This is a Blood condition.
Von Willebrand Disease Type I, Type I vWD
What is Type I vWD?
Von Willebrand Disease (vWD) is a type of coagulopathy, a disorder of blood clotting. vWD is characterized into three types based on clinical severity, serum levels of vWF, and vWF multimer composition. Dogs with Type I vWD have low vWF levels, normal multimer composition, and variable clinical signs.
What are the signs & symptoms that develop in affected dogs?
Affected dogs may show no obvious clinical signs or they may bruise easily and excessively bleed from small wounds. Affected puppies may bleed excessively from their mouth when teething.
When do signs and symptoms develop?
This disease is typically diagnosed in puppies or young adults when they are spayed or neutered and have a problem with clotting. However, it can be diagnosed at any age.
How do vets diagnose this condition?
vWD is diagnosed through genetic testing and blood testing at a laboratory. Veterinarians may also nick a dog’s lip with a sterile needle and time how long it takes for clotting to occur.
How is this condition treated?
vWD cannot be treated, only managed. Preventing injuries is goal number one. If your dog requires surgery, your veterinarian should be warned that excessive bleeding may occur and blood products need to be on hand in case a transfusion is required.
What actions should I take if my dog is affected?
- Prevention is key! Minimizing the risk of trauma and informing your veterinarian so that surgeries can be carefully planned are the best ways to prevent a catastrophic outcome.
- Be aware of the location of the nearest emergency veterinary hospital in case of an accident.
