Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE), also known as acute hemorrhagic diarrhea syndrome (AHDS), is an acute disorder of dogs characterized by vomiting and bloody diarrhea. HGE can affect any breed, age, size, or gender, but it is most common in small and toy breed dogs, such as young Miniature Poodles, Miniature Schnauzers, and Yorkshire Terriers. The exact cause of HGE is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a hypersensitivity reaction to bacteria, endotoxins secreted by microorganisms, or dietary elements. Recent research also indicates that HGE may be an allergic reaction to food or inhaled allergens. Other possible causes of HGE in dogs include infectious diseases, coagulation disorders, intestinal parasites or bacteria, toxins, immune-mediated diseases, stress, anxiety, trauma, foreign bodies, blood disorders, and ulcers.

Dogs with a history of a sensitive stomach may experience HGE more frequently than others. HGE commonly occurs after dogs consume human foods that are high in fat and/or seasonings, but it can also occur in dogs that eat a high-fat doggie treat or eat excessive amounts of treats. Veterinary clinics tend to see more cases of HGE around the holidays, likely because of all the extra human treats and visiting friends and family that may be more likely to feed your pets scraps from the table. Dogs that get into the trash can or raid the leftovers are also at a high risk of developing HGE.

The clinical symptoms of HGE can develop rapidly, within a few hours, and include vomiting, diarrhea with a jelly-like consistency and large amounts of blood, anorexia, lethargy, abdominal pain, and very acute fluid loss. Because HGE dehydrates dogs rapidly, its essential to seek medical attention right away. Pets with HGE may become extremely sick in just 12 hours, and if left untreated, they may go into shock or even die. Veterinarians diagnose HGE by performing a physical examination, blood tests, and fecal tests[[1]](https://v...