Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis is a hazardous medical disorder that is defined by the quick onset of bloody diarrhea.
It is not something the typical dog owner will have to deal with at some point throughout their dog’s life.
When it does happen, it comes on suddenly and can be dangerous to a pet’s life, which is why it is essential to be aware of the HGE cost in dogs.
Cost of treating HGE in dogs
Since canines with hemorrhagic gastroenteritis need to be hospitalized and get therapy for several days, the care they receive for this condition can be rather expensive. The severity of the ailment and the number of days the animal is required to remain hospitalized will determine the total cost, ranging from $600 to $1400.
Factors affecting the cost of HGE
- Disease advancement: Advanced-level HGE surgery can cost way more than the initial stage surgery.
- Vet repute: The vet’s reputation and experience are the main roles in determining the surgery cost. Experienced vets charge way more than average vets.
- Location: The location of the vet clinic also affects the overall price. HGE surgery prices in dogs also vary from one state to the other.
- The number of days spent in the vet clinic/hospital: The more the dog spends his/her recovery days in the vet hospital, the more the vet bill is!
Does health insurance for pets cover the expense of treating dogs for HGE?
Yes, many pet insurances cover the HGE surgery cost. But, you should give some thought to getting your dog insured as soon as you obtain them, preferably before any disease symptoms appear.
This ensures you will have access to all the help you require if they get unwell. It is also highly essential to have an honest conversation with your veterinarian about your financial situation, the expense of treatment, and what you believe to be the best course of action for your dog.
More about HGE treatment
The symptoms of hemorrhagic gastroenteritis are treated rather than the disorder itself when it comes to medical intervention.
In dogs with hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, the abrupt start of bloody diarrhea can lead to severe dehydration, which needs to be handled as quickly as possible if the pup is going to live.
Therefore, quick medical intervention is required in these cases.
In order to provide fluids intravenously, the majority of canines suffering from HGE will require veterinary hospitalization.
The fluid treatment is continued for as long as the patient continues to have diarrhea.
Steroids may be given to your dog if it has entered into a state of shock.
If your dog has lost a significant amount of blood, the veterinarian may decide to administer antibiotics and some other essential transfusions in order to avoid infection.
Your pet will not be provided with food or water during this period.
Within twenty-four to forty-eight hours, your dog should start responding to the medication, at which time you may start gradually giving it food and drink again.
How to Keep Your Dog from Developing HGE?
Since experts do not know for certain what causes canine HGE, it is impossible to provide advice on preventing the disease.
However, if your pet has digestive issues, it may be more prone to illness. It is usually a good idea to provide your dog with a commercial diet that is both well-balanced and of excellent quality.
You should also consider giving your pup a probiotic supplement to increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract, which will keep the number of harmful bacteria under control.
Inquire with your dog’s veterinarian about any advice they may have and whether or not probiotics are appropriate for your pet.
Additionally, stress and worry can have an effect on the health of a pet’s intestines.
If your dog suffers from anxiety, you can do things to make the environment in your house more soothing, as well as products you may use to assist your dog remain calm.
You may also consult with an animal behaviorist and discuss the possibility of using anti-anxiety drugs with your veterinarian.
In a nutshell, HGE in dogs is a dangerous ailment, but thankfully it can be treated.
Seek quick medical assistance from a veterinarian if you have concerns that your dog may be infected with it.
The earlier therapy begins, the better the outcomes, and the sooner your four-legged friend will start feeling better.
Is the HGE contagious to other dogs?
There is no risk of HGE spreading from one dog to another as it is not infectious.
However, the underlying cause of HGE (such as a clostridial bacterial infection) may be contagious; however, this concept has to be confirmed by more research and trials.
Conclusion
The overall cost of HGE surgery, which may be anywhere from $600 to $1400, will be determined by the severity of the disease, vet reputation, clinic location, and the number of days the animal will need to be in the animal hospital.