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My dog has anemia, abdominal fluid, and vet says short time. What can I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 13 years old | 96 lbs

My dog became unable to walk long distances a month ago but only sometimes. His blood work came back anemic. A sonogram showed fluid in the abdomen. The vet took a sample and it was abnormal blood cells with clotting. He is walking a mile and eating, drinking but his stool is loose and orange in color. The vet gave him a week or less to live. Is there anything I can do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 17th, 2018

Hello, sorry to hear about Joba. With hemp-abdomens (blood in the abdomen) about 80% of them are associated with some sort of tumor, most commonly hemangiosarcomas. Of these, 50% have spread to other parts of the body at the time of diagnosis. You can consider having surgery to stop the bleeding, however, this may only buy you 1-3 months. If you are inclined to have further diagnostics and would consider surgery, I would recommend having him re-evaluted by your veterinarian to discuss these options with them. They may refer you to an emergency center as Joba may need a transfusion to be a good candidate for surgery. Hope this helps and best of luck.
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