Anemia in dogs is a blood condition with low red blood cell count as a result of blood loss, destructive red blood cells or unproductive red blood cells. When a dog is considered anemic, it is usually due to trauma, cancer, a disease that attacks its own organs, infectious and inflammatory diseases, genetics, toxins and drug reactions, iron deficiency, kidney failure and serious other illnesses. Extreme blood loss can result in anemia when the loss is faster than the ability to regenerate and produce more red blood cells. Any dog at any age can become anemic because of the vast causes involved. The impact and severity of the anemia depends upon the reason and of course you cannot know the exact root of the problem until your local Rockford area veterinarian as listed below (or one closest to your home) performs an examination and tests.
One of the first signs that your dog is anemic is by looking at the gums. If you open your dog’s mouth and notice that the gum line is not pink and is very pale in color, there is a blood problem. Other possible signs to watch for are weight loss, lethargy, no appetite, loss of blood or blood in the urine or feces, discoloration of the skin, if your dog collapses or has a seizure, abdominal distension and an increased respiratory rate. If you witness any of these signs in your dog, call your local area veterinarian. He will probably want your dog to come in for some diagnostic testing.
Your dog will have to undergo a complete blood count test as well as x-rays and ultrasounds. Other tests may include a one for genetics, iron deficiency, a blood clotting, immunity, bone marrow as well as a test for other infectious diseases. The diagnostics are very thorough and lengthy, but a case of anemia in your dog can stem from any number of causes.
Treating the anemia in your dog involves remedying the underlying cause or condition. In severe cases the dog may require one or more blood transfusions during an in-hospital stay. If your dog is released into your care along with medication therapy, be sure to administer the medication as prescribed. Monitor your dog’s overall health to be sure there are no reoccurring symptoms of the anemia in your dog and follow-up with your veterinarian to be sure your dog is well and healthy.
There are no preventative measures you can take that your dog never becomes anemic. The best you can do is keeping your dog healthy and happy, follow-up with regular veterinary visits and follow all the advice of your doctor. Be observant of your dog’s normal behavior so that you will know immediately when special care and attention may be needed.
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