Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog's anemic, on iron. Can't afford transfusion. Any alternatives?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 9 years old | 29 lbs

My dogs blood count is at 9 and I don’t have the money to give him a blood transfusion. Any alternatives? I’m currently giving him nutrived bcomplex plus iron liquid twice a day

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on January 8th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Thanks for providing the blood work. Did you allow the belly X-rays. The Vet thinks they felt a mass in Big Mac's belly. That makes me think that he most likely has a tumor in his belly that ruptured and he is bleeding internally. He needs surgery to remove the mass and to biopsy it to see if it is cancer or benign. But he will absolutely need a blood transfusion before surgery. If you can not afford to do further testing, a transfusion and surgery I would highly recommend considering Big Mac's quality of life. He is suffering. That low level of anemia is making him feel weak, light headed and blood in the belly is painful. I am so sorry. I hope this helps you in some way

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello. I am so sorry for your situation with Big Mac, but did your veterinarian go over the results with you? There is a very strong indication that there is a tumor in his abdomen that is bleeding, most likely a hemangiosarcoma. Unless the tumor is removed, all a blood transfusion would do is buy Mac a few days to a week until his blood volume falls again. Unless surgery is in his future, I would not recommend the blood transfusion, especially since you have declined further diagnostics. Keep Big Mac warm & as hydrated as possible. You can continue the vitamins, but since this is not a nutritional anemia, it will not correct the problem. These tumors will sometimes stop bleeding on their own and at some point start up again. Again, I am so sorry for this devastating diagnosis. Love & cherish him for all you can. Take care.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored