How to Treat Anemia in Dogs at Home?

Dogs can develop many health conditions, some minor and some serious. One relatively common health problem in dogs is anemia. Here are some tips on helping your dog recover from anemia.

What is anemia in dogs?

Anemia is a condition in which a dog does not have enough hemoglobin in the red blood cells. This is the substance that carries oxygen to all the cells in the body.

What causes anemia in dogs?

A dog can develop anemia for various reasons, such as:

• Blood loss from an injury or accident can lead to anemia. Dogs can also suffer severe blood loss due to internal bleeding from conditions such as stomach ulcers, intestinal bleeding, or certain cancers.
• Nutritional deficiencies like iron deficiency or B vitamin deficiency can cause anemia.
• Health conditions like kidney disease, Cushing’s disease, and hypothyroidism may be associated with anemia in dogs.
• Infectious diseases like canine distemper, parvovirus, hookworm, and Lyme disease can also cause anemia.
• Exposure to certain poisons and toxins and some medications are potential causes of anemia in dogs.
• Dogs can develop anemia due to poor nutrition, (read tips on a healthy diet for dogs).
• Some dogs have inherited conditions that cause low red blood cells and anemia.
• Certain breeds like Shih Tzus, Miniature Schnauzers, Cocker Spaniels, and Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to anemia.

What are the symptoms and signs of anemia in dogs?

Common signs and symptoms of anemia in dogs include lethargy, fatigue, lack of energy, loss of appetite, weight loss, black stools, pale gums and eyes, swelling of the face, vomiting, fast pulse, and rapid breathing.

Is anemia serious in dogs?

Anemia can be a sign of a serious and potentially fatal condition in dogs. If your dog has signs of anemia, you should get him or her checked out by the veterinarian as soon as possible.

Can a dog recover from anemia?

Whether or not a dog can recover from anemia depends on the cause. Most forms of anemia in dogs are treatable. However, some types of inherited anemias may not be curable. Also, older dogs with chronic anemia may never completely recover as their health continues to deteriorate with age.

What is the fastest way to cure anemia in dogs?

Your dog’s veterinarian will recommend a treatment plan based on what is causing the anemia. Treatments may include intravenous fluids, blood transfusions, gastrointestinal medications, deworming medicines, antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, surgery, or bone marrow transplant.

How to treat anemia in dogs with home remedies?

Give your dog iron- and vitamin-rich foods, such as red meat (beef liver), canned sardines, green vegetables, beans, chickpeas, and eggs (here are some tips on preparing eggs for dogs). Always talk to the vet before starting your dog on a new diet.

If your pet has a vitamin deficiency, ask your vet if you should give them a dietary supplement for dogs that can fill any gaps in your pet’s diet.

Make sure your dog gets regular exercise. Physical activity, combined with a healthy diet, can promote formation of more red blood cells.

How to prevent anemia in dogs?

Take routine precautions like protecting your pet from toxins that can cause anemia, seizures, and other health problems.

Do not give your pet any human foods that can be toxic for dogs. Instead, feed your dog a balanced, healthy diet.

Protect your dog against parasitic, bacterial, and viral infections by vaccinating appropriately. Use vet-recommended flea, tick, and intestinal infection prevention methods. If you regularly walk your dog in the woods, talk to your vet about preventing infections from wildlife and other animals.

13 January, 2023