Which is a significant risk associated with collecting blood from a dog with thrombocytopenia?

Collecting blood from a dog with thrombocytopenia carries a significant risk of bleeding from the puncture site. Thrombocytopenia refers to a reduced number of platelets in the blood, which are crucial for normal clotting. When platelets are low, the ability of the blood to form clots is compromised, increasing the likelihood of excessive bleeding following any procedure that involves puncturing the skin, such as venipuncture. This could lead to prolonged bleeding that might be difficult to control, making careful consideration and management of this risk crucial during blood collection procedures.

Infections at the venipuncture site, while a possible concern, are generally more related to the aseptic technique employed during the blood draw rather than the condition of the dog itself. Accidental arterial puncture, although a procedural risk in venipuncture, is less significant compared to the risks associated with thrombocytopenia. Delaying treatment may affect the patient's overall health, but it is not an immediate risk during the procedure. The primary focus should be on the bleeding risk, given the compromised platelet levels associated with thrombocytopenia.