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 Pet Central
Q&A
Q: My dog farts non-stop. Is it safe
to give her Gas-X or Beano? Please answer ASAP; my house smells! -- T.C.,
Lake Marcy, Fla.
A: Let's define the science of
your pup's problem. Dr. J.B. Dalley, associate professor of the small
animal clinic at Michigan State University, East Lansing, offers explanations
for canine flatulence, such as fermentation of food that hasn't been digested,
or swallowed air from gulping food or water. Parasites, such as hook or
round worms, are another possibility. People-food can also create stink
bombs. One dog we know prompts an evacuation of the household whenever
it gets into Chinese food.
As for poor digesters or food
gulpers, try increasing the number of daily feedings, with smaller portions
at each. However, your best bet is to simply try another diet.
Dalley says Beano or Gas-X are
not dangerous, as long as you don't feed Fido the whole package. However,
Dalley is skeptical that any over-the-counter product suited for people
will lessen canine flatulence. Instead, try a product created for dogs,
Breath-ese Gas Relief Tablets (by St. JON Pet Care Products), available
at pet stores.
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