Dogs With Liver Shunts
What is a Liver Shunt?
Irish Wolfhound — Liver Shunt In Dogs
A liver shunt, medically known as a portosystemic shunt (PSS), is an abnormal blood vessel that bypasses the liver. Instead of blood flowing through the liver to be detoxified and processed, it flows directly into the systemic circulation. This results in unfiltered blood circulating throughout the body, leading to potential toxicity and other complications.
Liver shunts can be:
Congenital: Present at birth, often caused by genetic predisposition.
Acquired: Develop later in life due to conditions like liver disease or portal hypertension.
Breeds Prone to Liver Shunts
Certain breeds are genetically predisposed to congenital liver shunts. These include:
Yorkshire Terriers
Maltese
Miniature Schnauzers
Pugs
Irish Wolfhounds
Shih Tzus
Knowing your breed’s predisposition can help with early detection.
Symptoms of a Liver Shunt
Liver shunts can manifest in various ways, depending on their severity. Common symptoms include:
Poor growth or stunted development in puppies
Neurological issues, such as seizures, head pressing, or confusion (hepatic encephalopathy)
Gastrointestinal problems like vomiting or diarrhea
Increased thirst and urination
Loss of appetite or picky eating
Yellowing of the eyes or gums (jaundice)
Behavior changes, especially after eating
Diagnosing Liver Shunts
Diagnosis involves seeing your veterinarian for a combination of:
Bloodwork: Elevated liver enzymes, low blood urea nitrogen (BUN), or abnormal bile acids.
Imaging: Ultrasound or CT scans can identify abnormal blood flow.
Bile Acid Test: A fasting and post-meal test to assess the liver’s ability to process bile acids.
Portography: A specialized imaging test to confirm the presence of a shunt.
Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment.
Supportive Care Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the shunt, as well as the dog’s overall health. Options include:
1. Nutrition & Supplement Management For dogs who cannot undergo surgery, medical management aims to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life:
Low-Protein & Low Purine Diets: Minimize the production of ammonia, a toxin that worsens neurological symptoms.
Lactulose: Helps trap and remove ammonia in the gut.
Antibiotics: Manage bacterial overgrowth in the intestines. Choose Natural Antibotics when possible.
Supplements: Milk thistle, SAMe, or dandelion root may support liver function.
Join me in the forum to learn more about nutrition for dogs with liver shunts.
2. Surgery Surgical correction involves placing an ameroid constrictor or other device on the shunt to gradually close it, redirecting blood flow to the liver. Success rates are high for congenital single shunts, though post-operative care is critical. Be sure to ask me about natural surgical aftercare protocols.
3. Alternative and Holistic Support Holistic approaches can complement traditional treatments:
Herbs: Milk thistle and dandelion root can support detoxification and liver regeneration.
Essential Oils: Carrot seed, helichrysum, and Roman chamomile may aid liver health when used properly.
TCVM (Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine): Acupuncture and herbal formulas can improve liver function and overall vitality.
Managing a Dog with a Liver Shunt
Managing a dog with a liver shunt requires a multi-faceted approach:
Dietary Adjustments: Feed small, frequent meals of low-protein, high-digestibility food. Home-prepared diets designed by a canine nutritionist can be especially beneficial.
Routine Monitoring: Regular blood tests and bile acid checks to monitor liver function.
Environmental Changes: Reduce stress, as it can exacerbate symptoms.
Prognosis
The prognosis for dogs with liver shunts varies based on the type and treatment method:
Congenital single shunts: Surgery offers an excellent prognosis, with many dogs living normal lives post-correction.
Acquired shunts: Prognosis depends on managing the underlying condition causing the shunt.
Conclusion
While a liver shunt can sound daunting, understanding the condition and available options can make a world of difference. Whether through medical management, surgery, or holistic support, there are paths to improve your dog’s quality of life. Early detection is key, so don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian if you notice symptoms or if your dog belongs to a high-risk breed.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, I’m here to help. As a holistic pet health coach, I can guide you through dietary changes, natural wellness support, and ongoing care to ensure your dog thrives despite this challenge. Reach out today to start the journey toward better health for your furry companion.