Older dog - bloody diarrhea.

Dr. Marie replied:

I'm sorry to hear that Shelley is not feeling well. What an interesting breed - I would imagine that a Golden cocker spaniel mix is a real sweetheart!

There are a great number of reasons for bloody diarrhea in a dog. The good news is that the majority of the time it is nothing serious. The cause can be something that she ate, but often we don't know what the cause is.

The metronidazole that your vet gave is a common treatment for diarrhea. It is an antibiotic. However, it has properties that really help with inflammation in the intestines. Often just stopping the inflammation will clear things up. I usually recommend a bland food as well which could be either boiled chicken and rice, or a commercial prescription food such as Royal-Canin Gastro. (This would be something you would have to get at your vet's office.)

Because Shelley is an older dog, I think it is wise that your vet wanted to do some blood tests to make sure that there is not a more serious problem like a kidney or liver issue. It is a little concerning that she lost her appetite. However, the fact that she eventually started eating again is a really good sign.

I will commonly treat a dog in the same way that your vet is treating Shelley. If the dog is really unwell and dehydrated then I will recommend a day or two in the hospital on IV fluids, but it sounds like your vet didn't feel that she needed that.

From this point, you may find that she goes a day or two without any stool. This is common after having had diarrhea. Then, you should find that things gradually get better.

I would be worried if you are noticing more lethargy or lack of appetite again.

One additional thought. There have been a number of food and treat issues lately that could cause diarrhea problems so you may want to check out this list of pet food and treat recalls"> to see if anything fits.

I hope she's ok. Let me know if you have more questions!

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