Newly Diagnosed IMHA 9 Year Old Lab Levels Dropped

[Kara Brown]

Hi everyone! I never thought I’d be in this position but am super grateful to have found this resource online. My 9 year old lab, Wiley, was diagnosed with IMHA on 8/15. Long story short – I came back from vacation where Wiley had been with my mother for a week to find him as sick as I’ve ever seen him. I rushed him to the ER vet and they soon figured out that his PCV levels were at 14. After two blood transfusions and medication his levels went to 37 by Friday. I just had him at his one month check up and was disappointed to find that his levels have dropped down to 32. He’s been very tired but otherwise has a great appetite. He has lost ~15 lbs but was a bit overweight to begin with. The vet said it’s likely muscle loss combined with weight loss from the pred. I am waiting to hear back from my vet once she talks to the ER vet to get a game plan. She said he’s not in the danger zone but I am finding myself constantly on edge. Are there any types of supplements or foods I can be giving him or things I can be doing on my end besides administering his medications properly + having him rest? I so appreciate any types of suggestions or encouragement. I am so scared I’m never going to get my happy go lucky buddy back.

[Vally]

Hi Kara, I’m so sorry to hear about Wiley.

I know you are very worried but it sounds as though Wiley is doing good. If he’s at 32 after a month, it sounds as though he is stable, although he is still anaemic at the moment.

What meds is Wiley on? The prednisone takes quite a toll and make sure it’s always given with food as it’s very harsh on the stomach and can cause ulcers. Stomach protection is important too.

Pet Tinic is a supplement you could add. Keeping him quiet right now is a good thing.

When the vet feels it’s safe to start reducing the prednisone, be careful not to reduce it too quickly. Unless Wiley needs to come down for some serious reason, keep the reductions at about 25-30% and then wait a few weeks and see how he’s going. I always noticed a drop in blood count on the reductions, but it usually recovered soon afterwards. It’s as though the body needs to work things out again.

Ask anything, we’re happy to help.

Regards, Vally.