Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis
HGE
Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE) is an intestinal condition shown as a sudden onset of bloody diarrhea. Left untreated, the dog can quickly go into shock from the rapid blood loss and die. With prompt medical attention, most dogs recover.
CAUSES:
The exact cause is unknown, but some theories include:
• Eating decaying material
• Bacteria
• Virus
• Parasites
• Immune-mediated disease
• Pancreatitis
• Shock
• Stress
Small breed dogs have a higher chance of HGE, but any breed can be affected.
SIGNS:
The onset of HGE happens very quickly with no previous warning signs.
The most notable sign seen with HGE is sudden bloody diarrhea in a healthy dog.
Other signs include:
• Vomiting and dehydration
• Loss of appetite
• Depression
These signs progress rapidly and cause shock, collapse, and death. It is crucial to get to A Pet's Place of Clearwater, Inc. as soon as you notice any signs.
DIAGNOSIS:
I generally suspect HGE if your dog was healthy and suddenly develops bloody diarrhea. After performing a physical to rule out other diseases that cause bloody diarrhea (ulcers, colitis, parvovirus, coronavirus, cancer, etc.); I will need to perform some tests.
Tests necessary may include:
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Urinalysis
• Fecal examination
• Clotting tests
TREATMENT:
Dogs with HGE must be hospitalized for aggressive treatment.
Treatment may include:
• IV fluid replacement: key treatment brings PCV back to normal and keeps your dog out of shock
• Hetastarch: thickens fluid and helps stop loss
• Transfusion: If anemia is so severe
• Medication: for nausea, diarrhea, IV antibiotics
• Diet: food is withheld until the vomiting has resolved, and then a bland diet is re-introduced
PREVENTION:
Since the cause is unknown, there is no preventative measure against HGE.
PROGNOSIS:
There is an excellent prognosis if you catch the disease early and get veterinary care right away.
Relapses can occur.