I need some advice: my dog has bloody diarrhea but is otherwise acting totally normal—eating, playing, and no signs of pain. Should I be worried, or could this be something minor that'll pass? Has anyone dealt with this before?

Hi there! I totally understand why you’d be concerned. Seeing any blood in your pup's stool can be alarming. While your dog seems to be acting normal otherwise, it’s still something you want to keep an eye on.

First, let's go over what to watch for:

• Keep track of the number and consistency of the stools. If the diarrhea worsens or happens more than a few times, it's time to act.
• Watch for any additional symptoms like vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy.
• If you notice the blood increasing or your dog appears to be in pain, those are clearer signs to call your vet.

As for at-home care, here are a few things you can do:

• Ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water to prevent dehydration. Diarrhea can quickly lead to this, especially if it persists.
• You can temporarily switch to a bland diet like boiled chicken and rice. This can sometimes help settle their stomach.

If you saw your dog eat something potentially toxic like chocolate, grapes, or medication like paracetamol, see a vet immediately. Here’s a quick threshold guide:

• Even a small amount of chocolate, especially dark or baking chocolate, can be toxic.
• Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts.
• Medications like paracetamol can be very dangerous for dogs without veterinary guidance.

If they continue to act normally and the symptoms don't escalate, give them 24 hours to see if there's any improvement. However, if you’re unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.