Nearly two years ago, we experienced how swiftly life can strip away Shawn's hopes for happiness. This occurred when a local animal control officer was transporting him after being abandoned. During the journey, one of Shawn's skin tags started bleeding and continued to bleed to the point where he was in danger of needing a blood transfusion.

Von Willebrand disease (vWD) is an inherited bleeding disorder in dogs caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of a protein essential for proper blood clotting.

**Symptoms:**

Prolonged bleeding after injuries, surgeries, or tooth extractions

Spontaneous bleeding, which may include nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or easy bruising

Last week, we returned to the emergency room when Shawn had a nosebleed. Thankfully, the clotting medication was effective. Will it work the next time? We don't know. Every moment is another opportunity to remind Shawn that he is deeply loved and always at home.

Read more:

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/von-willebrand-disease