What should be monitored in a dog receiving chemotherapy?

Monitoring blood cell counts, particularly white blood cells, is crucial in a dog receiving chemotherapy because chemotherapy can significantly impact bone marrow function, leading to myelosuppression. This suppression can result in a decreased number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, increasing the risk for anemia, infections, and bleeding disorders.

White blood cells play an essential role in the immune response, and their counts can drop to dangerously low levels, a condition known as leukopenia. By regularly checking these levels, veterinarians can assess the dog’s ability to fight infections and decide whether to adjust the chemotherapy dosage, delay treatments, or initiate supportive care, such as antibiotics for infections.

Monitoring weight changes, increased appetite, or skin condition is important for overall health assessment but does not provide specific insights into the direct effects of chemotherapy on the dog's hematological status. Regular blood cell count checks help ensure that any complications arising from the treatment are identified and managed promptly.