effects whenever your dog is on a prescription medication. Better to know ahead of time that this may happen than be surprised or unduly worried.
Constipation
If you notice your dog straining to defecate, or even whimpering or whining while doing so, with the result being no passing of stool, your dog is constipated. Most cases of constipation are caused by inappropriate diet, which causes stools to form improperly and either block the colon or be painful to pass. Try giving your dog one-half to two tablespoons of a gentle laxative such as milk of magnesia. This can be tricky, as dogs don't like the taste. The best way to give it is to measure the amount into a syringe or turkey baster so you can direct the medicine to the back of the dog's throat without getting your fingers in the way. Once squirted in, close the dog's mouth so he is forced to swallow. Then take the dog out often so you don't risk an accident in the house. If you don't get results in about twelve hours, consult your veterinarian.
Flatulence
Having an overly flatulent dog is no fun! Through no fault of his own, a dog who passes gas can clear an entire room in no time. Peeyew! While it is normal and natural for all creatures to pass some gas, excessive flatulence is a problem. You can most likely chalk your dog's flatulence up to inappropriate diet. A diet high in meats, fermentable foods such as onions, beans, or even some grains or dairy products can lead to excess gas. Review your dog's diet carefully, including the ingredient list of his dog food, and slowly integrate a diet change. If this doesn't yield results, your veterinarian can help.
Anal Sac Disorders
Dogs have two anal sacs, one on each side of the rectum at about 5 and 7 o'clock, commonly called “scent sacs.” They secrete a distinctive odor that leaves the dog's scent when she defecates. If the sacs become blocked, they can become sore and infected and will need to be expressed. If your dog frequently scoots across the floor dragging her bottom or wants to lick the area often, suspect an anal sac problem and ask the vet to show you how to handle expressing them to relieve the buildup — or have the procedure done by your veterinarian or professional groomer. They have experience with it and can probably handle this messy, smelly task better than you can.
