Abstract
Background:
Desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) is used as a hemostatic adjunct because it can improve primary hemostasis and increase FVIII- and von Willebrand factor–related variables. However, its effects in dogs under general anesthesia are not well defined.

Aim:
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of DDAVP on buccal mucosal bleeding time (BMBT) in anesthetized healthy dogs and to assess concurrent changes in plasma FVIII antigen (FVIII:Ag).

Methods:
Twenty-seven healthy Beagle dogs were randomly assigned to receive intravenous saline (control; n = 8) or DDAVP at 0.6 (n = 7), 1.2 (n = 6), or 1.8 µg/kg (n = 6) under isoflurane anesthesia. The BMBT was measured 30 min after administration. Blood samples were collected at baseline and at 30 and 60 min to measure FVIII:Ag, complete blood count, PT, APTT, fibrinogen, and electrolytes. Heart rate and arterial blood pressure were recorded at the same time points.

Results:
At 30 min after administration, the BMBT values were 128.2 (92.1–157.7) s in the control group, 105.2 (72.4–122.0) s in the 0.6 µg/kg group, 74.1 (58.6–101.8) s in the 1.2 µg/kg group, and 47.2 (44.4–76.1) s in the 1.8 µg/kg group. BMBT was significantly shorter in the 1.2 and 1.8 µg/kg groups than in the controls, and in the 1.8 µg/kg group than in the 0.6 µg/kg group (P < 0.05). FVIII:Ag levels at 60 min were significantly higher in the 1.8 µg/kg group than in the control group (P < 0.05) and increased from baseline to 60 min in the 1.2 and 1.8 µg/kg groups (P < 0.05). No other significant differences were detected.

Conclusion:
DDAVP dose-dependently shortened BMBT and increased FVIII:Ag in 60 min in healthy anesthetized dogs. These findings provide preliminary data and support further investigation of DDAVP in patients undergoing surgery.

Key words: Buccal mucosal bleeding time; Desmopressin; Dog; Factor VIII antigen; Primary hemostasis.