Canine Diarrhea
Canine diarrhea is quite common in dogs. This condition can be caused by mild illnesses, but can quickly become serious if the dog experiences severe loss of fluid and nutrients.
Causes
Canine diarrhea can be caused by intestinal viruses, stomach viruses, or intestinal parasites. It can also be the result of your dog eating garbage or other irritating substances.
Symptoms
When multiple body systems are the cause of canine diarrhea, your dog will show many symptoms. Common symptoms include watery or bloody stool, dehydration, vomiting, and high fever. It is also common for your dog to experience lethargy or loss of appetite.
Diagnosis
When canine diarrhea lasts for more than two weeks, it is necessary to take your dog to a veterinarian. The vet will perform a number of tests to check for various parasites and infections. Diagnostic tests usually include x-rays, blood tests, and stool cultures. The veterinarian may also take biopsies of the intestinal tract or perform exploratory abdominal surgery to determine the cause of the canine diarrhea.
Treatment
Treatment of canine diarrhea usually involves a special diet consisting of foods such as boiled chicken, hamburger, or brown rice. The dog should also have access to a lot of fresh water. After a few days of this diet, your dog will usually start to experience relief. The veterinarian may also prescribe medications.
Gastriplex is the most common medication used to treat canine diarrhea. It contains glutamine, which is an essential amino acid. The vet may also prescribe probiotics, which are dietary supplements that contain beneficial bacteria that help to restore the health of the intestinal tract. If none of these treatments work, a change in medication or further tests may be needed to determine the exact cause of the condition.
Canine diarrhea usually lasts only a few days, but may last up to two weeks. If the condition lasts more than two weeks, you should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible because it may be a sign of a serious underlying illness.
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