Colic and IBS in dogs

First and foremost your first port of call is your vet for a diagnosis. Plus this is not hereditary, but your breeder would like to know if the dog is poorly. 

IBS is a hard one to diagnose but some vets will say they have it after a quick exam or a more thorough one.

Colic is easy enough to diagnose because of symptoms. 

It still isn't known what causes it, or why dogs get IBS.

Very much like us humans.

Some say it is because of diet, possibly allergies. 

If the food is high in fibre it can also inflame the colon. 

Symptoms 

The most common of the IBS's is chronic, occasional diarrhoea that include frequent small amounts of faeces and mucus.

Also constipation, abdominal pain and bloating of the tummy, Sometimes the can vomit or have some nausea. 

Some pain can be present when you touch the dog’s tummy area as well. 

For Colic and IBS

Pain in the stomach (You may see him in an abnormal posture with his back arched and his feet tucked in)

Abdominal bloat

Gas

Appetite loss

Fatigue and lethargy

Restlessness

Constipation

Diarrhea

Causes 

Abnormal colon activity.

Diet 

Allergies  

Stress although not in all cases 

Changes in the colon and bowels

Diagnosis

Is your vet for a well check for both Colic and IBS explain all symptoms to him and he will do a thorough exam on your pet?

This is to rule out anything sinister that might be underlying. Chronic Colic is sinister and needs blood works done for other infections and diseases.

Now for treatments, this is for both colic and IBS

 Herbs to help with gas (farting to you and me)

This relaxes the stomach muscles and helps relieve the gas from inside,

Chamomile

Fennel

Dill

Ginger helps with nausea to

Peppermint

You can just sprinkle any of the above dried herbs on your dog's food.

Herbs for inflammation

If your dog's colic seems to be caused by inflammation, the following herbs can be helpful

Slippery elm

Marshmallow root

Plantain

    

These herbs have anti-inflammatory and mucilaginous properties. They are very effective in reducing inflammations inside and on the body. They also provide a soothing, lubrication for the stomach and intestinal linings that contribute to the irritation.

Herbs for ulcers

If your dog's colic is caused by an ulcer try 

Licorice

Slippery elm

Aloe Vera

Licorice stimulates cell growth, helps protect the stomach's walls, and alleviates ulcers. Slippery elm soothes, lubricates and protects the stomach walls and digestive tract, and aloe vera juice prevents nausea and help ulcers heal faster.

For dog colic and IBS, it is essential to help and improve your dog's digestive system by giving him supplements of digestive enzymes and probiotics.

All herbs can be bought online or health food shops