ALSO CHECK THIS OUT..Medical Treatment
Dogs with shunts that are seizuring or comatose should be given intravenous fluids with dextrose (sugar), intravenous antibiotics, and warm water enemas. Lactulose syrup can be instilled in the rectum after the enema to decrease toxin absorption. Some dogs may even need activated charcoal (given by tube through the mouth into the stomach) to absorb toxins if they are comatose.
Long-term medical treatment for dogs with shunts includes a low protein diet such as Hill's L/D, and drugs such as lactulose and neomycin or metronidazole to prevent production and absorption of ammonia and other intestinal toxins. Lactulose, a sugar solution, is extremely safe, although a high dose will cause diarrhea. Some animals do well on medical treatment alone, but most have shortened life spans because of progressive liver shrinkage and loss of function. Medical treatment is normally used to stabilize a patient until it is healthy enough to tolerate the surgery. |