Dog Vomiting – Treatment and Prevention

While the topic of dog vomit is not one generally discussed at the dinner table or in board meetings, it is a subject that many pet owners find relevant. In this article we will discuss the various reasons for dog vomiting and what owners can do to alleviate the episodes.

Esophageal Problems

Throat difficulties in a dog are not uncommon and stem from numerous conditions:

• BLOCKAGES: Since canines will eat almost anything, it is reasonable to assume that some objects may present a choking hazard. In this case, a dog’s body will react in a manner that attempts to dislodge the foreign article; producing vomit.
• VASCULAR RING ANOMALIES: This is a frequent and persistent circumstance for dogs in which the blood vessels of the esophagus constrict and cause blockage.
• MEGAESOPHAGUS: This condition occurs when poor muscle tone in the animals throat don’t constrict as much as they should. In turn, food that should be moved to the stomach finds its way back up the esophagus.
• HAITAL HERNIAS: Tears or ruptures in a dog’s diaphragm cause a portion of its stomach to push into the thorax. This is a commonly known cause for acid reflux in humans as well.
• FOOD ALLERGIES: Like humans, dogs may develop food allergies that can cause swelling of the esophagus and vomiting.

Exterior Stimuli

Much of a dogs vomiting can be triggered by outside sources. Frequent causes may include:

• Ingesting substances that may contain harmful chemicals
• Consuming household food scraps
• Situations that induce fear or tension for the dog
• Common illnesses caused from viral infections

Many of these conditions may be treated by a veterinarian or by home remedy, but it is imperative that a dog owner make an informed decision when attempting to treat from home. Some signs that a dog may be suffering from more sinister conditions are listed below.

• Check your dog’s gums. Pale gums may be a sign of poisoning or a lack of oxygen.
• Is there blood in the vomit? If so, he or she may be enduring stomach or esophageal ulcers.
• Make sure your dog is getting enough water. Dehydration can lead to death if left untreated.
• Determine how long and how much your dog has been vomiting. Projectile vomiting is not normal and your dog should show signs of improvement within 24 hours of being sick.

If no pressing concerns are apparent, then a pet owner may begin to take the necessary steps to remedy their dog at home. Here are a few suggestions that will help to eliminate or reduce the number of vomiting incidences your dog may have.

• With a vet’s approval, common over the counter medicines such as Pepto Bismol can help.
• Maple syrup can act as a good reducer for vomit.
• Limit your dog’s food portions.
• Give your dog soups, electrolyte enhanced liquids or broth to regulate dehydration.

Remember, if your dog’s condition does not improve or worsens, you should seek the attention of a veterinarian.