Is Tums safe to give to dogs?

Answer 1

Yes - dogs tend to not have the same indigestion problems that humans have, and many of the Tums product line has a great deal of both sodium and calcium in it. Taking too much of either element at one time can be fatal, although this is not guaranteed.

Answer 2

Probably not - Tums is an antacid for humans to relieve stomach pain and it is basically calcium carbonate with some flavoring. The carbonate portion reacts with the stomach acid to neutralize the acid, which is presumed to be causing the problems; the calcium is absorbed or passes through the digestive tract.

The problem with Tums and dogs is twofold. First, dogs tend to not have stomach ulcers, excessive stomach acid and other gastric problems that are more common in humans. In dogs, stomach pain is more likely to indicate a viral or bacterial infection, or a foreign body - these won't be treated by a Tums but could either mask the symptoms (delaying treatment) or could make the situation worse. Second, the Tums tablets are metered out for human stomachs, not canine - you are in essence giving your dog a slug of calcium and other salts that could make an upset stomach much worse.