Final answer:
A poodle with symptoms such as petechiae, bleeding gums, and lethargy likely has ingested a rodenticide with anticoagulant properties, leading to impaired clotting and requiring veterinary intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
A 3 year old female spayed poodle presenting with petechiae on her abdomen, bleeding gums, and lethargy may have ingested a toxic substance that is affecting her clotting ability. While several possible toxins could cause these symptoms, ingestion of rodenticides containing anticoagulants is a common cause of such clinical signs in dogs. These anticoagulant rodenticides interfere with the vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, leading to uncontrolled bleeding. The pet's recent access to areas where rodent control measures such as rat poison might be used should be investigated. A veterinarian will typically perform blood work, including coagulation profiles, to confirm the diagnosis, and treatment usually involves administration of vitamin K1 to counteract the effects of the toxin.