Thrombus and Blood Clots: Risks and Care for Dogs

Blood clotting is vital for healing wounds and recovering from injuries in dogs, but when clots form inappropriately, they pose serious health risks. A blood clot, or thrombus, can block circulation in vessels or travel to vital organs, potentially causing life-threatening conditions like stroke.

Understanding how thrombi form, recognising potential risk factors, and spotting symptoms early can help you protect your dog. Prompt veterinary attention is essential, especially for severe conditions like aortic thrombosis (saddle thrombus), which can cause sudden paralysis and severe pain.

How Do Dogs Develop a Thrombus?

Normally, blood clotting is an essential, healthy process. However, thrombi form due to factors such as restricted blood flow, injury to blood vessels, or increased clotting tendencies. Common contributors include:

• Extended periods of immobility, such as postoperative recovery or enforced rest which can cause blood pooling in limbs.
• Autoimmune disorders increasing blood thickness and clotting propensity.
• Hypothyroidism affecting blood coagulation.
• Blood and bone marrow diseases, including leukaemia.
• Circulatory abnormalities causing venous or arterial narrowing.
• Anaemia and metabolic conditions.

Such issues increase the risk that a thrombus will form and block blood flow, leading to tissue damage or organ impairment. Your vet will advise you if your dog has specific risks and precautions to reduce them.

Symptoms of Thrombus in Dogs

Symptoms depend on where the clot forms but often go unnoticed until they become dangerous. Signs may include:

• Coldness, paralysis, or unusual sensations in limbs or tail, which the dog may try to relieve by movement or shaking.
• Respiratory problems like shortness of breath and exercise intolerance if the heart or lungs are affected.
• Absence or weakening of the pulse in affected areas.
• Sudden hind limb weakness or paralysis indicating a saddle thrombus, a critical blockage at the aortic junction impairing blood flow to the rear limbs.

Because thrombus symptoms vary widely, staying alert to changes in your dog's mobility, behaviour, or breathing is crucial. Immediate veterinary attention is needed for sudden or severe signs.

Treatment and Prevention

Thrombi can cause severe tissue damage or dangerous embolism if clots migrate to major organs. Treatment involves urgent veterinary care focused on:

• Keeping your dog still to prevent clot dislodgement.
• Administration of blood thinners and fluid therapy under close supervision.
• Addressing underlying medical conditions contributing to clot risk.

Treatment success varies, with some clot types like saddle thrombus having a poor prognosis. Responsible management includes encouraging movement as advised by your vet and monitoring at-risk dogs carefully.

Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes, so know the warning signs and seek help promptly.

Key Points to Remember

• Thrombus formation can be a hidden but serious threat to your dog's health.
• Saddle thrombus is a critical emergency causing sudden paralysis, severe pain, and often linked to heart disease.
• Symptoms vary widely and may involve limbs, respiratory system, or systemic signs.
• Immediate veterinary care is essential for diagnosis and treatment.
• Prevention involves managing underlying conditions and promoting healthy mobility.

Being aware of thrombus risks and symptoms in dogs is vital to protect their well-being. Always consult your vet if you suspect any related health concerns or observe sudden changes in your pet. Responsible dog ownership includes vigilance and swift veterinary engagement in emergencies.