Canine Intestinal Problems

Giardiasis

• Giardiasis occurs when the dog comes in contact with the giardia organism. This can be through contact with contaminated species, contaminated food or other contaminated pets. Once inside, the organism attaches itself to the intestinal wall and begins reproducing (in this case, each organism splits in two.) This infection prevents the dog from absorbing necessary nutrients into his system. It also messes with the digestion process and is known for damaging the lining of the intestines.

  Most dogs will not show any symptoms of an infection, but some dogs may have mild to severe diarrhea. You may also notice a change in your dog's stool---it may be greasy looking with an unusual odor and it may have changed in color, such as being paler than usual.

Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis

• Also known as HGE, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis is often quick with symptoms. The most common symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea --- both of which may contain blood. There are a variety of reasons for HGE to occur, including tumors, an obstruction of the intestines, infections, foreign objects and trauma. If left untreated, the condition can be fatal to some dogs. For others, treatment involves IV fluids and antibiotics. There may be additional forms of treatment if the exact cause has been identified.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

• As with people, IBD occurs in dogs when the stomach or the intestines become chronically inflamed. The true cause of inflammatory bowel diseases is unknown; however, speculation centers on an abnormal immune system as a contributor to the condition. Common signs of IBD include vomiting and diarrhea. Vomiting usually occurs when the stomach is affected, whereas diarrhea will most often occur when the intestines are affected. Treatment consists of controlling the condition, because a cure does not exist. Usually, your vet will recommend a new diet consisting of hypoallergenic foods or a diet high in fiber or low in fat.

Parasites

• Two common parasites are known to reside in the intestinal tract of canines: roundworms and whipworms. Infestations of both parasites occurs after the dog has come in contact with contaminated feces, water or food. After contact occurs, the eggs slowly make their way to the intestinal tract, where they will hatch and grow. The infected dog will pass additional eggs in its stool. There are usually no symptoms of either parasite unless a severe infestation occurs, in which case there may be vomiting or diarrhea.

  Both parasites, as well as other intestinal parasites, are easily treated with a common medication referred to as a "dewormer." Deworming medication removes any adult parasites from the intestines. Whipworms, however, are difficult to remove from the environment, because they can live for years, even in freezing temperatures. It is important to keep your dog out of any area that may be contaminated.

Parvovirus

• Parvovirus is one of the most common and most contagious diseases affecting dogs and puppies in the United States. It is spread through contact with contaminated species and can survive on nearly any surface for up to five months. The most common form of the virus starts in the intestinal tract and spreads throughout the body. Symptoms of parvovirus include fever, abnormal feces (dark or bloody,) vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration. Many puppies will succumb to the virus within two days. In older dogs, treatment consists of supportive therapy involving fluids, antibiotics to kill additional infections and supplements to replace lost nutrients. Parvovirus is often fatal because of the high resistance levels of the virus.