[maggieh]

The first thing is to determine if this is a shunt or MVD. A liver shunt can often be surgically repaired, and MVD can be managed through diet and supplements. Honestly, I'm surprised you said your vet is going ahead with the spay without further action. Denamarin or similar supplements can help reduce the liver values; adding Milk Thistle daily is also a good way to control ALT.

If there is a specialty vet near you, seek out an internist for further testing and to determine if it is a liver shunt. I personally know of a very sick one year old maltese/poodle mix years ago who we did not think would survive because the liver shunt had been untreated for months. After successful surgery, this little guy, Samson, lived another 12 or 13 years.

Good luck to you!

 

[maggieh]

Dear Walter,
Thank you so much for your wisdom and guidance. Sounds like you really understand this condition. Millie is scheduled tomorrow for the protein C test. I hope after all these test the doctor will be able to clearly diagnose if it is a shunt or MVD without a liver biopsy. What do you think about allowing a liver biopsy? I have an appointment next Friday with a specialist. The information you provided is invaluable. I will keep you updated on our progress. I live in California so Cornell is not an option. I wish it was. Your baby is adorable. Thank you again for reaching out. I am so grateful.

If you are near any major universities, you may want to see if a referral to a veterinary college is possible once you have more information. Like with humans, the teaching hospitals (like Cornell in the east) are a great place to go for the most up to date treatments and expertise.