My dog has low platelets. How did the vet rule out rat poison?

Question

So my dog was seen by a vet and he thinks it a possible tick born illness. All the blood work came back normal except for a really low platelet count. I'm curious how he would have ruled out rat poison. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 10 years and 11 months old | 55 lbs

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA · Accepted Answer

Anti-coagulant rat poisons affect something called secondary hemostasis - they have no effect on platelet count. This type of toxicity can be ruled out by doing a coagulation profile, or PT/PTT test. Many vet clinics can do this in-house. If you have concerns, I would recommend asking your vet about this - he/she should be happy to explain the testing that was done and how to interpret the results.

My dog has low platelets. How did the vet rule out rat poison?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?

Share