Blame It on the Dog

I had a black Labrador retriever named Durham that could clear a room with the scent that emanated from his digestive tract. You may also have pets that flavor the air with their own pungent perfume. What causes these eruptions and what can you do to minimize the occurrences?

The fermentation of carbohydrates in the lower portion of the gut is responsible for flatulence, the expulsion of gas from the body. Diet and the health of the digestive tract can make for either an imperceptible toot or a cloud of seemingly toxic vapors.

The fermentation of carbohydrates in the lower portion of the gut is responsible for flatulence.

If your dog produces gas that can peel paint off the walls but the bowel moments are normal, it may be time to consider a diet change. If the present diet is a vegetable based, gradually switch to one that’s meat based. Adding a large dollop of plain yogurt to each meal may also help to reestablish the normal gut flora. Try taking your dog for a walk. The constitutional can assist with the passage of the offending wind. And when it does occur, it will be outside and quickly drift away.

If your pet is experiencing the heartbreak of gas and diarrhea, this may indicate internal parasites, viral or bacterial gastrointestinal disease or getting in to the trash. A simple tummy upset should pass in a day or two. If your pet’s problem persists, see your veterinarian.