WHAT TO DO IT YOUR DOG VOMITS

Vomiting is probably the most common symptom of dogs. And it is also the most obvious. There is no hiding "vomiting" unlike lethargy or a fever.

Dog owners may not recognize if their pet is a little less active, has a fever or eating a little less but most dog owners rarely miss vomiting, especially when it is in the house. Not only do you see it but also you often hear the retching that goes along with it.

The sounds that go with vomiting often creates a feeling of panic - a combination of oh no - my dog is sick but also - oh no - where is he vomiting and will I be able to clean it up.

Vomiting is one of the most common reasons dogs go to the vet or emergency clinic.

So what can you do about vomiting? I know you want the best for your dogs...so what do you do if your dog vomits and more importantly... "When do you worry"?

This is what I tell my clients.
• Many dogs vomit occasionally. If a dog vomits once or twice but is still acting normal, has normal stools and quickly (over a few hours) resumes eating and drinking -then I'm not too worried. In this case - I'd recommend watching your dog to ensure that it does resolve. Watch for any additional signs such as lethargy, diarrhea, weakness, or inappetence.
• If the vomiting continues more than a few times, your pet acts "sick", is lethargic, you see any blood in the vomit or you also see diarrhea - then the safest thing is to call your vet.
• There are lots of causes for vomiting that can range from a mild viral or bacterial problems (similar to if you or I didn't feel good for a day or two) to severe life-threatening metabolic problems such as diabetes, pancreatitis, renal failure or even a gastrointestinal obstruction. If the vomiting continues or your dog is acting sick - see a vet to help determine the underlying problem.

What can you do at home?

If you were to call me and tell me your dog vomited a couple times and is otherwise acting okay - this is what I would recommend:
• The general approach will be to not give any food or water for a few hours. When you begin giving water, start with only small amounts.
• Providing that there is no vomiting for two hours after starting the water, then you may begin feeding small amounts of a bland diet. Feed only a small meatball sized portion at a time. If there is no vomiting, offer slightly more food a couple hours later. The key is to feed small amounts frequently.
• Gradually increase the amount per feeding. If no vomiting occurs, feed this diet for one day then begin mixing in small amounts of the regular food. Gradually switch your dog to his regular food over the next two days.

• To make a bland diet, mix equal parts of a protein source and carbohydrate. The protein source can be boiled hamburger, lean beef, chicken or turkey, meat flavored baby food or cottage cheese. The carbohydrate source can be boiled white rice, boiled potato or pasta. You can also purchase canned bland diet from your veterinarian.
• Please call or see your veterinarian as soon as possible if vomiting continues, you notice diarrhea, your pet won't eat, or acts painful or lethargic.
I know you dog lovers' want the best for your dogs. One of the best things you can do is to make sure you can provide and protect your dog in the case of an emergency or illness.
What else can you do about a Vomiting Dog?

Take your dog out on a leash only. Monitor all his urine and bowel movements. I don't want your dog going out and having problems that you don't realize.

I hope these tips help the next time your dog vomits. And if you have a friend with a dog - feel free to forward this to them. I'd like to help as many dogs as I can.