The active ingredient in Tums is calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate is commonly found in rocks and the shells of various organisms (including eggs). It’s also used medicinally as an antacid for its unique ability to relieve acid reflux in the esophagus and the stomach. Too much at one time, however, is considered potentially toxic, so proper dosage is key. If your dog, by some chance, found its way into a bottle of Tums and you have no way of knowing how many tablets they’ve consumed, an immediate visit to a veterinarian is highly recommended. If instead, you’re wondering whether or not you can administer Tums to an animal exhibiting gastrointestinal distress, the short answer is yes, but you should probably explore other options.
Tums are generally regarded as safe for humans and dogs alike, but our physiology is different. We react differently to certain medications. Also, the correct dosage is different; you can’t just follow the directions on the bottle because they apply only to humans. There are various sources online that claim to know how many Tums to give to your dog, but it’s always better to ask a veterinarian. They may actually greenlight the use of Tums to give your dog temporary relief before you can bring them in for a visit.
Ask yourself a few questions:
- Has this been an ongoing occurrence?
Using Tums to treat a recurring ailment isn’t getting to the root of the problem. Besides, Tums will only give your dog temporary relief. - Is my dog just really gassy?
Tums more readily treat acid reflux and stomach aches; they don’t necessarily cut down on flatulence. There are better products tailored for gassy dogs. - Are there additional symptoms?
These may be clues to a much bigger problem. - And, finally, is this a temporary solution?
Seeing our precious animal in pain makes us want to rush into action, but we shouldn’t make rash decisions. Know what you’re giving your dog and how much of it is safe. Be wary of online sources; consult professional veterinarians for advice. If your vet says it’s okay, remember that Tums aren’t a definitive treatment. You should probably schedule a visit just to be safe.