It’s not always glamorous having a dog, but it is always worth it! When your dog is sick, they need your help. Most people love dogs, but not everyone realizes just how much work they can be. When your dog is sick, they need your help – and that often means dealing with messy problems like diarrhea. Your dog will feel miserable, and you’ll be stuck cleaning up until they’re well.
Fortunately, helping your dog feel better doesn’t have to be complicated. With the correct information, you can get them on the road to recovery in no time. That’s why it’s essential to learn about the available options to make this problem go away as quickly as possible. For example, you might be wondering if you can give your dog anti-diarrhea medicine like Imodium.
Fortunately, helping your dog feel better doesn’t have to be complicated. With the correct information, you can get them on the road to recovery in no time. You’ll find out how much to give them, the side effects, and more with the following helpful information so everyone can get back on track!
Reasons to Use Imodium
The main reason to use Imodium for dogs is diarrhea. The active ingredient in Imodium, loperamide, is an opioid that works by slowing down the movement of the intestine. It helps reduce the number of bowel movements while also helping them become more solid. There are a few things that can cause diarrhea in dogs; some of them include:
- Diet: Dogs can get upset stomachs that lead to diarrhea when you change their dog food brands or switch from feeding them dry to wet and vice versa.
- Salmonella: If the bacteria are present in their dog foods or something they eat, they can get diarrhea.
- Pancreatitis: The enzymes activate when released, inflaming and causing damage to the pancreas and surrounding tissue and other organs. One of the symptoms is diarrhea.
- Parasites: There are several kinds your dogs can get, so keep your eyes out for the signs.
- Medications: Side effects from medications can cause it.
- Toxic plants: It’s so easy for a dog to eat something like a poisonous plant, and if they eat one unfamiliar to you and have this symptom, it could be an emergency.
- Diseases: Liver and kidney diseases can cause this, which can be harmful if undiagnosed.
- Made of a formula of hydrolyzed proteins
- Brewer's rice is the main ingredient — gentle yet filling
- Beet pulp fiber helps bind poops and slow diarrhea
What are the Side Effects of Imodium?
Imodium can also lead to constipation and other side effects. In some cases, people may experience vomiting, stomach pain, and a dry mouth. More severe side effects can include dizziness, fainting, and blurred vision. When giving it to your dog, you should be aware of these potential side effects and seek medical advice if they experience any of them. Sedation effects are more likely to happen in some dog breeds, such as:
- Collies
- Skye Terriers
- Silken Windhounds
- German Shepherds
- Australian Shepherds
- Sheep Dogs
- Longhaired Whippets
- Whippets
If you think your dog has ingested too much Imodium, it is essential to contact your veterinarian immediately. The vet will likely want to monitor the dog closely and may even recommend hospitalization if the side effects are severe. Dogs can recover from the side effects of Imodium within a few days.
Although allergic reactions are unlikely, they can occur with any medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it is crucial to get medical help right away: swelling of the face, mouth, or tongue; difficulty breathing; hives; or a rash. Swelling may be accompanied by itching, redness, or other irritation. If you notice any of these, it’s an emergency, and you need to get your dog to the vet.
However, it is essential to follow your vet’s instructions carefully to ensure that your dog makes a full recovery. It’s best to take your dog for a check-up if they have more than two bouts of diarrhea. This can be important in case your dog has a severe health concern. Also, contact a vet if they are on current medications to ensure there isn’t any interaction between them. You should check with a vet before giving your dogs any medication.
- Designed with puppies' digestive system in mind
- Salmon is a key ingredient, which is gentle on stomachs
- High in fiber to solidify bowel movements
How to Give Your Dog Imodium
You may be wondering how much Imodium you can give your dog. These are generalized guidelines, and you should check with your dog’s vet before you use any of these dosages. Your vet may want to adjust the dosage depending on your dog’s specific needs. The dosage of Imodium for dogs depends on which form of the medication you are giving them. Different brands can have added ingredients so check all ingredients beforehand.
- Imodium A-D is a liquid form given as 0.3 -0.6 mL per pound of weight two to three times a day, usually poured over their food.
- Imodium A-D caplets or EZ Chews should be given to your dog at one 2 mg caplet per 25 to 50 pounds of body weight, twice or three times per day.
- Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief contains loperamide and simethicone, which are generally safe for dogs. Dogs are given one pill for every 25 to 50 pounds of weight.
- The main ingredient is water, to help with dehydration caused by diarrhea
- Only available with a vet's prescription
- Ingredients include rice and meat
Conclusion
Imodium can help your dog be more comfortable and make it easier for you when you’re on clean-up duty; if you’re on the fence about why your dog has diarrhea, contact a vet! They are there to help you and your animals, so use them as your primary resource. You never want to do anything that could harm your dog, and they spend years studying animal health, so you know they are the best choice for medical advice.
When talking to your vet, write down their recommended dosages and write anything that may be helpful later on to avoid going through the trouble of calling. If your dog gets into a lot of Imodium, then calling for help is essential. They may recommend inducing your dog to vomit or have you bring them in. You’re off to the right start; keep the momentum going with more research about your dog’s health needs!
The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/smrm1977
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How long until my dog gets relief from symptoms after taking Imodium?
Imodium typically starts to work within one to two hours after being ingested and is short-lived. While it can relieve diarrhea symptoms, it is only intended for use as a short-term fix.
What should I feed my dog when they have diarrhea?
You can feed them rice, oatmeal, or canned pumpkin. You want to stay away from high-fat foods, which can make their symptoms much worse.
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