Introduction
Von Willebrand disease is condition which can cause a serious, and sometimes deadly, bleeding disorder in dogs. The disease interferes with normal blood clotting functions, and a result excessive bleeding can occur from even light injuries. Von Willebrand disease cannot be cured, but there are treatments that can help to manage the disease and increase the chances of recovery after an event of excessive bleeding.
Treating Von Willebrand Disease
One of the main treatment options for Von Willebrand disease is early diagnosis and prevention. Von Willebrand disease causes unexplained bleeding, and pet owners who notice this symptom in their otherwise healthy dog should have their dog screened for the disease immediately. Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, pet owners can take a number of precautions to help prevent further bleeding incidences.
Dogs with Von Willebrand disease should not engage in rough play. Even light injuries to the joints and body should be carefully avoided. Soft food and treats may need to be given if hard food causes excessive bleeding of the gums, and no hard bones, cookies, or chewies should be available. Dog’s with Von Willebrand disease also have a tendency to develop a hypothyroid condition. Yearly thyroid tests should be performed every year, and if a hypothyroid condition does develop life long oral medications can help to control the condition.
In the event of excessive and life threatening bleeding, the only treatment option for dogs with Von Willebrand’s disease is transfusions of blood from dogs that do not carry the disease. In some cases massive amounts of blood are needed until the blood is finally able to begin clotting.