When your dog throws up, it's understandably concerning. However, when you notice blood in their vomit, that adds another layer of worry. Your dog throwing up blood may not require a rush to the emergency room, but it's best to take your dog to the vet’s office as soon as possible.
We spoke with Dr. Emily Singler, VMD about the possible causes of blood in dog vomit and some necessary things to do while you’re waiting for your vet appointment.
Even though it’s alarming, it isn’t always a medical emergency when dogs throw up blood, Dr. Singler says. However, you should still see your vet as soon as you can, especially if they’re showing other symptoms.
“Dogs who are vomiting blood repeatedly, or those who are weak, lethargic, in pain or have trouble breathing may need to be seen urgently,” Dr. Singler adds.
While you wait to see a vet, don’t allow your dog to eat or drink anything and monitor them closely for any changes in their behavior or temperament. It’s also a good idea to determine if they could have eaten or been exposed to anything that would’ve contributed to the bleeding, Dr. Singler recommends.
When dogs throw up blood, it’s usually not the vomit that induces the bleeding. Instead, blood in the vomit is typically caused by an underlying condition, such as:
Rather than trying to figure out the cause at home, seek veterinary care as soon as possible to ensure your dog gets proper treatment.
The appearance of blood in dog vomit varies from pet to pet.
“Blood in vomit can be anything from a few red spots in an otherwise clear fluid to vomit that is only bright red blood, and in some cases, even blood clots,” Dr. Singler says.
The first step to finding the right treatment option is figuring out why your dog is puking blood. Once the underlying cause is determined, your veterinarian will recommend a specific solution.
“Treatment may include nausea and vomiting medication, fluids to correct dehydration, surgery to remove a foreign object or biopsy a tumor, hospitalization, medication to protect the stomach lining and intestines or other treatment based on the cause of the bloody vomiting,” Dr. Singler explains.
Blood in your dog’s vomit can’t always be prevented, but there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk. Keeping your dog on regular parasite prevention is one measure you can take, Dr. Singler says. Feeding your dog quality food and avoiding human snacks or diet changes will also help to keep their stomach happy.
Keep toxic items, medications and foreign objects out of your dog’s reach as best as you can. Regular exercise and routine vaccines and vet visits are also great preventive measures, Dr. Singler says.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
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