My terrier has bloody stool, won't eat. What tests can find the cause?

Question

Our 7 year old terrier has intestinal issues. Stool with mucus, progressing to mucus with blood. 4th episode this year. Went to Vet. Tested for parisites and worms, up on vaccinations. No answer though why this is happening. Now shr wont eat anything or drink water. Last time this happen Vet had to I.V. her fluids, but still no diagnosis. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 7 years and 6 months old | 15 lbs

Stacey Anstaett, DVM · Accepted Answer

There are many possible causes for Gracie's recurrent symptoms, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Addison's disease, and cancer. You mention she was tested for parasites and worms, but has your vet run any blood work? Has Gracie had any X-rays or an abdominal ultrasound (sonogram of the belly)? It sounds like some testing is going to be needed to get an answer here. General blood work typically consists of 2 parts: #1)Complete blood cell count (CBC)- red cell count, white cell count, platelets #2)Chemistry panel liver/kidney values, electrolytes, proteins This information can clue your vet into what underlying issues may be going on and how severely her health is being affected. An abdominal ultrasound is a very helpful too as well-- it allows a measure of the thickness of the intestine (a process such as inflammatory bowel disease may cause thickening of the intestine), it allows us to assess the pancreas (pancreatitis-inflamation of the pancreas- will cause intermittent GI signs), we can see the liver and gallbladder, as well as just see overall if anything in the belly appears abnormal. Addison's disease (where the body does not make enough of its own cortisol) can be tested for with a blood test called an ACTH stim test. There is also a less expensive screening test called a "baseline cortisol." If the cortisol is high, then the dog DOES NOT have Addison's disease; that has been ruled out. If the cortisol is normal or low, an ACTH stim test is needed for a definitive diagnosis. Talk to your vet about possible tests fro Gracie to get to a diagnosis. I hope that helps you. Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

My terrier has bloody stool, won't eat. What tests can find the cause?

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