vomiting

Question
is there any over the counter drug that is kept around the normal household that can be given to a small dog for vomitting?

Answer
Hi David,

First I should say that if your dog is acting lethargic, depressed or unresponsive along with the vomiting, or if the vomiting has been going on for more than 48 hours, he or she should be examined by your veterinarian.

If your dog is acting normal, the usual treatment for vomiting in dogs is to withhold food and water for a short time, to give the irritated stomach a rest. Start by  withholding food and water until your dog has gone at least six hours without vomiting.

After that, begin with very small amounts of water at frequent intervals. If there is more vomiting, go back to withholding water for another six hours. Do not be discouraged. The stomach often needs complete rest for twenty four hours or more. Offer water every 15 minutes or so. Give a Poodle sized dog one teaspoonful at a time. Over a period of a few hours gradually increase the amounts offered until your dog's thirst is satisfied. If you wish, give clear liquids such as low-sodium chicken broth or a little Jell-O. After at least 12 hours, when your dog's thirst has been satisfied, you may begin giving small amounts of food.

Begin offering small amounts of bland, easy to digest food:
Mix one and a half cups of cooked white rice with one half cup of cooked chicken or turkey meat (no grease, no skin). Alternatively, you can use jarred chicken or turkey baby food. Boiled or baked potato may be substituted for the rice.

Give a Poodle sized dog about one half teaspoonful at a time. Over a period of twenty four hours, gradually increase the amounts being fed until your dog's hunger is satisfied. Do not rush things. If vomiting occurs now, you must start over from the beginning.

The following day, begin mixing the bland diet half and half with your dog's normal food. Instead of one or two big feedings, divide the normal amount into four or five small feedings.

Aside from the bland diet, Pepto-Bismol (regular strength) can also be given to dogs who tolerate aspirin.
In general, Pepto-Bismol regular strength liquid dose for dogs is: 0.5-1 ml/pound every 6-8 hours by mouth. Regular strength tablets (often the form preferred by dogs): 1/4 tablet/20 pounds every 6-8 hours by mouth. Treatment should only be needed for 1-2 days.
Your dog's tongue color may darken temporarily, and his stool may turn a gray-black or greenish color during treatment with Pepto-Bismol. If the vomiting persists or worsens, contact your veterinarian.

Best of luck,

Patti