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My senior dog has black, bloody diarrhea. Is it an emergency?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 13 years and 5 months old | 60 lbs

Hello. My senior dog (~13 years old) since yesterday is having diarrhea with black, terry blood (melena). She doesn't have fever, but lost a lot of blood already. There is no sign of dehydration. Is there something I can do at home to identify the cause. And should I give her food before seeing a vet? Thank you.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on August 8th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Mei!

If Mei is truly having melena there isn't anything to be done at home. Melena is digested blood from a high gastro-intestinal bleed. Usually from the stomach. Stomach ulcers, ulcer perforation, low platelets (thrombocytopenia), certain medications like NSAIDs and steroids can cause stomach irritation, uremia from kidney failure and cancer can cause this.

I recommend you take her to the Vet this morning to have her looked at and blood work done to check her platelets. I recommend holding on food for now.

I wish you the best of luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on October 10th, 2017
I am sorry she is so sick. I would highly encourage you to be seen by a veterinarian. Several underlying problems can cause melena. If there is also a rash I worry that she could have a bleeding disorder. Blood work will likely be recommended. I hope you are able to get the help she needs soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on June 6th, 2018
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Posto!

Causes of vomiting and diarrhea are: intestinal parasites, viral (Parvo) or bacterial infections, he ate something gross that is upsetting his stomach, ate something causing a blockage, pancreatitis, toxin ingestion, stomach ulcers, food allergy or intolerance or a reaction to a new food/treat/human food.

If the diarrhea is black and tarry then I would be concerned for melena (ingested blood) which may indicate an upper gastro-intestinal bleed from an ulcer or low platelets or from a blockage. If he has melena he absolutely needs to see a Vet today.

You can try fasting him for 12 hours and with hold food for 6 hours. If she doesn't vomit in the 6 hours then offer small sips of water frequently. If he holds down water then start feeding a bland diet at 12 hours. Feed 1 cup per 20 lbs per day as small frequent meals of rice with either boiled chicken or hamburger. Feed this diet until 2 normal stools.

If he vomits while fasted from food or water or won't eat when food is offered he needs to see your Vet.

I wish Posto the very best!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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