Dr. Wilkins

Dr.Tail Vet

Your American Staffordshire Terrier's symptoms of vomiting, especially if it's bloody or black, along with diarrhea, are concerning signs that could indicate several potential health issues. The fact that the vomiting has been occurring multiple times a day and has been going on for 9 days, although it's not ongoing, suggests that this was a significant episode that warrants close attention.

The presence of bloody or black vomit can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be caused by a variety of conditions such as ulcers, ingestion of a foreign object, certain infectious diseases, or even cancer. Diarrhea can be a symptom of many of these same conditions and can also lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances if it's severe or persistent.

At home, it's important to monitor your dog's hydration status. You can check for signs of dehydration by gently lifting the skin on the back of the neck; if it doesn't snap back quickly, your dog may be dehydrated. Also, look at the gums; they should be moist and pink, not dry or pale. Ensure your dog has access to clean water at all times.

It's also crucial to monitor your dog's overall behavior. If he is lethargic, has a loss of appetite, or shows signs of pain (such as whining or reluctance to move), these are additional red flags. Since your dog is not currently on any medications and has no history of medical conditions, it's less likely that the symptoms are related to treatment or pre-existing issues.

Given the severity of the symptoms you've described, it's important to be aware of situations that would require immediate veterinary attention. If your dog's vomiting or diarrhea resumes, especially if it's bloody or black, or if he shows signs of increased distress, pain, or lethargy, you should seek veterinary care right away. Additionally, if your dog's gums become pale or his abdomen seems swollen or painful to the touch, these are urgent signs that need immediate evaluation by a professional.

While it's good to know that the vomiting has stopped, the underlying cause still needs to be determined, especially because of the serious nature of the symptoms. A veterinarian would typically perform a physical examination, possibly followed by blood tests, imaging studies like X-rays or ultrasound, and other diagnostics to determine the cause of the symptoms and to guide treatment.

In summary, while at home, ensure your dog stays hydrated, monitor for any return of symptoms or changes in behavior, and be prepared to seek veterinary care if any concerning signs develop. It's always better to err on the side of caution with symptoms as serious as those you've described.

If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to come back to us! Thank you.