- Anemia in dogs has many possible causes, and it can range in severity from mild to severe. Severe anemia is life threatening and requires immediate veterinary care.
- Anemia results from a loss or destruction of red blood cells or from a failure of the body to produce enough red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body; therefore, anemia can cause lethargy (tiredness) and exercise intolerance (difficulty exercising).
- Anemia is not contagious. However, anemia can be caused by infectious diseases, such as ehrlichiosis, which is transmitted through a tick bite.
- Immediate treatment of severe anemia may require a blood transfusion to replace lost red blood cells. Treatment is based on the diagnosis of the underlying cause of the anemia.
- Certain causes of anemia may be preventable. For example, to reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases that may cause anemia, regular flea and tick prevention, as recommended by your veterinarian, is advisable.
From: vetlearn.com