Expert: Silva Mirovics - 2/11/2008

Question
I have a jack russell/beagle mix. Her belly has been making noise and last night she has bleedand grass in her stool. It was like clear mucus like runs. She has been checked with xrays and bleed test.The vet hasn't been about to find out what is wrong with her without offering to cut her open. Help please

Answer
Hi Tammy,
Surgery does sound rather drastic.  Is there another vet that you can go to who may do some further tests?
It is very hard to know what could be causing this.  A few common causes are blocked or infected anal sacs, herniated disk, kidney failure, perianal fistula, tapeworms, urinary stones, urinary tract infections and uterine infection.
It may be some type of digestive problem or intestinal problem due to the tummy rumbles and the grass that she has been eating.  Has she had any bones that may have splintered inside her?
You may want to try her on some digestive enzymes/probiotics that can be added to her food.
But I would certainly recommend a second opinion from a vet, as blood in the stools is not a normal condition.  It is better to get this looked at now, rather than wait and if the condition worsens you will be up for a lot more money than the cost of a few tests.  I think that probably an XRay or ultrasound would be necessary to see what is happening inside.
I hope this helps you somewhat.
With thanks,
Silva.