Dog Vomiting

Vomiting in dogs can be an indication of several different
disease syndromes.  The nature, time and frequency of dog
vomiting are all important in figuring out the cause.  The
cause of dog vomiting may be directly related to the
intestinal tract or indirectly related to other organ problems.  
In this video, Dr. Sam discusses these issues and how they
relate to vomiting in dogs.

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Vomiting in Dogs

What causes vomiting?

Vomiting is not a disease; rather, it is a symptom of many
different diseases. Many cases of vomiting improve on their
own without medical intervention within twenty-four hours.
Less commonly, vomiting may result from a serious illness,
such as cancer. Even when vomiting is caused by mild
illnesses, it may lead to death or serious complications if
treatment is not begun early enough to prevent severe fluid
and nutrient losses.  

vomiting?

If vomiting in dogs is associated with several of the above
signs, we perform a series of tests to try and determine the
exact cause. When this can be done, more specific
treatment may be initiated. Diagnostic tests may include
radiography (x-rays) with or without barium or contrast
dye, blood tests, biopsies of the stomach and intestinal
tract by endoscopic examination, and exploratory abdominal
surgery. Once the diagnosis is known, treatment may
include special medications, diets, or surgery.

If your dog does not appear systemically ill from the
vomiting, the cause may be less serious. Some of the minor
causes of vomiting include stomach or intestinal viruses,
parasites, and dietary indiscretions (such as eating garbage
or other offensive or irritating materials). A minimum
number of tests are performed to rule out certain parasites
and infections. These cases may be treated with drugs to
control the motility of the intestinal tract, drugs that relieve
inflammation in the intestinal tract, and, often, a special diet
for a few days. This approach allows the body's healing
mechanisms to correct the problem. You should expect
improvement within two to four days; if this does not occur,
your veterinarian will make a change in medication or
perform further tests to better understand the problem. It
is important to keep in touch with your veterinary clinic so
that the individual situation can be managed properly.

- Sam Meisler DVM

The statements or information on this website have not
been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to
diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.