Low Platelet Count in Dogs?
I recently took my 7-year old female English mastiff to the vet for some blood work, because she wasn’t eating well–otherwise she appears to be healthy and looks great for her age. Urine tests were normal. The blood test, however showed that her platelet count was low. It was 87, and the normal lab values are 170-400. She’s not on any medication other than Advantage Multi Heartworm medication, occasional aspirin or Derramax for arthritis, neither of which she has had for several weeks, and estrogen for incontinence (she’s spayed).
Interestingly, I also have a 10-year old, diabetic Doberman, and routine blood tests showed that his platelet count was also low. His was 79.
What can be causing this? Neither dog has been exposed to ticks or other toxins. Both are on quality low carb/low fat/high protein diets–the Doberman has to be in order to keep his blood sugar under control. Both get multi-vitamins each day.
October 15th, 2011 at 3:36 am
I’m guessing here, but Dobermans are prone to Von Wilebrand’s, a clotting disorder. That’s a possibility.
If they both have low counts and both were tested by the same vet, using the same lab, the test could be off.
But if both dogs have the issue, I’d suspect something in the environment. That’s the simplest solution, and in the absence of other facts, usually the right one. (Occam’s Razor)
Onions and garlic could both cause hemolytic anemia. So could any plants with bulbs in your yard that they could be eating.
I’d take a look on the ASPCA site for plant, food and household toxins and then search your home and yard for them. Just in case.
Sorry I don’t have a better answer–just brainstorming here. Hopefully something helps! Or at least helps you rule something out.
i’m not sure if it will work though.
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