Dog bleeding that's not associated with injury or trauma is a symptom of an underlying disease or ailment. Pet owners should identify the location of bleeding as the type of underlying disease often determines the location of bleeding. The bleeding may be mild as in the case of ear infection and itching or more severe such as anal bleeding. Pet owners should seek prompt medical help to diagnose the condition and administer medication.
Common Locations of Dog Bleeding
- Ear bleeding
- Anal bleeding
- Blood in the urine
- Bleeding from the penis
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Bleeding from the vulva
Causes of Ear Bleeding
Dogs are often infected with ear mites. These mites cause excessive itching as they feed on ear wax and tissues. Pets tend to cause skin lesions and cuts due to excessive itching which in turn causes ear bleeding. Bacterial and yeast infections can also lead to ear infection and itching. Ear bleeding is more likely to develop in pets that suffer from frequent or chronic ear infections.
Causes of Anal Bleeding
Anal bleeding may develop due to small cuts in the anus or due to anal growths or tumors. Inflammation of the anus, rectal polyps and constipation may also cause bleeding. In addition some pets develop a condition termed as anal sac disease. This occurs when there's excessive buildup of anal sac fluid and secondary bacterial contamination in the anal sac. This condition causes pets discomfort and is often associated with anal bleeding.
Causes of Blood in the Urine
Blood that's present in the urine is often a symptom of kidney infection, prostatitis or kidney stones. Pets may also suffer from bleeding due to infection and inflammation in the urinary tract. Dogs that exhibit urine in the blood have to be diagnosed promptly to prevent kidney failure. Tumors or growths present in the bladder or prostate may require surgical intervention.
Causes of Bleeding from the Penis
The most common cause of persistent bleeding from the penis is prostate disorder. Inflammation of the prostate gland and prostate hypertrophy can cause bleeding. However, the vet will perform other tests to check if the bleeding stems from another part of the body unrelated to the prostate. Internal hemorrhage may be once such cause.
Causes of Bleeding from the Mouth
The cause of oral bleeding may be attributed to periodontal or gum disease. Dogs suffering from ulcers and growths in the mouth may also exhibit bleeding accompanied by lack of appetite and pain. Although all tumors or growths present in the mouth aren't cancerous, the vet will perform a laboratory analysis of a sample of cells to determine the type and severity of the tumor. Periodontal diseases have to be treated with tooth extraction when required and prompt treatment will prevent the infection from entering the body through the gums.
Causes of Bleeding from the Vulva
Pyometra is the most common cause of bleeding associated with the dog's vulva. Infection in the womb causes pyometra. Dogs suffering from the condition suffer from thick discharge along with vomiting and fever. Pets suffering from any symptoms of pyometra require immediate medical help.
Although the severity of illness varies in individual pets, early diagnosis is vital to prevent severe and often permanent damage. Pet owners should also identify the main cause of infection and take measures to prevent re-infection and bleeding.