my dog wont eat...

Question
my 11 month old miniature poodle was trhowing up saliva yesterday...and now he wont eat anything...
last time he ate was 2 days ago and i dont know what to do...
he seems very week...
and all vets are closed today...
can u please help me??


Answer
Hi Derek,

If your dog is acting lethargic AND throwing up, or if he has been vomiting on and off for 24 hours then you shouldn't delay in having him examined by your vet.

If your dog is acting okay, but is vomiting, then give his upset stomach a rest, and not offer him food for 12-24 hours. Though withholding food, after 6 hours of fasting offer your dog frequent opportunities to drink small amounts of water. You don't want him to drink too much or he'll doesn't distend his already sore stomach, and vomit again. Offer only a tablespoon or two of water, but do so every hour.  If you wish, give clear liquids such as non-fat/low sodium chicken broth or a little Jell-O.
If there is more vomiting, go back to to the fast for another 1-6 hours.

After at least 12 hours, when your dog's thirst has been satisfied, you may begin giving small amounts of bland food.

A bland diet may consist of:

Mix one cup of cooked white rice with half a cup of cooked chicken or turkey meat (no grease, no skin). It's okay to substitute with chicken or turkey baby food. Boiled or baked potato may be substituted for the rice.

Start with only small amounts of the bland diet, about a tablespoon 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.

If the vomiting starts again, you'll know your dog needs to see the vet.

Best of luck,
Patti