There are multiple different causes of vomiting in dogs, from ingesting foreign objects to infections to motion sickness. In this blog we’ll take a look at one potential cause of chronic vomiting, Helicobacter. As you’ll discover, there is limited evidence for this bacteria actually causing disease in dogs, but it is known to be significant in humans. So is Helicobacter the “stomach ulcer bug” in dogs?
Table of contents
What is Helicobacter?
Helicobacter are spiral-shaped bacteria that can be found in the stomachs of healthy dogs and cats. In humans, Helicobacter have been associated with stomach inflammation and gastrointestinal ulcers as well as stomach cancer; but their role in causing disease in pets is not fully known. Therefore, a dog that is vomiting may have Helicobacter in their stomach, but it may not truly be the cause of illness. Studies have reported that up to 100% of healthy dogs tested positive for Helicobacter, with similar numbers being found in dogs that were vomiting.
Only the species Helicobacter pylori has been proven harmful to people which some studies have found to be present in cats. Dogs may harbour a few different species of Helicobacter or different strains of the same species (especially a species called H. heilmanii).
What are the symptoms in dogs?
Helicobacter infections have been associated with gastritis (inflammation of the stomach), chronic vomiting, abdominal pain, inappetence and pica (eating things that aren’t food). Other symptoms might include burping, diarrhoea and weight loss. However, many (perhaps most?) infected animals don’t show any symptoms and would be deemed healthy if examined by a vet.
How is Helicobacter diagnosed and treated?
It’s actually quite difficult for Helicobacter-related disease to be diagnosed in dogs. Samples of the stomach lining taken during abdominal surgery may be needed to find the bacteria and inflammation associated with it. Otherwise, a presumptive diagnosis may be made when all other possible causes have been ruled out. It is actually uncommon for ulcers to be found on samples.
As there is limited knowledge on how Helicobacter potentially affects dogs, there is no perfect treatment. Much of the treatment will be aimed at managing the symptoms and keeping your pet comfortable while they recover. Your vet may prescribe medications that help stop your dog from vomiting as well as drugs to block stomach acid production or antibiotics to treat an infection. Treatment may last between two and three weeks. However, the bacteria have been shown to recur in many cases and it is debated whether their presence is significant at all.
Can I catch Helicobacter from my dog?
It is not yet known whether Helicobacter infections can be passed between humans and animals. But it is advised that pet owners should adhere to good hygiene practices. Transmission is thought to happen via oral-oral (mouth to mouth) or faecal-oral (faeces to mouth) routes. So it’s recommended not to touch your face or mouth after petting a dog, wash your hands regularly and not to allow a dog to lick your face.
Should I be worried about my dog and Helicobacter?
At the moment, it is only speculated that Helicobacter has a role in chronic vomiting in dogs. And further studies are needed to confirm whether it actually causes problems. If your dog is vomiting or has been suffering with chronic vomiting, it is best to contact your vet who will be able to advise the best course of action for them individually. Vomiting is a common problem seen by vets and can often be treated successfully without the need for concern. If your vet is worried about why your pet is vomiting, they will tell you and recommend the most appropriate next stage of investigation.
Discussion