Dr. Balsama

Dr.Tail Vet

When a 9-year-old Glen of Imaal Terrier presents with bloody or black diarrhea multiple times a day, it's important to consider several potential causes. The presence of blood indicates that there is bleeding somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract. The color of the blood can give us clues as to where the bleeding might be occurring. Bright red blood typically suggests bleeding in the lower intestinal tract, such as the colon or rectum, while black, tarry stools, known as melena, suggest bleeding higher up in the gastrointestinal tract, such as the stomach or small intestines.

The causes of bloody or black diarrhea can range from infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic), inflammatory conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, or even more serious conditions such as tumors or coagulopathies (blood clotting disorders). Stress, dietary indiscretion (eating something they shouldn't have), or ingestion of toxins can also lead to gastrointestinal upset and bleeding.

At home, it's crucial to ensure your dog stays hydrated, as diarrhea can lead to significant fluid loss. Provide fresh water at all times. However, do not offer any food for 12-24 hours to allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest. After this period, you can introduce a bland diet—boiled chicken and rice, for example—in small, frequent meals. This can help soothe the digestive system and provide easily digestible nutrients.

Monitor your dog closely for any changes in behavior, appetite, or stool consistency. If the diarrhea persists beyond a day or if your dog becomes lethargic, vomits, or shows signs of abdominal pain or bloating, these are indications that immediate veterinary care is needed. Additionally, if your dog's gums appear pale or tacky, this could suggest significant blood loss or dehydration, which also warrants prompt veterinary attention.

Keep a record of your dog's symptoms, including the frequency and appearance of the diarrhea, any changes in behavior or appetite, and any potential items your dog may have ingested that could have caused the issue. This information will be valuable to your veterinarian in diagnosing and treating your dog.

In the absence of other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, and if the bloody diarrhea has stopped, continue to monitor your dog closely. However, given the age of your pet and the potential severity of the symptoms described, it is advisable to seek veterinary care even if the symptoms appear to resolve, to rule out serious conditions and to provide appropriate treatment if necessary.

If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to come back to us! Thank you.