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    Gastroenteritis in Dogs

    gastroenteritis in dogs

    Seeing your dog experience vomiting and diarrhoea can be worrying. Gastroenteritis, or inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is a common issue that can affect dogs of all ages. Let’s explore what it is, what causes it, and how we can help our canine companions recover.  

    What is Gastroenteritis?

    Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, specifically the stomach and intestines. This inflammation disrupts the normal digestive process, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort.  

    What are the Types of Gastroenteritis in Dogs?

    Gastroenteritis can be classified into two main types:

    • Acute Gastroenteritis: This is a sudden onset of symptoms, often triggered by dietary indiscretion or infection.  
    • Chronic Gastroenteritis: This is a long-term or recurring condition, which may be caused by underlying health issues like food allergies, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or parasites.

    Symptoms and Signs

    Recognising the signs of gastroenteritis can help you seek timely veterinary care. Common symptoms include:  

    • Vomiting: May be clear, yellow, or contain food.  
    • Diarrhoea: Loose, watery stools, possibly with blood or mucus.  
    • Loss of Appetite: Reduced interest in food.  
    • Lethargy: Reduced energy and activity levels.  
    • Abdominal Pain: Signs of discomfort, such as restlessness or a hunched posture.  
    • Dehydration: Dry gums, sunken eyes, and decreased skin elasticity.  
    • Fever: Elevated body temperature.  

    Causes

    Gastroenteritis can be caused by a variety of factors:

    • Dietary Indiscretion: Eating spoiled food, garbage, or foreign objects.  
    • Infections: Bacterial (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli), viral (e.g., parvovirus, coronavirus), or parasitic (e.g., Giardia, roundworms).
    • Food Allergies or Intolerances: Reactions to certain food ingredients.  
    • Toxins: Ingestion of poisons or chemicals.  
    • Stress: Anxiety or changes in routine.  
    • Medications: Some medications can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.  
    • Underlying Health Conditions: Such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or pancreatitis.

    How is Gastroenteritis in Dogs Diagnosed?

    Your veterinarian will use a combination of methods to diagnose gastroenteritis:

    • Physical Examination: Assessing your dog’s overall health and hydration.  
    • Detailed History: Discussing your dog’s symptoms, diet, and recent activities.  
    • Faecal Examination: To check for parasites or bacterial infections.  
    • Blood Tests: To evaluate organ function and detect infections.  
    • Radiographs (X-rays) or Ultrasound: To visualise the gastrointestinal tract and identify any abnormalities.  
    • Endoscopy or Biopsy: In cases of chronic gastroenteritis, to examine the lining of the stomach and intestines.

    Gastroenteritis in Dogs Treatment

    Treatment will depend on the severity and cause of the gastroenteritis:

    • Supportive Care:
      • Fluid Therapy: To combat dehydration.  
      • Rest: To allow the gastrointestinal tract to recover.
      • Bland Diet: Easily digestible food, such as boiled chicken and rice, to gradually reintroduce food.  
    • Medications:
      • Anti-emetics: To control vomiting.  
      • Anti-diarrhoeals: To reduce diarrhoea.  
      • Antibiotics: To treat bacterial infections.  
      • Deworming Medications: To eliminate parasites.  
    • Hospitalisation: In severe cases, hospitalisation may be necessary for intensive care.  

    It’s important to consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Do not give your dog any human medications without consulting your vet. With proper care, most dogs recover from gastroenteritis within a few days.