Your dog throws up, but then she’s back to her old self. Or, your dog has vomited repeatedly, and seems lethargic and uncomfortable—is it time to call the vet?
While a single episode of vomiting might not be cause for alarm, repeated vomiting or other symptoms warrant a trip to the vet. A recent Facebook Live discussion with Dr. Jennifer Bentley and ER veterinarian Dr. Leanne Dileo from the Veterinary Referral Center of Central Oregon offered valuable insights into this often-worrisome issue.
Why Do Dogs Vomit?
The most frequent culprit is dietary indiscretion – simply put, your dog ate something they shouldn’t have. This could include anything from toys and rocks to garbage and “human food” pilfered from the counter. Often, owners have no idea what their dog ingested. Another common reason is hunger – some dogs vomit when their stomachs are empty for too long. Less common causes include systemic diseases (liver, kidney, diabetes), infections, and pancreatitis (often caused by consuming fatty foods). A particularly dangerous condition is Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV or bloat), a life-threatening emergency where the stomach twists. GDV is more common in large, deep-chested breeds. If your dog is retching without producing vomit, seek immediate veterinary attention as this could be a sign of GDV.
Bile vs. Food: Does it Matter?
Many owners worry when their dog vomits bile (a yellowish fluid) instead of food. Dr. Dileo explained that the color of the vomit simply reflects what’s in the stomach. Vomiting bile often just means the stomach was empty. Bile itself is a normal digestive fluid.
What to Expect at the Vet:
If you bring your vomiting dog to the vet, they will likely perform bloodwork to check for underlying diseases like pancreatitis, liver or kidney problems, endocrine issues, and dehydration. X-rays may also be necessary to look for blockages or other abnormalities.
When to See a Vet for Vomiting:
A single episode of vomiting followed by normal behavior (good appetite, energy levels) is usually not a cause for concern. However, you should contact your vet immediately if your dog:
- Vomits repeatedly
- Is lethargic or seems unwell
- Has other symptoms like diarrhea, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain
- Is retching without producing vomit (possible GDV)
- Shows signs of dehydration (e.g., dry gums, sunken eyes)
- Has ingested a known toxin
The “Craziest” Thing a Vet Has Seen:
Dr. Dileo shared a story about a dog who ate an entire raw pizza! Because raw dough can be dangerous, they induced vomiting at the hospital. The pizza came back up whole – a testament to a dog’s digestive (and sometimes destructive) capabilities!
Key Takeaway: While occasional vomiting might be normal, it’s crucial to know when it signals a more serious problem. Don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian if your dog’s vomiting is persistent, accompanied by other symptoms, or if you have any concerns. Early intervention can make all the difference.
