Acute gastroenteritis is common in dogs, yet its various causes and the evidence for different treatments are still uncertain. This presentation will discuss what we know so far and what is considered the optimal treatment.
Acute vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs are common presenting problems and the term “acute gastroenteritis” implies signs occur contemporaneously or sequentially, i.e. vomiting leads to profuse diarrhoea, which leads to mucoid diarrhoea. Although often described as ‘gastroenteritis’, not all cases involve inflammation. Once surgical conditions are ruled out, most cases are probably due to viruses or toxicities. Yet this is not an issue as often a definitive diagnosis is not required: mild cases are usually self-limiting and require no treatment or symptomatic treatment with anti-emetics, anti diarrhoeals and dietary modification.
More severe cases are at risk of dehydration and fluid therapy is the most important, but non-specific treatment. Yet an incorrect assumption that bacterial enteritis is common leads to frequent, unjustified use of antibacterials. Paradoxically, parvovirus infection is probably the main indication for using antibacterials because, as well as mucosal damage allowing bacterial translocation, the patient is often immunosuppressed.
Learning Outcomes
After completing this course, participants will understand why:
- Most cases of acute vomiting and diarrhoea are self-limiting and do not require antibacterial therapy.
- Viruses or toxicities are the most common causes of acute gastroenteritis
- Once surgical conditions have been ruled out, fluid therapy is the most important treatment.
What is a WebinarPLUS?
Webinar series FREE to CVE Members
Webinars are an ideal way to brush up on your skills when you are time poor, restricted by location or you just prefer bite size CPD.
WebinarPLUS (formerly known as PodcastPLUS) are pre-recorded webinar presentations delivered by experts in the field. Presentations are accompanied by a 1-week lively discussion forum moderated by your presenter.
You will receive 1 CPD point for every CVE webinar completed.
Who should enrol?
This course is suitable for qualified veterinarians. Veterinary students are welcome to enrol.
Veterinary nurses, technicians and other allied professionals with a special interest in the topic are also welcome to enrol in this course. Please be aware that the course is designed for qualified veterinarians and you should consider this in light of your knowledge and experience before you register.
Registrant Type |
Price |
Member* |
Free |
e-Member |
$35 |
Non-Member |
$70 |
*Members include: Practice, Professional, Part-time Professional, Recent Graduate, Academic, Vet Nurse and Student members.