Use of enoxaparin in dogs with primary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia: 21 cases.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the complications and frequency of thrombosis associated with the use of enoxaparin, a low molecular weight heparin, in dogs with primary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA).

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

SETTING

Two privately owned veterinary referral hospitals.

ANIMALS

Twenty-one client-owned dogs with primary IMHA.

INTERVENTIONS

Dogs were treated with enoxaparin (0.8 mg/kg subcutaneously every 6 h) as the sole anticoagulation therapy starting at admission to the hospital.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Only 2 dogs had minor hemorrhagic complications associated with enoxaparin therapy. Frequency of thrombosis was not assessed. Long-term survival was comparable to other anticoagulation protocols reported for dogs with primary IMHA.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of enoxaparin was safe in a small group of dogs with primary IMHA. Whether enoxaparin therapy can reduce mortality and thrombotic complications in dogs with primary IMHA compared with other anticoagulation protocols remains unknown.