Dr. Brunermer

Dr.Tail Vet

It sounds like your dog is experiencing some concerning symptoms. Bloody or black diarrhea, especially when accompanied by weight loss, can be indicative of several serious conditions, such as gastrointestinal infections, parasites, or even more severe issues like gastrointestinal bleeding or inflammatory bowel disease.

Given that these symptoms have been ongoing for three weeks and are still present, it's important to address this promptly. Here are a few steps you can take at home while you arrange for a veterinary visit:

First, it's crucial to manage your dog's diet. Since your dog has been sneaking and eating cat food, it's important to prevent this, as cat food is not formulated for dogs and can cause digestive issues. Ensure your dog has no access to cat food and stick to a bland diet for a few days, such as boiled chicken and rice, to see if there's any improvement.

Next, make sure your dog stays hydrated. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it's essential to provide constant access to fresh water. You can also offer an electrolyte solution designed for pets to help maintain hydration levels.

Additionally, closely monitor your dog's symptoms. Keep an eye on the frequency and consistency of the diarrhea, as well as any other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or further weight loss. Note any changes and report them to your veterinarian.

It's also good to ensure your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations and preventatives, as you mentioned, which is great. This helps rule out some infectious causes.

Given the severity of bloody diarrhea and weight loss, I strongly recommend seeking immediate veterinary care. These symptoms can indicate a serious underlying condition that requires professional diagnosis and treatment. Your veterinarian will likely perform a thorough examination, possibly including blood tests, fecal exams, and imaging, to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you.