Canine Vomiting: When to Worry

by guest blogger VetDepot

Vomiting in dogs has many possible causes, some of which are temporary and not major health concerns. Other causes are potentially life threatening and require emergency veterinary attention. Knowing which symptoms could indicate a serious problem is key to promptly getting your canine companion proper treatment.

Causes of Sudden Vomiting

Sudden, or acute, vomiting develops rapidly and may be severe. Your dog may vomit multiple times in a row and have great difficulty

Cute Poodle

holding down water and other fluids. Acute vomiting is usually caused by a bacterial infection of the digestive tract, car sickness, viral infections, food intolerances, or a foreign body (such as a chew toy or bone) trapped in the digestive tract. Causes that are more serious include pancreatitis, acute kidney failure, heatstroke, toxins, liver failure, gallbladder inflammation, or medication overdose. Unless you know the cause of acute vomiting, take your dog to the veterinarian right away.

Causes of Chronic Vomiting

Chronic vomiting may occur off and on over a period of weeks or months. It is often due to severe constipation, food intolerance, or intestinal inflammation. Potentially fatal causes of chronic vomiting include liver disease, cancer, and kidney disease. If dietary changes do not help your dog, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Blood work, urinalysis, and x-rays may be necessary to determine the underlying cause. In the meantime, make sure your dog stays hydrated by providing plenty of clean drinking water.

Danger Signs

Even mild vomiting can become serious quickly. If your dog is vomiting and has any of the following symptoms, seek veterinary attention right away: diarrhea, bloody vomit or stool, reduced appetite, increased thirst, lethargy, weight loss, dehydration, and/or weakness. Also, if your dog is unable to have a bowel movement, appears to be in pain, or vomits for longer than one day, he should be seen by your vet.

Treating Vomiting at Home

If your veterinarian determines your dog’s symptoms are innocent, you can safely manage stomach upset at home with fluid therapy, dietary changes, rest, and medication. Offer your dog bland foods, such as boiled potatoes, skinless chicken, and plain rice. Offer fluids at least once per hour, and make sure a fresh supply of drinking water is available at all times. Check for dehydration regularly and report any change in symptoms or behavior to your veterinarian.

Encourage your dog to rest as much as possible and keep him away from other pets and children during recovery. While some animals remain friendly while feeling ill, others can become cranky or aggressive. Your dog may pose a danger to small children and animals during this time. Plus, the noise and activity associated with small children may be stressful for your recovering dog.

This helpful information was provided by VetDepot.com, a discount retailer of pet medications.

Photo courtesy: http://www.sunnydayphotos.com