If you’re a dog owner, there’s a good chance that at some point your pet will eat something spicy.
While most cases of canine spice ingestion won’t cause any serious harm, it’s important to be aware of the potential symptoms and know how to treat them if necessary.
Spicy food can upset your dog’s tummy. Give your dog plenty of water and some fresh, plain yoghurt and monitor him for any signs of distress. If he seems unwell then call the vet. In most cases, after a bout of diarrhea, your dog will recover.
So your dog ate spicy food…What should you do?
If your dog ate spicy food, the first thing you should do is assess the situation.
How much did they eat? Are they showing any signs of discomfort? If they only had a small taste, chances are they’ll be fine and you won’t need to do anything more than keep an eye on them.
However, if they ate a lot or if they seem to be in pain, it’s time to take action.
Here’s what you should do:
Give them some plain yogurt.
The probiotics in yogurt can help soothe their stomach and calm any digestive issues that may arise from eating spicy food.
Offer them lots of water.
Spicy foods can cause dehydration, so it’s important to make sure your dog is drinking plenty of water. If they’re not interested in drinking on their own you can make a thin gravy mix with cold water that will be more appealing.
Monitor their stool.
Just as it is with humans, spicy food can cause diarrhea, so it’s important to keep an eye on their stool for the next few days and make sure it returns to normal.
If their diarrhea persists for more than a few days or if it seems like they’re in pain when going to the bathroom, give your vet a call.
Seek professional help if necessary.
If your dog ate a lot of spicy food or if they seem to be in distress, it’s best to seek professional help from your veterinarian right away.
They will be able to properly assess the situation and give you customized advice based on your dog’s individual needs.
Feed them bland foods
You should also feed your dog bland food for a few days until his stomach has settled down.
The best type is something along the lines of mashed potato ( without milk or butter ) mixed with a tin of tuna fish ( in brine ).
This is a simple meal that most dogs will happily eat and which will provide your dog with the nutrients he needs without aggravating his stomach.
Make an appointment with the vet
If your dog is still experiencing discomfort after taking these steps, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and make an appointment with your veterinarian.
They will be able to check for any potential problems and offer further advice on how you can help your dog to recover after he has eaten spicy food.
Prevent your dog from eating spicy food in the first place
Dogs are renowned for stealing food and making the most of any opportunity to eat.
The best way to avoid the risk of your dog eating spicy food is to keep an eye on him when he’s around and make sure he doesn’t have access to anything that he shouldn’t.
This includes things such as dirty pots and dishes and rubbish bins where you may have disposed of leftovers.
You should also be careful about what you’re feeding him and avoid giving him table scraps that contain spicy seasonings or sauces.
If you’re not sure whether something is safe for your dog to eat, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and refrain from giving it to him.
A little prevention can go a long way in keeping your dog safe and healthy.
FAQs
What should I do if my dog eats spicy food?
If your dog has ingested spicy food, it’s important to monitor them closely for any signs of discomfort or distress. Spicy foods can cause digestive issues, such as upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting in dogs. Keep an eye on their behaviour and look out for symptoms like excessive drooling, restlessness, or abdominal discomfort.
Can I give my dog something to alleviate the effects of eating spicy food?
If your dog is experiencing discomfort from eating spicy food, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian before giving them any medication or home remedies. The vet can provide appropriate guidance based on your dog’s specific situation. In general, it is not recommended to give over-the-counter human remedies, such as antacids or pain relievers, without professional advice.
How can I prevent my dog from eating spicy food in the future?
To prevent your dog from eating spicy food, it’s crucial to be mindful of where you store and consume such foods. Keep them out of your dog’s reach, whether it’s on the kitchen counter, dining table, or in the trash. Also, educate your family and guests about the potential harm spicy foods can cause to dogs, and ask them to refrain from sharing any spicy treats with your furry friend. By being vigilant and proactive, you can help keep your dog safe from the risks associated with spicy food ingestion.
Conclusion and final thoughts ????
If your dog ate spicy food, the best thing you can do is assess the situation and take action accordingly.
In most cases, a little bit of plain yogurt and some extra water will be all that’s needed to help them recover.
However, if they seem to be in pain or if their diarrhea persists for more than a few days, it’s always best to seek professional help from your veterinarian.
Prevention is also key, so make sure you keep an eye on your dog and avoid giving him access to anything that he shouldn’t eat.
By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your dog safe and healthy.
