Liver shunts are a canine condition in which blood vessels carry blood around the liver rather than through it. It typically exists as a congenital defect in several breeds of dogs, primarily Yorkshire terriers, Maltese and Irish wolfhounds. It may also be acquired as an effect of some type of liver disease such as cirrhosis. Liver shunts cause toxins like ammonia to build up in the blood stream because the blood is bypassing the cleansing process in the liver. Consequently, the dogs have a poor appetite, become lethargic and experience confusion or convulsions.
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Low Protein Diet
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Because most toxins produced in the digestive system stem from protein, it is important to reduce the amount of dietary protein. Standard dog food sold in the grocery store contains approximately 25 percent protein from meat byproducts. Rather than meat byproducts, dogs with shunts require a diet consisting of 18 percent high-quality proteins from egg whites, milk and vegetables. Hill's L/D Dietary formula is typically recommended by veterinarians specifically for dogs with liver disease. A low-protein diet in combination with appropriate medication and supplements will typically postpone the need for surgery for some time.
Dietary Supplements
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In addition to a lower amount of protein, food should be easily digestable to reduce the liver's workload and maintain liver function. The affected pet's diet also needs to be rich in vitamins and antioxidants, especially vitamins C and E, and low in copper and iron to promote a healthy immmune system, control cell oxidation and prevent liver damage. Gluta-DMG is recommended as a dietary supplement designed both to boost the immune system and assist in the production of glutathione, an antioxidant that helps support liver function. Marin, containing silybin, is another popular pet supplement that has positive effects on liver function.
Lactulose Supplements
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Lactulose is a sugar solution that changes the pH in the large intestines, creating an unfavorable environment for normal toxin-producing bacteria. Because its primary side effect is diarrhea, veterinarians adjust the dosage so the dog's feces is still formed. Yogurt is sometimes substituted for lactulose by veterinarians because it creates the same type of unfriendly environment for bacteria and tastes better than lactulose.
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