Anemia is caused by an underlying condition that is causing the depletion of essential parts of a dog’s circulatory system, and is many times treated with a drug called Winstrol®. When a dog is anemic, he has a significantly reduced amount of red blood cells and/or hemoglobin.
Anemia Explained
Anemia is most often the result of a dog’s body not being able to produce red blood cells or iron fast enough to replace those lost as a result of an underlying cause. A dog can become anemic if he has a parasite, has been bleeding internally, has an autoimmune disease or has cancer. An injury that has caused excessive bleeding, fleas and ticks, hypothyroidism or a condition that prevents a dog’s blood from clotting, can also lead to anemia.
Symptoms of Anemia and Diagnosis
One of the most obvious signs of anemia in a dog is the loss of the dark pink or red color in his gums. An anemic dog will also be very tired and lack energy.
When anemia is suspected, a veterinarian will do a PCV (packed cell volume) test. This test involves spinning the blood sample in a centrifuge in order to separate the red blood cells from the plasma. In a healthy dog, the red blood cells make up at least 35% or more of the blood.
Anemia Treatment with Winstrol®
Winstrol® is an anabolic steroid, which is related to testosterone. Anabolic steroids promote the production of red blood cells and can build up body tissue. This drug can also help a dog rebuild his strength and appetite if he has been ill. Winstrol® is a government controlled substance and can only be acquired with a prescription from a veterinarian who has a DEA license.
Winstrol® can be injected into a dog or can be given as 2 mg tablets for a dog to take orally. The dosage and frequency of the drug will be determined by your vet. The amount of time a dog will need to take Winstrol® depends on the severity of his condition, and how he is reacting to the drug. Unless there are adverse reactions to the drug, a dog will need to take the dosage requirements until the cycle is completed, even if the dog seems to be feeling better.
Side Effects of Winstrol®
Winstrol® should not be given to dogs that are pregnant. Doing so can cause undeveloped female fetuses to develop male characteristics.
Winstrol® should be used with great caution in dogs with heart or kidney problems. Prolonged use of the drug has been known to cause behavioral changes, and can result in damage to a dog’s liver.
Other drugs a dog is taking can have an adverse reaction with Winstrol®, if taken together. These drugs include insulin, warfarin and other types of steroids. Your vet needs to be made aware of the medications your dog is taking, even over the counter medicines.
Anemia is often the result of a serious underlying condition. With a thorough evaluation and a treatment plan that may include Winstrol®, a dog can regain his strength and have a good quality of life.