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Senior dog vomiting, diarrhea, not eating. Could it be parasites?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rat Terrier | Female | spayed | 13 years old | 18 lbs

My 13 year old, 18 lb rat terrier has been throwing up water since last night, started having very loose diarrhea today, will drink small amounts, not interested in food. Just laying in her bed, usually very active. Worried about parasites, she has copraphagia and deer and raccoons frequent our orchard

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on August 20th, 2017

Due to her age I'm concerned with Lexie not feeling well with diarrhea and vomiting. She has gastroenteritis, perhaps from eating things in the yard, but regardless of the cause she will get worse if she becomes dehydrated. I recommend a veterinary exam soon so they can start treatment and run blood work and perhaps a fecal to determine the cause. That way then can be sure to use the right medication to get her better. Again Lexie is a senior now so I wouldn't wait to get her veterinary treatment. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Lexie.

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