Immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia (IMHA) is a life-threatening condition where a dog's immune system attacks its own red blood cells, causing severe anaemia, distress, and requiring intensive treatment.
IMHA causes substantial suffering. Dogs experience the physical distress of severe anaemia — weakness, breathlessness, and disorientation — alongside the stress of hospitalisation, IV lines, blood draws, and unfamiliar handling. Immunosuppressive treatment with steroids often causes side effects including increased thirst, hunger, urination, and behavioural changes. The prolonged treatment period (months of medication tapering) is demanding for both dogs and owners. Recurrence is common, adding to the burden. However, with prompt diagnosis and aggressive treatment, many dogs recover and can return to a good quality of life. Early veterinary attention is critical to welfare outcomes.