Dog Vomiting in Davenport, FL: When is it an Emergency?
Most dog owners have come across their dog being sick. Although not every case of vomiting in dogs is considered an emergency, there are times where this may be a sign that you need to take a trip to the emergency vet. Medical emergencies in our pets can be pretty frightening, but knowing what to do in these instances could save a pet’s life.
Some instances where vomiting can be a sign of a medical emergency in dogs include signs of poisoning, signs of severe dehydration, and when there is blood present in the vomit. However, there are a couple of additional situations besides these that would warrant a trip to the emergency vet for a dog’s vomiting.
In this article, we will be explaining everything that dog owners need to know about vomiting in dogs and when to tell if the situation is an emergency or not. In addition to this, we will also be providing you with some additional symptoms to look out for in addition to vomiting in dogs. Alright, let’s get into it.
When Is Vomiting In Dogs An Emergency?
If your dog just vomited one time and is not showing any signs of being ill, then there is a decent chance that the event is not a medical emergency. Of course, it may still be a good idea to call your vet to make sure, but it is unlikely that they will need to be rushed in for immediate care.
However, there are some instances where a dog vomiting may warrant a trip to the emergency vet. Here we will be explaining what these instances are and how to tell if any of them are affecting your pet.
Vomiting Caused By Poisoning
Poisoning is a very serious problem, and it is more common in dogs than some may think. This is because many dogs like to explore by eating things, and there are both foods and other substances that are poisonous to dogs.
Of course, things like cleaning products and other substances that could harm humans if we ingest them are poisonous to animals too. As a result, you should always keep these kinds of products out of reach of our pets.
In addition to this, many foods and medications are poisonous to dogs as well. Some common foods that we enjoy everyday are included in this list such as chocolate, onions, garlic, and more. If you suspect that your pet has ingested something that is poisonous to them you should call your vet right away for instructions, and not wait for symptoms to develop.
We do not always see when our pets have eaten something that they really shouldn’t have, however. It is in these situations that knowing the symptoms of poisoning in dogs can be extremely helpful. Some of the common symptoms of poisoning in dogs in addition to vomiting include but may not be limited to:
- Diarrhea
- Tremors and seizures
- Having a difficulty walking
- Changes in heart rate
- Increased body temperature
- Collapse and signs of shock
Of course, you should take your dog to the vet immediately if they are exhibiting any of the above signs of poisoning or any other troubling symptoms along with vomiting.
Vomiting And Diarrhea
Vomiting and diarrhea occurring at the same time is an indicator that something is definitely wrong with your pet. Usually this means that your dog has some kind of infection or medical problem, which will require medical care.
In addition to this, vomiting and diarrhea occurring simultaneously puts your pet at risk of developing dehydration, which can become severe in some cases.
Signs Of Severe Dehydration
Severe dehydration can quickly become incredibly dangerous to our pets. In the case of dehydration along with vomiting and diarrhea, this is usually caused by the dog not being able to keep water in their system.
Considering that it can be very difficult to keep our pets hydrated when they are vomiting, it is important that you get them to the vet immediately if they are showing signs of dehydration. The symptoms of dehydration in dogs can range from mild to severe.
Here are some of the common signs of dehydration in dogs:
- Excessive panting
- Diarrhea or very dry stool
- A dry nose, dry gums, and thick, sticky saliva
- Lethargy
- Reduced skin elasticity
- Reduced appetite
- Excessive panting
- Dry eyes
It is important to note that vomiting can sometimes be a symptom of dehydration in dogs in itself. As a result, you should take them to the vet regardless if they started vomiting before or after their dehydration symptoms have started.
In fact, you should take them to the vet if they are showing signs of dehydration that are not improving even if they are not vomiting at all.
When Blood Is Present In Vomit
If there is blood present in your dog’s vomit or stool then this is a sign of an immediate medical emergency. This could be an indication that there is internal bleeding somewhere in your dog’s digestive tract, and this can be indicative of other severe medical problems as well.
If Your Dog Has A Fever Or Other Unusual Symptoms
You should always call your vet and seek medical care if your dog has a fever or other troubling symptoms along with their vomiting. This is because if they seem sick then there is definitely something wrong, and this usually requires a vet’s attention.
What To Do If Your Dog Needs Immediate Medical Attention Because Of Their Vomiting
If you believe that your dog’s vomiting is a medical emergency then it is important to call your vet right away. You should always call your vet before going to a vet clinic or emergency vet because you may need to give them some emergency care at home before making the trip to the vet clinic or hospital.
When calling the vet you should answer all of their questions as clearly as possible and follow their instructions exactly. Next, you should take them to either your vet or the emergency vet immediately if the vet has deemed it necessary.
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Veterinary Healthcare Associates in Winter Haven, FL, was established over 30 years ago as Maxwell Animal Clinic by Dr. John Maxwell. Maxwell Animal Clinic was a one-doctor general practice offering preventive care, dentistry, and standard surgical services to the community. As the years passed, Maxwell Animal Clinic evolved into a thriving 10-doctor general, specialty referral, and emergency veterinary practice.