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My very sick puppy is lethargic with low blood counts. What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 17 days old | 5.3 lbs

here are the blood reports of my puppy.my puppies blood reports just came as he was very sick. hemoglobin is only 5 and the platelets are just 80,000. our vet has only given us some more homeopathic meds and says he'll be fine. he's right now very lethargic, not even wanting to move. what according to you should be done for him and if the needed treatment is given properly, will he survive? he's eating and drinking well but had a little diarrhoeal poop. no vimiting.his gums are very very pale..

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on December 9th, 2018

Puppies usually have lower red cell values than adults since they don't have as many red blood cells yet. But 16% is a little low for a puppy. Has your vet tested for intestinal parasites? Hookworms (and fleas and ticks) can remove a surprising amount of blood from a small puppy. Another cause of anemia with normal white blood cell values are blood diseases such as tick-borne disease. If a puppy is able to eat a good-quality puppy food and the cause of the anemia is treated, they will be able to replace the lost blood cells over time.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Elva Ma DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 30th, 2018
Hello, and thank you for your question. Puppies often have lower red blood cell counts than adults. If Jack is doing well, with good energy and appetite, then I would consider this normal for his age and not worry any further.

However, if Jack's energy levels are low, and he is eating poorly and not gaining weight, then I would worry more about a systemic illness. Did you confirm that he was fully and successfully treated for fleas? Often fleas need 2-3 treatments to fully clear. I would also make sure that Jack was fully dewormed and had a parasite test to check for worms as well. Certain tick-borne diseases can also cause anemia, such as Babesia. There is a blood test that can check for tick-borne illnesses. I would talk to your vet about these possible tests if you are concerned.

I hope this helps, and that Jack is doing better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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