Ensuring Health

Vomiting

Vomiting

Vomiting often occurs in dogs of all ages because the dog can vomit at will. Dose him with a foul-tasting medicine and he might throw it up, because he does not like the flavour. Feed him a piece of candy and possibly he will throw this up too. Occasional vomiting, therefore, may merely show dislike. It is often caused by grass, which the dog eats when his stomach feels uncomfortable. 

Frequent vomiting however, can be a symptom of many diseases, among them kidney and liver disease, canine distemper, canine parvovirus, pancreatitis, and bloat ( gastric dilation / torsion complex), as well as digestive upsets. Overloading the stomach is a common cause; the cure, less food fed at more frequent intervals. Persistent vomiting of just a little food may mean a change in diet is needed. Worms can also be responsible; getting rid of themselves the problem. Then there are what may be called mechanical causes, among them poisoning and drug intoxication. 

To treat routine vomiting, withhold food and water for 12 to 24 hours to rest t the stomach. After a period , let the dog lick a few ice cubes if he is thirsty, when water can be given gradually in small amounts. During the fast, an anti-acid product with a protective coating action, such as Pepeto-bismal or Mallox, will help soothe stomach irritation. Give one to two teaspoons per 20 pounds of body weight every 4 to 6 hours. After twenty-four hours, give small amounts of bland food: two parts whole-grain rice combined with one part lean chopped beef or chicken that has been boiled to remove the fat; cooked egg; cottage cheese ; or baby cereal. 

Do not experiment with the persistent vomiter too long, however. Better see your veterinarian if it doesn’t clear up within twenty-four hours. And if blood is vomited, especially a profuse amount, or if blood clots are present in the vomitus, seek veterinary assistance immediately.