With an increasing number of gorgeous greyhounds being rehomed into loving family homes, a growing awareness has emerged of a common health issue affecting these gentle giants. It’s believed that 25-30% of greyhounds may be affected by fibrinolytic syndrome, a condition that can increase their risk of delayed bleeding complications after injuries or surgery.

As a result, we’re going to dash through some facts about fibrinolytic syndrome, including how we can support greyhounds to undergo safe surgical and dental procedures.

What is fibrinolytic syndrome?

Fibrinolytic syndrome occurs when blood clots that stop bleeding break down too soon, leading to bleeding again before proper healing. It usually happens 36–48 hours after injury.

What symptoms does fibrinolytic syndrome cause?

Dogs affected with fibrinolytic syndrome will show delayed bleeding from sites of trauma or surgery. This can result in abnormal bleeding one to two days after:

• Minor procedures, such as microchipping or wound stitch-ups
• More involved surgeries, such as desexing or lump removals
• Dental extractions

Bleeding starts at the site of injury, but can become extensive, potentially leading to massive bruising and swelling around the site. Unfortunately, some dogs can even develop life-threatening bleeding issues.

Can greyhounds still undergo procedures safely?

Unfortunately, we can’t easily tell which greyhounds may be affected by fibrinolytic syndrome, as dogs with the condition will usually show normal results on routine diagnostic tests to check blood clotting function.

The good news is, however, that we can give medication to help prevent issues. Tranexamic acid (often known as TXA) can be given pre-emptively to greyhounds prior to surgical and dental procedures (or as soon as possible after injuries) and continued for 5 days to stabilise their blood clots and help prevent abnormal bleeding. Hooray!

For more information on how we manage breed-related risks in our patients, consult our knowledgeable vets.