Serious Liver Issues And Your Dog

Your dog's liver is responsible for cleaning blood of toxins and used to store certain nutrients. However, if your dog's liver is damaged or diseased, it can cause serious complications for your dogs health and may even contribute to an early death. Most signs of liver issues are alarming and require immediate treatment. Here are a few signs to look out for.

Most Likely Symptoms:

Unfortunately, in the early stages of liver disease, your dog may show little or no symptoms until it progresses. Some of the signs you can look for are changes in his appetite, lack of interest in normal activities and higher than normal thirst. Yellowness in the eyes, mucous membranes and stool is also a clear indication of liver problems. Some dogs in advanced stages have skin problems. These symptoms could progress to vomiting blood, lethargy and a swollen abdomen.

Common Causes:

Because the liver is the primary detoxifier of your dog's body, a probable cause is that your dog ate or drank something toxic. Common toxins include alcohol, chocolate, rat poison and fungi. Liver disease is more likely in older dogs and dogs with blood vessel abnormalities around the liver. Some bacteria and viruses, such as infectious canine hepatitis and leptospirosis may weaken the liver. Hormonal, adrenal and metabolic problems also contribute to liver problems. If your dog is free roaming, then they may be at risk for actual physical injuries to the areas around the liver. Cysts and cancer are also possible.

Treatments available:

The liver is a resilient organ and treatments are available for many of the causes as long as they are attended to immediately. The veterinarian will do blood tests to determine the exact amount of damage and disease before deciding on a treatment. Dogs with inherited or mild chronic conditions could be placed on a managed diet and medication regiment. Ones who ingested a poison, or are unconscious, may first be put on IV fluids to clear the toxins and then given followup medical treatment. Some dogs will need aspiration of the abdomen and a blood transfusion. If the problem is a cyst or cancer, then your veterinarian may elect to do surgery if no other option is available.

The liver is a critical organ and if it fails, it is a critical emergency which requires the help of an emergency services veterinarian. Don't assume your dog's liver problem will get better on its own. Take your dog to your veterinarian if you see any signs and symptoms of this issue.