My Dog is Vomiting and Has Diarrhea, What Medicine Should I Give?

Alright, let’s cut to the chase: If your furry friend is experiencing both vomiting and diarrhea, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian immediately. Seriously, don’t play Dr. Google with your pup’s health. While I can offer some general info, it’s no substitute for professional veterinary advice. In the meantime, common medications your vet might recommend (after a proper diagnosis, of course!) include anti-emetics for the vomiting and anti-diarrheals to help firm up those bowel movements. They might also suggest probiotics to restore gut flora. However, never administer any medication without guidance from a vet. Now, let’s dive deeper into this messy situation.

Why is My Dog Throwing Up and Having Diarrhea? Common Causes

Okay, so Fido’s not feeling so hot. The first thing you’re probably racking your brain about is: why? There are a ton of reasons why this could be happening. Think about it – did they get into something they shouldn’t have? Did you recently change their food? Stress can even cause tummy troubles in dogs!

Here are some of the usual suspects:

Dietary Indiscretion: This is basically a fancy way of saying your dog ate something they weren’t supposed to. Think garbage, table scraps, or even a random sock they found under the couch. This is probably the most common reason for a sudden bout of vomiting and diarrhea.

Food Allergies or Intolerances: Just like humans, dogs can have sensitivities to certain ingredients in their food. Common culprits include chicken, beef, and wheat. If you suspect a food allergy, talk to your vet about switching to a limited-ingredient diet.

Infections: Viral or bacterial infections, like parvovirus or salmonella, can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. These infections often require veterinary intervention with antibiotics or other medications.

Parasites: Worms like roundworms, hookworms, or whipworms can irritate the digestive system and cause diarrhea and vomiting. Your vet can perform a fecal exam to check for parasites and prescribe appropriate deworming medication.

Toxins: Certain household cleaners, pesticides, and even some plants can be toxic to dogs and cause vomiting and diarrhea. Always keep these things out of your dog’s reach and seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect they’ve ingested something poisonous.

Stress: Believe it or not, anxiety can wreak havoc on a dog’s digestive system. Things like loud noises, travel, or changes in routine can trigger stress-related vomiting and diarrhea.

Underlying Medical Conditions: Sometimes, vomiting and diarrhea can be symptoms of more serious health problems, such as kidney disease, liver disease, pancreatitis, or even cancer. If your dog’s symptoms are persistent or severe, it’s crucial to see a vet to rule out any underlying medical issues.

Medication Side Effects: Some medications can cause stomach upset as a side effect. If your dog is taking any medications, check with your vet to see if vomiting and diarrhea could be related.

Foreign Objects: A common one! My goldie once ate a whole corn cob, and it was not pretty. Objects can cause blockages, leading to vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy.

Okay, that’s a lot, right? Don’t panic! The important thing is to observe your dog’s symptoms carefully and provide your vet with as much information as possible.

Home Care While Waiting to See the Vet: What Can You Do?

While a vet visit is essential, there are a few things you can do at home to make your dog more comfortable while you’re waiting:

Withhold Food: Give their digestive system a break. For 12-24 hours, don’t offer any food. This allows the stomach to settle.

Offer Water in Small Amounts: Dehydration is a major concern when a dog is vomiting and having diarrhea. Offer small amounts of water frequently, rather than letting them gulp down a large bowl. Ice cubes can also be a good option. Electrolyte solutions designed for dogs (like Pedialyte or diluted Gatorade – check with your vet first!) can also help replenish lost fluids.

Monitor Closely: Keep a close eye on your dog’s symptoms. Note the frequency and severity of the vomiting and diarrhea, as well as any other changes in their behavior or appearance. This information will be helpful for your vet.

Easy-to-Digest Food: Once the initial period of withholding food is over, gradually reintroduce a bland diet. Boiled chicken (skinless, boneless) and white rice are classic choices. Avoid fatty foods, treats, and table scraps. If your dog tolerates the bland diet well, you can gradually transition back to their regular food over a few days.

Probiotics: Probiotics can help restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut. You can find dog-specific probiotics at most pet stores. Again, check with your vet before giving your dog any supplements.

Keep Things Clean: Be prepared for accidents! Clean up any messes immediately to prevent the spread of infection.

Important Note: Never give your dog human medications without consulting a veterinarian. Many human medications are toxic to dogs.

When to Absolutely See a Vet ASAP: Red Flags to Watch Out For

Okay, while home care can help with mild cases, there are certain situations where a vet visit is non-negotiable. These are the red flags you absolutely cannot ignore:

Persistent Vomiting or Diarrhea: If the vomiting or diarrhea continues for more than 24 hours, it’s time to see a vet.

Blood in Vomit or Stool: This is a serious sign and warrants immediate veterinary attention. The blood could be bright red or dark and tarry.

Lethargy or Weakness: If your dog is unusually tired, weak, or unresponsive, it’s a sign that something is seriously wrong.

Abdominal Pain: If your dog is whining, panting excessively, or refusing to let you touch their abdomen, they may be in pain.

Dehydration: Signs of dehydration include dry gums, sunken eyes, and decreased skin elasticity (gently pinch the skin on the back of their neck – if it doesn’t snap back quickly, they’re likely dehydrated).

Fever: A normal temperature for a dog is between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If your dog has a fever, it’s a sign of infection.

Difficulty Breathing: If your dog is having trouble breathing, it’s an emergency.

Known Toxin Exposure: If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic substance, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.

Remember: It’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you’re at all concerned about your dog’s health, don’t hesitate to seek veterinary care.

Final Thoughts:

Dealing with a sick dog is never fun, but by staying informed and acting quickly, you can help your furry friend get back on their paws in no time. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and treatment options. They know your dog best and can provide the most appropriate care. And don’t forget the power of cuddles and TLC – they can do wonders for a sick pup!