Many dogs may experience diarrhea at some point in their lives for a variety of reasons, some more serious than others, but keep in mind that diarrhea is not a sickness in itself, but rather a symptom of a variety of diseases.
Dogs, like people, will get diarrhea on occasion. A single incident is usually not caused for concern as long as your dog is generally healthy. But, if your dog has multiple episodes of diarrhea in a short period of time or has chronic diarrhea, it is time to contact your veterinarian at Kanan Veterinary Hospital, since recurrent diarrhea can cause electrolyte loss and dehydration. This is hazardous to all dogs, but especially to pups and senior dogs.
Causes of Diarrhea in Dogs in Oak Park, CA
Diarrhea is caused by the passage of feces through the gut at a quicker rate than the water, nutrients, and electrolytes can be absorbed at. If your dog's primary symptom of a suspected illness is diarrhea, the reason might be a very simple issue caused by bacteria, viruses, or intestinal worms.
Eating something poisonous, making a drastic change in diet, having a food allergy, having a drug response, or eating too many fatty or oily table scraps are the most common causes of diarrhea in dogs in Oak Park, CA.
When to worry about diarrhea in dogs in Oak Park, CA
Dogs that exhibit additional symptoms in addition to diarrhea should be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. If your dog exhibits any of the following symptoms, contact your veterinarian at Oak Park, CA immediately to schedule an appointment:
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Appetite Deficit
- Dehydration symptoms
- Excessive drooling
Bloody diarrhea in dogs is usually a reason for alarm, whether the blood is bright or dark. Hematochezia, or red blood in the stool, is generally caused by bleeding or irritation in the lower intestine tract. Black stool is frequently caused by bleeding in the stomach or upper small intestines. If you notice any type of blood in your dog's feces, contact your Kanan Veterinary Hospital expert right away.
When your dog is unwell, it's critical not to dismiss its symptoms. Dogs will frequently disguise their diseases for as long as they can, appearing as if everything is well while something more severe is going on.
Diagnosis related to diarrhea in dogs in Oak Park, CA
When your dog gets diarrhea, it's easy to see, but determining the reason needs you to provide some information to your veterinarian. Diarrhea in dogs is diagnosed by your veterinarian based on your dog's medical history, the owner's description of symptoms, a physical exam, blood work, and diagnostic tests such as fecal exams (for parasites), and whatever else they deem necessary based on your dog's specific situation.
Treatment for diarrhea in dogs in Oak Park, CA
Once a diagnosis has been made, therapy will be tailored to the underlying condition, which may include medication or dietary changes. Contacting us is the most crucial thing you can do to halt your dog's diarrhea. Most of the causes of prolonged diarrhea in dogs are significant and need veterinarian attention as well as prescription drugs to address.
Is your dog feeling unwell and has diarrhea? Call Kanan Veterinary Hospital today to make an appointment and find the best treatment for their situation.
