Dog Diarrhea: When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care
If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, it can be messy, stressful, and concerning. Occasional loose stool might not be alarming, but frequent or severe diarrhea can signal a deeper problem. At Five Rivers Pet Emergency Hospital in New Market, TN, our team provides 24/7 emergency and urgent care for dogs throughout Jefferson County, Morristown, Dandridge, Sevierville, and nearby East Tennessee communities. We can quickly determine the cause of your dog’s diarrhea and provide the treatment they need to recover safely.
Understanding Dog Diarrhea
Dog diarrhea is a symptom, not a disease. It often occurs when something irritates or inflames the digestive tract. While some causes are minor, others can become serious without prompt veterinary attention. Common causes include:
- Eating something inappropriate (trash, spoiled food, or foreign objects)
- Sudden diet changes or new treats
- Intestinal parasites like Giardia or roundworms
- Bacterial or viral infections
- Food allergies or sensitivities
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Toxin ingestion (plants, medications, household chemicals)
- Organ issues affecting the liver, kidneys, or pancreas
Because it can lead to dehydration or other complications, ongoing diarrhea should always be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Dog Diarrhea: When to Worry
Pet owners across East Tennessee often ask, “When should I worry about my dog’s diarrhea?” While mild, short-term diarrhea may resolve on its own, certain signs mean your dog needs emergency care right away:
- Diarrhea lasting longer than 24 hours
- Blood or black, tarry stool
- Repeated or watery diarrhea with no improvement
- Vomiting combined with diarrhea
- Loss of appetite or refusal to drink
- Weakness, collapse, or extreme lethargy
- Signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, panting)
- Abdominal bloating or pain
If you’re unsure, call our emergency team. We’ll help you decide whether to bring your dog in immediately.
Our Diagnostic Approach
When your dog arrives at Five Rivers Pet Emergency Hospital, we focus on stabilizing them while identifying what’s causing their symptoms. Diagnostics may include:
- Full physical exam and medical history review
- Fecal testing for parasites and bacteria
- Bloodwork to check for infection, organ function, and electrolyte balance
- Digital X-rays or ultrasound to detect blockages or inflammation
- Testing for parvovirus in puppies and unvaccinated dogs
Because we have an in-house laboratory, we can deliver fast results to start treatment right away.
Treatment Options for Dog Diarrhea
Treatment depends on the cause, but may include:
- IV fluids to correct dehydration and restore balance
- Anti-nausea or anti-diarrheal medications
- Deworming or antiparasitic treatments
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Specialized diets to ease digestion
- Surgery if a blockage or foreign object is found
Our goal is to make your dog comfortable, restore hydration, and address the underlying issue so they can return to feeling healthy again.
Why Choose Five Rivers Pet Emergency Hospital?
Pet owners from New Market, Jefferson County, Morristown, and the surrounding areas trust our team for emergency care when every minute matters. Our hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostics like digital X-rays, ultrasound, and an on-site laboratory to provide rapid, accurate answers. Most importantly, our experienced veterinarians and support staff treat every pet with compassion, understanding, and the same care we’d give our own animals.
We’re open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so no matter when your pet’s symptoms begin, you can count on us for immediate help.
Get Immediate Help for Dog Diarrhea
If your dog is experiencing diarrhea and you’re concerned about their health, contact Five Rivers Pet Emergency Hospital at (423) 581-9492 or bring your pet directly to our New Market, TN location. We’re proud to serve families throughout Jefferson County and East Tennessee with trusted, around-the-clock emergency care.
FAQs
Why does my dog have diarrhea?
Dog diarrhea can result from eating something unusual, parasites, infections, or underlying medical issues. Some causes are mild, while others require emergency care.
When should I take my dog to the vet for diarrhea?
If diarrhea lasts more than 24 hours, contains blood, or is accompanied by vomiting, weakness, or dehydration, visit an emergency vet right away.
Can I treat my dog’s diarrhea at home?
You can sometimes manage mild diarrhea by offering small amounts of water and a bland diet. However, ongoing or severe cases need professional care.
Is diarrhea in dogs dangerous?
Yes. Prolonged diarrhea can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, especially in puppies and senior dogs. Early treatment is important.
What will the vet do for my dog’s diarrhea?
The vet will assess your dog, perform diagnostic tests, and provide treatments like IV fluids, medication, or diet changes to support recovery.