Dogs are naturally curious and can sometimes ingest harmful substances accidentally, posing a threat to their health. Prompt action, such as inducing vomiting in your dog, can be crucial. But is it safe to make a dog vomit using hydrogen peroxide or baking soda, as commonly believed? We will explain how and when to induce vomiting in your dog safely. Remember to always consult your veterinarian first to determine if it’s necessary or if they should perform the procedure, as inducing vomiting at home should be a last resort.
When to Induce Vomiting in Your Dog
Even with a properly dog-proofed home, there are instances where a dog may ingest something toxic that needs to be expelled from their system swiftly.
Common household items that can make your dog sick include:
- Mouse or rat bait pellets
- Products containing xylitol
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
- Avocadoes
- Onions
It’s advisable to keep a list of toxic items easily accessible, such as the one provided by Pet Poison Helpline, and refer to the comprehensive list of poisonous plants on ASPCA.org.
The urgency of the situation depends on the ingested substance, as explained by Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist at Pet Poison Helpline. Different substances require varying response times for inducing vomiting.
Based on data from the Pet Poison Hotline, Labradors and mixed breed dogs are more inclined to consume foods that may necessitate inducing vomiting according to Dr. Schmid.
When to Consider Inducing Vomiting
Inducing vomiting should only be considered as a final option if advised by your vet, especially when immediate veterinary care is not feasible. Veterinarians have access to advanced medical tools that can help induce vomiting safely, as an uncontrolled attempt at home can lead to complications if the dog inhales foreign substances into the airway and lungs.
Appropriate Dosing of Hydrogen Peroxide to Induce Vomiting
Dr. Schmid recommends using hydrogen peroxide as the safe method to induce vomiting in a dog at home.
However, she advises caution, stating that excessive hydrogen peroxide can cause severe stomach problems. It’s important to consult a veterinary professional to determine the appropriate dosage based on your dog’s weight.
Here is a general guideline you can follow:
Utilize 3% hydrogen peroxide, available for purchase in stores or online. Administer 1 teaspoon per 5 pounds of the dog’s body weight, with a maximum of 3 tablespoons.
If vomiting does not occur within 5 minutes, you can administer a second dose. If there’s still no vomiting after 10 minutes, seek immediate veterinary assistance to avoid further complications.
Ensure your household is equipped with fresh hydrogen peroxide, which has a shelf life of six months once opened. Unopened bottles should be checked for expiration dates, typically around three years.
Avoid Using Baking Soda to Induce Vomiting
It is crucial not to use baking soda to induce vomiting in dogs, as it can lead to significant electrolyte imbalances and potentially necessitate hospitalization. Additionally, attempting to induce vomiting manually can cause permanent nerve damage needed to protect the airway.
Preparedness for Inducing Vomiting in Your Dog
It’s advisable to have a pet first aid kit at home and in your vehicle. If your dog ingests a harmful substance, you will need fresh hydrogen peroxide, syringes for administration, and gauze to clean the mouth and jaw.
If further guidance is needed, the 24-hour Pet Poison Hotline charges a $75 fee for consultation. Their trained staff can assess the situation, provide detailed instructions on inducing vomiting, and determine whether monitoring at home is sufficient or if immediate veterinary care is necessary.
While knowing how to induce vomiting in your dog is valuable, remember that vomiting can lead to aspiration, the involuntary inhalation of foreign substances into the airway and lungs. Therefore, only induce vomiting when absolutely necessary.
