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Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE) — also known as acute hemorrhagic diarrhea syndrome (AHDS) — is an intestinal condition marked by bloody diarrhea and vomiting that can strike suddenly and could be fatal if not treated.1
Let’s discuss what HGE in dogs is, its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and how dog insurance can help you manage the cost of related vet bills.
HGE is a form of gastroenteritis — inflammation of the stomach and intestines — that can develop seemingly out of nowhere in dogs who appear to be healthy. Bloody diarrhea and vomiting are the main symptoms, with the diarrhea often described as looking like raspberry jam or jelly.1,2
Any dog breed can develop HGE, but small or toy breeds tend to be more susceptible, as well as younger dogs. Some commonly affected breeds include:1,2
HGE/AHDS isn’t considered contagious between dogs.1
The root cause of HGE in dogs remains unknown, with possibilities such as a Clostridium perfringens (bacterial) hypersensitivity or infection, dietary indiscretions, stress, anxiety, hyperactivity, and toxins all believed to be contributing factors.1,2
Additional potential causes of HGE in dogs can include:2
Keep in mind that if your dog has been previously diagnosed with AHDS/HGE, they may be more likely to develop it again, regardless of the cause.2
Dogs with HGE typically have sudden, excessive bloody diarrhea and may start vomiting beforehand. Other symptoms of HGE/AHDS in dogs can be:1,2
HGE can cause dehydration and other bodily damage before it’s apparent. If left untreated, it could also lead to death. It’s important to head to your veterinarian ASAP if you notice any of these signs.1,2
Diagnosing HGE in dogs involves a process of elimination to rule out any other causes, as there isn’t one test to definitively identify the condition. Vets may use a combination of diagnostic tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), urine and fecal evaluations, X-rays, blood clotting assessments, and ultrasounds or endoscopies of the intestines.2
Dogs with HGE often have higher red blood cell counts than usual, measured by their packed cell volume (PCV) or hematocrit (HCT). Normal HCT levels are typically between 37% and 55%, but dogs with AHDS/HGE can have levels higher than 60%.1,2
Treatment for HGE in dogs typically involves hospitalization and intravenous (IV) fluid therapy with potassium and electrolyte supplementation. Antibiotics are often given to help treat any secondary infections, and vets may withhold food for the initial 24 hours of treatment.2
Additional supportive care for HGE/AHDS in dogs may include:2
Dehydration can lead to increasing levels of red blood cells, which could ultimately lead to a life-threatening condition called disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). IV fluid therapy is essential in combating dehydration and reducing the risk of fatality.2
If treated promptly, symptoms of HGE typically last a few days.2 Without timely care, HGE can worsen, potentially causing complications such as DIC, sepsis, shock, and death.1 If your dog experiences jam-like diarrhea, along with vomiting and any other symptoms, it’s advised to take them seriously and should be treated by a vet as quickly as possible.
There isn’t a definitive method to prevent HGE in dogs because there isn’t a singular cause. That said, some practical tips you can implement at home include feeding your dog good-quality dog food, adhering to your vet’s advice on parasite prevention, and fostering a stress-free environment for your dog.2
When it comes to addressing health concerns, like HGE, it’s crucial to be prepared for the vet bills that come with diagnosis and treatment. Because many dogs need multiple diagnostic tests, as well as a hospital stay for treatment, HGE/AHDS expenses can range from $500 – $2,000, or more. That cost could be significantly higher if your dog requires care at an emergency vet.3
Pet insurance could help you manage these kinds of expenses — even at emergency vets — if your dog is diagnosed with HGE. A 5-year-old dog from Nevada named Scruff was brought to the vet with bloody diarrhea. After diagnostic tests and treatment, his pet parents received a bill of over $800. Their MetLife Pet policy covered a reimbursement of more than $500.4
Confidently care for your dog by preparing for the unexpected. Enroll them in a MetLife Pet insurance policy, starting with a free quote today!
Dr. Hunter Finn has been paid by MetLife to discuss the importance of choosing pet insurance. He is an integrative veterinary expert first, and social media star second. He owns Pet Method in McKinney, Texas, where he cares for pets while prioritizing their emotional well-being. When he’s not at his clinic, he’s starring in viral videos on TikTok (2 million followers) and Instagram (500K followers) — where he’s been known to snuggle puppies and conquer the latest dance trends.
