08/18/2025
Otis’ Liver Shunt Success Story 💛✨
Meet Otis, a spunky 6-month-old Dachshund who came to us from a referring veterinarian after his family noticed he wasn’t quite himself. He was underweight, had low energy, and just wasn’t growing like he should. His first round of testing, called bile acids, suggested his liver might not be functioning properly.
When Otis arrived at Animal Medical Center, Dr. Belcher performed a CT scan to get a better look. The scan revealed a large splenocaval shunt — a condition where blood bypasses the liver instead of being filtered through it. Without proper filtration, toxins can build up in the bloodstream and affect a pet’s overall health. ❤️🩹
To fix the problem, Dr. Mayfield III performed surgery using an ameroid constrictor — a device made of surgical steel and a special swelling material. Over the course of weeks to months, it slowly closes the abnormal blood vessel, giving the liver time to adjust and take back its important job of filtering the blood.
✨ The very next morning, Otis was bouncing off the walls, eating like a champ, and showing off his playful personality. Today, he’s continuing to heal beautifully on medication and did wonderfully at his recheck.
We couldn’t be happier for this tough little guy and the loving family who stood by him. Otis is proof that with early diagnosis, advanced imaging, and skilled surgical care, pets can get a brand new lease on life. 🐾💛
