My dog is very sick, very suddenly - Is there any hope?

Question

My 6 year old Italian Mastif dog has been diagnosed with Hemolytic Immune Anemia when we discovered he was passing blood in his urine and seemed lethargic. He was fine earlier that day, so it hit really fast. We googled the disease and the information was very grim.  I am so heartbroke! Has anyone had a pet with this diagnosis and did you have a positive outcome?  I am just torn to pieces!!! My vet says it's a fairly common illness but we've never heard of it, neither has anyone we've asked.

fstmny4 · Answer

The first question is, is this a secondary or primary immune hemolytic anemia? Its easily treated (usually) of course there are exceptions. Usually they do steroids such as prednisone to start. if its not responsive from there other means are implemented then... No worries. Your vet is obviously not stressed to much and said its a common thing, so no worries, see the pup responds to the prednizone before you go completely bonkers:)

? · Answer

IMHA tends to be much more common in dogs than in cats.IMHA is a very bad condition. About half of IMHA dogs do not survive once they are hospitalized. It is a terminal prognosis- the animal will die if it is not treated and unfortunately treatment is very expensive. The pet will need to be hospitalized for at least a week. It is very common for these cases to be referred to a specialty clinic for blood transfusions. The animal will be on steroids for a few months after, in order to keep the immune system from continuing to attack the red blood cells. Treating your pet for IMHA can possibly cost you a few thousand dollars. However, most dogs that recover from IMHA never get it again. These animals tend to have great long-term survival rates.  treating IMHA is a very tough decision to make. This decision should always be made with your veterinarian.

Anonymous · Answer

I don't think so,,,

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My dog is very sick, very suddenly - Is there any hope?

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