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Reply To: Advice needed on what to do for dog that won't eat /GI issues?

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anonymous
Member

Quote “I am trying slippery Elm right now mixed into his food, but so far not helping. And have tried several pumpkin foods and sweet patato. And giving his pepto bismal.”

I hope you will speak to your vet about dispensing supplements and over the counter meds before continuing. Especially meds not intended for veterinary use unless prescribed by a veterinarian that has examined the dog (off label use).

Not all supplements and over the counter meds are benign, some have side effects, some interfere with the absorption of prescription meds. They can also throw off blood work and other diagnostic tests..

“Slippery elm may interfere with the absorption of other drugs, so give the supplement at another time. Slippery Elm can be used for sustained periods, but not long-term. Never give your dogs any herb or other supplement — or change the dogs’ diet in any way — without consulting your vet first”. (excerpt https://dogcare.dailypuppy.com/side-effects-slippery-elm-root-dogs-7609.html)

Possible Side Effects of Pepto Bismol (https://www.vetinfo.com/dog-pepto-bismol.html) excerpt:
Side effects are rare but they can occur. Potential changes include:
A darkening in color of the tongue
A darkening of the stools, which may become grey, black or a green color
An interference with readings of abdominal X-Rays
Inaccuracies in urine test results
Like every medication, it is possible to overdose on Pepto-Bismol. If you think this has happened, it is important to contact a vet immediately. Keep observing your dog closely and watching for changes in his temperature. Other potential effects include changes in the dog’s blood, seizures and liver and kidney damage.
Pepto Bismol is useful for soothing stomach upsets that can make your dog sick. However, it is a good idea to get a vet’s advice before giving the medication to your dog. That way, you can try and rule out any other, more serious, causes of stomach problems first.

Ps: Be careful about using too many medications and supplements including homeopathic remedies. It can become difficult to distinguish side effects from true symptoms.
Polypharmacy is the simultaneous use of multiple drugs to treat a single ailment or condition.