Von Willebrand’s disease (vWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder of both humans and dogs. Some dog breeds are at higher risk, in particular Doberman Pinschers, where up to 50% of the population is susceptible.

How can this affect my pet?

A pet with this condition will have a lack of ‘von Willebrand factor protein’, which usually circulates in the bloodstream. It is needed at the site of a blood vessel injury to help the blood clot and seal the vessel. With this factor missing, it can cause bleeding problems, called coagulopathies, which can be life-threatening, especially during surgical procedures when bleeding risk is higher.

How can we reduce the risk?

We have the ability to screen pets for this condition. Knowing this diagnosis prior to any surgery, elective or emergency, will mean that we are able to provide the appropriate supportive treatment, vastly improving the outcomes during any surgical or medical intervention for your pet. Patient safety is at the heart of our clinic, so the more we can reduce any potential risk, the better.

What do we suggest and why?

We recommend routine testing (screening) of all high-risk breeds, in particular, Doberman Pinschers.

If a patient tests positive for vWD all surgical procedures would require blood transfusions peri-operatively, which is part of our updated protocol. If the status of a patient is unknown, then testing prior to surgery may delay treatment, therefore, we propose it is best practice for all Doberman Pinschers to be routinely blood tested upon registration.

Please be advised that some pets do not show signs until later in life, and so previous unremarkable recovery from a procedure is not an accurate indication that a dog is not suffering from this disease.