Companion Animals

Dog Canine Anaemia: Causes, Recognition and Emergency Care

Acute anaemia in dogs from various causes requires rapid recognition and emergency treatment to prevent welfare deterioration.

Key Facts

Anaemia causes weakness, pale gums, and exercise intolerance in affected dogs
Causes include IMHA, blood loss, haemolysis, and bone marrow disease
Packed cell volume below 15% requires emergency blood transfusion in most cases
Blood typing and crossmatching reduce transfusion reaction risk in dogs requiring transfusion

Welfare Considerations

Severe anaemia causes breathlessness, collapse, and organ failure from inadequate oxygen delivery. The progressive nature of deterioration means owner recognition of pale gums and sudden weakness as emergency signs is life-critical. Emergency blood transfusion is life-saving but requires specialist facilities.

What You Can Do

Know that pale or white gums in a dog are always an emergency - seek immediate veterinary care
Be aware of IMHA warning signs in Cocker Spaniels and other predisposed breeds
Support veterinary practices and blood banks that maintain canine blood donor programmes