Why these symptoms can happen
Diet changes, parasites, infections and eating unsuitable material can upset the digestive tract. Obstruction, poisoning and illnesses affecting other organs are also possible. The symptoms alone cannot tell an owner which cause applies, and vomiting with diarrhoea can increase fluid loss.
Who needs earlier advice?
Puppies, elderly dogs and dogs with another illness can become unwell more quickly. Seek prompt advice when appetite or energy falls, symptoms recur or your dog seems painful. Do not use a general “wait a day” rule when warning signs are present.
What a vet may investigate
The history and examination guide whether stool tests, blood work or imaging are appropriate. Tell the vet about diet changes, rubbish access, toys, medicines and travel or boarding. Different tests answer different questions; not every dog needs the same investigation.
How treatment is selected
The plan may involve fluid support, suitable nutrition, treatment for nausea and care directed at an identified cause. A suspected blockage or serious infection requires a different approach from an uncomplicated upset stomach. Do not give human anti-diarrhoea medicines or induce vomiting without veterinary instructions.
Useful details for a Kings visit
Note the number and timing of episodes, whether water stays down and what the vomit or stool looks like. Bring a fresh stool sample if the clinic asks and it can be collected safely. Photographs or suspected product packaging can help, without delaying urgent travel.
Understanding costs and recovery
Ask which tests are proposed, what treatment can begin while results are pending and when reassessment is needed. Costs vary with imaging, laboratory tests, medicines, fluids and hospital care. Ask for feeding instructions and specific return signs tailored to the diagnosis and your dog’s age.
Common questions
Can I give a human stomach medicine to my dog?
Only if a veterinarian specifically instructs you. Some products are unsuitable for particular dogs, interact with other medicines or can mask a problem needing urgent treatment.
Should I stop food or water?
Ask the veterinary team for instructions suited to your dog. Puppies, diabetic dogs and unwell patients have different needs. Repeated vomiting or inability to keep water down needs assessment, not an extended home fasting trial.
What if my dog keeps trying to vomit but nothing comes up?
Unproductive retching, particularly with a swollen abdomen, restlessness or weakness, is an emergency warning sign. Call immediately and arrange urgent assessment rather than waiting for diarrhoea or another symptom.
Care at Kings
Share your pet’s symptoms, previous records and current medicines with your branch. The team will confirm the appropriate clinician, location and appointment. Ask how results, treatment options, costs and follow-up will be explained.
- 24-hour emergency vet care
- Internal medicine
- Veterinary laboratory testing
- Pet X-ray & radiology
- Pet ultrasound
General educational information. Your treating veterinarian will assess your pet and explain suitable care. A symptom can have several causes; this guide cannot diagnose your pet.