I am also wondering why your vet did not recommend them as they are staples in dogs with liver problems. Denosyl or vetri-dmg is also a an excellent supplement to give if liver issues are suspected.
Milk thistle is a supplement that you can buy at a health food store...I prefer to buy the capsules rather than liquid b/c the liquid form contains alcohol.
Here's some info on milk thistle:
MILK THISTLE "Silymarin, which is itself a combination of several other active compounds, has been extensively studied around the world, and has been shown to be safe and effective in treating a variety of liver diseases and other conditions. It specifically protects the liver against toxins (including some drugs and heavy metals), activates protein synthesis, and stimulates growth of new liver cells to replace those that are dead or damaged. Milk thistle also has strong antioxidant (destroys oxygen free radicals) and anti-inflammatory actions."
Lactulose helps by basically pulling the toxins from the blood stream into the colon where it is then pushed out...The dosage should be completely dependent on your baby having 2 soft stools per day (not firm, not diarrhea). This is by prescription only, but has virtually no side effects other than diarrhea if you give too much of it. The dose should be split up into 3x/day.
Yes, my yorkie has bloodwork and urinalysis
at least every 6 months. It's important to always have the urinalysis done to check for crystals. Ammonium biurate crystals are often times seen when a dog has liver problems.