Dog owners want their canines to have the best lives possible. That desire means being able to assess the difference between natural aging in dogs and potential illnesses. You may wonder if your dog could benefit from natural supplements or when to start adding milk thistle or other herbs to their diet. Today let's talk about liver disease in dogs, and how you can help spot the symptoms and take action for your beloved pooch.
How Does The Liver Contribute To A Dog’s Digestive System?
A dog’s digestive system consists of an upper gastrointestinal tract. The tract includes teeth, tongue, cheeks, soft palate, esophagus, and stomach, followed by a lower gastrointestinal tract consisting of the small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, and anal canal.
Digestion has a significant impact on how dog bodies function. It absorbs nutrients and eliminates waste. If any organs fail to complete their assigned tasks, toxins can build up, or the dog may not get the vitamins and minerals they need to live.
How Important Is The Dog’s Liver?
The liver produces bile that helps break down fats into smaller particles to be absorbed by intestinal cells. Bile also helps to absorb fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K. This fluid is stored in the gallbladder until it is needed by the small intestine to help facilitate digestion and absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins.
Bile can be produced without a liver; however, this type of bile will not be as concentrated or efficient in doing its job. When the liver is not able to produce enough bile, what we end up with is a dog that may suffer from vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
Signs Of Liver Failure In Dogs
Symptoms of liver failure in dogs include swelling around the dog’s belly, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, appetite loss, or ravenous hunger. In the case of the last symptom, no amount of food can satisfy such cravings. Some signs are not visible externally but are still detectable by way of your pet’s lab results.
How Can You Support Your Dog?
It may be worth giving liver supplements for dogs if they have one or more of the symptoms above. A healthy diet can also help, which provides for nutritional needs.
If you think your dog might be suffering from liver disease, we recommend an emergency veterinarian appointment and blood work. Even if your dog does not show any external signs, the liver disease progresses rapidly and does not always show obvious indications.
Supplements are one viable option for easing your dog's discomfort. It is best to consult with a veterinarian before giving your pet any supplements, especially if they are currently taking any medications or other supplements. Liver Support from Prana Pets is one high-quality option, designed to ease painful symptoms of liver disease and lethargy.
Once your pet sees the veterinarian, they will recommend some supportive therapies including liver-protective drugs, vitamin K supplementation, and adenosyl. If the disease is advanced then a visit to an animal hospital for more intensive treatments would be recommended.
Peruse High-Quality Supportive Supplements From Prana Pets
Prana Pets has many safe, gentle and effective herbal supplements that pet owners can use. With powerful antioxidants that remove toxins and reduce inflammation, you can trust our 100% natural remedies.
To find out more, reach out to us today. With the right guidance and the right nutritional supplements, you can keep your dog healthy and happy without having to break the bank.