Well.... because it's one of those things that have no explanation - as in, the dog didn't eat anything, didn't seem stressed etc, I and the vets have no clue how to keep it from coming back.
If I recall correctly, I was told some dogs get it once and never again but some have several bouts of it. What I've learned to do is watch very closely anything she starts to act up (eating grass, changes in appetite and drinking). I remember she had been eating grass a for a few days before it got very bad, but I figured all dogs eat grass. I also check her poops and pinkness of gums because there HAD to be a few day duration before she started hemorgging alll over the place.
She had this a second time, but because I caught it quick it was much much less severe. The first time my god, she went from seeming down and not feeling good to lethargic and drooling within 8 hours. It probably varies dog to dog, so when your girl begins to act different maybe that's the time to monitor. But for sure, talk to your vet first, it may not even be HG.
As for treatment... the first episode being so severe she was on IV for fluids, with added potassium because her heart was eeking out and lots of antibiotics. She had to be transported to a facility that was open at night after the normal vet closed so they could watch her. They were fabulous, kept hourly progress notes and everything. I did that hoopla for about a week and two grand later (cringe!)
The second time only antibiotics and a bland rice diet.
I sure hope it's nothing like what Delilah went though, I have never seen so much blood just come oozing out for no good reason.
Please let us know how she gets along.
Jeni |