Help, I'm really worried about my new dog. I recently adopted this sweet dog from the shelter, and they mentioned she had a sensitive stomach. I've been trying to manage it as best as I can with a special diet, but today I noticed something really concerning. When I took her out for her walk this evening, I noticed there was some blood in her stool. She's been a bit more lethargic than usual, too, and it's breaking my heart. I’m not sure if I should be rushing her to the vet immediately or if this is something that can happen with sensitive stomachs and if I could handle it at home. Has this happened to anyone else, and what did you do? I'm just feeling so helpless seeing her uncomfortable like this. Would appreciate any advice or similar experiences.
Thanks for reaching out about your new shelter dog's tummy troubles. It's not uncommon for dogs to have sensitive stomachs, especially when adjusting to a new environment or diet, but seeing blood in the stool can be concerning.
There are several reasons this might be happening. Stress from a recent move can upset their digestive system. Dietary changes or new treats can also play a role. More serious possibilities include parasites, infections, or even a foreign object they might have nibbled on. In any case, it's important to monitor the situation closely.
For safe at-home care, maintain a consistent and bland diet, like boiled chicken and rice, which may help settle their stomach. Make sure they stay hydrated, as fluid loss through diarrhea can lead to dehydration.
Keep an eye on a few signs that indicate a more serious issue: if the bleeding persists, increases, or if your dog shows other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or refusal to eat, it's time for a more in-depth look.
To ensure your dog's health is on the right track, consider booking a video consultation with one of our veterinarians at Dial A Vet. We're here to help guide you through any next steps needed for your furry companion.
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