Anemia in dogs is usually a symptom of another problem. A low red blood cell count can be the result of blood loss from a traumatic injury, destruction of red blood cells by cancer or an interruption of red blood cell production by an immune disorder. Other causes include parasitic infection, a toxic response to a drug or poison or an iron deficiency. The source or type of anemia should be diagnosed by your veterinarian. Signs include pale gums, yellowing of the skin, lethargy or collapse and increased respiration.
Instructions
Check For Anemia
Determine if your dog is anemic. Blood loss or an ongoing illness are easy to spot; other underlying causes may be more difficult to discern.
Check your dog's gums. Pale gums can indicate anemia. Gums should be bubble-gum pink and healthy-looking.
Become familiar with your dog's normal vital signs, including respiration rate, heart rate and pulse. Anemia can increase a dog's resting respiration rate.
Confirm a diagnosis with your veterinarian. She will perform blood and other tests to determine red blood cell counts and conduct tests to determine the cause.
Confirm Cause And Treat Anemia
Begin treatment if your dog is anemic. Your veterinarian will determine the cause and develop a treatment plan.
Treat anemia due to blood loss with transfusions. Your veterinarian may use whole blood, red blood cells or synthetic blood.
Begin supplementing if your dog is iron-deficient. The dosage will be determined by your veterinarian. The initial treatment is usually in an injection followed by oral supplements.
Undertake a thorough parasite-control program if your dog has worms, fleas or ticks. Internal or external parasites can cause anemia. Gastrointestinal hookworms or external blood suckers can deplete your dog's red blood cell count.
Treat poisoning or other toxic exposure accordingly. Identification of the offending toxin will help in the treatment. Mouse and rat poisons can cause serious anemia in dogs.
Develop a treatment plan with your veterinarian if your dog has cancer, kidney failure or an immune disorder. Support for these conditions will take the anemia into consideration.