Answers - liver issues

[Brianna Imel]

Joined to see if I could find some answers on what would be causing liver failure and what to do..

 

[Brianna Imel]

All test have been normal except the liver count ..been on Iv for a wk, blood tests all normal, ultrasound , and antibiotics all have been done but vet can figure out what's causing liver failur...if he can figure it out she may not make it ��

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She will be 3 in July, mother sister and brothers have had no issues

 

[Vikinggirl]

Hi Brianna, Welcome to EBN. Im so sorry you're going through this with your baby, I don't have any experience with this, but hopefully someone who has will come along soon and can share some info or advice. I hope the vet can figure out what is wrong and treat it. I hope it's nothing too serious and can be treated. I just wanted to send you love, hugs and prayers that your bully will be okay. I found some information on liver disease in dogs, I hope it's helpful.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2010

[h=2]Canine Liver Disease: Causes and Symptoms[/h]
By Ruthie Bently
Canine liver disease is the fifth leading cause of death for dogs, and it’s estimated that three percent of all diseases veterinarians see are connected to the liver.
Canine liver disease has many causes, such as physiological, physical and chemical. It can be called “prior” or “after” liver disease. An example of “prior” liver disease would be a cancer; an example of “after” liver disease is a blocked bile duct.
The liver is the second largest organ in a dog’s body (after the skin) and is the workhorse of their body. It’s a specialized manufacturing and pollution control center, and is what makes the body function properly. The liver processes food eaten, manufactures the necessary building blocks, detoxifies and recycles the blood, and gets rid of the waste created. Since the liver is connected so intricately to the biochemistry of an organism, it can make diagnosing canine liver disease difficult. Liver disease can affect many body functions and in turn the liver can be affected by many other organs and systems of the body.
If not too far advanced, the symptoms and disease may sometimes be reversed due to the liver’s ability to completely regenerate. However, the disease must be managed properly to allow this to happen. A dog’s liver can be damaged up to 80% and still function normally due to its reserve capacity; because of this capability, the disease may be too far advanced and untreatable by the time it’s diagnosed. The largest challenge facing veterinarians diagnosing canine liver disease is that the symptoms are not predictable and may not be specific. Due to the paradoxical attributes of the liver, diagnosing and treating the disease can be exceedingly difficult.
Canine liver disease has a myriad of causes, and what follows is only a partial list. Any number of traumas to a dog may result in liver disease: a hernia to the diaphragm, being hit by a car, a bruise or heatstroke. A diet that’s too high in fats can affect the liver; females are more prone to this than males. A dog with chronic infections (i.e. tooth problems) can contract liver disease. Fungal and bacterial infections can cause liver disease, as can parasites like heartworms and roundworms.
Certain drugs can cause side effects that result in liver disease, including acetaminophen, anabolic steroids, antibiotics, anesthetics, ASA, chemotherapy drugs, cortisone, corticosteroids, glucocorticoids, certain parasiticides given over extended periods, phenylbutazone and Phenobarbital.
Contact with toxins from pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, bleach, household cleaners and paint chips that may contain lead can all cause liver disease. Your dog could contract hepatitis, which is an inflammation of the liver. Cancer can overwhelm a dog’s system or metastasize directly to the liver itself and lead to issues.
Certain dog breeds are hereditarily prone to copper storage disease (a.k.a. canine copper hepatotoxicosis), a form of liver disease. An exaggerated amount of copper accumulates in their liver and if left untreated can be fatal. There’s also a chance of these breeds developing cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis.
There are numerous symptoms for canine liver disease. Jaundice is the most recognizable; a tint from yellow to orange will appear. It is most easily seen in the sclera (white) of the eye, but is also visible in the gums and skin of an affected dog. You may see more frequent urination which may also be tinged between lemon yellow and bright orange. Your dog may be thirstier or have an unquenchable thirst. Their abdomen may look distended and be uncomfortable to the touch. They may have a lack of appetite, chronic weight loss, recurring gastrointestinal issues or bloody vomiting. Their feces may be yellow or orange, a paler color than normal, or they may have bloody diarrhea with the above characteristics. You may observe strange behavior, circling, lethargy, no interest in playing or walks, or accelerating depression.
If your dog is diagnosed with canine liver disease, you should remove any toxic agents that could be involved. This includes any drugs that may harm the liver further. If your dog is on medications with sodium or potassium, your vet may change or decrease those medications to eliminate the intake and retention of those minerals. If your dog is on Phenobarbital for seizure management, your vet may change their medication to decrease damage it may cause. Your vet may suggest distilled water to lessen the effect of minerals in the water. They may also put your dog on a special diet or prescribe a diuretic to control water retention. Your vet may suggest rest and confinement which will allow the body to focus needed resources on the healing process. If caught early and the liver isn’t too compromised the condition is reversible. Being alert to symptoms of canine liver disease, a responsible pet owner can save their dog’s life.

 

[Vikinggirl]

[h=2]Liver Disease in Dogs[/h]
[h=3][/h]The liver is an important organ for your dog. It helps with digestion and blood clotting, and it removes toxins from his system. If it's not working right, it can make your companion sick. But liver disease can often be treated and managed.
[h=4][/h]Are You Feeding Your Dog Well?


[h=3]Symptoms[/h]It's easy to miss the symptoms of liver disease. They're similar to those for other problems.
Your dog's symptoms may include:

• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Increased thirst
• An unstable walk
• Increased need to pee
• Confusion
• Yellowish eyes, tongue, or gums (jaundice)
• Signs of weakness
• Blood in his pee or poop
• Seizures
• Ascites (a build-up of fluid in the belly)

If your dog's liver disease isn't caught early, it can lead to a serious brain condition called hepatic encephalopathy.
[h=3]What Causes Liver Problems[/h]Sometimes liver disease can happen as a result of aging. Sometimes it's genetic. But it can also be brought on by infection or trauma to the area. Some diseases and medications can hurt your dog's liver.
Other causes of liver disease may include:

• Some plants and herbs such as ragwort, certain mushrooms, and blue-green algae
• Molds that grow on corn
• Untreated heartworms
• Diabetes
• Issues with the pancreas
• Long-term use of painkillers
• Fatty foods

If your dog has some symptoms of liver problems, your vet may ask you about his diet and medications. The vet may want to do blood tests and X-rays or an ultrasound to get a picture of what is going on with your dog's liver. He may also want to take a biopsy -- remove a small tissue sample for testing.
[h=3]Treatment[/h]Your dog's treatment will depend on how soon you catch the problem and what caused it. A vet will need to see how much damage there is to the liver.

• Diet changes often help. Your dog may need a special diet to make sure he's getting the nutrients and calories needed to help his liver.
• Supplements such as SAM-E or milk thistle may help the liver recover.
• Medications may help control his liver problems. You may also need to change your dog's other medications or reduce how much he takes.
• Surgery may be an option for dogs with tumors or cysts.

Work closely with your vet to manage the disease and avoid liver failure.
[h=3]Prevention[/h]You can help your dog avoid getting liver disease. Take him to the vet for his yearly exams and vaccinations. Make sure your vet is aware of any drugs or supplements he may take. Be mindful of what you feed your dog. Fatty foods can hurt his liver. And don't let your dog roam free in areas where there may be poisonous plants or insects.

 

[2BullyMama]

Welcome to EBN.... sorry I have no experience with liver problems, I tagged a couple members that might have some thoughts and I also added 'liver issue' to your title to help attract any members that have experience.

sending you and your baby prayers and positive thoughts that she can recover and your vet finds the cause

 

[Manydogs]

Lawn chemicals,leptospirosis, liver flukes,dog food that is now been in the news,liver shunt. I guess the vet has checked bilirubin levels. He needs to do an ultra sound, and/or a liver biopsy,if he has not found other causes. I don't want to say it, but there is a chance of liver cancer. I hope it is not,and I send prayers for you and your baby.

 

[Brianna Imel]

Just found out they did a belly tap last night found lymphoma cells...did liver biopsy this morning and it is lymphoma cancer...picking her up and putting her down on Monday wish there was some thing that could help ! Thanks for all of your responses!

 

[Manydogs]

I am so sorry to hear this.I was so afraid of that-to even say it. I do know how hard things will be for you. We will all be praying for you,to help you heal. Stay with us, and most of us have been through losses, and we certainly will understand how you feel. Our prayers are with you......

 

[ddnene]

I'm late to this post… I'm so very sorry to hear about your baby I agree w/Lynn, please stay on EBN… many (to include myself) have lost our babies, and we have been supported by other members on EBN. Praying for you and your family

 

[Miss Lola]

So sorry to hear about this. My thoughts are with you and your baby.

 

[TyTysmom]

So very sorry to hear about this. My prayers to you & your family - and especially that sweet baby. There are no treatment options at all?


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[Donnam]

I am so sorry about your baby! Sending hugs your way.

 

[bullmama]

I am so sad to read this-- our prayers go out to you and your sweet baby.

 

[2BullyMama]

Just found out they did a belly tap last night found lymphoma cells...did liver biopsy this morning and it is lymphoma cancer...picking her up and putting her down on Monday wish there was some thing that could help ! Thanks for all of your responses!

sending prayers and hugs to you and your baby.... so very sorry

 

[boo boo butts mom]

Am so sorry to hear this type of news, we are so happy that you found us though. We love our bullies just as you do you do yours. It is what makes our connection so nice. Prayers for you and your family during this time.