Dear Amy,
My 6-year-old boxer has had these same symptoms for some time; she has had an endoscopy and exploratory surgery to try to diagnose her condition.(All they can say is inflammation of the stomach lining or gastritis,and high levels of bacteria which cause inflammation.) Since you have ruled out serious illness and obstructions, my vet has told me to try this combo: 1)Pepto-Bismol tablets daily(less messy than the liquid) for the coating effect of the stomach, 2) Tagamet tablet once per day for antacid properties 3) feed 2x day small meals and not too much kibble. (I use only a handful of kibble because it can cause gas and I always moisten it to soften it.) You may want to try a hypoallergenic diet or prescription i/d Science Diet. Or you can make a bland diet of boiled hamburger and rice until he is feeling better and able to eat. This has worked with my boxer. I do not give her human food or treats. I know this sounds like a lot to do, but it beats the alternative.
Unfortunately, my boxer has this periodically and out of the blue. (Not near the time of eating.)I am told by many vets that a food allergy usually shows up in vomiting after feeding time. I cannot trace it to diet at all. Occasionally, my vet puts her on Amoxicillin (antibiotic)(in addition to the Pepto and Tagamet) to kill the bacteria causing the inflammation. This helps for about six weeks.
One thing told to me by all vets: Do not let them eat grass if they have a chronic stomach condition -- it is indigestible and will only further irritate their stomach, even though it does make them vomit. It can cause a cycle of inflammatory tissue in the stomach and a new round of vomiting, etc. The rumbling you describe is most likely gas, which can be quite painful. The question is, why is the gas being produced? I assume you are feeding Zeb on a raised surface like a step-stool to prevent him from swallowing a lot of air when he eats. This was told to me by many vets.
I am taking my boxer to a research vet hospital tomorrow for a similar condition, which I cannot seem to get on top of. I will share any useful info they give me. If you are not satisfied with the diagnosis your vet has given I would seek out a higher level vet, sometimes known as a referral vet. They are better-equipped to deal with complex problems. Good luck.
