What Are the Common Digestive Issues in Dogs?

One of the most common reasons dogs see their veterinarian is for an upset stomach. Nonetheless, not all canine gastrointestinal disorders are the same. There are hundreds of reasons that dogs’ stomachs/intestines are upset. Digestive disorders can manifest themselves in a variety of ways. It may be challenging to establish whether or not a gastrointestinal disease is substantial. Even minor conditions can worsen if left untreated for too long.

We’ll go through four of the most widespread causes and treatments of digestive disorders in dogs:

Constipation

Constipation is defined as the inability or infrequency of eliminating feces, which is often dry and firm. It is a relatively frequent problem in dogs. In most cases, the issue is simple to fix; however, the situation might be dire in sicker animals. Feces grow drier and more challenging to pass the longer they remain in the colon.

Lots of water should be given to affected pets. Mild constipation is frequently resolved by switching to a high-fiber food, preventing the dog from ingesting bones or other items, providing readily available water, and administering suitable laxatives (usually for a short time only). If laxatives are given, they will be ideal for your pet. Laxatives made for humans can be highly hazardous to animals, particularly cats.

Canine Parvovirus

Canine parvovirus is a potentially fatal viral infection that primarily affects puppies and adult dogs that have not been vaccinated. In addition to vomiting and fever, the dog might experience severe or bloody diarrhea. The virus is resistant to many typical disinfectants and can survive in infected areas for months or even years.

Infected canines should be isolated from other dogs until they have recovered. Good hygiene is also vital in avoiding the spread of parvovirus. Puppies, even as young as six weeks old, can be vaccinated. All kennels, collars, bowls, and leashes should be cleaned, sanitized, and bedding discarded. To avoid this problem, pet owners should practice preventive veterinary care.

Colitis

Colon inflammation (colitis) can be temporary or chronic. Colitis is characterized by very soft to watery feces. Dogs with colitis struggle and appear to be in pain when defecating. They may try to use the litter box more frequently, even though their intestines are empty.

The origin of the illness determines the treatment for colitis in dogs. A hypoallergenic or intestinal diet, for example, typically provides instantaneous relief. Because food intolerance can worsen colitis, vets may encourage an elimination diet. Your animal internal medicine specialist might suggest additional treatments to assist in healing and provide comfort.

Cancer of the Digestive System

Cancer in the digestive tract is uncommon, with stomach tumors accounting for less than 1% of all malignancies in small pets. Most gastrointestinal tumor forms have no known cause(s). Tumors of the digestive system in canines are commonly malignant and spread to other body parts.

The first line of treatment for stomach cancer in canines is Concord vet surgery for dogs. The damaged region of the stomach, as well as a small amount of the small intestine, is routinely removed. Most patients stay in the hospital for two nights after surgery; during this period, the dog is carefully examined for any issues.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Disorders of the Stomach/Intestine in Dogs

Diarrhea and vomiting are not diagnoses in and of themselves; instead, they are symptoms. Diagnosing a dog to give the best potential treatment takes many inquiries.

A medical diagnosis requires:

Dog’s History

Speak to your primary care vet about whether or not you should take your pet to the hospital for vomiting and diarrhea. Try to communicate as much information as possible, including a detailed description of the vomiting or diarrhea.

Physical Exam

A comprehensive physical examination includes evaluating a dog’s temperature, pulse, heart, lungs, hydration, glands/lymph nodes, and other vital signs. This provides essential information concerning the dog’s overall health and aids in planning diagnostic tests.

Laboratory Tests

Laboratory testing reveals what is going on within a pet’s body. The following are some frequent diagnostic examinations for gastrointestinal problems in dogs:

• Blood tests
• Fecalysis for parasites check
• Food sensitivities
• Hormone analysis
• Testing for contagious diseases
• Ultrasound
• Urinalysis
• X-rays

There is no need to worry if a puppy is unwell; none of these tests are needed at the same time. Instead, your vet will create a specific treatment plan based on the most likely conditions that your dog is experiencing.