Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE)

Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis is an acute GI disease of un­known etiology in dogs. Anaphylactic reactions to enteric tox­ins have been suspected as being involved in the pathogenesis. The clinical signs are mostly seen in small breed dogs and can occur peracutely. Early signs are vomiting, depression, hemat- emesis, bloody diarrhea, and extreme hemoconcentration (i.e., PCV of up to 70-80%). Treatment consists of aggressive fluid therapy to prevent further dehydration and additional sup­portive care as indicated by the clinical status of the patient. Complications, including leukopenia, sepsis, and coagulation abnormalities can also be seen, but the prognosis is generally good if patients are supported aggressively.

5.3.6