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Iconic Pet Plug Zimbabwe, Harare (2025)

20/08/2025

🐾 Pancreatitis in Dogs: What Every Dog Parent Needs to Know 🐶🔥
The pancreas plays a critical role in your dog's health—it produces enzymes to digest food and hormones like insulin to regulate blood sugar. But when this tiny organ gets inflamed, it can quickly become a life-threatening emergency.
🔍 What Is Pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. Digestive enzymes activate too early, causing the pancreas to essentially digest itself. It can appear suddenly (acute) or over time (chronic) and is often triggered by high-fat meals, but sometimes it happens without warning.
📌 Symptoms to Watch For:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Fever
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Abdominal pain (many dogs assume a "praying position" with their rear up and chest down)
⚠️ Severe cases can lead to shock and death if not treated promptly.
🩺 How Is It Diagnosed?
One of the best tools we now have is the SPEC-CPL Test (Specific Canine Pancreatic Lipase). It gives a quick, accurate result and helps vets confirm pancreatitis on the spot.
Other diagnostics may include:
Bloodwork (WBCs & enzyme levels)
Ultrasound
Physical exam & medical history
💉 Treatment Options:
IV fluids to maintain hydration
Pain meds (this condition can be extremely painful)
Anti-nausea & antidiarrheal meds
Low-fat, highly digestible diet
Fasting if vomiting is severe
Hospitalization for moderate to severe cases (2–4 days is common)
⏳ What’s the Prognosis?
With early treatment, dogs with mild pancreatitis often recover well. However, severe or untreated cases can lead to:
Diabetes
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)
Adhesions between abdominal organs
📉 Chronic pancreatitis increases the risk for these complications. Regular monitoring and diet management are crucial for long-term success.
💡 TIP: If your dog suddenly becomes lethargic, vomits, or assumes a "praying" position, see your vet ASAP. Early diagnosis—especially using tools like the CPL test—can be lifesaving.
🦴 Avoid giving your dog fatty table scraps or treats high in fat (like bacon or sausage)—even one indulgent meal can trigger an attack.
📌 Share this post to help spread awareness—pancreatitis is more common than you think!

19/08/2025

🐾 Canine Lymphoma: What Dog Owners Need to Know 🐶💔
Lymphoma is one of the most common cancers in dogs, often striking without warning and progressing quickly. It accounts for up to 24% of all canine tumors, and some breeds are at higher risk.
🔬 What Is Lymphoma?
A cancer of the white blood cells (lymphocytes), lymphoma usually affects lymph nodes, but can also target the GI tract, skin, or chest.
📍 80% of dogs present with enlarged peripheral lymph nodes. Learning how to feel these lymph nodes could help you catch it early.
🐕 Breeds at Higher Risk:
Golden Retrievers, Boxers (especially for aggressive T-cell lymphoma), Labradors, Bull Terriers, Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and more.
🚨 Symptoms to Watch For:
Swollen lymph nodes (jaw, neck, behind knees, shoulders)
Lethargy or fatigue
Weight loss
Vomiting, diarrhea
Cough (especially in Boxers)
Increased thirst & urination
Loss of appetite
📋 Diagnosis & Staging:
Your vet will do blood work, imaging, lymph node aspirates, and classify your dog’s condition into Stages I–V and Substages A (feeling well) or B (sick). Early diagnosis gives your dog a much better prognosis.
💊 Treatment Options:
🔹 CHOP Chemotherapy: Gold standard but expensive ($5K–$10K) and time-intensive
🔹 Laverdia: A new oral chemo alternative, easier to administer at home and well-tolerated in many dogs
🔹 Prednisone: Sometimes used alone, but may make cancer resistant to future treatment
🔹 Holistic support: Many integrate herbal medicine, acupuncture, immune support, and nutrition to improve outcomes
🧘‍♂️ Integrative Care & Diet Matter
Don’t go down the Dr. Google rabbit hole. Consult a holistic vet to guide supplement choices and choose a minimally processed, balanced diet—cooked is often better tolerated than raw at this stage.
💡 Early Detection Tip:
Learn how to feel your dog’s lymph nodes during cuddle time or grooming. It’s a gentle way to catch changes early. If you feel anything unusual, don’t panic—see your vet.
⏳ Quality of Life Matters Most
Every dog and every family is different. Treatments like Laverdia may buy more good days without the stress of weekly vet visits. You can always stop treatment if it’s not working.
🐾 Even one extra month of tail wags, belly rubs, and love can mean everything.
Know your dog. Feel your dog. Trust your instincts. ❤️
📌 Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment decisions.

18/08/2025

🦟❤️ Heartworm Disease in Dogs: What Every Pet Parent Should Know 🐶
Heartworm disease is a life-threatening condition caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis, spread by mosquitoes. It targets the heart and lungs—and can lead to heart failure or even sudden death if left untreated.
🔍 Common Signs to Watch For:
Persistent cough
Lethargy
Exercise intolerance
Collapse or sudden death in severe cases
⚠️ How It Spreads:
Mosquitoes carry the parasite from infected animals. Dogs can’t spread it to each other, but one infected dog can contribute to the cycle if not on prevention.
🧪 Diagnosis & Testing:
Dogs 7 months+ should be tested annually with a simple blood test.
If a dog misses prevention doses, testing may be needed more frequently.
💉 Treatment Involves:
Strict exercise restriction
Steroids to reduce inflammation
Doxycycline to target bacteria inside the worms
Heartworm-specific medication
A series of arsenic-based injections to kill adult worms
🛑 Prevention Is Key!
Heartworm disease is preventable with monthly chewables, topicals, or injections. Prevention is far safer, easier, and cheaper than treatment.
💬 Ask your vet at your dog's next visit about heartworm prevention. It's one of the most important things you can do for your pup's long-term health.

17/08/2025

🧬🐾 Urate Bladder Stones in Dogs: What You Should Know 🚨
Does your pup have bladder stones? If they’re urate stones, here’s the quick scoop:
🧪 What Are They?
Urate bladder stones are rock-like mineral build-ups in the bladder—more common in Dalmatians, English Bulldogs, and Black Russian Terriers. They can form due to genetics or liver shunts (especially if your dog isn’t a Dalmatian).
⚠️ Symptoms to Watch:
Blood in urine
Straining or painful urination
Urinating small amounts frequently
In severe cases: complete blockage (can be life-threatening!)
🧫 Diagnosis:
Urinalysis may show urate crystals
X-rays often miss them, so ultrasound or special contrast X-rays are usually needed
Only lab testing of the stone confirms its type
💊 Treatment Options:
Prescription diet + medications (e.g., allopurinol) can dissolve stones—only if no blockage is present
Non-surgical flushing (urohydropropulsion) for small stones
Surgery (cystotomy) for larger or multiple stones
Emergency surgery if there's a blockage
Ultrasonic stone breaking—available at select referral centers
💧 Prevention Tips:
Keep your dog on a low-purine prescription diet
Ensure plenty of water intake
Routine urinalysis and imaging (every 3–6 months)
Monitor for UTI signs and act early
🚨 If your dog can’t pee—this is an emergency. Get to the vet immediately!
📌 Lifelong management is key, but with the right care, your pup can live a happy, healthy life. 🐶❤️

15/08/2025

Science has officially confirmed what dog lovers have always felt—our canine companions genuinely love us. A pioneering fMRI study by neuroscientist Gregory Berns at Emory University has revealed new insights into the powerful bond between humans and dogs.
Featured in National Geographic and Nature Scientific Reports, the study showed that when dogs smelled their owner's scent, a part of their brain called the caudate nucleus—which is associated with pleasure, reward, and affection—became significantly more active than when they smelled food or another dog.
This discovery suggests that a dog’s reaction to their owner’s scent isn’t just recognition—it triggers a powerful emotional response. Their brain lights up with feelings of joy, comfort, and trust. To them, your scent symbolizes safety and a deep emotional bond.
Ultimately, the research confirms that dogs don’t just see us as food providers or caretakers—they see us as family. This scientific breakthrough highlights that the love dogs show us isn’t just behavioral—it’s hardwired into their brain chemistry.
So, the next time your dog curls up beside you or excitedly wags its tail, remember: it's not just cute behavior—it's a heartfelt, neurological sign of love.

14/08/2025

🐶💨 Is Your Dog’s Cough More Than Just a Cough?
It might be tracheal collapse—especially if that “goose honk” sound keeps coming back! 🦢🗣️
🩺 What Is Tracheal Collapse?
The trachea, or windpipe, helps your dog breathe by allowing air to flow from the throat to the lungs. When the cartilage in the trachea weakens, it can collapse inward—making it harder for your dog to breathe. 😮‍💨
It’s most common in small breeds like:
🐾 Chihuahuas
🐾 Pomeranians
🐾 Shih Tzus
🐾 Yorkies
🐾 Toy Poodles

…but any dog can be affected.

🔍 Common Signs to Watch For:
Dry, honking cough
Worsening cough at night or with excitement
Trouble breathing when using a collar
Coughing after eating, drinking, or exercise
🧪 How Is It Diagnosed?
A vet may perform:
✔️ X-rays
✔️ Fluoroscopy (moving X-ray)
✔️ Tracheal endoscopy
Other conditions like heart disease can mimic similar symptoms, so a thorough workup is essential.

💊 Treatment Options
✔️ Medications
— Cough suppressants
— Anti-inflammatories
— Bronchodilators
— Sedatives, if needed
✔️ Surgery
Used in severe cases, performed by specialists.

✔️ Supportive Care
— Keep your dog at a healthy weight
— Use a harness, not a collar
— Avoid smoke or air irritants
— Keep excitement low to prevent coughing fits

🩻 Some dogs may live comfortably with medications and management—others may need surgical help and long-term care.

🐕‍🦺 Prognosis?
Tracheal collapse is progressive—it can worsen over time. But with early intervention, lifelong management, and your vet’s guidance, many dogs live happy, active lives. 💛
💬 Have questions about your dog’s cough? Chat with your vet—it’s always better to catch these issues early. 💬
📚 Read more: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/tracheal-collapse-in-dogs

13/08/2025

Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

⸻

What Is Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs?

The canine elbow is a complex joint made up of three bones: the humerus, the radius, and the ulna. These bones work together to allow a dog to bend, run, and play.

Elbow dysplasia is a condition related to abnormal bone growth and/or development that alters the function of this joint, leading to abnormal pain and arthritis—which most certainly affect a dog’s ability to bend, run, and play.

A diagram of elbow dysplasia in dogs.
Click here to download this medical illustration.

Elbow dysplasia is seen more often in younger, large-breed dogs.

Elbow dysplasia can make the elbows look swollen and may encourage the dog to position them abnormally, such as pointing them outwards.

⸻

Types of Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

Typically, elbow dysplasia in dogs is diagnosed as having four lesions, involving different parts of the joint:
• Ununited anconeal process (UAP):
UAP occurs when there has been separation of the bone at the top of the ulna. This is usually noted at 4 to 8 months of age.
• Fragmented coronoid process (FCP):
FCP occurs when part of the ulna fails to attach to the rest of the bone. This leads to laxity, inflammation, and arthritis.
• Osteochondrosis of the medial humeral condyle:
During development, cartilage eventually turns into bone, but in this case, that process doesn’t occur. So, where bone should be, cartilage takes its place. The cartilage can subsequently flake off, causing pain, swelling, and lameness.
• Medial compartment disease (MCD):
MCD occurs when an abnormal amount of pressure from one joint surface erodes another joint surface, causing bone to become exposed, inflamed, and painful. This process is irreversible and carries a poor prognosis.

⸻

Symptoms of Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

Most symptoms of elbow dysplasia in dogs are typically noticeable. However, some can be subtle, making the condition hard to diagnose. Dogs most often experience:
• Lameness or limping in one or both forelimbs, sometimes seen with a head bob. Most dogs will still be able to bear weight on the limb
• Swollen elbow
• Thickened joint
• Decreased range of motion
• Pain when moving the elbow
• Elbow bulges out toward the side
• Abnormal gait
• Hesitant to run or play as before

⸻

Causes of Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

Elbow dysplasia in dogs is thought to be an inherited condition, but it has also been associated with:
• Prior trauma
• Nutritional imbalances or deficiencies
• Defects in cartilage growth or bone development
• Hormonal factors

Certain large breeds are predisposed to elbow dysplasia in dogs, which often affects both elbows rather than one. These include:
• Bernese Mountain Dogs
• Labrador Retrievers
• German Shepherds
• Rottweilers
• Newfoundlands
• Mastiffs

⸻

How Veterinarians Diagnose Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

A physical exam will help localize the source of pain and discomfort to the elbow before X-rays will be taken of the limb. X-rays will be taken of both front legs for comparison and an accurate diagnosis.

Sometimes, to obtain more accurate diagnostic images, your dog may need to be sedated or anesthetized.

If elbow dysplasia can’t be determined through X-rays, a CT scan or arthroscopy (scoping, using a camera called an arthroscope, to take images of the elbow joint) may be recommended.

In some cases, treatment of the condition can also occur during the arthroscopic procedure.

⸻

Treatment of Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

The goal of any treatment for elbow dysplasia in dogs is to slow the progression of arthritis and allow the dog to use the elbow properly. There is no cure for the disease.

Surgery, such as an ulnar osteotomy, is the most common course of treatment, not only to remove any diseased or damaged tissue but also to return functional ability to the joint. Surgery should be performed as soon as possible to prevent further joint trauma.

Cost and the ability to properly care for your dog post-op and throughout the rehabilitation process should be strong considerations in determining the best course of treatment for your dog.

Of course, this should be a conversation you have with your veterinarian, but most surgeries cost $1,500–$4,000 per elbow, depending on your region.

However, even with surgery, some degree of arthritis will develop. This is because the joint parts may not fit perfectly together following surgery, which allows them to rub against one another causing wear and tear.

Given the skill needed for repair, arthroscopic surgery is often preferred, as it is minimally invasive. This is usually performed by a veterinary orthopedic surgeon.

Dogs that are not candidates for surgery are treated supportively with:
• Medications aimed at decreasing pain and inflammation, such as NSAIDs like Galliprant®, Rimadyl®, and meloxicam
• Joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin, which help decrease inflammation, promote healing, and retain water, giving the joint more cushioning (similar to WD-40 for gears)
• Weight management, as any additional weight is that much more problematic for the joint
• Adequan®, an injectable medication that inhibits cartilage loss, to help restore joint lubrication and relieve inflammation
• Librela™, an injectable monoclonal antibody designed to reduce pain associated with osteoarthritis in dogs

⸻

Recovery and Management of Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

The prognosis for elbow dysplasia in dogs is good long-term, especially if degeneration is minimal.

The recovery period is often several weeks followed by several more of physical therapy and rehabilitation. It’s important to follow your vet’s recovery plan for your dog, as this will often lead to a faster recovery and better outcome than surgery alone.

Rehabilitation with passive range-of-motion exercises, massage, acupuncture, or even physical therapy will be recommended by your vet.

Additionally, exercise restriction will be important long-term, along with minimizing the impact of running, especially on hard flooring.

Dogs that can’t undergo surgery, such as those with some underlying health issues, can live a long time with the condition. However, degenerative changes will develop over time, along with osteoarthritis, and your dog will suffer chronic pain. Medications like those mentioned above may be prescribed, along with joint supplements and diets.

⸻

Prevention of Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

Because elbow dysplasia in dogs is may have a genetic component, any pets with elbow dysplasia should be spayed or neutered to keep them from passing on the condition. Additionally, the parents shouldn’t be bred again.

Minimizing trauma or additional stress to the joints—by, for example, keeping your dog from jumping down from furniture or going up and down stairs—may be helpful, as well as maintaining a healthy weight.

Screening your puppy for this condition with X-rays would be advisable if your puppy is a breed that’s at-risk of developing elbow dysplasia.

Michael Kearley, DVM
By Michael Kearley, DVM. Reviewed by Brittany Kleszynski, DVM
Updated Jul. 2, 2024

Ref:

https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/musculoskeletal/elbow-dysplasia-in-dogs

12/08/2025

"Meet Gianna, a 6-month-old female, bred from Malia (Sheriff × Tiffy) and Casper( Not for sale)

12/08/2025

🐾 Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: What Every Dog Parent Should Know 🦴💔
Has your pup been diagnosed with hip dysplasia, but isn’t showing any signs of lameness? 🤔 It can happen — some dogs show no symptoms at all, while others with mild joint changes may limp or struggle with mobility.

🩺 What Is Hip Dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is a developmental issue where the ball and socket of the hip don’t grow evenly. This causes joint looseness and, over time, leads to arthritis or degenerative joint disease (DJD). It’s painful, but not always obvious — which is why early detection is key! 🔍
🐕 Breeds Most at Risk:
German Shepherds
Labradors & Goldens
Bulldogs
Saint Bernards
Large mixed-breed dogs
🔍 Signs to Watch For:
Trouble standing up or climbing stairs
Limping or “bunny hopping”
Wobbly back legs
Less interest in walks or play
Some pups don’t show signs until they’re older, even though the issue started in puppyhood.
💊 How It's Treated:
✔️ NSAIDs & pain relief meds
✔️ Joint supplements & omega-3s
✔️ Weight management
✔️ Physical therapy (hydrotherapy, laser, etc.)
✔️ Surgical options (if needed)
⚠️ Surgery like a total hip replacement or femoral head ostectomy (FHO) may be considered if pain can’t be managed medically.

🌿 What About Natural or Alternative Therapies?
Some dogs benefit from:
🧘 Acupuncture
💧 Hydrotherapy
🌿 CBD products
💉 Stem cell therapy
⚡ Shockwave therapy
Always talk to your vet before starting any new treatment!

🗓️ If your dog is showing signs or has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia, your vet can tailor a treatment plan to improve their comfort and mobility — so they can keep enjoying life by your side! 🐾💚
🔗 Learn more: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/hip-dysplasia-in-dogs

11/08/2025

Pneumothorax in Dogs

What is pneumothorax, and what are the different types?
The term pneumothorax refers to the abnormal accumulation of air in the space surrounding the lungs. The presence of air between the lungs and the chest wall prevents the lungs from inflating normally, causing difficulties breathing, increased respiratory rate, chest pain, and possibly lung collapse.

Pneumothorax has several possible causes, including trauma to the chest, underlying lung disease, and excessive pressure on the chest. Sometimes, the cause is unknown.

Pneumothorax may be “closed” or “open”. In a “closed” pneumothorax, there is no opening through the chest wall, and the air accumulation is coming from damage to the lower respiratory tract (trachea, bronchi, lungs).

In an “open” pneumothorax, air enters the space around the lungs through the chest wall. X-ray of a dog's chest, showing pneumothorax. The heart is lifted off the sternum by the air that has entered the chest cavity.

What are the types of pneumothorax?
Pneumothorax can occur in three different ways.

Traumatic pneumothorax: Damage to the chest wall or lung caused by injury such as being hit by a car or bitten by a dog.
Iatrogenic pneumothorax: Damage to the lower respiratory tract (including trachea, bronchi, and lungs) or body wall caused by a veterinary procedure.
Spontaneous pneumothorax: Lung tissue becomes extensively damaged by disease, resulting in an air leak.
What is traumatic pneumothorax?
With a traumatic pneumothorax, there is typically evidence of recent trauma. With obvious damage to the chest wall, it is straightforward to diagnose an open pneumothorax. These dogs present with rapid breathing, difficulty breathing, and they may be in respiratory distress.

Dogs experiencing respiratory distress associated with pneumothorax often stand with their elbows pushed away from their bodies to increase their lung capacity. They may exhibit “abdominal breathing”, in which the origin of each breath seems to be the abdominal wall moving rather than the chest expanding. Pneumothorax patients may also have a higher-than-normal heart rate.

Trauma patients with pneumothorax may also have pale or bluish mucous membranes, they may be in shock, and they may have air trapped under the skin – a condition called “subcutaneous emphysema” that feels like “crackling” when you pet them over the affected areas. The causes of traumatic pneumothorax can be varied and include:

Blunt trauma (like being kicked by a horse or hit by a car)
Chest injuries that pe*****te into the chest cavity
Surgical incision into the chest (a planned and controlled trauma to the chest cavity)
Perforation of the esophagus on its way to the stomach
Trauma to the windpipe (trachea)
Lung disease
Foreign body migration (like a grass awn migrating through the tissues of the body)
What is spontaneous pneumothorax?
In a spontaneous pneumothorax, air leaks from the lungs or the large air passages and accumulates in the chest space outside the lungs, in the absence of any trauma. Any spontaneous pneumothorax would be considered closed, because there are no defects, injuries, or openings in the chest wall. Spontaneous pneumothorax is more common in large, deep-chested dogs. The Siberian husky may be unusually susceptible.

Dogs that develop a spontaneous pneumothorax may or may not have previous signs of lung disease. The condition may have a slow, progressive onset, but what typically occurs is a sudden loss of the ability to compensate for the air that is outside the lungs and preventing the lungs from expanding properly for breathing. The symptoms of spontaneous pneumothorax are the same as those of traumatic pneumothorax; however, the causes are quite different.

The causes of spontaneous pneumothorax originate in the lungs. In the absence of underlying lung disease, this condition is called primary spontaneous pneumothorax. The most common cause is a condition in which the air spaces in the lungs become dilated, and the air can get in (on inhalation) but cannot get out (on exhalation). This is called “bullous emphysema”.

Secondary spontaneous pneumothorax is caused by underlying lung disease such as lung cancer, lung abscesses, heartworm disease, inflammatory airway disease, allergic bronchitis, tracheal rupture, foreign body migration, severe pneumonia, lung worms or flukes, or lung nodules caused by fungal infection.

What is tension pneumothorax?
Tension pneumothorax most often occurs when patients are intubated (have a breathing tube inserted during general anesthesia or use of a ventilator). If the pressure of the ventilation is too great, the lung can rupture (burst). The resulting flap-like defect can act like a one-way valve, allowing air to accumulate outside the lung and within the chest cavity.

Less common causes of tension pneumothorax include trauma (blunt force or penetrating) and spontaneous pneumothorax resulting from the effects of regular breathing on a lung compromised by disease.

How is pneumothorax treated?
Definitive treatment of pneumothorax depends on the underlying cause, but there are commonalities across the spectrum of patients who develop this condition. Most dogs require hospitalization until the air accumulation within the chest cavity has stopped or stabilized. If the dog presents in respiratory distress, then part of the treatment involves extracting the air from inside the chest cavity to allow the lungs to expand. Oxygen therapy is typically provided until the dog is stable.

"Most dogs require hospitalization until the air accumulation
within the chest cavity has stopped or stabilized."
In traumatic pneumothorax, or for dogs requiring surgery to resolve the underlying issue that led to the pneumothorax, it is important that effective pain relief be provided. If there is a significant defect in the chest wall, surgery will be required once the dog is stable and receiving adequate oxygen into the tissues. Removal of part or all of a lung may be necessary if there are localized lesions, masses, etc. Any traumatic lacerations of the lung may be sutured closed.

A closed traumatic pneumothorax may not require any intervention beyond stabilization. Sometimes, a chest tube is required to allow the removal of air that accumulates in the chest cavity. If a chest tube is placed, it is important that the dog not be allowed to dislodge it. Most dogs require strict rest for at least a week (and often longer) following resolution of pneumothorax, to minimize the chance of recurrence.

What sorts of complications can arise from having a pneumothorax?
It is possible for pneumothorax to cause a fatal cardiovascular event due to overly low oxygen levels in the blood. Another important potential complication is recurrence. It is important to monitor the dog’s breathing rate, as an increased breathing rate may suggest a recurrence. Follow-up X-rays may be required, as may additional measurements of blood oxygen levels.

What is the expected recovery and long-term outlook after suffering a pneumothorax?
For traumatic pneumothorax, if the chest trauma is not too severe and if treatment goes according to plan, the expectation is for a full recovery. If the chest trauma is severe, it is possible for the dog to decline despite all interventions and emergency efforts. If there is bleeding into the lungs or bruising of the heart, these patients can deteriorate quickly.

The recovery and long-term outlook for a dog with spontaneous pneumothorax is more complicated, because it depends on the underlying cause. A well-identified, single, localized lesion that can be removed surgically provides a better outlook than if the underlying cause cannot be identified or if there is disease throughout the lungs.

While pneumothorax is a serious condition, it is important to note that, with advances in diagnostic and treatment options, these dogs can often be treated with a successful outcome.

By Tammy Hunter, DVM; Malcolm Weir, DVM, MSc, MPH; Robin Downing, DVM, DAAPM, DACVSMR, CVPP, CRPP
Print Vet Bio Print Article

© Copyright 2024 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license.

Ref : https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/pneumothorax-in-dogs

10/08/2025

Liver Failure in Dogs

What Is Liver Failure in Dogs?

The liver is a very important organ that removes waste products from a dog’s body, absorbs and produces proteins and clotting factors, eliminates toxins, and aids in metabolism and digestion.

Because it has so many functions it’s more susceptible to damage, and inflammation (swelling) can occur, known as hepatitis. This leads to death of liver cells, loss of function, and eventual liver failure.

The liver has the unique ability to regrow after damage, but if the damage is excessive, this makes it difficult to regenerate. Many diseases can result in liver failure when more than 70% of the liver becomes damaged.

Liver failure in dogs is a medical emergency. This condition is painful and can result in death.

Dogs with end-stage liver failure (cirrhosis) often die within one week of diagnosis. Dogs with accompanying ascites, or fluid buildup in the abdomen, have a poorer prognosis overall.

Fortunately, some causes of liver failure can be healed if diagnosed and treated early enough by a veterinarian.

Symptoms of Liver Failure in Dogs

Several symptoms of liver disease in dogs are nondescript and can be seen with almost any type of disease. They include:

Weakness

Decreased appetite

Increased thirst and urination

Weight loss

Abdominal pain

Vomiting with or without blood

Diarrhea with or without blood

However, if a progressive loss of liver function leads to liver failure, the following symptoms may occur:

Jaundice

Bruising on the skin, nose, and eyes

Bleeding from the nose, mouth, re**um, and bladder

Black, tarry stools

Ascites

Swelling of the limbs (edema)

Collapse

Hepatic encephalopathy

Hepatic encephalopathy causes neurologic signs such as head pressing, seizures, circling, behavioral changes, lack of coordination, blindness, or coma

Causes of Liver Failure in Dogs

There are many causes of liver failure in dogs, and it’s often frustrating for veterinarians to diagnose. Sometimes the initial cause may never be found.

However, there are several known causes of liver failure. These include:

Medications such as Tylenol® (acetaminophen)

Heavy metals like copper

Toxins such as blue-green algae, mycotoxins (usually through eating moldy or spoiled food), xylitol, sago palm, rodenticides

If you suspect your pet has consumed a toxin, call the Pet Poison Hotline (855-764-7661) for advice.

Infectious organisms such as infectious canine hepatitis, leptospirosis, histoplasmosis, or heartworm disease (specifically end-stage caval syndrome)

Cancer

Inherited conditions such as copper storage disease, often seen in Bedlington Terriers and West Highland White Terriers; amyloidosis, seen in breeds like Shar-Pei

Portosystemic shunts, usually a congenital issue

How Veterinarians Diagnose Liver Failure in Dogs

Since symptoms of liver failure in dogs can be vague, vets rely on diagnostics such as bloodwork and urinalysis as well as a physical exam.

Your vet may recommend additional blood tests, as well as X-rays, ultrasound, and abdominocentesis. In this procedure, a needle is inserted to collect fluid to look for evidence of infection or cancer in dogs.

Additionally, your vet may need a sample of your dog’s liver to make an accurate diagnosis. This sample can be taken either through surgery or through a biopsy, where a needle is put directly into the liver.

Liver biopsies have risks, and they are usually done once the patient has been stabilized.

Treatment of Liver Failure in Dogs

Treatment of liver failure in dogs is most effective if started early. This is very important for dogs with acute liver failure because they often come to the vet in critical condition.

The goal of treatment is to slow the disease and allow time for the liver to regrow. Supportive care to relieve the symptoms alongside treatment of the underlying cause may involve several medications, including:

SAMe and milk thistle derivatives (silymarin)

N-acetylcysteine

Vitamin K1

IV fluids (blood transfusions or plasma transfusions may also be needed) with electrolyte and glucose supplementation

Pain medications

Antacids, anti-nausea medications (famotidine, ranitidine), and gastroprotectants like sucralfate

Because the liver helps with digestion and metabolism of nutrients, a diet that requires less work for the liver can be helpful.

Prescription diets such as Hill’s® l/d, Royal Canin® Hepatic or Purina® HP Hepatic are formulated to have more digestible protein, contain more antioxidants, and have lower amounts of certain minerals like copper that can be harmful to the liver.

At first, feeding tubes may be needed to deliver nutrients to a dog. Speak with your vet for advice on the best diet for your individual pup.

Protein restriction is important in dogs diagnosed with hepatic encephalopathy or at risk of developing it.

Dogs with hepatic encephalopathy may also be helped by enemas, lactulose, and antibiotics like neomycin or metronidazole. Periodic abdominocentesis may be needed to help ease symptoms and improve comfort and breathing.

In cases of cirrhosis, symptomatic care is directed at slowing its progression, managing complications, and keeping a good quality of life for as long as possible.

For some dogs with advanced disease or poor outlook of recovery, humane euthanasia may be recommended by your vet.

Recovery and Management of Liver Failure in Dogs

Because the liver has a unique ability to regrow, dogs can have a good prognosis and go on to live a normal life with some diseases that are caught early and treated aggressively.

However, chronic liver disease may occur secondarily. That can lead to frequent rechecks and lifelong medical and dietary management, but dogs may still have a decent quality of life. This typically occurs in cases of leptospirosis and if your dog has eaten certain toxins.

Prevention of Liver Failure in Dogs

Not all causes of liver failure in dogs can be prevented. However, there are some ways to decrease risks, such as:

Keep garbage securely put away and out of your dog’s reach

Keep all medications locked up

Remove any toxic plants from the yard and inside the home

Block access to chemicals and toxins, like rodenticide

Vaccinate your dog against leptospirosis and infectious canine hepatitis.

Take steps to avoid sources of possible bacterial contamination by restricting access to standing water, avoiding contact with wildlife, and using pest control as needed.

Speak with your veterinarian about the risks and benefits of certain medications for your dog.

Liver Failure in Dogs FAQs

How fast does acute liver failure happen in dogs?

It usually takes a few days for symptoms of liver failure to develop, since the liver can continue working until a large portion of it becomes damaged. But once symptoms appear, it’s very important that your dog gets veterinary attention quickly.

Michael Kearley, DVM
By Michael Kearley, DVM
Published Mar. 27, 2024

Ref: https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/endocrine/liver-failure-dogs

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