Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis is a disease that most often affects small dogs; it is also more commonly seen in younger dogs aged 2 to 5 years. Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis is a potentially fatal disorder characterized by bloody stools and blood in vomit. The cause is unknown, but a reaction to bacteria or other toxins is the suspected reason for the disease. Food allergens may also play a role.
Symptoms
Bloody diarrhea is usually the first clue that your dog has hemorrhagic gastroenteritis. Your dog may also experience nausea and vomiting. The fluid loss from vomiting and diarrhea may lead to dehydration. As dehydration worsens, your dog could go into hypovolemic shock. This type of shock is when the heart cannot pump enough blood throughout the body, possibly causing organs to shut down. It is critical that you get your dog to the veterinarian before this happens. Most dogs survive if they get treatment quickly. Other common symptoms of hemorrhagic gastroenteritis include lethargy, listlessness, depression, appetite loss and weight loss.
Allergies
According to the Vet Info website, some experts think that food allergies may cause hemorrhagic gastroenteritis. Switching your dog's food could be beneficial if an allergy is the problem. Most dog foods are based primarily on chicken, lamb or beef. Feeding your dog a food with a different meat product may prevent him from developing hemorrhagic gastroenteritis again, but there is no guarantee. Also, a chronic type of hemorrhagic gastroenteritis called eosinophilic gastroenteritis is linked to food allergens, according to the PetMD website. Toxins, stress, ulcers and abdominal disorders may also cause irritation that contributes to gastroenteritis.
Healing
Diet plays an important role not only in preventing future occurrences of gastroenteritis but also in healing from an episode. Gastroenteritis is characterized by inflammation and irritation of the gastrointestinal system. When a dog is recovering, PetMD recommends that you abstain from giving your dog food or water for 24 hours after a flare-up. This gives the intestines time to rest. Then, feed your dog bland foods for three to seven days so as not to cause irritation. Ask your vet for advice on feeding. Your dog may require a hypoallergenic medical food that does not contain irritants.
Homemade Foods
Some owners prefer to make their dog's food instead of purchasing dog food at the store. Adding supplements like probiotics that could help beneficial bacteria and microflora to grow in your dog's intestines may help prevent an infection that causes gastroenteritis. Probiotics are the opposite of antibiotics, which kill bacteria. If you do make your dog's food, consult your vet about the use of food additives and the recipe you use. Diets should be low in fat and contain easily digestible nutrients.
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