It’s no secret that dogs tend to get into things they shouldn’t. Whether it is scavenging for snacks under the kitchen table or chewing on a potentially dangerous object, these curious creatures often find themselves in situations where inducing vomiting may be necessary. While it’s never an easy decision, sometimes making your pup throw up is the only way to prevent them from being poisoned or suffering severe health issues. If you’ve recently made this call for your own pup, take a deep breath – we’ve put together some essential information about what to do after inducing vomiting in your dog.
Evaluating if Inducing Vomiting is the Right Choice
If your pup has eaten something harmful, they may vomit it up on their own. On the other hand, if your dog has ingested a toxic substance and they do not vomit, inducing vomiting may be necessary. It is vital to note that inducing vomiting should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian. Before you attempt to induce vomiting in your dog, you must know if it’s the right decision to make. If your dog has ingested items such as batteries, sharp objects, or cleaning products, attempting to induce vomiting may cause more harm than good. One potential risk is aspiration pneumonia, which is caused by inhaling toxic substances into the lungs. Another risk is if your dog has ingested a sharp or large object, it could get stuck or cause damage to the esophagus if induced vomiting is performed.
Another concern is your dog’s medical history and breed. If your pup has a history of seizures, a stomach that is tacked down to prevent bloat, a mega-esophagus, or other health-related concerns, inducing vomiting could be potentially life-threatening. If your dog is a Pug, French Bulldog, Bulldog, or any other breed with a pushed in face, they are at a greater risk of suffering from aspiration pneumonia. Unconscious dogs should not be given peroxide to induce vomiting, as it can pose serious health risks. They are unable to swallow the peroxide, which can lead to the development of aspiration pneumonia. Even if the peroxide does reach their stomach, they will be unable to expel the vomit from their mouth due to their unconscious state, causing it to enter their lungs when they breathe.
What to Do After Inducing Vomiting
If your dog has surpassed all the concerns and inducing vomiting has successfully worked, you can give Pet Poison Helpline a call at (855) 764-7661 so the team can tell you about the next steps for after care. They will give you the best recommendations based on your beloved pet’s specific health concerns and exposure risks. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Pet Poison Helpline today!