Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

272 •DOG OWNER’S HOME VETERINARY HANDBOOK
Projectile Vomiting
Projectile vomiting is forceful vomiting in which the stomach contents are
ejected a considerable distance. Typically it occurs in a dog with gastric outflow
obstruction. Diseases that cause pressure on the brain (tumors,
encephalitis, blood clots) also cause projectile vomiting.
Vomiting Foreign Objects
Dogs may also vomit foreign objects, including rubber balls, pieces of toys,
sticks, and stones. Puppies with a heavy roundworm infestation may vomit
adult worms. These pups should be treated as described in Ascarids, page 56.
HOME TREATMENT OF VOMITING
If there is any question about the cause or seriousness of the vomiting, seek
veterinary help. Vomiting dogs can rapidly become dehydrated as they lose
body fluids and electrolytes. Home treatment is appropriate only for normal,
healthy adult dogs who show no signs other than vomiting. Puppies, dogs
with preexisting health conditions, and old dogs are less able to tolerate dehydration
and should be treated by a veterinarian.
An important initial step is to rest the stomach by withholding food and
water for a minimum of 12 hours. If the vomiting stops with stomach rest, the
dog can be permitted to lick a few ice chips every three to four hours. If the
vomiting has stopped, offer 1 ⁄4 to 1 ⁄2 cup of water (63 to 125 ml), depending on
the size of the dog, every two to three hours. A pediatric electrolyte solution
(see Home Treatment of Diarrhea, page 285) can be given in small amounts, in
addition to the water.
After 12 hours with no vomiting, start the dog on a bland diet such as two
parts boiled rice mixed with one part ground beef or chicken. (Boil the meat
to remove the fat—fat delays stomach emptying.) Other bland foods that may
be substituted are cottage cheese, canned mackerel, strained meat baby food,
chicken noodle soup, and chicken and rice soup. Begin by offering small
amounts (1 or 2 tablespoons, 15 to 30 ml, at a time) every two to three hours.
Increase the volume over the next two days and gradually return the dog to
his customary diet.
Stop all food and water and obtain immediate veterinary assistance when:
• Vomiting persists despite the fact that the dog has received no food or
water for several hours.
• Vomiting recurs during attempts to reintroduce food and water.
• Vomiting is accompanied by diarrhea.
• The dog vomits fresh blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
(partially digested blood).
• The dog becomes weak and lethargic or shows other signs of systemic
illness.