Should I Call the Vet When My Dog Pukes?

A vomiting dog is a terrible sight to see as an owner. There are a lot of things that go through the mind of the owner when they witness one. There are a lot of reasons as to why dog pukes/vomits. Some of them are serious; some of them are not. However, one thing is for sure; there is an underlying issue that causes why they vomit.

 Identifying the factors is a little bit tricky. As an owner, there’s no denying that you feel concerned about your pet, and giving importance to their health is the top of your concerns. Regardless of what the reasons are, when your dog vomits, the issue should not be taken lightly and must be acted quickly.

If you are wondering why your dog keeps on vomiting and undecided, if it is the best time to call a vet, then this article will help you with when to call a veterinarian. Learn about the reasons why dogs puke and the possible remedy you could give. 

Why is My Dog Vomiting?

According to a Veterinarian, there are a lot of reasons why your dog vomits. There are two common reasons why your dog vomits, it is either they ate something that isn’t for dogs such as plastics, grass, or just something that was out of their comfort. The second common reason why dogs vomit is they are eating way too fast than an average dog. 

Some reasons why your dog is Vomiting

  • Eating Fatty foods
  • A sudden change in diet
  • Swallowing foreign objects such as plastics, cement, toys.
  • Taking some dog medications
  • Pancreatitis
  • Bacterial or Viral Infections
  • Kidney Disease
  • Gastroenteritis
  • Parasites such as ringworms and whipworms
  • Liver Diseases

Diagnosis and Treatment for Dogs Who are Vomiting

Treating dogs who vomit depends on what the underlying issue is all about. Usually, veterinarians do a comprehensive check to your dog to assess different kinds of conditions. Tests such as fecalysis, X-ray, blood works are essential for detecting a certain condition. In most serious cases, an abdominal ultrasound may be necessary to fully diagnose the dog. 

In some chronic cases, or conditions that are hard to detect. A blood test is needed to diagnose if the dog has pancreatitis or other diseases that may cause discomfort to the dog.

When to Call the Vet?

In some cases, your pet dog should stop vomiting fairly quickly. However, if it persists, it must be the time to take action seriously and call your vet. Also, look for these added symptoms when diagnosing your dog that may be a cause for concern. 

  • Dogs seem uneasy and lethargic.
  • The dog stays in one place.
  • If you think your dog swallowed some toxic chemicals.
  • If your Dog’s stomach is tender enough, they will feel pain whenever you touch it.
  • IF the dog is having a hard time breathing. 
  • They howl a lot.

Treatment Strategies to Prevent Vomiting in Dogs

  1. A change in diet shouldn’t be done quickly; it should be gradual and wait for the dog to acclimate to its new routine.
  2. Keep them away from toys, plastic figures, or other things at your home that are chewable to their sight. This is especially good if you have a baby/toddler in your home.
  3. Giving dogs large parts of bones may induce vomiting, it is always good to give them tiny ones and in batches too.
  4. Avoid giving them food scraps, some foods that are dangerous include grapes, raisins, chocolates, onions, garlic, chives, and nuts. They may induce vomiting and other serious complications to your dog.
  5. Most dogs develop gastroenteritis as they hunt for garbage foods, thus increasing the chance of foreign bodies invading the dog’s system.
  6. Give them dog treats. In this way, you minimize them scavenging or eating foods that aren’t specially made for them.

Final Words

It is safer for owners to detect the first reasons why their dogs are vomiting, the sooner they can detect, the higher the chance of treating it. However, the longer time you have to wait, the less chance your dog can be saved.

Lastly, we own pets as they are the perfect companion in our home. They serve as a protection and a companion in times of need. Their health and welfare should be the top of your priority as an owner. 

Photo of author

Lovelia Horn

I’m a certified crazy dog mom, a physical therapist (for hoomans), writer, animal rescuer, and foster home provider. Together with my hubby Ryan, I’ve fostered and helped look for forever homes for over a hundred shelter dogs in the Southern Illinois area. I mostly work with Puppy Rescue 911, Inc., a certified animal rescue organization based out of Chester, IL (home of Popeye!)

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