Vomiting is common in pets – but not always harmless. It could be something simple, like a change in diet, or something dangerous, like poisoning or intestinal blockage. At BluePearl Midvale, our emergency medicine team helps pet owners know when vomiting is a true emergency.

A white and tan corgi wearing a harness looks happily at the camera while standing in the treatment area.

When vomiting becomes urgent.

Call or visit our emergency hospital immediately if your pet:

  • Vomits multiple times in a short period
  • Vomits with blood or bile
  • Is also lethargic, shaking, or weak
  • Has a swollen, firm abdomen
  • Shows signs of pain or collapse
  • Can’t keep down food or water
  • Hasn’t vomited, but is retching or gagging

What causes emergency-level vomiting?

Some of the most common causes we see in Midvale include:

  • Ingesting human food, bones, trash, or household toxins
  • Heatstroke or dehydration
  • Foreign body obstruction (e.g., socks, toys, bones)
  • Parvovirus or infectious disease in puppies
  • Bloat (gastric dilatation and volvulus) in deep-chested dogs
  • Sudden changes in diet or new medications

What not to do at home.

  • Don’t try to induce vomiting unless a vet instructs you
  • Don’t give human medications like Pepto-Bismol
  • Don’t wait for your pet to “sleep it off” if symptoms are worsening

What we do at BluePearl Midvale.

Our emergency team will:

  • Perform bloodwork and possibly imaging (like x-rays or ultrasound)
  • Administer fluids and anti-nausea medications
  • Treat underlying causes (e.g., toxins, infection, blockage)
  • Hospitalize if your pet is dehydrated or at risk for complications

We’ll communicate clearly every step of the way and involve your primary vet for follow-up.

A BluePearl vet examines a patient dog while a vet tech helps keep them still in an exam room.

Understanding vomiting in pets in Midvale – FAQ.

While vomiting can be common in pets, it is not always harmless. You should call or visit our emergency hospital immediately if your pet exhibits any of the following symptoms: vomiting multiple times in a short period, vomiting with blood or bile, lethargy, shaking, or weakness, a swollen or firm abdomen, signs of pain or collapse, inability to keep down food or water, or retching or gagging without vomiting. These signs may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires urgent attention.

In Midvale, several factors can lead to emergency vomiting in pets. Common causes include ingesting human food, bones, trash, or household toxins; heatstroke or dehydration; foreign body obstruction (such as socks, toys, or bones); parvovirus or other infectious diseases in puppies; bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus) in deep-chested dogs; and sudden changes in diet or new medications. Understanding these causes can help you recognize potential risks for your pet.

If your pet is vomiting, there are several actions you should avoid at home: do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinarian, do not give human medications like Pepto-Bismol, and do not wait for your pet to "sleep it off" if their symptoms are worsening. Taking these steps can prevent further complications and ensure your pet receives the appropriate care.

When you bring your pet to BluePearl Midvale, our emergency team will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include bloodwork and imaging (such as x-rays or ultrasound) to determine the cause of the vomiting. We will administer fluids and anti-nausea medications as needed and treat any underlying causes, such as toxins, infections, or blockages. If your pet is dehydrated or at risk for complications, hospitalization may be necessary for closer monitoring and care.

At BluePearl Midvale, we prioritize clear communication throughout your pet's treatment process. Our team will keep you informed at every step, explaining the findings and treatment options available. We will also coordinate with your primary veterinarian for follow-up care to ensure continuity in your pet's health management.

Vomiting can be a symptom of various serious conditions, and prompt action is essential to prevent complications. Early intervention can significantly improve your pet's chances of recovery. At BluePearl Midvale, our emergency medicine team is equipped to handle vomiting cases effectively, ensuring your pet receives the necessary care as quickly as possible.

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