1. Open the application and start a chat with a certified vet.
2. Talk to the vet regarding the concern that is faced by your little one or have a regular chat about your pet’s health
3. You will be presented with a personalized plan for your pet as soon as the expert assesses your furry friend’s condition.

• Reduced stress: Pets often experience higher levels of stress and anxiety when visiting a traditional veterinary clinic due to the unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells. CuddlyTails is an online platform that allows them to receive care from the comfort of their home environment, minimizing stress and potential complications.
• Video and photo consultation: CuddlyTails allows owners to share videos or photos of their pets, enabling the veterinarian to observe the pet’s behavior, mobility, and any potential issues in their familiar surroundings. This can provide valuable insights for diagnosis and treatment.
• Accessibility to specialists: CuddlyTails provides access to a network of specialists, who can offer expert guidance on caring for pets and addressing any unique challenges they may face.
• Personalized advice: Through consultations and detailed discussions with the owner, CuddlyTails can offer personalized advice on creating a safe and enriching environment for pets, including tips on litter box placement, feeding routines, and navigating the home.

A liver shunt, also known as a portosystemic shunt (PSS), is a serious condition in dogs where blood bypasses the liver through an abnormal vessel. This prevents toxins and waste from being filtered out, leading to various health issues.

Overview

• Definition: A liver shunt is an abnormal connection between the portal vein (which carries blood to the liver) and the systemic circulation, allowing blood to bypass the liver.
• Types:
  • Extrahepatic Shunt: Located outside the liver, more common in small breeds.
  • Intrahepatic Shunt: Located within the liver, typically found in larger breeds.

Symptoms

Symptoms can vary based on the severity of the shunt but often include:

• Poor Growth: Stunted growth in puppies due to nutrient malabsorption.
• Behavioral Changes: Disorientation, circling, head pressing, and seizures due to toxin buildup affecting the brain.
• Gastrointestinal Distress: Vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Increased Thirst and Urination: Frequent urination or straining while urinating.
• Weight Loss and Poor Appetite: Loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss.
• Neurological Signs: Stumbling or unsteadiness.

Causes

Liver shunts can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired:

• Congenital Shunts: Most common in purebred dogs; genetic factors are often involved. Breeds at higher risk include Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Dachshunds, and Miniature Schnauzers.
• Acquired Shunts: Develop due to liver diseases such as cirrhosis that increase pressure in the portal vein.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves:

1. Veterinary Examination: A thorough physical examination and health history assessment.
2. Blood Tests: Complete blood count (CBC), liver enzyme analysis, and bile acid tests to assess liver function.
3. Urinalysis: Checking for abnormalities like ammonium biurate crystals.
4. Imaging Studies: Ultrasound or CT scans to visualize the shunt and its location.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type of shunt and severity:

1. Medical Management:
   • Dietary changes to a low-protein diet that is easily digestible.
   • Medications like lactulose to reduce ammonia levels and antibiotics to decrease intestinal bacteria that produce toxins.
2. Surgical Intervention:
   • Surgery is often recommended for congenital shunts. Techniques may involve placing constrictors around the abnormal vessel or using coils to block blood flow through it.
3. Monitoring and Follow-Up:
   • Regular veterinary check-ups are essential post-surgery to monitor liver function and overall health.

Prognosis

The prognosis varies based on several factors:

• Dogs with extrahepatic shunts generally have a better prognosis post-surgery (around 85% recovery rate).
• Intrahepatic shunts may have a higher risk of complications but can still lead to positive outcomes with appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

Liver shunts are serious conditions that require prompt veterinary attention. If you notice symptoms such as poor growth, behavioral changes, or gastrointestinal distress in your dog, consult your veterinarian for evaluation and treatment options. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life.