English Sheepdog with Mild Anemia

Question

I have an older large breed dog (ten years old, Old English Sheepdog). He has a heart problem, and takes medication to control it. He's also on meds for arthritis in his knees. He's been on that for much of his life (chronic problems from a very young age), but he's managing well. Recently our vet said that he is very mildly anemic and that it isn't anything to be worried about. I certainly wouldn't want to medicate him unnecessarily, but was wondering if there is anything diet based that might help with the anemia. Any suggestions?

Thank you very much,

Tracie Scott

Answer

Dear Pet Owner,

Mild anemia in an older animal is not unusual and if he is doing ok otherwise, don't worry about it-just continue to monitor it.

Dr. Baeyens