A nosebleed, or epistaxis, in a dog can be frightening for the pet's human guardian. There are many possible causes for a nosebleed--some very serious and some not so. However, the first steps are to remain calm, provide your pet with proper first aid and get your dog to a veterinarian for diagnosis.
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First Aid
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If you dog has a nosebleed, keep the pet calm. Apply an ice pack to the bridge of the dog's nose to slow bleeding.
Causes
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Blood-clotting disorders, including the possibility of the dog having ingested rat poison, are possible causes of a nosebleed. Conditions causing a low platelet count, such as a drug reaction or a bone marrow disease, also may be responsible.
Accompanying Symptoms
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Many dogs that have a nosebleed often have black stool or will vomit blood. This is generally caused by swallowing blood and doesn't indicate bleeding internally.
Veterinarian
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You should get your dog to a veterinarian immediately following the nosebleed. The doctor will need to know about any medications your dog is taking, if there is a possibility the pet may have ingested a poison of if there is possibility the pet may have had trauma to the nose.
Tests
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The veterinarian will do several types of diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the dog's nosebleed. These will include blood tests, x-rays, blood pressure checks and possibly further examination of the dog's nose and body under general anesthesia.
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