Liver failure in dogs can occur from a host of sources. Your dog can get a bacterial infection, or an existing health condition can lead to liver failure. In many cases, ingesting a toxic substance is the cause of canine liver disease. To prevent liver failure, you should keep external toxins from entering your dog's body.
The Liver Removes Toxins
One of the primary functions of the liver is to remove toxins from your dog's body. When a dog's liver is not functioning properly, toxins can build up inside his blood stream and cause severe illness and even death.
Understand that there are certain toxic medications that can cause liver damage in dogs. Avoid or minimize giving your dog the following substances:
- Phenobarbital, which is usually prescribed for seizures (there are safer ways to treat seizures, such as with potassium bromide)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Aspirin
- Rimadyl
- Temgesic
- Feldene
- Cortisone (steroids)
Flush Out The Toxins
Subcutaneous fluids can help to flush out any excess toxins that are in your dog's system. A vet or animal clinic personnel can administer such injections to your dog. If additional dosages are needed, you can learn how to perform the injections at home.
Other Ways To Remove Toxins
- Do not feed your dog food with preservatives and additives; make homemade meals or buy organic food free of toxins, like hormones.
- Prevent your dog from exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides.
- Clean up dangerous materials around the house that your dog could possibly ingest, such as paint chips that contain lead.