Symptoms & Treatments for Dog Gastroenteritis - Quick G

Pathogenic Factors

Doggy gastroenteritis tends to peak during the spring and autumn seasons, affecting dogs of all ages. There are numerous factors that can trigger gastroenteritis in dogs, which can be broadly categorized into three main areas:

1. Primary Gastroenteritis: This is often due to improper feeding management, ingestion of spoiled or indigestible foods, and the presence of strong irritants such as organophosphorus pesticides and external deworming agents.

2. Secondary Gastroenteritis: Gastroenteritis can occur as a complication of certain infectious diseases, including canine distemper, leptospirosis, salmonellosis, and canine parvovirus enteritis, as well as parasitic infections.

3. Other Inducing Factors: Nutritional deficiencies, overexertion, or colds can weaken the body's defenses, leading to a weakened gastrointestinal barrier function, imbalanced gut flora, and ultimately, illness. Prolonged use of antibiotics can also disrupt the gut flora, potentially leading to secondary infections.

When the gastrointestinal tract is stimulated by these pathogenic factors, it may undergo varying degrees of pathological changes, such as bleeding and ulcers.

What Are the Symptoms of Gastroenteritis?

Due to the stimulation from these pathogenic factors, the gastrointestinal tract may exhibit a range of pathological changes, including bleeding and ulcers. Most dogs with gastroenteritis will experience intermittent vomiting and diarrhea:

Vomiting with frothy, pale yellow bile.

3 to 6 episodes of diarrhea.

A decrease in appetite.

Lethargy.

If vomiting and diarrhea persist for more than 24 hours, dehydration can occur rapidly.

How to Treat Gastroenteritis

1. First and foremost, restrict the dog's diet by not feeding them for 24 hours.

2. Rehydrate and replenish electrolytes.

3. Promptly and appropriately supplement nutrients, and consider adding probiotics to their diet.

4. Administer antiemetics and antidiarrheals to alleviate symptoms.