My dog has fluid retention. How to safely drain fluid for diagnosis?

Question

My dog is having problems with fluid retention and high white blood cell count - our vet believes he has either an infection or lymphoma based on blood work, but is unable to complete an ultrasound because of the fluid. We’ve been giving him a diuretic shot to drain the fluid, but it’s not clearing out very quickly. Our vet has suggested removing fluid with a syringe, but mentioned it could send our dog into a shock that could kill him. Are there other options we should consider for this? Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Male | unneutered | 9 years old | 80 lbs

Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA · Accepted Answer

I am so sorry to hear that Boxer isn’t doing well. Removing fluid can potentially cause shock, but it is not a common occurrence. As long as fluid is removed slowly and aim to removed 50% or so then the likelihood of shock is slim. Do you know what his albumin level is? If it is normal (not low), and his heart is functioning normally, and he is negative for heart worm disease then I would be very concerned about cancer. When fluid is drained some should be sent to the lab for analysis to help confirm or Rule out signs of cancer. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

My dog has fluid retention. How to safely drain fluid for diagnosis?

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