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Is my old dog's anal bleeding after diarrhea an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 13 years and 1 month old

My old dog had diarrhea a few days ago that became caked on his anus. After washing him and applying Neosporin the swelling of his anus has gone significantly down but now he is bleeding from his anus. He still walks, eats, drinks, but the blood is incredibly concerning. It is 2 AM and while I have cleaned up the blood and found him a clean place to sleep, I need some help/ advise. No vets are open at this hour where I live.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on February 27th, 2018

If he is generally still quite active and bright and there are no other signs a part from the blood ( a pic of it would help to give you more advices), I think he could potentially wait until the am to be seen by your local veterinarian. The signs you are describing are commonly related to a colitis (inflammation/infection of the last part part of gastrointestinal system) usually related to dietary indiscretion or infection. As a first approach, I would suggest to start feeding with a bland diet based on boiled chicken and rice in small portion every 6 hours for the following 48hours. Then gradually reintroduce the normal diet over 5 days. I would definitively recommend a veterinary check up if the signs persist or you notice vomiting, lethargy or inappetence. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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