A wise policy is never to give pets medications and drugs designed for human consumption unless they are prescribed, or at least approved, by a veterinarian. However, most veterinarians agree that Pepto-Bismol, which is used to treat stomach disorders and diarrhea is a safe medication for dogs.
Pepto-Bismol, which is the brand name for bismuth subsalicylate, is also an oral anti-inflammatory and antacid. Veterinarians can prescribe an oral suspension of bismuth subsalicylate medication for dogs or, alternatively, Pepto-Bismol is available for purchase without a prescription from many retail stores.
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According to Canine Journal, "Normally dogs will eat grass to cleanse out their system – this is the natural method to cure your dog’s upset stomach." However, if the stomach upset is preventing the dog from eating grass, Pepto-Bismol can safely be administered to ease the dog's symptoms.
Doctors Foster and Smith recommend administering Pepto-Bismol to dogs if they have vomiting and diarrhea, as it will "soothe the stomach and intestinal lining." However, they caution, "If the vomiting and/or diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours; the pet has a fever, is depressed or shows abdominal pain; or the pet does not continue to be active and alert, contact your veterinarian."
Side effects for dogs that are given Pepto-Bismol are usually mild. They may include a darkening of the tongue, and a change in the color or consistency of the stool. In addition, it is not considered safe to give Pepto-Bismol to dogs that are allergic to any of the ingredients, are pregnant, nursing, or have a canine bleeding disorder.
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Vet Info advises to use only regular strength Pepto-Bismol for dogs in a dosage of "half a milliliter to one milliliter of Pepto-Bismol per pound of weight. It should be administered every six to eight hours. If you're using the tablets, that is equal to quarter tablet per 20 pounds of weight every six to eight hours."
Although Pepto-Bismol is generally considered a safe medication to administer to dogs, it is not recommended for cats. The medication contains salicylates, which is the active ingredient in aspirin, and can cause an adverse reaction and even be fatal to cats.
According to Pet Poison Helpline, signs of aspirin poisoning in both dogs and cats include "gastrointestinal signs (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea, vomiting of blood, black-tarry stool, stomach ulcers, etc.), hyperthermia, respiratory changes, bone marrow suppression, kidney failure, and central nervous system signs (e.g., collapse, extreme weakness, tremors, seizures, cerebral edema)."
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