Dogs are curious creatures and love to explore their surroundings. Unfortunately, this means that they can get into all sorts of trouble. One common issue is when they eat something that does not agree with them and results in bloody dog stool. While it is not always cause for alarm, you should report the issue to the vet. In this blog post, we will discuss bloody stool types and causes and what to do about it.
If you see bloody stool in your dog, it is important to determine the underlying cause so that appropriate treatment can be given. In most cases, bloody stool is caused by gastritis, anal gland problems or intestinal parasites and can be easily treated by a veterinarian. However, in some cases, bloody stools can be indicative of a more serious condition like colitis or cancer and should be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
The first thing you should do if you find blood in your dog’s stool, is to take a closer look at it. There are two types of blood found in dog stools. Hematochezia is bright red blood and occurs in the colon or lower digestive tract and is caused by specific conditions, and not always serious or life threatening. If this is an isolated incident and you only see a small streak with the rest of the stool looking normal, it may just be a fluke. Nevertheless, it is always a good idea to check with the vet.
The second type for bloody stool is Melena and it appears dark and tarry like jelly and has usually been digested or indicates an upper digestive tract issue or other more serious conditions such as tumors, kidney or liver failure or exposure to toxins. Finding this type of blood in the stool could be more serious. Make sure you note any changes in appetite, energy, or any vomiting for reporting the issue to your vet.
One common cause of bloody stool in dogs is anal gland problems. The anal glands are two small sacs located on either side of the anus. They contain a foul-smelling liquid that is released when your dog defecates. Sometimes, if these glands become full or infected, they can leak blood or pus. This can cause your dog's stool to appear bloody or tinged with blood.
If your dog has anal gland problems, you may notice them licking or biting their anus more than usual. They may also scoot their bottom along the ground along with a fishy or foul smell. If you think your dog's anal glands may be the cause of their bloody stool, you should take them to the veterinarian for an examination.
Another possible cause of bloody stool in dogs is parasites. Intestinal parasites are relatively common in dogs and can cause a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloody stool. If your dog has intestinal parasites, they may also have a poor appetite, weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea. Intestinal parasites can be dangerous, so it is important to take your dog to the veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment if you think they may be infected.
Blood in your dog's stool can also be caused by more serious conditions like colitis or cancer. Colitis is an inflammation of the colon that can be caused by a variety of things, including infection, stress, diet changes, or allergies. Cancerous tumors can also bleed and may cause blood in your dog's stool as well as weight loss, lethargy, and vomiting. It is important to take them to the veterinarian right away as these conditions can be life-threatening.
Your vet will prescribe the appropriate treatment based on their diagnosis. Sometimes it is as easy as feeding your dog smaller meals more frequently throughout the day instead of one or two large meals. Some also recommend adding probiotics and fiber to the diet like Health Extension® Belly + Immunity, and making sure your dog gets plenty of fresh water.
While it is not always cause for alarm, if you see blood in your dog’s stool, it is important to take note and report the issue to your veterinarian. In most cases, bloody stools can be easily treated by a vet, but in some cases, it may be indicative of a more serious condition. By being aware of the different causes of bloody stool in dogs and taking appropriate action, you can help ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy. Have you ever seen blood in your dog's stool? What did you do about it?
