From the naturopathic practice, Annette de Vogel

Sometimes the body simply can't be ignored. It doesn't whisper, but speaks loud and clear. In dogs, this often happens through the stomach. Nausea, vomiting, cramps, restlessness. Symptoms that seem "acute" at first glance, but upon closer inspection, are often the end point of a longer process.

Gastritis – an inflammation of the stomach lining – is a good example of this.

What is gastritis anyway?

The gastric mucosa is a highly sophisticated protective system. It forms a barrier between aggressive stomach acid and the vulnerable stomach tissue. When this barrier is compromised, inflammation occurs. This can be acute, but more often we see a latent form that only manifests later.

In dogs, gastritis can be caused by:

• Stress (e.g. fireworks, changes in the house, divorce)

• Medication (such as NSAIDs)

• Incorrect or stressful diet

• Disruption of the microbiome

• Excessive acid production

• Immunological imbalance

How does gastritis manifest itself in dogs?

The signs are often subtle, especially in the beginning. In practice, we see, among other things:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Decreased appetite

• Excessive lip licking or swallowing

• Cramps

• Lots of stretching (the “praying pose”)

• Restlessness, especially at night

• Tenderness around the abdomen and chest

• Sometimes diarrhea or variable stools

The body tries to find relief, but as long as the cause is not addressed, it will continue to fight.

The regular veterinary view

From a veterinary perspective, gastritis is often approached as an inflammatory and acid-related problem . Treatment is usually aimed at:

• Antacids (such as omeprazole)

• Stomach protectors

• Possibly anti-nausea medication

• Easily digestible food

This approach can be necessary and effective, especially for acute complaints. However, it primarily focuses on symptom management . The question of why the stomach became unbalanced often remains underexposed. And that is precisely where the risk of recurrence lies.

A Naturopathic Approach: Working in Layers

In naturopathy, we take a different approach. Not just conventional or natural—but integrated . The body tells a story, and gastritis isn't a standalone condition, but a signal.

We work on multiple levels:

1. Anti-inflammatory and restoration of the gastric mucosa

2. Microbiome restoration

3. Support of the immune system

4. Regulation of stress and the nervous system

5. Prevention: making the body resilient

From practice: Finny

Finny, a 3-year-old male miniature poodle (3 kg), was presented with persistent vomiting and significant nausea. This had been going on for several days. He also had seizures and was constantly stretching, visibly seeking relief in his abdominal area.

Measurements with the Lecher antenna indicated inflammation of the stomach lining . In conversation with the owner, it emerged that Finny had recently experienced a lot of stress, including fireworks. Stress is an underestimated, yet powerful, trigger for gastritis.

The naturopathic support provided

Microbiome Balance – herbal tincture

Gastritis almost always involves the microbiome. A disrupted gut flora affects not only the intestines but also the stomach, acidity, and local immunity.

Why use for gastritis:

• Supports the recovery of the mucous membrane

• Brings balance to the intestinal flora

• Has a soothing and regulating effect on the gastrointestinal tract

• Helps to normalize inflammation processes

Dosage for Finny:
Due to its weight, it was recommended to dilute the tincture 1:1 with water
👉 1 drop in the food bowl 3 times a day

Echinacea Boost – homeopathic complex remedy

Echinacea is known for its effect on the immune system. In homeopathic D-potencies, it's used to activate the body without forcing it .

Why with gastritis:

• Supports the immune system in case of inflammation

• Stimulates recovery processes from within

• Works as a regulator, not as a suppressor

Dosage:
👉 Every other day ½ ampoule

Full Spectrum CBD oil – CBD Spain Black 420 10%

CBD is playing an increasingly important role in both human and veterinary medicine. In gastritis, CBD works not only locally but systemically.

Why CBD for gastritis:

• Has anti-inflammatory properties

• Supports the endocannabinoid system (which is also active in the gastrointestinal tract)

• Reduces stress and overstimulation

• Helps with pain, cramps and nausea

• Supports the recovery of mucous membranes

Why CBD Spain can make the difference:
CBD Spain oils are distinguished by:

• High purity

• Full spectrum

• Scientific substantiation

• Consistent quality and effectiveness

This ensures that the body recognizes and utilizes the oil, which is essential in recovery processes.

Finny Dosage:
👉 1 drop 3 times a day
Apply to the hairless inner part of the auricle for quick absorption

Nutrition: peace and simplicity

Finny's diet didn't need to be adjusted. He was already fed cooked meat , which is a very conscious choice in situations with a weak stomach.

Why boiled meat for gastritis:

• Easily digestible

• Less taxing than chunks

• No hard structures that irritate the mucous membrane

• Retains nutritional value, but requires less digestive power

In the case of stomach infections, what does not need to be digested cannot cause any harm .

Prevention: prevent it from coming back

When you support the body at all levels, gastritis doesn't have to be a recurring problem.

• Recognizing and reducing stressors

• Keeping the microbiome in balance

• To support the immune system

• Inflammation should not be suppressed but regulated

• Consciously dealing with nutrition

…you help the body regain its self-healing capacity .

Finally

Gastritis isn't a "stomach problem." It's a bodily signal . Those willing to look beyond the stomach will discover that recovery is not only possible—but sustainable.