My dog's stomach is gurgling like crazy and he won't eat. Should I be freaking out? Do I need to call a vet? I left the pantry open and Bandit might have eaten something. Is this dangerous? I'm so worried and unsure what to do!

Hey there! It sounds like you're dealing with a bit of a scare, but let's take a deep breath and work through this. Stomach gurgling, also known as borborygmi, and loss of appetite can be quite common in dogs, but there are a few things to watch out for.

First, consider what Bandit might have eaten. If he got into the pantry, you'll need to check if there are any foods that are toxic to dogs, like chocolate, grapes, raisins, or onions. If you suspect he might have ingested any of these, call your vet immediately.

• Symptoms to watch for: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, excessive drooling, panting, or trouble breathing. These could indicate something more serious, especially if he ate something toxic or hazardous like chocolate, with signs such as restlessness or tremors.
• Emergency vs. what can wait: If the gurgling and not eating is accompanied by the symptoms above, or if Bandit seems to be in pain, it's best to seek veterinary attention right away. If he's just gurgling but otherwise acting normal, it might be okay to monitor for a bit.
• What to do at home: If Bandit's just got mild gurgling and isn't eating, keep an eye on him and offer him plenty of fresh water. Sometimes a bland diet (like boiled chicken and rice) can help settle things, but only try feeding him if he seems interested.
• When to definitely call a vet: If Bandit isn't improving in a few hours, starts showing new or worsening symptoms, or if you're worried he ate something potentially harmful, calling a vet is the best step.

Remember, you're doing a great job being attentive to Bandit's needs. 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.