Help, I’m really worried and could use some advice! I just got back from the vet with my dog, Luna, and I'm trying to make sense of her blood work results. The vet explained some of it, but I felt so overwhelmed that I couldn't take it all in. Luna’s been acting a bit off lately—she's not as energetic and has been drinking way more water than usual. Her blood work shows elevated levels of something called ALP and something else related to her liver. What does that mean? Has anyone else dealt with this? I'm freaking out a bit and could really use some guidance or personal experiences to help me understand what might be going on and what I should do next. Thank you so much in advance!
Thanks for reaching out with your question! Understanding your dog's blood work can definitely be a bit daunting, but I'm here to help you break it down.
Blood tests give us a good look at how your dog’s organs—like the liver and kidneys—are functioning, and whether there are any signs of infection or other health issues. Some common components you'll see include red and white blood cell counts, which inform us about your dog's immune health and potential anemia. Electrolytes, like sodium and potassium, help us understand hydration levels and organ function.
Occasionally, values might be slightly off without indicating a serious problem, such as minor dehydration or stress. At home, ensure your dog is drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet. Also, keep an eye on their energy levels, appetite, and behavior for any changes.
It's important to watch for serious signs like persistent vomiting, diarrhea, dramatic weight loss, or unusual lethargy, as these could indicate underlying health issues needing immediate attention.
If you’re finding your dog's blood work results confusing or unclear, I recommend booking a video consult with our team at Dial A Vet. They can offer detailed insights tailored to your dog's specific situation and guide you on the next steps.
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