Elevated Liver Enzymes In Dogs
I am the Original Holistic Pet Health Coach, and am now training passionate pet parents, and pet professionals to be Certified Holistic Pet Health Coaches so that more pets can be helped holistically.
Along with renal function tests, liver function tests are among the most used. The discussion of these tests is then expressed in terms of liver enzymes. However, what are these liver enzymes, and what functions do they serve in the body?
In holistic pet care, understanding the importance of liver health is crucial. The liver is a vital organ that plays a central role in various metabolic processes in the body. Liver enzymes are proteins produced by the liver cells, and they serve as essential catalysts for chemical reactions that help the liver function properly. The most common liver enzymes measured in veterinary medicine include alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT).
ALT and AST are primarily involved in amino acid metabolism and are commonly used to assess liver damage. Elevated levels of these enzymes may indicate liver injury or disease. ALP is crucial for the breakdown of proteins and fats, and elevated levels of ALP can signify various liver and bone-related issues. GGT is another liver enzyme that can indicate liver or bile duct problems when elevated.
In holistic pet care, maintaining liver health is vital for your pet’s overall well-being. A balanced and nutritious diet, along with reducing exposure to harmful substances, can promote a healthy liver. Additionally, incorporating natural remedies and practices that support liver function can contribute to your pet’s holistic health. Regular monitoring of liver enzymes through liver function tests allows early detection of any abnormalities, enabling timely intervention and a comprehensive holistic approach to address any potential liver issues in your beloved pet.
AST is an enzyme that predominately resides in the liver and heart, with skeletal muscle being a distant second. Transferring amino groups is one of its functions in the metabolism of amino acids. Muscle, liver, and other damaged cells produce AST in the bloodstream.
ALT is mostly present in the liver. It contributes to the body’s ability to digest and absorb proteins, which also affects how the body turns food into energy. ALT is released into the bloodstream by injured liver cell
ALP is a protein-degrading enzyme that is present in the liver and bones. ALP levels higher than usual could be a sign of liver illness or injury.
GGT is critical for cellular defense. GGT levels are frequently increased in environmental situations because of this.
The fact that our blood enzyme levels are elevated indicates a problem with the liver’s cell activity.
What Should I Do If My Dog's Liver Enzymes Are High?
It’s critical to identify the underlying cause of your dog’s enzyme difference because there may be several contributing factors. We recommend a whole-food diet while reducing exposure to dangerous substances, but for a complete investigation of your pet’s condition and a customized plan, check out our holistic pet consultation services. At our practice, we emphasize the importance of holistic pet health, which involves addressing your pet’s overall well-being, considering various aspects of their health, lifestyle, and environment. Our certified pet health coaches can provide valuable insights and guidance tailored to your pet’s specific needs, helping you develop a comprehensive holistic approach to improve their health and quality of life. Schedule a consultation today to explore holistic solutions that can benefit your furry companion.
What dog breeds are prone to liver disease
Liver disease in dogs is a common condition. Several breeds of dogs are predisposed to this condition, including Bedlington Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Doberman Pinschers, Skye Terriers, Standard Poodles, Springer Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Maltese and West Highland White Terriers.
Here's a success story of Bogart, crockpet baby of the week
From Striving to Thriving
When my beloved Bogart’s liver enzymes started rising. I went searching for a homemade diet and found Dr. Ruth’s diet. Within a few months, his liver enzymes started dropping, and a year later, he was back to normal. He was 6 at the time. Now he’s 13.5 and still going strong.
Within 3 months his liver enzymes started to go down and within a year they were all normal. Bogie, turned 14 and that’s extremely unusual for a Scottish terrier, they’re plagued with so many problems, the liver being the most common, and by the time they’re 8, they have a myriad of problems oftentimes dying by that age, and even younger. I have to attribute Bogie’s health to finding a good breeder first and foremost, and second, not immunizing them every year. He’s only had his puppy shots and required rabies, not applying pesticides anywhere in or out of our home, and of course, home cooking.
The proof is in the pudding. He had one surgery for a benign mass in his bladder last year, and the doc wasn’t hesitant to put him under anesthesia because his bloodwork was that of a two-year-old.
So thanks, Doc Ruth Roberts, for the crockpet diet and everything that comes with it.
Lolly Loly, Crockpet Mom
The Liver Support Program
Liver Enzyme elevation is rarely life-threatening, but it means at least 75% of the liver has been injured. Chronic liver disease can be debilitating, creating nausea, abdominal pain, and needless suffering.
- Improve Detoxification
- Improve Liver Function
- Reduce Liver Enzymes
