Red-blood cells carry oxygen through a dog's bloodstream to his or her organs, muscles, nerve endings and cells, keeping his or her body running in top shape. However, if your dog is suffering from anemia (reduced levels of red-blood cells), the rest of his or her body will also suffer as it struggles to get enough oxygen to function normally.
There are various causes of anemia, and a dog who develops the disorder may exhibit one or more common symptoms.
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Blood Loss
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According to the "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," most cases of anemia in dogs are related to a trauma or medical condition that results in blood loss, including internal injuries with slow bleeding in the abdominal cavity, stomach or intestines. Medical disorders with accompanying bleeding that may also cause anemia include stomach or duodenal ulcers, parasites or tumors in the intestines, or a urinary-tract disorder resulting in blood loss in the urine.
Blood Disorders
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Dogs that aren't losing blood may have a condition that causes red-blood cells in their blood to break down (hemolysis), losing their ability to transfer oxygen. This may be in response to an infection, a reaction to a medication, a bite from a poisonous spider or snake, or the side effect of an underlying disease, such as lupus. The development of hemolysis anemia may be genetic in some breeds, including beagles, Basenjis and West Highland terriers, although it may occur in any breed.
Kidney and Liver Disorders
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A chronic liver or kidney illness can decrease the metabolism within the dog's body, targeting bone marrow. When this occurs, red-blood-cell production slows down and could cause anemia. In addition, the dog may develop a deficiency in minerals and iron. Your veterinarian may recommend a dietary supplement with iron to boost the levels in your dog's blood. (See Resources)
Symptoms
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Your dog may become lethargic and lose his or her appetite if anemia strikes. Check the dog's gums and skin for a yellowish tint and feel the abdomen for swelling or distension. Inspect the dog's urine and feces for signs of blood, which, in the latter, may appear black and grainy if it originates in the stomach or bright red if it originates in the intestines or colon. Severe anemia may cause the dog to collapse or vomit, and breathing may become shallow and rapid.
Underlying Disorder
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Vetinfo.com advises dog owners that anemia is not a disease in itself, but rather a secondary disorder. To treat anemia successfully, the underlying disorder must be diagnosed and treated.
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