just got back from the dog park and oliver decides to throw a one-dog party in the living room with a vomit & diarrhea combo. my partner’s saying “it’s just dog stuff” but i'm not convinced. what do you guys think? should i panic or just buy new carpet?

Hey there! It sounds like Oliver had quite the adventure. I can see why you're concerned, and I'm here to help you figure this out. Vomiting and diarrhea can be a bit unsettling, but let's break it down.

First, keep an eye on Oliver for any of these symptoms:

• Repeated vomiting or diarrhea (more than once or twice in a few hours)
• Lethargy or acting unusually tired
• Loss of appetite
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Signs of pain or discomfort (whining, panting)

If you notice any of the above signs, especially blood in the vomit or stool, consider it a situation that needs more urgent attention. Catch it early if possible.

In the meantime, keep Oliver hydrated. You might try offering small amounts of water frequently and see if his appetite rebounds. Observe his behavior closely. If he's just having a mild reaction to something he ate or the excitement of the park, you should see improvement fairly soon.

When to call your vet ASAP:

• If the vomiting and diarrhea persist through the day
• If Oliver can't keep water down
• If you know he might have eaten something toxic like chocolate, grapes, or certain human medications. As a reference, it takes just a small amount of dark chocolate to pose a risk, and both grapes and paracetamol can be toxic even in small doses.

Quick care tips:

• Stick with clear fluids for a bit, then introduce bland food like boiled chicken and rice in small portions if Oliver seems interested.
• Monitor him for any worsening signs.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.