Saw some red in my dog's poop and worried it could be blood. Should I be taking them to the vet?

While walking my dog this afternoon, I noticed some red in his stool, which has me worried it might be blood. He's been eating and playing as usual, but I haven't changed his diet recently, so I'm not sure what could be causing this. Should I take him to the vet right away, or could this be something minor that can be monitored at home?

Answer

Noticing red in your dog's stool can understandably be concerning, but there are several reasons why this might occur. It's great that your dog is otherwise eating and playing as usual.

  • Monitor your dog's stool for any changes in color or consistency.
  • If symptoms persist, consulting a vet is a prudent step.
  • It's beneficial to keep note of any other symptoms or changes in behavior.

Finding red in a dog's stool can be due to a variety of factors ranging from minor dietary issues to something more serious like gastrointestinal conditions. While it may just be a temporary issue, it's always wise to monitor for any other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or decreased appetite. If anything worsens or doesn't improve, consulting with a veterinary professional is recommended to ensure your dog's health.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Could the red in the stool be from something my dog ate?

    It's possible. Dogs sometimes consume non-food items or foods like beetroot that can change stool color to red. However, it's important to differentiate this from blood.

  • What should I monitor in my dog's behavior?

    Watch for decreased appetite, lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea. These signs, when combined with abnormal stool, may indicate an underlying issue that requires veterinary attention.

  • When should I go to the vet?

    If the redness persists for more than a day or two, or if your dog shows other symptoms such as those mentioned above, it's best to consult with a vet for a thorough evaluation.

Next available appointment

Loading…