Low platelets in dogs can be caused by a variety of problems. According to Dr. Mike Richards, DVM, the most common causes of low platelets are immune mediated thrombocytopenia or tick-borne illnesses such as ehrlichiosis. One of the biggest risks for dogs with a low platelet count is severe bleeding. As a pet owner, there are several things you can do to help prevent excessive bleeding in your dog.
Things You'll Need
- Access to a veterinarian
- Dog crate
- Soft dog bed
Instructions
Take your dog to the veterinarian at the first sign of bruising or bleeding. Check the skin, gums and whites of your dog's eyes for small, red spots. Also check your dog for bruises. Only a veterinarian can properly diagnose a low platelet count and the underlying causes.
Administer all medicines prescribed by the veterinarian. Ask the doctor to educate you on the proper ways to administer these medications. Corticosteriods help prevent a dog's immune system from destroying platelets. Antibiotics, especially tetracyclines, treat bacterial rickettsia found in tick-borne illnesses like ehrlichiosis or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Discuss with your veterinarian the benefits of a transfusion for your dog. Transfusions will not raise a dog's platelet count for long periods of time. However, they are beneficial for dogs with anemia from blood loss.
Confine your dog at home while it is being treated for low platelets. Place a soft, comfortable dog bed inside a dog crate. Crate your dog when you are not home and encourage lots of rest. Keep your dog calm. If any signs of bruises or bleeding occur, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Schedule follow up appointments with your veterinarian. Dogs with low platelets need to be checked regularly, sometimes on a daily basis. Monitoring changes in a dog's platelet count can help veterinarians determine the proper way to treat your dog's condition.