My Dog is Vomiting — Should I Call the Vet?
Has your dog been vomiting recently? Are you worried about whether it’s time to contact the vet? Vomiting isn’t necessarily normal in dogs, but it isn’t always a serious problem, either. As a pet parent, it’s important to learn how to tell the difference between severe cases of vomiting and those that may clear up on their own.
Read through the information below to get a better idea of what to expect when your dog has been vomiting. You can use this information to choose whether it’s time to contact the vet.
When to Wait
If your dog is throwing up because of any of these reasons it is safe to wait to call the veterinarian.
Only Vomits Once or Twice
If your dog vomits once or twice and then seems to be fine again, chances are good they ate something that didn’t quite settle in their stomach properly. If no other symptoms occur, there’s no harm in skipping the vet in this situation.
Normal Behavior Other Than Throwing Up
It’s important to watch your dog closely for signs that something else is wrong. If they don’t have any other symptoms and seems to be going about their business like usual, then you can wait to see if the vomiting clears up in about 24 hours.
Recent Change of Food or a New Medication
Have you recently changed your dog’s food or put them on a new medication? Changing your dog’s food suddenly or introducing a new type of food into your pet’s diet can cause stomach upset which may lead to vomiting. Putting your dog on a new medication may also cause them to vomit once or twice while their body gets used to these changes.
Anxiety or Stress
Just like humans, dogs may get an upset stomach from severe anxiety or stress. If you’ve recently brought home a new baby, added a new pet to the family, or made a big move, for example, your dog may be stressed and could be vomiting because they are upset.
When to Call the Vet Because Your Dog is Vomiting
If any of these situations fit your pet please call Boston Veterinary Clinic today.
Vomiting for More Than a Day
Vomiting for more than a day may quickly lead to dehydration, so your dog should see the vet or emergency vet for fluids and to determine what’s causing the vomiting. In some instances, the cause is still nothing serious, but the dehydration could get out of hand.
Vomiting Blood or Having Bloody Diarrhea
Blood in the vomit or bloody diarrhea are both symptoms of more severe canine illnesses. If you notice either of these symptoms, don’t wait to take your dog to the vet. The sooner you respond to these symptoms, the better your dog’s chances will be at recovering fully.
Seizures with Vomiting
Seizures and vomiting together may indicate that your dog has consumed a poison, such as antifreeze. These two symptoms separate may not always be serious, but together they usually mean that you need to see an emergency vet as soon as you can. Your dog’s condition could worsen significantly over the course of the next few days.
Ingested Something Toxic or Dangerous
If you saw your dog eat something they shouldn’t, or if you have a very good idea that they did so, you may know what’s causing the vomiting. If your pet ingested a chemical toxin or a food that is dangerous to dogs—such as onions or chocolate—take them to the vet.
Was Bitten or Stung by an Insect or Snake
If you know your dog has been bitten or stung by something, don’t wait to call the vet. Vomiting from an insect or snake bite or sting could be an indication that your dog is suffering from anaphylactic shock, which can be life-threatening.
Heatstroke
Finally, if your dog is showing other signs of heatstroke along with vomiting, take them to the emergency vet. Signs of heatstroke include excessive drooling and panting, elevated heart rate, lethargy, and seizures. Your dog will need emergency fluids and will need to be treated and monitored extensively to recover from heatstroke.
Boston Veterinary Clinic Can Help
As you can see, there are many situations in which your dog may be vomiting and will be just fine without going to the vet. On the other hand, however, your dog could also need to see the regular vet or even an emergency vet to take care of the underlying problem.
If you’re ever in doubt, err on the side of caution and call the vet. There’s always a chance the vomiting could be caused by something more serious than you may think, and your vet can help you get to the bottom of the problem in a timely manner.
Book an appointment online with the Boston Veterinary Clinic team for your dog’s vomiting!