dog throws up yellow and.....

Question
QUESTION: Hi, last year I took my 10-year-old lab mix to the vet because he often would pant (at rest) plus would throw up at least once a week. The vet tested him and prescribed some thyroid meds. I feed him dry Nutro (lamb and rice) supplemented with cooked oatmeal which he likes the best. But he still pants some and has a sensitive stomach. His stools are normal. I'm not working now and would like to know some things to try. Thank you.
ANSWER: Hi Natalie,

If your dog has been on thyroid medication, was he being treated for a chronic disorder? If he was, he may still need that medication, for which there is no over the counter home remedy.

The yellow fluid your dog is throwing up just means his stomach was empty at the time he vomited. By itself, it's nothing to be concerned about. If your dog is eating and drinking normally, his poop and urine output look normal, and he's otherwise acting normal, it's probably nothing to worry about. Some dogs with sensitive stomachs just throw up more than what we think is normal, but it's normal for them.

The thyroid gland is like a thermostat that controls the metabolism of cells throughout the body.  Your dog's heavy panting may be a sign that this thyroid problem needs attention.
Not providing your dog with the thyroid medication he may need should be more of a concern. Perhaps you could work out a payment schedule with your vet, if you can't afford the medication.

If your dog is overweight enough to be considered obese,  it can cause this degree of panting all by itself. Pain can also cause panting. It's not unthinkable that a 10 year old lab-mix might have some joint pain.
Weight also worsens arthritic, or joint pain, it would be a good idea to start a weight control program, if he is over weight.

I'm sorry, but there's no substitute for medical care, when it's needed. If you contact your local animal shelter or humane association, they might know of a reduced cost vet clinic in your area.

Best of luck,
Patti


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Sorry, I guess I didn't give you all the information in the interest of being brief. I didn't say he is taking the meds. I didn't go back for follow-up blood work though. He's not overweight at all--dry food all of his life (except the recent oatmeal) and not a gobbler...leaves food in his bowl. Sometimes he throws up food too. On our walks he often grabs a small bit of grass to make himself throw up. But his stools are good. He may be in some pain. He acts a bit that way sometime. I don't know if this additional information is  of any help here. But I thank you just the same, Natalie

Answer
Hi Natalie,

If your dog really has a thyroid condition, not treating it would be a serious mistake. While it's good to know your dog's appetite isn't being compromised, that his stools are good, and he isn't over weight, he still might have a thyroid disorder.

I would suggest having the tests run which your vet is recommending.

Be sure to mention to your vet that you think your dog might be in pain. At ten years of age, it's not unreasonable to consider that he might have some joint pain. You wouldn't want to give your dog aspirin, due to his sensitive stomach. Your vet can prescribe medication that will be better tolerated.

Eating grass isn't always a symptom of a problem, it does not necessarily mean your dog's stomach is upset. Many dogs just enjoy a little "salad" now and then! The only concern would be if the grass has been treated with pesticides.

I don't know what information you'd like to hear from me. Before you write back again, please have your dog diagnosed.

Best of luck,

Patti