Known as epistaxis, nosebleeds are an uncommon disorder in dogs and an alarming sight for pet parents! They can range from just a few drops of blood to severe blood loss, depending on the cause, and they need medical attention right away. If your dog’s nose is currently bleeding, follow these first-aid tips:
A lot of things. Which is why it can be hard to pinpoint the root issue when a nosebleed comes on fast — and seemingly at random. No bloody nose is a random occurrence, though. Here’s our list of general causes, from the most common to the least:
First, your vet will need your dog’s current health history. Make sure to have that on hand, and never assume your vet already knows all the medications your pet is taking. Next, they’ll ask you questions about your dog, anything they may have gotten into, previous injuries or illnesses, etc.
Once they have a broader understanding of the situation, your vet may recommend a full examination of your furry friend. They’ll decide if any additional tests are needed to determine blood loss, blood clot disorders, fungal infections, cancer, ticks, high blood pressure, and other potential causes. Here are some exams that might be done:
Complete blood count (CBC). Your veterinarian may draw blood to look at CBC or complete blood count. CBC labs allow a closer look into red and white blood cells as well as platelets. A small blood sample is collected and then analyzed in a machine, as well as under a microscope, to get a better insight into what’s going on in the blood.
Coagulation profile. A coagulation profile is a set of blood tests that analyze the process of substances in the blood coming together to create a blood clot when necessary (like in the case of an injury). Coagulation profiles help the vet see which stage in the clotting process is malfunctioning to help make a diagnosis.
X-rays and imaging tests. A series of X-rays or images may be necessary to rule out tumors or any foreign object causing bleeding. Your veterinarian may also want to look for any signs of internal bleeding.
Nasal swab. Like humans, dogs can be subject to viral and bacterial infections. If your dog shows any signs of a nasal cavity infection, your vet may opt for a nasal swab to send to the lab for culture.
Biopsy. In some cases, a nasal mucosal biopsy may be helpful. In this instance, a numbing spray is used, and a small piece of tissue is taken from the inner nasal cavity. The tissue can be examined and tested for any disease or abnormality.
Staying calm when your dog’s nose is bleeding can be easier said than done for both the dog and the owner. Even in the veterinarian’s office, most patients won’t tolerate nasal exams. Usually, general anesthesia or heavy sedation is required to “scope” the nose. Then samples can be taken for biopsy, culture, or cytology or removal of polyps or foreign bodies or x-rays without the animal moving around.
Bruce Armstrong, DVM
Most dog owners will find themselves puzzled, wondering what to do when their dog’s nose bleeds. Treating your dog’s nose bleed will depend on what’s causing it. A mild bloody nose from an injury, for example, usually just takes rest and time to heal. However, other causes outlined above may need more extensive, ongoing treatment. Diseases caused by ticks, for example, may need antibiotics, while a fungal infection will require antifungals. Immune-mediated diseases may require immunosuppressive medication, and something like cancer might be treated with surgery, chemo, or radiation.
Stabilize the dog — Before any treatment can be determined, the first step is stabilizing your pup. The top priority will be to stop the bleeding and get your dog calm and able to be examined.
Treat the underlying cause — After performing any necessary tests, your veterinarian will determine what’s causing the epistaxis and develop a treatment plan that goes beyond stopping the bleeding.
Use first aid techniques — At times, first aid techniques may be used to help alleviate the bleeding while treatment kicks in. The best route is to use ice packs to constrict blood vessels in the nose. Refrain from packing your dog’s nose with cotton or tissue, as it can cause sneezing (which can worsen the nosebleed).
Consider medications and supplements as needed — Depending on the root cause, severity, and frequency of nosebleeds, your veterinarian may suggest some supplements or prescribe medications to help.
It can be alarming to see your dog’s nose bleeding. Still, not every occurrence is an emergency. First, assess the situation. If there’s an obvious cause, like a hit to the nose, you may be able to treat your dog at home with ice and rest. If the nosebleed appears random, it’s a good idea to assess any risk factors and possibilities with your veterinarian. When nosebleeds are unexplained or recurring, dog owners must consider long-term health implications if epistaxis goes untreated.
Nose bleeds in dogs aren’t common. However, accidents can and do happen. Because injury is one of the most common reasons why dogs get nose bleeds, it’s important to supervise your pup during playtime. And if you’re seeing blood (even a little), it’s important to get your doggie veterinarian care ASAP.
Nosebleeds are rare, but they’re always concerning because they can be caused by a variety of different health issues. If your dog has one, it’s very important to consult with your vet to determine why it’s happening and get immediate treatment.
They can be, depending on why they’re happening. The cause of the nosebleed tends to be more serious than the nosebleed itself.
Stay calm, apply an ice pack wrapped in a soft towel to the bridge of the nose, and never stick anything absorbent into their nostrils.
No, it’s not. Especially if they’re recurrent. Accidents can happen that cause trauma to the nose every now and then, but just like humans, a bloody nose should be treated and diagnosed with care.
Nosebleeds, particularly those caused by mild trauma, shouldn’t last long and will resolve without lasting consequences. That said, if you can’t get a nosebleed to stop within a few minutes, bring your dog to the nearest vet hospital immediately.
Dog nosebleed symptoms can be brought on by many things. Some causes could be infection, trauma, foreign objects, or disease. There are even some dog nose bleeds due to heat.
