Melena is the number one cause of bloody stool issues in dogs and can be a major health problem. Melena and hematochezia cause a dog to have bloody stools. Melena is blood that the dog digested, and looks dark in color. Hematochezia is considered fresh blood in the stool and is considered minor compared to melena. Many health reasons result in a bloody stool and most tests by a veterinarian will confirm the problem.

This health problem causes a lack of energy and sometimes incontinence, as accidents happen due to the inability to move outdoors quickly. By restricting food, the dog will eventually stop the diarrhea and give the intestines time to heal. If the diarrhea results from infection or parasite, the problem will persist until proper medical treatment is received. This condition affects all sizes and breeds of dogs no matter what you do to prevent it.

Causes of Dog Health Problems And Bloody Stool Issues

Medications, infections, cancer and foreign objects digested by the dog. A metabolic disorder or hemorrhagic gastroenteritis may cause a dog to have a bloody stool. Some heavy metal or blood ingestion and gastrointetestinal ischemia are all causes of melena in dogs. Metabolic diseases cause ulcers of the stomach or intestines and can result from many different causes. If your dog develops bloody stool issues he may show signs such as pale gums, frequent urination and thirst, lack of appetite and weight loss along with dark black stools.

If the dog continues to have diarrhea for more than twenty-four hours, medical treatment is required. The first thing you can try is a bland diet of rice and potatos instead of their regular food. This may help, but in case it does not, you may need to have a veterinarian determine the cause.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Dog Melena

When you notice black or dark colored stools, you need to contact your vet for further tests. These tests will include urinalysis, a biochemical work up, stool sample diagnosis, blood work up, ultrasound and chest/abdominal x-rays. After these tests are concluded, the vet will determine the exact cause of the dog health problems bloody stool issues and discuss treatment with you.

If the dog does not have a severe health condition, they may be treated at home instead of an overnight stay at an animal clinic. A special diet of a bland diet that is specified by the vet and any medications prescribed by the veterinarian need to be dealt with at home in order to treat the dog health problem bloody stool issues. In most cases, medications are needed to block stomach acids and coat the intestines. If you do not see any improvement, you need to contact the vet for further treatments.

Get treatment for your dog if this problem persists and stick to a strict diet and medication schedule for proper treatment of a sick dog. The dog will need plenty of rest and a calm environment in order to heal and come back to health.

1. john Says:
   December 29th, 2009 at 6:15 pm

   When I was a child on the farm, we actually used a scours medication for cattle on our dog. It worked fine. It was a yellow granular powder.
   john´s last blog ..Hydration and Diet Drinks

2. Lisa from buy tent Says:
   July 22nd, 2010 at 9:48 pm

   Is the meat and rice good for the dog`s health?What will I feed him?