For dogs that have been vomiting only a short time, but have an appetite and are bright and alert, symptomatic treatment for one to three days is usually very effective. Typically in mild cases, food is withheld for 24 to 36 hours and injections of medications can be given to help alleviate the vomiting. Owners should never withhold water unless instructed to do so by the examining veterinarian. If the vomiting persists, or the animal is visibly sick, the use of intravenous fluid therapy will correct and prevent further dehydration. Drugs also can be given intravenously instead of orally.
Further treatment is based on finding and correcting the underlying cause of the vomiting. Different conditions require specific treatments. A dog that swallowed a golf ball for example, needs to have the ball removed surgically in order to stop the vomiting. A dog with parvovirus needs anti-vomiting medications, antibiotics, antacids, and supportive care until the virus runs its course. The examining veterinarian will determine the best treatment needed for the animal.
