Gastroenteritis in dogs is a common yet often serious gastrointestinal condition that can cause a range of symptoms. Although it is generally not contagious between dogs, the condition can be a cause of concern for pet owners, especially if the dog is displaying any of the signs of gastroenteritis. In this blog post, we will explore the cause and treatment of gastroenteritis in dogs, as well as look at whether or not the condition is contagious between dogs. We will discuss the various risk factors and prevention methods that pet owners can take in order to protect their furry friends from developing this condition. We will also take a look at the different ways in which gastroenteritis can be diagnosed and treated, as well as provide pet owners with the resources and advice they need to make an informed decision about their pet’s health. By the end of the post, pet owners will have the knowledge they need to make the best decisions for their pets.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF GASTROENTERITIS IN DOGS?
There are a number of things that can cause gastroenteritis. The condition and how it affects the dog will also be impacted by these causes.
Some common causes of gastroenteritis include:
Acute Hemorrhagic Diarrhea Syndrome (AHDS) / Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE)
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE), also referred to as acute hemorrhagic diarrhea syndrome, is a particular and serious type of enteritis. One of the most serious causes of diarrhea in dogs, it is a medical emergency.
AHDS can be fatal; your dog may experience complications, lose too much protein, or become septic (caused by a dangerous infection in the bloodstream).
It has been observed that dogs with this disease only have intestinal inflammation, not stomach inflammation. Take your dog to the veterinarian right away if you think they may have AHDS.
If you notice any AHDS symptoms, take your dog to the emergency vet right away.
If your dog exhibits any symptoms of gastroenteritis, call your veterinarian right away.
Dogs with gastroenteritis experience sudden onset of diarrhea and/or vomiting, and they may lose a lot of body fluids and electrolytes. This can cause dehydration. Monitor your dog’s hydration and activity level.
Visit the emergency vet if your dog is dehydrated and/or lethargic. This indicates a more serious situation that needs immediate treatment.
By gently lifting the skin on the back of your dog’s neck, you can check for dehydration. Your dog is likely dehydrated if it remains raised and doesn’t quickly return to its normal position. Press on your dog’s gums to check for dehydration; they should turn pink again in two seconds after going from white. Your dog is probably dehydrated if the pink takes any longer to return.
Other signs of dehydration include:
What are the signs of gastroenteritis?
The majority of canines with gastroenteritis will experience intermittent vomiting and diarrhea. Foamy, yellowish bile may be present in the vomit, especially after the stomach has been emptied. After their dog eats or drinks, many owners notice dry heaving or gagging.
Large volumes of diarrhea will typically be produced several times per day. The diarrhea may have the consistency a soft-serve ice cream. The abdomen of many dogs can be tender to touch, and they often don’t like having their stomach and hindquarters handled. The majority of dogs with gastroenteritis will be less energetic (lethargic) and have less appetite. A low-grade fever is also common. If the vomiting and diarrhea continue for longer than twenty-four hours, dehydration may happen quickly.
Gastroenteritis is a diagnosis of exclusion. This means that before making a general diagnosis like gastroenteritis, your veterinarian will rule out or eliminate other, more serious causes of the clinical signs. A thorough medical history is essential to identifying the root cause of a dog’s vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and other accompanying clinical signs.
Some key information in your dogs medical history includes:
Before your appointment, the veterinary health team might ask you to complete a questionnaire. For an illustration, see the handout “Diarrhea Questionnaire and Checklist for Dogs.”
Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical examination after obtaining the patient’s medical history. Your veterinarian will check your pet for any physical abnormalities such as swellings, abdominal pain or tenderness, bloating or gas, or signs of dehydration. Heart rate and respiratory rate, as well as your dog’s temperature, will be noted.
At this point, diagnostic testing will likely be advised, and may consist of:
The severity and duration of clinical symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination will all be taken into account when determining your dog’s specific diagnostic procedure. Treatment will be suggested after the diagnostic procedures are finished and any additional causes of the clinical signs have been ruled out.
FAQ
How does a dog catch gastroenteritis?
Dog gastroenteritis causes include ingesting spoiled, raw, or non-food items. Viruses (parvovirus, distemper, etc. ) Intestinal parasites. Changes in intestinal flora.
How long does it take a dog to recover from gastroenteritis?
Recovery from Gastroenteritis in Dogs Once the vomiting and diarrhea have subsided, you can start giving your dog small amounts of bland food like boiled chicken and rice. This allows your dog’s gastrointestinal tract to rest.
How long can gastroenteritis be contagious?
Transmission. Gastroenteritis is a contagious illness. As long as they are experiencing symptoms and for up to two weeks after they have subsided, an infected person can spread the disease. Even after symptoms have subsided for a few weeks, he or she may still be infectious.
How do I know if my dog has gastroenteritis?
The majority of canines with gastroenteritis will experience sporadic episodes of vomiting and diarrhea. Foamy, yellowish bile may be present in the vomit, especially after the stomach has been emptied. After their dog eats or drinks, many owners notice dry heaving or gagging.