Anemia in dogs, characterized by a decrease in red blood cells (RBCs) or hemoglobin concentration, is not a disease itself but rather a symptom of an underlying issue. This article delves into the causes, types, symptoms, treatments, and dietary considerations for managing anemia in dogs, providing a comprehensive guide for dog owners.
Understanding Canine Anemia
Anemia occurs when there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells, which can be measured by red blood cell count or hemoglobin concentration. It can develop from loss, destruction, or lack of production of red blood cells. Anemia is classified as regenerative or nonregenerative. In a regenerative anemia, the bone marrow responds appropriately to the decreased number of red blood cells by increasing production of new blood cells. In a nonregenerative anemia, the bone marrow responds inadequately to the increased need for red blood cells. Anemias due to bleeding or the destruction of existing red blood cells are usually regenerative. Anemias that are caused by a decrease in the hormone that stimulates red blood cell production or by an abnormality in the bone marrow are nonregenerative.
Types of Anemia in Dogs
Several types of anemia can affect dogs, each with its own underlying cause:
- Blood Loss Anemia: This type results from significant blood loss due to injury, surgery, internal bleeding (caused by medications like NSAIDs or steroids, or conditions like parasites such as hookworms or severe flea infestations), bleeding tumors, or conditions affecting blood clotting.
- Hemolytic Anemia: This occurs when red blood cells are destroyed at an accelerated rate. Causes include toxins, infections, immune system defects, red blood cell trauma, and inherited red blood cell disorders. Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is a common cause, where the body attacks its own red blood cells.
- Aplastic or Non-Regenerative Anemia: This type arises from a decreased production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. It can be caused by nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, kidney disease, bone marrow diseases, or exposure to certain drugs and toxins.
- Methemoglobinemia: This condition involves an abnormal amount of methemoglobin in the blood, which impairs the ability of red blood cells to release oxygen to the tissues.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms
The signs of anemia in animals depend on the severity, the duration (short or long-term), and the underlying cause of the illness. Sudden anemia can result in shock and even death if more than a third of the blood volume is lost rapidly and not replaced. After rapid blood loss, the animal usually has an increased heart rate, pale gums, and low blood pressure. The cause of the blood loss may be obvious, for example, a major injury. If no evidence of external bleeding is found, your veterinarian will look for a source of internal or hidden blood loss, for example, a ruptured tumor on the spleen, a stomach ulcer, a bleeding disorder, or parasites. If red blood cells are being destroyed, the animal may appear jaundiced (a yellowish color of the whites of the eyes, skin, or gums). Animals with long-term anemia have had time to adjust, and their signs are usually slower to develop. These include loss of energy, weakness, and loss of appetite. Affected animals will have similar physical examination findings, such as pale gums, an increased heart rate, and possibly enlargement of the spleen or a heart murmur.
Based on the underlying cause, signs and symptoms of anemia in dogs may vary. They can include:
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- Pale gums and eyelids
- Lethargy and weakness
- Rapid breathing or fast pulse
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Swelling in the jaw or face
- Vomiting
- Black stools
Diagnosing Anemia in Dogs
A complete medical history is an important part of diagnosing anemia. Questions a veterinarian may ask include how long signs have been present; if there is a history of exposure to toxins such as rodent poisons, heavy metals, or toxic plants; what drug treatments and vaccinations the pet has had; where the pet has traveled; and any prior illnesses.
If you suspect your dog may be anemic, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care promptly. Your vet can perform tests to diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Diagnostics testing:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): This blood test provides information on the severity of the anemia, the degree of bone marrow response, and the condition of other types of blood cells. Anemic patients have low packed cell volume (PCV), RBC count, and hemoglobin concentration. PCV indicates the percentage of blood composed of RBCs. Total solids (TS) can be a more sensitive indicator of hemorrhage than PCV in initial stages especially with blood loss. A test should be performed to evaluate red blood cell size and shape and to check for red blood cell parasites
- Reticulocyte Count: Quantitative measurement of reticulocytes is the most important laboratory test that determines if anemia is regenerative or not.
- Cytology: RBC morphological changes on blood smear cytology can help determine the underlying cause of anemia.
- Slide Agglutination Test: A slide agglutination test can be performed to look for evidence of immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. Agglutination can occur because of antibody-mediated aggregation of RBCs.
- Biochemistry Panel: Additional blood and urine tests can be used to evaluate how well the internal organs are functioning. Abnormalities reflect the underlying disease. Total protein levels can be decreased in patients with blood loss. Patients with hemolytic disease can have hyperbilirubinemia. Elevated renal parameters can indicate chronic kidney disease. Marked hypophosphatemia can cause hemolytic anemia.
- Urinalysis: Hemoglobinuria may be present in patients with intravascular hemolysis, and bilirubinuria may be detected in cases of extravascular hemolysis or liver disease. Hematuria may occur with bleeding disorders. Other abnormalities may be present because of underlying disorders, such as diabetic ketoacidosis, chronic kidney disease, etc.
- Bone Marrow Evaluation: Bone marrow evaluation is typically done for any animal with an unexplained, nonregenerative anemia. Sampling the bone marrow requires sedation or anesthesia. Bone marrow aspirates or biopsies can be obtained to search for potential causes of anemia, especially in cases of persistent nonregenerative anemia. In one study of dogs with nonregenerative anemia, bone marrow examination was imperative in obtaining a final diagnosis in 9/14 cases.
- Diagnostic Imaging: Radiology and ultrasonography may be performed to search for underlying causes of the anemia.
Further testing may be required such as serology for various infectious agents; evaluation of fecal samples for intestinal parasites; serum iron profiles; coagulation profiles; blood lead measurement; endocrine testing (e.g. thyroid, cortisol assays); Anemia profiles.
Treating Anemia in Dogs
An online search for “treatments for anemia in dogs” will reveal a fair amount of advice and opinions on how to treat the condition. Make sure to check any advice with your veterinarian, and ask any questions you may have about recommended treatments or medications.
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Once the cause of your dog’s anemia has been established by diagnostic testing completed by your vet, a course of treatment can be recommended. Your vet may recommend one or a combination of these treatments:
- Deworming or parasite medications
- Antibiotics
- Gastrointestinal medication
- Potassium phosphate supplements
- Change to existing medications
- Surgery
- Bone marrow transfusion
- Intravenous fluids
- Blood transfusion
- Immunosuppressive drugs
Dietary Management of Canine Anemia
Nutritional deficiency anemias develop when the nutrients needed for red blood cell formation are not present in adequate amounts. Anemia develops gradually and may initially be regenerative, but ultimately becomes nonregenerative. Starvation causes anemia by a combination of vitamin and mineral deficiencies as well as a negative energy and protein balance. The deficiencies most likely to cause anemia are iron, copper, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin E.
A well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in supporting red blood cell production and overall health in anemic dogs. Here's how to incorporate iron-rich foods into your dog's diet:
Iron-Rich Foods
- Organ Meats: Liver, kidney, and spleen are excellent sources of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by dogs. Liver makes a great choice for helping to restore the iron levels in your dog's blood, but you do need to start your pooch out on a small amount as liver is very rich and can cause your companion to have diarrhea if you feed too much liver, too soon. Talk to your vet about the proper amount to feed your dog.
- Lean Meats: Beef, chicken, and turkey provide iron and high-quality protein, which are essential for red blood cell production.
- Fish: Tuna, sardines, and salmon are good sources of iron and omega-3 fatty acids, which support overall health.
- Egg Yolks: While containing a modest amount of iron, egg yolks are a well-rounded source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, avoid feeding raw eggs due to the risk of bacterial contamination.
- Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans are plant-based sources of iron and protein. Cook legumes thoroughly until soft throughout before feeding.
- Green Leafy Vegetables: Kale and spinach are excellent plant-based sources of iron and vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption. It’s also better to cook these vegetables for better digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Pumpkin Seeds: These seeds are rich in iron, zinc, magnesium, and healthy fats. However, avoid feeding them whole to prevent choking hazards.
Supplements
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C can help your dog’s body absorb iron from the intestinal tract. Depending on your dog’s size, 500 to 2,000 milligrams of the vitamin per day may be necessary.
- Iron Supplements: Your veterinarian may recommend oral iron supplements for anemic newborns.
Herbal Remedies
Certain herbs can support liver function, blood purification, and red blood cell production:
- Red Clover: A liver tonic and blood purifier, also a good source of calcium and potassium.
- Burdock Root: An excellent source of vitamins, iron, and magnesium, and a blood cleanser.
- Dandelion Root: A blood tonic rich in iron.
- Parsley: Contains iron and folate, deficiencies of which can cause anemia.
- Yellow Dock: A good source of iron and minerals for anemic patients.
Sample Diet
According to Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), “blood” is much more than the liquid red substance the heart pumps and travels through your veins. In TCVM, Blood nourishes and provides moisture for your dog’s entire body. It keeps your dog’s tendons, skin, and hair healthy, strong, and flexible. Blood lubricates the joints and nourishes the mind.
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Here is a sample recipe for a dog with anemia and dandruff:
- Cooked ground beef: 1 cup
- Cooked liver: 1/2 cup
- Cooked rice: 1 cup
- Cooked spinach: 1/2 cup
- Flaxseed oil: 1 tablespoon
- Calcium supplement 50mg/kg of body weight (22mg/lb of body weight) per day.
Important Considerations
- Consult Your Veterinarian: Before making any significant changes to your dog's diet or starting any new supplements, consult with your veterinarian.
- Start Slowly: Introduce new foods gradually to avoid digestive upset.
- Monitor Stool: Pay close attention to your dog's stool consistency when introducing new foods, especially liver, which can cause diarrhea if fed in excess.
- Balance is Key: Ensure your dog's diet is balanced and meets all their nutritional needs.
Additional Support
Besides addressing the underlying cause of anemia and implementing dietary changes, consider these supportive measures:
- Regular Exercise: Regular exercise will keep your dog healthy and active. A balanced diet coupled with exercise promotes production of more RBCs. Increased RBCs will help maintain oxygen levels across all the cells of the body.
- Support Gut Health: with 70-80% of the body’s immune system located in the gut, making it vital to maintain optimal gut health. This is because the gut microbiome significantly influences immune function and overall well-being.
- Medicinal Mushrooms: Turkey Tail, for example, contains protein-bound polysaccharopeptides that promote immune response by both activating and inhibiting specific types of immune cells and by suppressing inflammation.