Companion Animals

Companion Animal Welfare and Canine Immune Disease Management

Immune-mediated diseases in dogs including IMHA and immune polyarthritis cause significant suffering, with 2026 bringing improved treatment protocols.

Key Facts

Immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia (IMHA) has a mortality rate of 20-30% even with treatment
IMHA causes rapid destruction of red blood cells, causing severe anaemia and welfare compromise
Immunosuppression with prednisolone and additional agents reduces immune attack on red blood cells
Blood transfusions provide welfare support during the acute phase of IMHA
Mycophenolate mofetil has reduced relapse rates in dogs with IMHA in recent studies

Welfare Considerations

Immune diseases cause acute, serious welfare compromise. Prompt diagnosis and aggressive immunosuppression prevent the worst welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Seek emergency veterinary care promptly for dogs showing acute weakness or pale gums
Understand that IMHA treatment requires weeks of close monitoring
Be prepared for the financial and time commitment required for successful IMHA management