Dear VetBabble: My 3-year-old Lab Started Vomiting Last Night, Salivating a Lot, and Coughing – What Should I Do?
As a loving pet owner, it’s natural to be concerned when your dog starts showing signs of distress such as vomiting, salivation, and coughing. There are multiple potential causes for these symptoms, and it’s important to understand when they indicate an emergency or require professional medical attention. In this friendly and informative article, we’ll discuss possible reasons for your dog’s symptoms and offer practical advice on how to help your furry friend.
1. Common Causes of Vomiting and Diarrhea in Dogs
Vomiting and diarrhea in dogs can be triggered by a variety of factors, ranging from mild to serious. Some common causes include dietary indiscretion (eating something they shouldn’t have), viral or bacterial infections, parasites, and gastrointestinal obstruction. To help you understand the possible root of your dog’s distress, we recommend reading our articles on Vomiting in Dogs: Causes, Treatment, & When to Worry and Why Does My Dog Have Diarrhea?.
2. Recognizing When to Worry
It’s essential to know when your dog’s symptoms are severe enough to require immediate veterinary attention. One of the top indicators is if your dog appears lethargic or wobbly, which could mean a more critical problem is at play. Additionally, if there’s a possibility that your dog might have ingested something toxic, contacting your vet as soon as possible is crucial. Our article Diarrhea in Dogs: When to Worry provides more details on the red flags to watch out for.
3. The Importance of Preventative Care: Fleas, Ticks, and Worms
Keeping up with preventative care for your dog goes a long way to ensure their overall well-being and minimize the occurrence of issues like vomiting and diarrhea. Regularly protecting your dog against parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms is vital. You mentioned that your pet is already being treated for worms monthly with a quality wormer, which is great. If you’d like additional information, feel free to check our article on Fleas, Ticks & Worms: What You Need to Know.
In cases with mild symptoms and no indications of a more severe problem, you might try withholding food from your dog for about 12 hours to let their digestive system rest. Afterward, gradually reintroduce food, keeping an eye on their symptoms. However, don’t hesitate to call your vet if you’re unsure or if your dog’s condition worsens.
In conclusion, while your dog’s symptoms may be of concern, it’s important to monitor their condition and take appropriate action based on the severity of their symptoms. As always, consult your veterinarian for the most accurate information and recommendations tailored to your pet’s specific needs. We hope your Lab returns to their happy, healthy self soon!
