Dog Diarrhea With Blood – Symptoms and Treatment
Dog diarrhea with blood is quite common condition which is found among domestic dogs across the world. It is caused by a particular virus known as Parvovirus, which is found among domestic dogs of several breeds. This type of virus may cause severe diarrhea and sometimes it may even lead to death if not treated immediately. The Parvovirus is the first virus that causes bloody diarrhea in puppies and can lead to loss due to serious dehydration and weight loss as a result of serious dehydration. Other than these reasons, other common microbe that causes dog diarrhea with blood is the harmful form of E. coli bacteria which causes tear in the intestinal walls of puppies.
Treatment of diarrhea due to Parvovirus starts with the prompt administration of intravenous fluids for a period of eight to ten days to an extent of up to one pint of blood. If the case is more severe than this, the blood pressure of the dog may need to be checked and treated as well. Syringes containing chlorhexidine drops need to be given every hour and dog needs to drink lots of water and fluids. A veterinarian will prescribe a course of antibiotics for treating this condition and if the case is severe, the puppy will need to be hospitalized. Dog diarrhea with blood can be avoided if the dog is regularly washed and the owner needs to regularly feed it small amounts of food in order to prevent any complications.
Bacterial vaginosis is another common disorder that causes diarrhea with blood. This disorder occurs when the body’s natural bacteria are disrupted due to a number of reasons. Some causes of this disorder include overwashing, use of antibiotics and changes in diet. This disorder disrupts the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and hence leads to the inflammation of the intestines and subsequent vomiting of blood. Treatment of this disorder needs to include antibiotics for preventing recurrence of the symptoms.
Gastroenteritis causes bloody vomiting and diarrhea. This is caused by viruses or bacteria entering the stomach through the mouth. Treatment includes dehydration as all the fluid should be removed from the system. The treatment includes fluids replacement, fluid therapy and antibiotics for prevention of further recurrence of symptoms. Treatment for gastroenteritis is not always necessary in case of mild cases and the treatment included is only to reduce the chances of dehydration.
Intestinal obstruction is another cause of diarrhea in dogs. This disorder occurs when there is a blockage in the small or large intestines causing too much pressure in the stomach area. Treatment includes fluid infusion and rehydration products such as salt and water. Once the problems in the intestines are resolved, a proper diet should be added for the dog, which should be low in fat content and carbohydrates. Feeding the dog on a homemade diet with high fiber content is beneficial.
Water consumption is very important. Dogs that are frequently vomiting because of gastrointestinal tract infection need to drink lots of water to help them recover fast. Owners should take care not to give the dog too much water especially when it is vomiting. A minimum of 8 cups of water per day should be provided for the pets. Owners should give dried dog food as canned food has a lot of protein and fiber and the dogs tend to overeat.
Owners should monitor their pets closely for any signs of weakness, tiredness or changes in behavior because these symptoms may indicate a serious problem. Signs of weakness include limping or difficulty in walking, frequent yawning or stretching and vomiting. In case of loose stool or diarrhea accompanied by blood in the stool, owners should take their dog to the vet immediately because these symptoms could be a sign of worms. Pets should be checked often during their stay at home. Regular health checkups ensure the pets are free from diseases and parasites.
Gastroenteritis is an inflammatory disease and is caused by bacteria found in the gut. Gastroenteritis attacks the lining of the stomach causing inflammation and diarrhea. Antibiotics are given to fight infections and to prevent recurrence of infections. Anti-diarrhea drugs such as cimetidine, indomethacin, netilmyristam and zithromax can treat diarrhea caused by gastroenteritis. Consult your veterinarian if the diarrhea is severe or blood in the stool.