Our Vets are Available 🟢
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.
Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial Guidelines
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
Resources
Lorem ipsum dolor
PricingHow it WorksContact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Could this have been IMHA?

I'm really hoping for some insight because I'm absolutely heartbroken and confused right now. My 3-year-old golden retriever, Max, was full of energy and happiness just days ago. But suddenly, he became lethargic, lost his appetite, and his gums looked so pale. I rushed him to the vet, and they suspected anemia but couldn’t pinpoint exactly why. Tragically, he passed away before we could dig deeper. Someone mentioned Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA) to me, and now I'm spiraling, wondering if that could have been the cause. I wasn't even aware of what IMHA was until now. Has anyone else experienced something like this? What were the signs or symptoms your pet showed? I’m desperate for answers and could use some support from those who’ve been through similar experiences. Thank you so much.

Answer:

Hello! I’m glad you reached out with your concern. Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA) is indeed a serious condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms often include lethargy, pale or yellow gums, rapid breathing, and dark urine.



While I can’t diagnose online, there are many other potential causes for similar symptoms. Other anemia causes include blood loss due to injury, parasites, or nutritional deficiencies. Sometimes even toxins or infections can play a role.



At home, make sure your pet is resting comfortable in a calm environment. Encouraging gentle, short bursts of movement might be helpful if they are willing, but don't push if they seem too tired. Keep providing fresh water to prevent dehydration.



Watch for worsening signs: extreme weakness, difficulty breathing, or collapse. These indicate an urgent need for veterinary care.



To gain a clearer understanding of your pet's health, I’d recommend scheduling a video consult with us on Dial A Vet. We can help guide you through these symptoms and discuss next steps in detail. Your peace of mind and your pet’s health are always our top priorities!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 19, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Idiopathic chylothorax, fluid every 2-3 days. How many chest taps?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sudden concerning symptoms in dog w/ CHF starting furosemide
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cats & steroids (the M E O W edition)
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cat in her last 24 hours of life - ok to stop some meds?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links