Being a fur parent comes with a lot of patience and responsibilities, including cleaning their poop. What’s alarming is when you start seeing blood on their stool. In some instances, you also notice blood in dog stool but acting normal. Should you be worried?
It may sound gross, but monitoring your pet’s stool can be a good habit because this can tell you something about their health. Reasons for bloody stool among dogs vary – from minor to severe infections, including constipation, injury, allergies, and bacterial or viral infection. Owners should keep in mind that changes in color, frequency, and consistency can be warning signs.
Possible Reasons for Blood in Dog Stool
1. Food Allergies
Bloody poop can be a result of dietary changes, which affect their digestive tract. It can occur anywhere in their stomach, small intestine, colon, or anal region. Look out for something they shouldn’t consume or non-food items such as:
- Toys
- Sticks
- Garbage
- Toxins
2. Gastroenteritis
“Gastroenteritis” or “hemorrhagic gastroenteritis” is an inflammation in the GI tract that requires an immediate visit to the vet, such as AEC Memphis, since it can be fatal. Besides blood in their stool and/or vomit, look for these other symptoms:
- Dehydration
- Anorexia
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- Lack of energy and interest
3. Hemorrhoids or Other Irritations
A dog pooping blood may be suffering from hemorrhoids or irritation near the outside of the anus. If they allow you, inspect any possible noticeable causes on the outside of their body. You usually see swelling and itching around the anus, a lump in the anus or rectum, and you see signs of discomfort when they sit and defecate because of pain.
Food rich in fiber, such as pumpkin, carrots, apples, beet pulp, brown rice, and dark leafy greens, are good for dogs with hemorrhoids or other irritations. In minor cases, you can apply anti-hemorrhoid creams to help relieve burning, swelling, and itchiness. However, it’s always best to bring them to a trusted vet for further assessment and treatment, especially in severe cases.
4. Enlarged Anal Glands
A small amount of bright red in your dog’s stool can arise from enlarged anal glands. This is a common condition among dogs – small or large breeds. Take them to your vet since treatment can include painful procedures, such as emptying the sacs. To stop this from happening again, increase fiber in their diet. It may also help if you give them protein-based dog food that your dog isn’t used to eating.
5. Serious Diseases that Affect Blood Clotting
Illnesses that affect normal blood clotting can also be the culprit, such as:
- Liver disease
- Cancer
- Toxins
- Bleeding disorders
- Kidney disease
- Immune system diseases
- Hormonal disorders
6. Parasites or Infections Affecting the GI Tract
Other serious conditions that affect the GI tract can also cause bloody poop, such as:
- Parasites: giardia, coccidia, intestinal worms
- Infections (bacteria, viruses such as parvovirus)
- Cancer
Veterinarians prescribe different treatments for mild infections, including oral medications, ointment, medicated shampoo, etc. For more serious conditions that need medical intervention, your vet will identify the most suitable treatment plan for your dog based on their current situation. For worms, here are some home remedies that you can find in your pantry:
- Apple cider vinegar (ACV)
- Dried coconut
- Chamomile
- Turmeric
- Kefir
- Chopped carrots
Visiting the Vet because of Bloody Stool
In some cases, you can simply wait until your dog’s condition gets better, whatever is the cause of their bloody stool. Unfortunately, other conditions are as deadly as they look. Always bring them to the veterinarian if you see even a tiny amount of blood.
Your dog’s situation may not look life-threatening, but animal doctors are the right people to give professional opinions and advice about your pets. Since not all vets are the same, take time to find one that suits your needs because they will be your partner in protecting your pet’s health.
Pick one that’s near you so it would be easier to arrive there in times of emergencies. Ask for recommendations or look online. To limit your search within your area, find “24 hour animal hospital Memphis” if, for instance, you’re nearby.
