Dog Gastroenteritis in Dubai: Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention Guide

What is gastroenteritis in dogs?

Gastroenteritis happens when your dog’s stomach and intestines become inflamed, upsetting the delicate balance needed for proper digestion. The digestive system relies on healthy cells and beneficial bacteria working together to process food effectively. When this system becomes inflamed or damaged, digestion slows down, leading to gas and fluid build-up. Your dog’s body naturally tries to expel these irritants, causing the characteristic symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea.

In Dubai’s climate, gastroenteritis requires prompt attention due to the increased risk of rapid dehydration and unique environmental challenges that can complicate recovery.

There are multiple possible triggers for gastroenteritis

• Dietary indiscretion (scavenging), sudden changes in diet
• Infections: viral (parvovirus), bacterial (salmonella, campylobacter), or parasitic infections (Giardia in stagnant water)
• Heat stress and variations in temperature between indoors and outside
• Contaminated water sources
• Toxic plants and chemicals; certain human foods that are harmful to dogs
• Stress from disrupted routines
• Underlying health conditions

Symptoms of gastroenteritis in dogs

The severity and frequency of symptoms usually determine how urgently your dog needs treatment. However, Dubai’s hot climate means even mild symptoms can quickly escalate into a serious concern due to the risks of dehydration.

Primary symptoms include:

• Vomiting: ranging from occasional to persistent and intense
• Diarrhoea: from soft to liquid consistency
• Sudden urgency to defecate (poo) or unusual ‘accidents’ in the house
• Abdominal pain: arched back, trembling, whimpering, ‘praying position’, tense or hard abdomen, rapid shallow breathing

Additional warning signs:

• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or unusual tiredness
• Excessive drooling
• Behavioural changes like restlessness or becoming withdrawn

Critical signs of severe dehydration:

• Dry, tacky gums
• Skin tent: a raised pinch of skin doesn’t spring back on release
• Sunken eyes
• Passing less urine (pee) and/or dark, concentrated urine

Dogs at a higher risk of gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis can affect dogs of any age, size, or breed, but some will have a greater risk of the disease and/or complications.

Age-Related Risks

• Puppies: poorly-developed immune systems, incomplete vaccination, and rapid dehydration
• Elderly dogs: Slower recovery, greater risk of other illnesses, and rapid dehydration
• Both require close monitoring and prompt vet care

Higher-Risk Breeds in Dubai

• Brachycephalics (flat-faced): Struggle with heat regulation and breathing
• French Bulldogs: Heat intolerance and food sensitivities
• Schnauzers: Prone to pancreatitis, risk increased in hot weather
• Labradoodles/Cockapoos: Common food sensitivities
• Mini breeds: Lose fluids quickly
• Large/Giant breeds: Greater risk of bloat in heat

Dogs with other health concerns

• Immunocompromised dogs: due to disease, medication or inherited disorders (Collies, Poodles, Beagles, Irish Setters)
• Chronic illness: Diabetes, kidney disease, Cushing’s, and heart disease
• Dogs on medication that irritates the gut lining

Dubai environmental factors:

• Construction debris in developing neighbourhoods
• Desert vegetation encountered during outdoor activities
• Beach hazards, including algae and saltwater
• Contaminated standing water after rainfall
• International foods increasing the risk of dietary triggers

Dogs that scavenge during cooler morning and evening walks are more likely to consume harmful substances, whilst those with existing digestive sensitivities develop symptoms more readily when routines change.

How vets diagnose gastroenteritis

For mild cases that respond to symptom management, identifying the exact cause isn’t always necessary. However, for severe or persistent cases, your vet may advise further tests.

Diagnostic tests:

• Blood tests to assess hydration, organ function, and signs of infection
• Faecal (poo) analysis for parasites and bacterial infections
• Imaging: X-rays and ultrasound to rule out foreign bodies and structural problems
• Advanced tests: specific blood tests, biopsies, or exploratory surgery for complex cases

Your vet will consider your dog’s history, symptoms, and response to initial treatment when deciding which tests are needed.

Veterinary treatment for gastroenteritis in dogs

Veterinary treatment options include:

• Emergency fluid therapy: Fluids given directly into your dog’s veins for rapid rehydration
• Anti-nausea and anti-vomiting medications
• Gastric protectants to reduce stomach irritation
• Pain relief when necessary
• Antibiotics for confirmed bacterial infections
• Helping your dog’s body keep a safe, stable temperature when the weather is very hot during extreme weather

Home management for mild cases

Initial phase (first 4-12 hours): Rest your dog’s digestive system by withholding food temporarily, except for puppies under four months, diabetic dogs, or pregnant females. Offer small amounts of cool purified or bottled water frequently and maintain indoor temperature at 22-24°C.

Recovery phase (days 1-3): Introduce small, frequent meals of easily digestible foods, like plain boiled chicken, white rice, pumpkin or scrambled eggs. Start with tiny portions and gradually increase as symptoms improve. Prescription intestinal diets provide better balanced nutrition and hasten recovery more effectively than home-prepared foods. Use these diets particularly for growing pups under 12 months old, elderly and vulnerable dogs.

Dubai-specific considerations:

• Feed during cooler periods and offer room-temperature food
• Use ceramic or steel bowls that stay cooler
• Refresh water bowls frequently throughout the day
• Maintain consistent air conditioning to prevent temperature stress

Preventing gastroenteritis in Dubai

Dietary management:

• Feed a consistent, high-quality diet and make any changes gradually over 5-7 days.
• Secure bins to prevent scavenging.
• Store food in cool, climate-controlled conditions to prevent spoilage in Dubai’s heat.

Environmental precautions:

• Supervise outdoor activities and avoid unfamiliar water sources.
• Stick to established walking routes away from construction areas.
• Prevent access to beach debris or garbage.

Healthcare maintenance:

• Keep up-to-date with vaccinations.
• Help your dog maintain a healthy weight and body condition.
• Use regular parasite preventives.
• Schedule yearly routine health checks; every 6 months for senior dogs.

Temperature management:

• Avoid going for walks during the hottest parts of the day (10am – 4pm).
• Ensure your dog has constant access to clean, fresh water and take extra bottles of water on walks.
• Monitor your dog closely during extreme weather conditions.

Some infectious causes of gastroenteritis can be transmitted between dogs or to humans, particularly E. coli and Salmonella. Maintain strict hygiene, clean contaminated areas thoroughly with household disinfectant, and wash your hands carefully after handling your pet.

Emergency warning signs

Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog displays:

• Persistent vomiting; unable to drink or keep water down
• Large volumes of blood in diarrhoea
• Black, tarry stools that suggest internal bleeding
• Weakness, collapse or unresponsiveness
• Symptoms of severe dehydration

Contact your vet the same day for:

• Continued vomiting on an empty stomach
• Persistent watery diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite or interest in food
• Marked lethargy (tiredness) or behavioural changes
• Any visible blood in the stools

In Dubai’s climate, dehydration can develop within 6-8 hours when temperatures exceed 35°C. Prompt identification and effective response are essential for your dog’s well-being.

Worried about gastroenteritis and your dog? Book a consultation or emergency appointment today at Modern Vet Hospital in Dubai. Our experienced veterinary team provides comprehensive diagnostic services, immediate emergency treatment for severe gastroenteritis and ongoing supportive care tailored to your dog’s specific needs. From routine digestive health check-ups to urgent dehydration management, Modern Vet Hospital is your trusted veterinary partner in Dubai for complete, compassionate care when your dog faces gastroenteritis challenges.