Gabby's Rules

GABBY'S RULES
Gabby changes the world!

647 313 1505

c/o SZC Group
161 Bay Street, Suite 2700 Toronto ON M5J 2S1 Canada
307 W 38th Street, Unit 296, New York, NY 10018 USA

Liver Disease Without Warning

Liver Disease without warning

The symptoms of early stage liver disease are non-specific, which means they are common to a number of ailments and do not directly point to a liver problem. This can make detecting liver issues difficult. Early stage symptoms can include:

  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • An increase in thirst, which will cause the dog to pee more frequently
  • Loss of appetite and weight loss
  • Changes in behavior, such as irritability, lethargy, or depression

As the disease progresses, it can cause jaundice where the skin, eyes, and gums turn a yellowish color. This is one of the most telltale signs of liver disease. In addition to jaundice, later stage symptom include:

  • Swelling of the abdomen due to enlargement of the liver or fluid build up
  • Issues with blood clotting
  • Blood in the urine or feces
  • Blindness
  • Seizures
  • Coma

Neurological problems, such as disorientation, pacing, aimless wandering, or lack of coordination can also happen in the end stages. These are caused by an accumulation of toxins that normally would have been eliminated by the liver.

Diagnosis of Liver Disease

Diagnosing liver disease requires a blood test to check the levels of enzymes, proteins, and other substances produced by the liver and a urinalysis to evaluate the overall health of the liver and kidneys. Both of these tests can also help diagnose or rule out underlying illnesses.

In addition, X-rays and an ultrasound can be done to see if the liver is enlarged and look for gallstones, cysts, or signs of cancer. In some cases, a liver biopsy might be needed for a more definitive diagnosis.

Misleading

Our Gabby showed signs of not eating and drinking and from there it was a matter of days until his passing. No early warning. No signs until the very end. We are still in shock.

The point is that it is never too early. If you have a cocker spaniel check for this disease specifically early. If only we knew about this. Our brave, breautiful angel of a boy fought without symptoms until it was too late.

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