Dog problem mystery.

[TA123]

For over a year my dog will start to whine, chew on his lower region, usually around his groin, then throw up.  After regurgitating and re-eating he feels just fine.  He is very healthy and energetic otherwise.  I have been working with my vet on this and he has had many tests and treatments.

[Cliff Redford, DVM]

intermittent vomiting can be a difficult condition to solve. dogs do have a simple vomit reflex compared to us humans and so often we do not get concerned if they do it less then once a week and are otherwise healthy. If his bloodwork and urine test is fine and he is vomiting infrequently I would not be too concerned. Let me know if you have more info for me.
Dr. cliff

[Cliff Redford, DVM]

If he is vomiting daily then i am glad you had him checked out. This is where being a vet is like being a riddle solver...lets go back to the original issue, the pruritis (itchiness). If this responded to prednisone is increases the likelihood of atopic dermatitis (environmental allergies) and greatly reduces the likelihood of food allergies. Food allergies rarely respond to prednisone. Often I can keep my patients comfortable on prednisone if I start to reduce the dosage to find the minimum effective level. Prednisone is not like antibiotics in such that they do not need to be given at a minimum dosage...resistance is not a concern. Atopic dermatitis can be proven by a veterinary dermatologist though usually a regular vet can "tentatively" diagnose it. Shampooing once a week with a medicated shampoo helps remove allergens from the skin. Omega Fatty Acids are a great supplement to add to a dogs diet and take some time to kick in but are cheap and safe and help not only with skin health but also with arthritis, cardiovascular health, and the overall immune system. Lastly, antihistamines can be useful is taking the edge off. Managing atopic dermatitis is always a case by case basis so discuss your concerns with your vet and good luck.

[TA123]

Thanks for the info, but it is daily that this has been happening.  It got better after being on steriod therapy for awhile but only on the high dosage not intended for long use.