Companion Animals

Immune-Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia in Dogs: Welfare and Treatment

Understanding IMHA in dogs and how intensive treatment can restore welfare.

Key Facts

IMHA causes the immune system to destroy red blood cells
Can be primary (idiopathic) or secondary to infection, drugs, or cancer
Presents as sudden weakness, pale gums, rapid breathing, and jaundice
Blood transfusions and immunosuppressive therapy are mainstays of treatment

Welfare Considerations

IMHA is a welfare emergency — affected dogs experience profound weakness, breathlessness, and distress. Intensive care including transfusions and immunosuppression is required. Welfare priorities include pain management, minimising stressful procedures, and monitoring for treatment side effects during recovery.

What You Can Do

Seek emergency veterinary care for any dog with pale gums or sudden collapse
Monitor dogs on immunosuppressive therapy for infection signs
Ask your vet about long-term monitoring after IMHA recovery to detect relapse