We're seeing a spike in gastroenteritis cases in dogs across the Northern Beaches. Many of these dogs are presenting with frequent vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, and, in some cases, blood in the stool or vomit. Most are quite dehydrated on arrival.
If your dog suddenly becomes unwell, don't wait. Gastroenteritis can escalate quickly, and early treatment can prevent serious complications.
Gastroenteritis refers to non-specific inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which leads to symptoms such as:
Gastroenteritis is one of the most common conditions we see at Allambie Vet. Symptoms often come on suddenly and can last a few days.
Dogs suffering from gastroenteritis often arrive dehydrated, as they lose fluids through vomiting and diarrhoea and are unable to eat or drink enough to replace those losses. The severity of symptoms determines whether your dog can be treated at home or needs to be admitted to hospital for IV fluids and more intensive care.
Yes, in many cases, gastroenteritis is highly contagious and can spread quickly through the dog community.
The virus is passed through saliva, vomit, and faeces, and dogs can become infected through:
Direct contact with an infected dog
Sniffing or licking contaminated surfaces (e.g. poles, fences)
Drinking from shared water bowls at parks or daycares
If your dog is showing symptoms, it's important to isolate them from other dogs immediately and avoid public spaces to help prevent further spread.
Gastroenteritis can be triggered by many things, including:
Often, a specific cause is not identified, but supportive care leads to recovery.
Gastroenteritis is typically diagnosed by ruling out other causes of vomiting and diarrhoea.
Your vet may recommend:
Blood tests to assess hydration and organ function
Faecal testing for parasites or viruses like parvovirus
Urinalysis to check for kidney or endocrine issues
X-rays or ultrasound to rule out foreign bodies or intestinal blockages
In most cases, a specific underlying cause is not identified, but dogs generally respond well to supportive care like fluids, medication, and dietary management.
Treatment is focused on supportive care and managing the underlying symptoms. Depending on the severity, your dog may need:
Routine use of antibiotics is not recommended unless a bacterial infection is confirmed.
Start with a bland, easy-to-digest diet such as:
Feed small, frequent meals and avoid treats, bones, table scraps, or anything fatty or rich until your dog fully recovers.
📞 Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog shows any of the following signs:
Prompt treatment can prevent dehydration, further illness, or hospitalisation.
If your dog is diagnosed with gastroenteritis:
If your dog is vomiting, has diarrhoea, or just isn’t quite themselves, don’t wait it out. Early treatment can prevent serious complications like dehydration.
👉 Book an appointment online now or call us on (02) 9905 0505.
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