How To The number of platelets in dogs should be increased.
Platelets help form clot when an injury occurs so that bleeding will stop.The condition of low platelet counts in dogs is called thrombocytopenia.Low platelet counts can happen to any breed of dog at any age.It is possible for your dog to recover its platelet levels with veterinary treatment.You can support your dog's recovery by reducing its activity level and protecting it from injury.
Step 1: You should watch for unexplained bruised skin.
It's possible to bleed under your skin.Since a dog with low platelets has blood that doesn't clot correctly, it can occur due to your pet's normal activities, like playing or going for a walk.It's important to remember that a single bruise doesn't mean your dog is sick.
Step 2: If your dog is sleepy, you should notice.
The dog may not be interested in play if you notice it lying around a lot.It may not want to go for a walk or play with its toys.Your dog may need a vet check if it seems tired and disinterested.Don't assume your dog has a low platelet count because there are many different causes for lethargy in dogs.
Step 3: Check your dog's nose for mucus.
The mucus may be dripping down its nose, or it may feel wet and sticky.mucus streaks can be seen on your dog's fur or around your home, so be on the lookout.Similar to the other symptoms of low platelet counts, mucus streaks have other causes.
Step 4: Your dog is coughing a lot.
It won't go away easily if you have too much mucus.Your dog's cough could be a hacking cough or phlegm.To find out why your dog is coughing, you need to take it to the vet.
Step 5: If your dog has tar-like stools, you should notice them.
This happens from the blood in the GI tract.If your dog's blood isn't clotting right, it may have bleeding in its stomach, which will result in black feces.There is no need to be afraid when your dog's poop changes colors.It is possible for your vet to find out what is causing your dog's symptoms.
Step 6: If your dog has a heart murmur, ask your vet to check it.
Don't attempt to pulse or take your dog's temperature.It's easy to make a mistake if you aren't trained.To see if your dog has these symptoms, ask your vet to evaluate it.The dog might move and get injured if you take your dog's temperature at home.Feelings of the dog's nose or ears are not a reliable way to measure its temperature.
Step 7: If your dog collapses or has bleeding, you should see your vet.
Immediate vet care is required for both of these symptoms.If you get your dog treated in time, your vet may still be able to help.If it is after your vet's normal office hours, you can search online to find out if there is an emergency vet service in your area.
Step 8: Diagnostic tests can be used to determine the cause.
Several conditions can cause low platelet counts in dogs.Infections, immune system disorders, and leukemia and lymphoma are some of the common causes.The cause of your dog's condition will determine the best treatment.A will determine if your dog's platelet counts are low.It will help the vet find out if the dog's immune system is attacking its own platelets.It is possible to show if your dog has internal injuries.Your dog can be checked for internal injuries and tumors.Your doctor may not need to do this test to rule out cancer and bone marrow exhaustion.
Step 9: If you want to increase your dog's platelet levels, talk to your vet.
Depending on what is causing your dog's low platelets, your vet may prescribe several different medications.There is no standard treatment for a low platelet count.Your vet may be able to give your dog a medication that will boost its platelets quickly, though the effects will wear off over time.They may be able to give your dog romiplostim, which increases platelet levels.If an injury occurs, a boost to your dog's platelet count can save his life.An autoimmune disease, which causes the body to attack its own platelets, is one of the most common causes of low platelets in dogs.High doses of steroids can be used in the treatment of autoimmune disease.If your dog doesn't respond well to steroid treatment, your vet may recommend that you supplement the steroids with chemotherapy.
Step 10: If your dog needs a blood transfusion, you should allow it.
If your dog has a low platelet count, it can receive a blood transfusion.If the vet thinks a blood transfusion will help your dog recover faster, they may give it to you.The platelets in the blood will help your dog's condition.The vet is most likely to do the transfusion in their office.Your vet will most likely keep your dog overnight since low platelet counts usually result from a serious medical condition.In rare cases, the vet will need to replace all of the blood in your dog's body.The dog's platelet counts can be raised.The underlying cause of your pet's condition may cause the healthy platelets to be destroyed, which may only result in a temporary improvement.
Step 11: Follow your vet's treatment plan.
It is possible to give your pet medication for 3-4 months.If a dog completes their treatment, they can recover from low platelet counts.If your dog's immune system is attacking its platelets, it may be placed on immunosuppressive therapy.If the vet diagnoses leukemia or lymphoma, it may receive cancer treatments.Depending on the cause of the low platelet count, your dog will need treatment.
Step 12: Soft food is easier on the dog's teeth.
Since the gums are soft, it's easy to make them bleed.This can be a serious injury for a pup with low platelets.Until the vet tells you your dog is fine, stick to a balanced soft dog food.
Step 13: To help your dog recover, reduce its activity level.
Your dog needs to rest.A lower activity level helps protect your dog.Even a small bruise can cause your dog to be too active.Encourage your dog to lay on a soft blanket while it heals.Before you bring your dog back to its normal activity level, talk to your vet.
Step 14: There are items in your dog's environment that could cause injury.
Your dog's blood won't clot well if it gets injured while its platelet counts are low.Even a small bruise can be life threatening to a dog with low platelets.To make sure your dog is protected, go through your home.Don't leave items lying on the floor, make sure the shelves are secure, and check the doors and cabinets are open.It is possible to put padding on furniture corners.
Step 15: Supervise your dog while on a walk.
Your dog is more vulnerable when it's around other animals.It's easy to see something on a walk that could hurt your dog.It's not possible to predict how animals will act.While your dog is in recovery, be careful.If you can, keep your dog away from other animals and walk it in an area you know well.