Emergency: GI Issues in Durham, NC
It’s not uncommon for canines and felines to experience GI issues. GI issues can be due to a variety of causes: Dietary indiscretion, viruses, bacteria, parasite and pancreatitis may be the cause. Viruses, such as coronavirus and parvovirus can be spread through the exposure of feces which may cause dogs to have gastrointestinal disorders and cat to experience stomach problems. Other causes of canine gastroenteritis include inflammatory bowel disease and hemorrhagic gastritis. The most common signs of pet GI issues are vomiting, diarrhea, pain, loss of appetite, abdominal bloating and constipation.
If your pet continues to display these symptoms, it’s important to seek emergency vet care. A trained emergency vet will perform a thorough physical examination and palpate the abdomen for abnormalities. Other testes include fecal exams, urine tests and blood tests. If the cause of the GI issue is an intestinal blockage, emergency surgery may be needed to prevent death. If a tumor is found, it will be biopsied to determine if radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be needed. When a veterinarian suspects that a food allergy is the cause of your dog’s stomach problem, we would then recommend a new diet such as probiotic. The treatment of gastrointestinal disorders varies depending on the type of condition presented. For example, pets suffering from inflammation are often administered anti-inflammatory medications.
Steps to Help Prevent GI Issues
There are some steps pet owners can take to keep their four-legged friends healthy and avoid GI issues. Watching what your pet eats, submitting fecal samples to a vet, using preventatives for parasites and keeping vaccinations up to date are just a few. Be sure to keep your pet away from trash and avoid contact with other sick animals in public places like boarding facilities and the park.
New Hope Animal Hospital: Serving Chapel Hill and Durham
Serving Chapel Hill and Durham, New Hope Animal Hospital has experience with GI issues in canines and felines and our caring and experienced Durham veterinarian team is available when your pet needs us most. Our animal hospital in Durham is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for a quick and accurate diagnosis of the problem. Plus, we have an in-house lab for fast processing of urine and blood samples. Our Durham veterinarian will also stabilize your beloved companion with IVs to restore fluids.
Should your pet need surgery for a GI issue, our veterinarian in Durham will provide the best of care. Your pet will be anesthetized and carefully monitored, including heart rate, pulse rate, body temperature and organ function. Once your pet is ready to return home, detailed instructions are provided for aftercare.
Appointments At Our Durham Hospital
If you think your pet is suffering from a GI problem, give us a call at (919) 490-2000 to schedule an appointment today. Our Durham vet will do a comprehensive exam to identify the root cause of the problem.