We often receive calls from worried pet owners after they have noticed their dog is vomiting.  Whilst it isn't a particularly nice subject to deal with it is good to know what to do and when you should take action.  If your dog vomits once and there is nothing else unusual about their behaviour or their health and they return to their normal self straight away, then chances are your dog is probably ok. On the other hand if the vomiting continues and you notice any other signs discussed in this article then you may need to act.

So what changes should you look out for? If you notice any of the following signs occurring in your dog it is important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible:-

• Continued vomiting (occurs multiple times throughout a day or goes on for more than one day)
• Not keeping any meals down
• Changes in appetite(eg. not interested in food)
• Drinking patterns change
• Changes to toilet patterns (eg. diarrhoea or anything irregular)
• Blood in the vomit
• Weakness/lethargy
• Any other signs of ill health
• Any changes in behaviour 

If you are concerned after just one or two episodes of vomiting we prefer that you contact us and discuss your dog's condition. We would rather you be an informed dog owner as opposed to a worried owner.

Taking your dog to the vet

If it is time to take your dog to the vet here is a checklist of things to observe, and information to bring with you:-

• What did the vomit look like (colour/smell/unusual objects/hair)?
• When did he/she start vomiting, how many times, and when the most recent episode occurred?
• Any medication your dog is on
• Any changes to your dog's environment
• Any recent changes to your dog's food/diet
• Any other recent behaviour or health changes
• If your dog has diarrhoea, then bring a sample (we know this is a nasty one, but it could help us in a fast diagnosis and treatment)
• Any recent household spills or accidents (even if you think your dog didn't have access to the spill or accident area)
• Any new toys or items of interest they may have

As a self-defense mechanism, dogs often disguise illness. Your role in noticing the most subtle of changes could prevent further illness and discomfort. We encourage you to play an active role in your dog's health and don't hesitate to contact us should you have any concerns.