Dog Ulcers
Canine ulcers can appear anywhere in the mouth, esophagus, stomach and intestines. Ulcers in dogs are caused by a myriad of things like infections, medications (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, chemotherapy drugs and steroids), ingestion of foreign or caustic substances, toxins, metabolic abnormalities (kidney disease), endocrine abnormalities (Addison’s disease), cancers, hypersensitivity reactions or stress. Because ulcers are painful to your dog, any symptoms should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian.
Symptoms of Dog Ulcers
Symptoms of canine ulcers include vomiting (often with blood), abdominal pain, lack of appetite, weakness, and black, tarry stools. Severe cases can cause collapse, pale gums, shock and perforation of the esophagus, stomach or intestines.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Dog Ulcers
Your veterinarian can diagnose canine ulcers by administering several tests, including blood tests, urinalysis, X-Rays, ultrasounds and a gastro duodenal endoscopy, which allows your veterinarian to view the inside of your dog’s esophagus, stomach and first few inches of the small intestine. Colonoscopy can view the large bowel.
If your dog is diagnosed with ulcers, treatment includes identifying and correcting the underlying cause. If the cause cannot be identified, treatment will center on the ulcer itself. A special diet (easily digestible) fed in small frequent amounts may be recommended to assist the healing process. National Pet Pharmacy has special veterinary diets to treat a wide variety of conditions, including canine ulcers. National Pet Pharmacy suggests a quality veterinary diet dog food like Hill's Prescription Diet i/d Canine Dry Food. Medications for dog ulcers include acid blocking agents, such as H2-receptor antagonists, and medicines that coat the stomach. Antibiotics and pain medications may also be prescribed and for those with severe ulcers in the mouth, feeding tubes may be necessary to provide nutrition while the ulcers heal. For those whose ulcers have bore all the way through the lining will require surgery. Always consult your veterinarian for the best treatment plan for your dog.
About National Pet Pharmacy
National Pet Pharmacy is your pet health superstore. From prescription only pet medications to organic dog food, National Pet Pharmacy knows that pet health is more than just medicine; it is pet supplies, pet beds and pet food. From nose to tail, National Pet Pharmacy cares for your whole pet.
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