Short-bowel syndrome in four dogs.

Short bowel syndrome occurred in four dogs after extensive (74% to 88%) small intestinal resection. Weight loss and diarrhea were the principal clinical signs. Treatment was based on the severity of clinical signs. One dog is alive after 27 months. Three dogs died within 3 months. The prognosis depends on the extent and site of resection, degree of intestinal adaptation, preoperative condition, and postoperative care.