 liver shunt? help please!
Let me start out by saying this whole situation has me so confused! Two days ago me and Burton woke up like any other morning, he went outside pooped, peed, and then wasn't too interested in breakfast (he usually eats 2-3hrs after waking up). Anyway, after that I was sitting on the couch and he was sleeping on my lap he then got up and walked to the edge of the couch and fell off. I immediately went to make sure he was ok and he walked like he was off balance, but about 5 seconds later he was back to his crazy self. My first thought was that his blood sugar was low so I gave him some nutra-cal and called the vet. I was freaked out and my vet wasn't available so I went to another vet's office. Long story short he had a blood panel done and Burt's liver enzyme was 103 (I was told it should be around a 10). This vet wants me to come back on monday to have a bile acid test done because he thinks Burt has a portosystemic liver shunt. I have been researching portosystemic shunts and he has not a single system (he's a crazy little guy! tons of energy, loves to eat, etc.) I just think this is so odd and I have a hard time believing it. I just started giving him a low protein diet just in case but what would you do?
Background:
Burton is 5.5lbs and is slightly chunky. He will be 3 in January and came from a reputable breeder. I called the breeder to see what she thinks but she is on vacation until next week. I'm 8 months pregnant and just purchased a house, so I want my dog to be healthy but I don't have a ton of money to be getting multiple vet opinions. This dog is a child to me and I would do anything for him but this just has me stumped! |