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Bloody Stool in Dogs: Causes & When to Seek Urgent Vet Care

Bloody stool in dogs, also known as hematochezia or melena, is a concerning symptom that should never be ignored. The appearance and consistency of the blood can offer clues to the source of the problem, helping you determine the urgency of veterinary care. Hematochezia refers to the presence of fresh, bright red blood in the stool. This indicates that the bleeding is occurring in the lower digestive tract, typically the colon or rectum. Possible causes of hematochezia include: * **Parasites:** Hookworms, whipworms, and giardia can irritate and damage the intestinal lining, leading to bleeding. * **Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):** Chronic inflammation of the digestive tract can cause ulcers and bleeding. * **Colitis:** Inflammation of the colon, often caused by stress, dietary changes, or infection. * **Anal Gland Issues:** Impacted or infected anal glands can bleed and the blood may be passed in the stool. * **Rectal Polyps or Tumors:** Abnormal growths in the rectum can cause bleeding. * **Trauma:** Injury to the rectum or anus can result in bloody stool. * **Foreign Objects:** Ingested foreign objects can irritate or perforate the intestinal lining. * **Parvovirus:** A highly contagious and often fatal virus, particularly in puppies, that causes severe gastrointestinal distress, including bloody diarrhea. * **Dietary Indiscretion:** Eating spoiled food or unusual items can upset the digestive system and cause inflammation and bleeding. Melena, on the other hand, is characterized by dark, tarry, or black stool. This signifies that the blood has been digested and originates from the upper digestive tract, such as the stomach or small intestine. Possible causes of melena include: * **Gastric Ulcers:** Sores in the stomach lining can bleed. * **Bleeding Disorders:** Conditions that affect blood clotting can cause internal bleeding. * **Toxicity:** Ingestion of rat poison or other toxins can lead to internal bleeding. * **Certain Medications:** Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can sometimes cause gastric ulcers and bleeding. * **Tumors in the Upper Digestive Tract:** Growths in the stomach or small intestine can bleed. **When to Seek Urgent Vet Care:** While any instance of bloody stool warrants a call to your veterinarian, certain situations require immediate emergency care. Seek urgent veterinary attention if your dog exhibits any of the following: * **Large amounts of blood in the stool.** * **Weakness or lethargy.** * **Pale gums.** * **Vomiting, especially if it contains blood.** * **Abdominal pain or distension.** * **Difficulty breathing.** * **Known exposure to toxins or foreign objects.** * **Puppies exhibiting bloody stool, especially with other signs of illness.** Even if your dog’s symptoms appear mild, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian. They can perform a thorough examination, run diagnostic tests (such as fecal exams, blood work, and imaging), and determine the underlying cause of the bloody stool. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for ensuring your dog’s health and well-being. Your veterinarian will be able to advise on the best course of treatment, which may include medications, dietary changes, or, in some cases, surgery. Don’t delay seeking veterinary care if you notice blood in your dog’s stool. Proactive care is vital for a positive outcome.