There has been coverage in the media recently about a severe vomiting and diarrhoea outbreak that seems to be affecting dogs that have visited the beaches. It is unclear what the cause is, however SAVSNET (small animal veterinary surveillance network) at Liverpool University is now investigating. It is most likely this will be the result of a virus, potentially a type of coronavirus. We have seen outbreaks like this before that then spread rapidly across the entire country.
We are seeing cases of vomiting and diarrhoea now in Derbyshire, but it is unclear if there is a link or if these have different causes.
Most mild cases of vomiting and diarrhoea in our canine friends can be treated at home, with a bland diet given in small, frequent meals. However prolonged disease can cause dehydration and then veterinary attention is required to prevent more severe illness. Not all cases of vomiting are caused by a virus, if your dog is vomiting it may be caused by an intestinal obstruction, pancreatitis, toxin ingestion amongst other causes. There are also currently a growing number of cases of Parvovirus in the UK. Parvo and Leptospirosis can both cause severe (potentially fatal) vomiting and diarrhoea and so I would urge all dog owners to check their vaccines are up to date.
Lucy Travers BVSc CertAVP MRCVS Highfields Vets