Medications to Induce Vomiting

Dogs supposedly have "cast iron stomachs" and eat anything and everything. Yet this can lead them to ingest something poisonous. When a dog ingests poison, it is important to neutralize and remove the poison as quickly as possible.


Your veterinarian will give activated charcoal to bind the poison and prevent absorption by the dog's body. He may also give a laxative to speed the elimination process and reduce the amount absorbed by the body.


If your dog has ingested a poison, you can induce vomiting at home with various medications. Prior to administering a medication, consult with your veterinarian. Feed your dog blackened toast, to help begin absorbing the poison and so there is something in his stomach to throw up. Wait approximately five minutes, and then administer medication to induce vomiting.

  1. Hydrogen Peroxide

    • Use 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, but not the one for hair bleaching. Give one teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight. Walk your dog around and jiggle the belly, this will help set the stage for vomiting. Vomiting should occur within 15 to 20 minutes. If no vomiting happens, it is safe to give another dose of hydrogen peroxide. If after the second dose, no vomiting has occurred, consult with your veterinarian on next steps and obtaining a stronger medication.

    Syrup of Ipecac

    • This medication induces vomiting in humans, but is actually highly toxic to animals. Therefore, you should only use it under the strict advice and direction from your veterinarian. If used incorrectly it could kill your dog. Unlike hydrogen peroxide, only give this medication once. Note that with this medication once vomiting starts it typically does not stop, so you will need to get to your veterinarian's office immediately.

    Saltwater

    • This method does not come highly recommended either. Saltwater is toxic to mammals, but you can use it with the advice of your veterinarian. Mix table salt with water, one teaspoon per 15 pounds of body weight, and then follow the same instructions as hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting.