Excessive Borborygmus

Question
Hi Patti. I have a 1 year old Maltipoo. Lately I can tell he hasn't been feeling well and I can hear a loud rumble in his stomach which I know is gas. He is eating but is vomitting a little and I am worried about him. I am getting his anal glands expressed so I am thinking that might help with some of the problem. He has been eating gras and I just don't know what to do! Should I go to the vet or is there anything to be worried about?

Answer
Hi Merideth,

If you are going to have your dog's anal glands expressed (I assume your vet will be doing that), then talk to the doctor about the stomach sounds you've been hearing.
Expressing the anal glands is certainly something that should be done, but if it's probably not the cause of the loud stomach sounds and gas. If your dog's anal glands are infected, that could explain why your dog isn't eating well, as it can be an uncomfortable condition.

The "scooting" you may be seeing that can be a sign the anal glands need to be expressed, can also be a sign your dog has parasites.
It would be a good idea to have your vet to rule out intestinal parasites as they can also be the reason your dog  is throwing up, not eating as much as he should. Eating grass is not a symptom of a problem, some dogs just like it, just as you might like a salad now and then. The only problem would be if the lawn is treated with chemicals.

Borborygmus occur in healthy pets, but may also develop as a consequence of gastric, small intestinal, or colonic disorders.

If parasites aren't the cause of your dog's problems, then it might be worth it to try an over the counter antacid. It's a simple and inexpensive remedy if it works for your dog. Ask your vet for an antacid recommendation, and the correct dose.

Your dog should be walked outdoors within 30 minutes of his meals. This encourages defecation and elimination of intestinal gas. Giving your dog a Milkbone just before you go to bed at night can help keep his stomach quiet over night.

The bottom line is, have your dog examined by your vet, and talk over your concerns. The remidy is probably simple, but neccersary just the same.

Best of luck,
Patti