Supportive treatment of gastroenteritis in a 3-month-old Chihuahua puppy
Case report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31533/pubvet.v20n6e1963Keywords:
Dog, dehydration, gastrointestinal inflammation, intensive care, metabolic disorderAbstract
The objective of this study was to report the case of a three-month-old Chihuahua puppy affected by gastroenteritis. Acute gastroenteritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the gastrointestinal tract, often associated with infectious, parasitic, dietary, or toxic causes, and may rapidly progress to dehydration and metabolic disturbances, especially in young dogs. In the present case report, the case of a three-month-old female Chihuahua presenting with apathy, hyporexia, episodes of vomiting, and acute bloody diarrhea is described. During the clinical examination, signs consistent with dehydration, pale mucous membranes, and abdominal pain on palpation were observed. The diagnosis was established based on a detailed anamnesis, clinical findings, and complementary tests, which helped rule out other gastrointestinal diseases, such as parvoviruses and intestinal obstruction. Treatment consisted of intensive supportive therapy, including continuous fluid therapy, glycemic correction, antibiotic therapy, antiemetics, and mucosal protectants, in addition to the gradual reintroduction of diet as the patient’s condition improved. The patient showed satisfactory clinical recovery, with restoration of hydration, normalization of physiological parameters, and return to voluntary feeding after a few days of hospitalization. The final considerations highlight that early intervention and intensive supportive care are essential for therapeutic success in cases of acute gastroenteritis, particularly in young and small-breed animals. This case underscores the importance of prompt clinical management, continuous monitoring, and preventive measures through vaccination and proper husbandry, reinforcing the relevance of this condition in the routine practice of small animal veterinary medicine.
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