Help, I'm really concerned and need some advice about my dog's recent blood work. I have a wonderful seven-year-old Labrador named Charlie, and we just got his test results back from the vet. The thing that's really baffling me is that his potassium levels haven't changed at all since his last test six months ago, even though we've been following the vet's advice to adjust his diet. I was under the impression that the new food and supplements would help regulate things, but now I’m just worried we're missing something important. Does anyone know if this is normal or what this might mean for his health? The vet didn’t seem overly concerned, but I can’t shake the feeling that something's off. He's been a bit lethargic, too, which isn’t like his usual energetic self. I’d really appreciate any insights or similar experiences you could share!
Thanks for your question. When it comes to blood work, seeing consistent potassium levels might seem puzzling, but let’s break it down. Potassium is crucial for your dog's heart and muscle function, so it's good news that the levels are steady, as it indicates stability in these areas.
Consistent potassium levels can occur for several reasons. If your dog is healthy and hasn't shown signs of illness, it might simply mean that their body efficiently regulates potassium. However, a stable but abnormal level (either high or low) could indicate underlying issues, such as kidney disease, hormone imbalances, or the effects of certain medications.
At home, keep an eye on your dog's behavior. Watch for symptoms like excessive thirst, changes in urination, weakness, or lethargy, as these could suggest a potassium imbalance or other health issues.
If you notice any of these signs, or if the blood work results seem unclear or concerning, it’s important to take a closer look. To gain more insight specific to your dog's health, consider booking a video consult with one of our Dial A Vet experts. They'll help interpret the results in the context of your dog's overall health and guide you on the next steps.
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