Acute diarrhea in dogs occurs suddenly and usually lasts no more than three weeks. Typically watery, the diarrhea may also be loose and soft. In some cases, the stool may contain mucous. Acute diarrhea indicates an intestinal illness.
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Causes
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Acute diarrhea may be due to a bacterial infection such as salmonella, campylobacter, e. coli, yersinia or clostridium. Viral infections include parvovirus, distemper, coronavirus or adenovirus. Histoplasmosis, phythosis and protothecosis are fungal infections. Intestinal parasites may be responsible. Examples include hookworms, whip worms or roundworms. Other causes include dietary problems such as overeating, diet changes or foreign objects; bowel obstruction; pancreatitis (inflammation of his pancreas); toxins or drugs; tumors; intussusception (a condition where the bowel telescopes on itself); liver disease or kidney disease.
Symptoms
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Symptoms of acute diarrhea include loose, soft or watery stools that may contain blood or mucus. Your dog may also have a decreased appetite. Other symptoms include lethargy, depression, vomiting and fever. Dehydration is a serious concern in acute diarrhea. Signs of dehydration include dry gums, sunken eyes, increased heart rate and loss of elasticity of his skin.
Diagnosis
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The cause of acute diarrhea can be diagnosed through a physical exam; complete blood count to check for inflammation, infection, dehydration and anemia; fecal tests; a biochemical profile which checks the kidney and liver functions; urinalysis; and in some cases, X-rays or ultrasound to check for gas, fluids or foreign objects. Additional tests that may be needed include endoscopy, colonoscopy and upper gastrointestinal series.
Treatment
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The first step in treatment of acute diarrhea is to withhold food to allow your dog's intestinal system to rest. A restriction for 12 to 24 hours is typically sufficient. Following this period, bland food should be given in small amounts. A bland diet consists of boiled chicken with rice, cottage cheese or boiled potato. After several days of the bland food, her regular diet may be gradually introduced. In cases of severe dehydration, intravenous fluids may be necessary. If an infection is present, antibiotics or de-worming medication may be administered.
Considerations
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If young dog is not responding to treatment, you should consult your veterinarian for further evaluation. After her diarrhea has been resolved, you should keep her on her normal diet and prevent him from accessing foods or items that can cause recurrent problems. Annual examinations should include fecal tests for parasites.
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