Our dog has been treated with Rimadyl for severe hip dysplasia. He is currently on antibiotics and Rimadyl (which I have discontinued). I've noticed his stool is like black tar. Is this normal?
Black, tarry stool often results when blood is lost and digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract. This is called melena; it is abnormal. The finding of melena means that there is some source of bleeding in the stomach or small intestines.
The medication that your dog was taking may have caused it. Rimadyl is a great anti-inflammatory medication. Unfortunately, any anti-inflammatory medication can cause gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding. It is good that you have discontinued this medication, but I would recommend that you contact your veterinarian about the melena as soon as possible.
There are bland diets and medications that your veterinarian may recommend that you use until your dog's symptoms resolve. He should be monitored closely since gastrointestinal ulcers can become serious if not properly addressed.
Your veterinarian will need to do a complete physical examination, and possibly some bloodwork and a fecal flotation examination to further evaluate your dog's status.
08/01/00
