Dogs administered with a high-potency, eight-strain probiotic may recover faster from acute hemorrhagic diarrhea syndrome (AHDS), according to a study. ExeGi Pharma’s Visbiome Vet probiotic was given to dogs with AHDS over 21 days. The results were positive as animals in the treatment group demonstrated higher concentrations of healthy microbes and significantly lower quantities of the pathogenic bacterium, Clostridium perfringens. “This new study from colleagues in Germany and Texas is an important step in understanding how probiotics can help manage severe gastrointestinal issues in dogs,” said Frederic Gaschen, Dr.med.vet., Dr.habil., DACVIM, DECVIM-CA, a small-animal internal medicine specialist from the Louisiana State University (LSU) School of Veterinary Medicine. “While a number of studies in recent years have investigated the effects of probiotics in various conditions, this is the first study documenting a clinically perceivable beneficial effect in AHDS.” The syndrome is a common issue for many dogs, with a predisposition in small breeds. While the etiology is not well understood, an abundance of C. perfingens and associated toxins is thought to be a key contributor. AHDS manifests itself with acute onset of hemorrhagic diarrhea, lethargy, vomiting, dehydration, and abdominal pain. The massive loss of fluids may be life threatening if left untreated. The study, led by Anna-Lena Ziese, MedVet, was conducted at the clinic of small animal medicine at Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) in Munich, Germany and the department of small animal clinical sciences at Texas A&M University (TAMU). To read the study abstract, click here.
