Why Is Your Dog Always Sick? Common Triggers for Constant Vomiting
As a loving pet owner, few things can cause as much concern as seeing your furry friend unwell. If your canine companion seems to channel their inner regurgitating machine more often than not, you might wonder what to do.
But before you spiral into a vortex of worry, you need to understand that dogs, like humans, can have their off days. However, constant bouts of vomiting are a different ball game altogether.
This post will discuss three common triggers for your dog's incessant upchucking and how to help them get back to chasing their tail in no time.
Dietary Changes
Dogs are creatures of habit, and changes in their diet can cause their sensitive digestive systems to go haywire. If you've recently swapped out your pup's regular kibble for a new brand or snuck in a few extra treats, that could cause your pup some distress.
There are particular dietary requirements depending on your dog's age, size, and breed. For instance, puppies need diets very different from those of senior dogs. So if you switch up your pup's diet to adult food, the sudden change can cause an upset stomach.
If you have to, introduce new food gradually and watch for upset stomach symptoms or vomiting. If your pup continues to struggle, switch back to the old kibble or consult your vet. Maybe your pup has a food intolerance you don't know about, which would require a specialized diet.
Parasites and Infections
Intestinal parasites, bacterial or viral infections, and other types of illnesses can also cause your dog to vomit. Parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, and coccidia usually live in the intestines and can cause a massive stomach upset. In some cases, you can even see them in your dog's vomit or stool.
These microscopic hitchhikers can be picked up from the environment, other infected animals, or even through a flea bite. Signs of parasitic infection include diarrhea, vomiting, poor appetite, and weight loss. Your dog might also experience itchiness, excessive licking of the rear end, and abdominal pain.
Certain bacterial infections, such as salmonella or leptospirosis, can cause vomiting. These are often picked up from contaminated food or water or contact with other infected animals. Besides throwing up, your dog might also show other bacterial infection symptoms, such as diarrhea, lethargy, and fever.
In addition, viral infections like canine parvovirus can also cause your dog to throw up frequently. This virus is particularly dangerous, as it attacks your pup's digestive system and immune systems, which makes your pup weak and vulnerable to other illnesses. You might also notice bloody diarrhea, fever, and a lack of appetite.
Poisoning and Toxins
From household cleaners to chemical fertilizers, many toxins can wreak havoc on your dog's system. These everyday items may not seem dangerous to humans, but your canine companions are more sensitive to these chemicals and can react quickly with vomiting.
It's also worth mentioning that certain plants can be toxic to dogs. For example, azaleas are known for causing severe stomach upset in pets. If your pup has been snacking on these, they could be suffering the effects of poisoning if they start to throw up. So if you have any of these plants in your home or yard, keep them away from your pup at all costs.
Poisoning treatment depends on the type of toxin that your pup ingested. So if you suspect this to be the cause, take your pup to the vet immediately, and let them know what your pup has been up to. They could also perform a few tests to identify the toxin and give your pup medication to make them feel better.
If you have any other concerns about your pup's health, feel free to contact us at Alta Vista Veterinary Clinic. We'd be more than happy to help!
