As pet owners, there’s nothing more concerning than seeing our beloved canine companions unwell. When your dog is sick, it can be a worrying time, and naturally, you want to know what to do. At Kenilworth Vets, we understand these concerns and are here to help you navigate this common issue.
It’s a question every dog owner asks themselves when faced with a vomiting pet: “My dog is sick, should I be worried?” Vomiting in dogs can range from a minor, isolated incident to a symptom of a more serious underlying health issue. Observing your dog’s behaviour and other symptoms can help you determine the best course of action.
While an occasional vomit might not always be cause for alarm, there are definitely times when you should book a vet appointment immediately. If you notice any of the following, it’s crucial to contact Kenilworth Vets without delay:
The most important recommendation is to speak with a vet if you are concerned about your dog, regardless of the severity of the symptoms. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your pet’s health.
It’s important to remember that diagnosing the exact cause of your dog’s sickness requires a professional veterinary assessment. However, understanding some common reasons why a dog may be showing these symptoms can help you provide useful information to your vet.
Here are some potential reasons why your dog might be vomiting:
Often, a dog being sick can be attributed to them eating something they shouldn’t have. This could be anything from raiding the bin, scavenging food outdoors, or even just a sudden change in their regular diet. Their digestive system simply can’t handle it, leading to an upset stomach and vomiting.
Both bacterial and viral infections can cause vomiting in dogs. These can affect the gastrointestinal tract and lead to inflammation and irritation, resulting in sickness.
Internal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, or Giardia can irritate the digestive system and cause vomiting, often accompanied by diarrhoea. Regular deworming is crucial for prevention.
Just like humans, dogs can develop sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients in their food. This can manifest as digestive upset, including vomiting, after eating.
Dogs, especially puppies, are notorious for chewing and swallowing non-food items. Toys, socks, bones, or even parts of plants can become lodged in their digestive tract, causing blockages and severe vomiting.
If your dog has ingested a toxic substance – this could be anything from household cleaners and antifreeze to certain plants or human medications – vomiting is a common symptom.
Vomiting can also be a symptom of more serious underlying health issues, such as:
If your dog has only vomited once and otherwise seems well, you can try some temporary measures before contacting your vet:
However, if you are concerned about your dog’s sickness at any point, or if symptoms worsen or persist, please do not hesitate to contact Kenilworth Vets.
Our experienced team is here to provide the best possible care for your beloved pet. We can assess their condition, perform necessary diagnostics, and recommend the appropriate treatment to get them back to their happy, healthy selves.
Telephone: 01926 675687