When your dog's digestive system is functioning smoothly, the typical meal takes 7 to10 hours to pass through the digestive system. . Unfortunately, most dog owners experience the unpleasant surprise of discovering the common consequences of canine digestive disorders - vomit and diarrhea. Inflammation or obstruction of the "food tube" or megaesophagus (a weakening and dilation of esophageal muscles) may cause a dog to regurgitate food before it reaches the stomach. Vomiting is the most obvious sign of stomach inflammation. This organ adds enzymes that help digest carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, plus sodium bicarbonate to help neutralize stomach acid. Fingerlike projections lining the small intestine absorb broken down nutrients for delivery throughout the body. If your dog has mucousy diarrhea tinged with fresh blood, strains when defecating, and has frequent urges to move its bowels, its large intestine is probably inflamed. If your pet experiences any digestive disorders, it is important to use dog diarrhea medication or call your veterinarian and discuss the situation. Sometimes periodic digestive distress evolves into a chronic problem. Blood and urine tests may show infection or liver, kidney, pancreas, electrolyte abnormalities, etc. that may be contributing to digestive problems. Biopsies also help veterinarians determine if a tumor is beginning or malignant. If the liver or other organ is suspected as the primary disease causing the digestive disturbance, an ultrasound may be recommended. Some chronic digestive disorders, such as food allergies, require life-long dietary management. Digestive Care products like Acidophilus plus Vitamins Chewable Tab, Anti-Gas Chewable Tabs, HomeoPet Digestive Upsets, etc are available online. Avoid fatty foods and abrupt changes in food or water sources. Have your dog's feces checked routinely for parasites, and restrict the animal's contact with other pets’ feces. Limit your dog's access to bones, string, small toys, and other foreign objects that can harm its digestive tract. Visit our home page for great discounts on pet supplies and products.