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A dog bleeding from the butt can experience a serious health problem. Although it may not indicate a critical condition it should never be ignored and should be addressed immediately.
The severity of the problem depends on the cause of the bleeding and will dictate the type of treatment protocol required.
In this article, we will discuss different health issues that can result in rectal bleeding in a dog. Possible remedies and prevention tips will also be covered.
Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis
One of the most common reasons for bleeding from the anus is a disturbance in the gastrointestinal tract. The condition causing inflammation and bleeding from the digestive tract is often termed Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis.
In this condition, blood is mixed with the stools and it has a typical “raspberry jam” appearance. There are multiple reasons that can lead to hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, such as bacterial infections, endoparasites such as hookworms, and Giardia.
Stress and hyperactivity can also increase the risk of a dog suffering from this problem. It is more commonly seen in dog breeds of smaller size.
Apart from the loss of blood through the stools, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis can cause severe dehydration and a loss of energy. This can deteriorate into a life-threatening condition if left untreated.
Diagnosis
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis can be diagnosed with laboratory tests and microscopic examination of the stools. As dehydration is a common sign of this disease, it is a glaring symptom that should alert you.
The Blood test used to check hydration status is called packed cell volume PCV. In dogs suffering from hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, PCV value is commonly over 60%.
A microscopic examination of a sample of the stools is needed to confirm the cause of the problem. A swab is used to take a sample and then it is rubbed on a plate and then viewed under the microscope to detect the presence of parasites and bacteria.
Although this claim needs further scientific research, there is a common belief that clostridia bacteria is present in most cases of hemorrhagic gastroenteritis.
Treatment
Treatment of hemorrhagic gastroenteritis consists of antibiotic therapy if the cause is a bacterial infection. As mentioned earlier, dehydration is an important sign of a problem so fluid therapy is needed to compensate for the lost water. Anti-vomiting and nausea medication is also given sometimes. In most cases, dogs recover to normal in a few days and rarely need hospitalization.
Dog bleeding from the butt: Colitis
Colitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the colon. This can happen due to certain allergens, stress, anxiety, etc. Some dogs are intolerant to certain foods like wheat and lactose.
Feeding these foods to your dog can cause inflammation of the colon and result in a dog bleeding from the butt.
Anal gland problem
Anal gland problems can also result in rectal bleeding in a dog. Before we talk about problems due to the anal gland, let’s talk about the normal structure and function of that part of the dog anatomy.
Description
Dogs have two scent glands just inside the anus. They are grape-shaped. These glands secrete a small amount of material that gives a distinct odor to the stools. This helps dogs mark their territory. This is also a useful element for territorial animals in the wild.
Dogs were domesticated thousands of years ago but they have retained these characteristics since. Dogs used to empty their anal sacs voluntarily but over time, they have lost this ability. Now, these glands secrete more randomly and this can be induced by situations involving anxiety, fear and stress.
Anal glands are connected to the anus through ducts. These ducts can get blocked in case of diarrhea or if the stool is too soft. This can lead to inflammation. At this stage, glands are swollen but aren’t painful. If the condition persists, this can lead to infection.
Condition
If the blood supply is obstructed, bacteria start growing. This can lead to pus formation and rupture of glands causing bleeding. This bleeding is often confused with bleeding from the anus.
Bleeding due to anal gland infection can be distinguished by the symptoms appearing prior to bleeding. A dog may be seen licking, scratching his anus. He may drag his bottom on carpet or floor, a behavior commonly called scooting.
Treatment
It is advisable to visit your veterinarian if you notice anal sac inflammation. Your veterinarian will check the root cause of bleeding from the butt area and may consider the surgical removal of the anal glands.
Surgical intervention is needed only if the inflammation is chronic or the abscess formed is too serious to heal properly and quickly. Your veterinarian will make the call on the appropriate treatment based on the condition of your dog.
Dog bleeding from the butt: Other causes
Some other less common reasons for bleeding from the anus include ingestion of a foreign body or a poison.
It is best to check where your dog hangs out when he is outdoors and to watch for undesirable objects that he may be tempted to chew or play with. A dog living outside the house for the most part and left unattended is much exposed to ingestion of foreign objects and poisoning from being in contact with toxic substances or elements.
Some infectious diseases and metabolic diseases like clotting disorders can also cause the discharge of blood from a dog’s anus.