SID stands for small intestinal dysbiosis and was previously known as SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth). Both terms are commonly interchangeable & used in the EPI dog community.
While it is normal for dogs to have active bacteria in their intestines, SID is basically an overgrowth of bacteria that is present in many EPI dogs when first diagnosed.
It is thought that due to the lack of digestion being present with EPI, raw & undigested food sits in the GI tract and it becomes a breeding ground for bad bacteria.
Common signs of SID include:
- Chronic diarrhea / badly discolored, greasy stools
- Weight loss despite increased appetite
- Abnormal increase in hunger, stool eating
- Sporadic vomiting
- Excess stomach gurgling, gas movement
- Low B12 levels
Veterinarians will typically prescribe antibiotics such as Tylosin Tartrate (brand name: Tylan) or Metronidazole in an attempt to bring SID under control, but Tylosin Tartrate is the preferred antibiotic. Metronidazole can be harsh on natural gut flora that is present in the GI tract especially during extended use.
Tylosin Tartrate can be obtained through many online pharmacies such as Chewy, etc. under a prescription from your veterinarian.
Additional savings may also be found from using pet compounding pharmacies such as Wedgewood Pharmacy, Roadrunner Pharmacy or just Google; Pet Compounding Pharmacies Near Me, as the best prices can sometimes be found at local, independently owned compounding pharmacies.
Many EPI dog owners find that SID symptoms ultimately resolve or at least improve through the introduction of pancreatic enzymes. Therefore, it is best practice to try try a quality pancreatic enzyme first before resorting to antibiotics unless your veterinarian feels the antibiotics are needed.
If SID symptoms persist, you may want to explore whether the enzyme dosing is adequate or to try a stronger enzyme with higher lipase values. A stronger enzyme may allow for more complete digestion to occur with less undigested food sitting in the GI system that can foster the growth of bad bacteria. The goal should always be to remove antibiotics from the dog as soon as possible conditions permitting.
However, a small percentage of EPI dogs may in-fact require a management dose of antibiotics for life, but most dogs can ultimately recover from SID with use of a proper pancreatic enzyme and diet (including B12 supplementation if warranted).
It is thought by Texas A&M University that all EPI Dogs retain some level of SID in their systems. However, it is arguably more important for the pet owner to focus on management of SID symptoms through proper implementation of standard-of-care protocol using pancreatic enzymes, food and B12 supplementation (if needed).
The pet owner should know that if antibiotics are needed during early treatment, it may be difficult for stools to normalize with use of pancreatic enzymes until the antibiotics are finished and ultimately leave the dog’s system.
For early management of SID, the EPI dog owner will also want to limit exposure to high grains, legumes and dairy. Food with a fiber content of 4% (or less) is desirable, as a high fiber diet can also inhibit the efficacy of pancreatic enzymes.
Dogs with SID can also be low in Vitamin B12 but B12 deficiency is present in many EPI dogs upon diagnosis anyway.
Some EPI dog owners report success with the addition of some Prebiotics and Probiotics. However, this should be explored with the help of your veterinarian if possible, as the quality & efficacy of these products can vary widely.
Canned pumpkin / Slippery Elm
Introducing a small amount of good fiber such as canned pumpkin can be beneficial in helping to pass SID through the GI system along with a quality pancreatic enzyme.
Slippery Elm is a natural herb (a prebiotic) that can help your dog’s health in a variety of ways. If your dog has SID and is experiencing other issues such as acid reflux, stomach gurgling or diarrhea, it may help to try Slippery Elm prior to using additional medications.
Uses of Slippery Elm:
- To soothe the stomach
- Help with diarrhea
- Reduce vomiting/nausea
- Acid reflux
Recommend products:
Learn more, and discuss this topic with fellow EPI dog owners:
Visit the SID / SIBO forum on EPIDogForum.com