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My dog drank beach salt water, diarrhea & swollen belly. Symptoms?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 1 month old | 60 lbs

I took my dog to the beach and he swallowed a very big amount of salt water, I did give him fresh water and will keep him hydrated. He has an extreme case of beach diarrhea. He ate his dinner, drank clean water, and he is playing with his toys as of now, however his belly seems swollen. Is there anything I should be looking for? Thank you!

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 19th, 2017

I also had an incidence one where my dog drank a lot of salt water at the beach, but she unfortunately vomited all in my car! Good idea to keep him hydrated, and it's a good sign that he is eating drinking, and playing with his toys. I would try to rest Whiskey tonight, and have him stay as quiet as possible so his stomach can heal up from the salt water. Should he start vomiting, the diarrhea continues, he becomes lethargic, he stops eating, or shows any concerning symptoms, I would have him seen by a vet right away. Hopefully, however, this will pass relatively quickly.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on November 24th, 2016
This could cause salt poisoning in Pesto, which can lead to death if untreated. If you see vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, lethargy, he starts walking "drunk," excessive thirst or urination, tremors, or seizures, you need to take him into the vet immediately.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 2nd, 2017
If your pet drank any of the salt water, it is likely the cause of his problems. The very high salt content in the water can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea...which can be explosive and liquid. Your pet may also be extremely thirsty if they ingested too much salt water. There is such a thing as "sodium poisoning"....which is a very serious issue from extremely high levels of sodium in the blood due to ingesting too much salt water. If your pet acts disoriented, weak, or begins vomiting...he may need to see your emergency veterinarian immediately. In the meantine, allow access to fresh water and monitor him closely.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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