The Impacts of Folic Acid on Hematological Parameters in German Shepherd Dogs with Parvovirus-Induced Anemia

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Baft Branch, Baft, Iran

2 Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Baft Branch, Baft, Iran

Abstract

Canine parvovirus often causes anemia in dogs, presenting significant therapeutic challenges. This study evaluated the effectiveness of folic acid supplementation in improving hematological parameters in German Shepherd dogs with parvovirus-induced anemia. Forty German Shepherd dogs diagnosed with parvovirus-induced anemia were randomly assigned to two groups: the control group received standard treatment alone, and the experimental group was administered 5 mg of folic acid daily in addition to standard treatment for two weeks. Significant improvements were observed in hematocrit, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration in the experimental group (p<0.05). No significant differences were observed in mean corpuscular hemoglobin, white blood cell count, and thrombocyte count between the groups. Folic acid supplementation improved several hematological parameters in dogs with parvovirus-induced anemia, highlighting its potential as an adjunctive therapeutic approach.

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