2 of 6

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

transfusions may be required for dogs with known bleeding problems. Dog owners can take precautions to prevent injury to their dog that can cause bleeding.

*Pyruvate Kinase deficiency

This is a hereditary hemolytic anemia that results from a shortage of an essential red blood cell enzyme. The enzyme, pyruvate kinase converts glucose to energy when oxygen is low. If the amount of pyruvate kinase is undersupplied, the red blood cells will break down faster than usual. This damage can result into hemolytic anemia. Canines with this deficiency usually die of myelobibrosis, osteosclerosis or liver failure by 5 years of age. There is no cure for Pyruvate Kinase deficiency.

*Canine Ehrlichiosis

A disease caused by the brown dog tick. This disease infects different blood cells in several animal species as well as humans. The signs of this disease are divided into three stages: acute, subclinical and chronic. There are drugs to treat this disease but in severe cases of anemia or bleeding, a blood transfustion may be required.

*Anemia

Anemia is described as having a reduced number of red blood cells or hemoglobin or both. Symptoms include a loss of the pink color in the gums, decreased endurance and weakness. Life-threatening anemia is treated with blood transfusions.

Even if your pet appears to be in good health, veterinarians recommend having a full blood work-up done on dogs when they are age six and older. This can help catch any conditions early and offer piece of mind to you and a long future for your pet.
References:
THE EVERYTHING DOG HEALTH BOOK by Debra Eldgredge, Kim Campbell Thornton copyright 2005
http://www.upei.ca/cidd/Diseas es/clinical%20pathology/Basset %20hound%20thrombopathia.htm
http://www.canismajor.com/dog/ autoimmn.html
http://www.cats-and-dogs-on-th e-web.com/blog-possibledogbloo ddisorders.html

Learn more about this author, Angela Pollock.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about Blood diseases in dogs?
We want to hear your view. Write now!