Cost of Treatment: $500 – $1400
What Is Gastroenteritis In Dogs?
Gastroenteritis is characterized by severe vomit and/or diarrhea; however, since these symptoms are not specific to gastroenteritis and can be signs of several other diseases. Various microorganisms such as viruses and bacteria can gastroenteritis in dogs. One of the most common causes of gastroenteritis in dogs is viral infection, which can be complicated with bacteria or parasites. Mild cases of gastroenteritis can be resolved with hydration and antibiotic therapy, but more severe cases require hospitalization.
Symptoms Of Gastroenteritis In Dogs
- Vomiting (sometimes with blood)
- Diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
- Dehydration
- Depression
- Lethargy
- Lack of appetite
- Weight Loss
Causes Of Gastroenteritis In Dogs
- Viral infection (e.g. parvoviruses and coronaviruses)
- Dietary indiscretion
- Toxins
- Tumors
- Bacterial infection
- Parasitic infection
- Abdominal disorder
Treatment Of Gastroenteritis In Dogs
Viral gastroenteritis is treated with supportive care because there are no available drugs to kill this type of viruses. The first step of the treatment plan is restoring your dog’s normal fluid balance. Fluid therapy can be given orally if the dog is not vomiting while vomiting dogs need to receive the therapy intravenously and are usually hospitalized. Your dog’s veterinarian will need to run various diagnostic tests in order to determine which other drugs are needed
Resources for Gastroenteritis In Dogs:
1- VCA Aminal Hospitals – Gastroenteritis in Dogs
2-Merck Peth Health Manual-Disorders of the Stomach and Intestines in Dogs
Return to the Dog Health Problems glossary.