We are currently going through the process of figuring out if Toki has liver shunt or MVD. I think that the only way to truly diagnose MVD is by having them get a tissue sample from the liver and analyzing it. I have a thread in the Health & Diet section but basically Toki has not had any symptoms of liver issues...we only noticed an issue during a routine blood test when they found elevated liver enzymes. We then had a BAT performed and the post-fast value was 61 (if I'm remembering correctly). My vet is leaning toward MVD and we will most likely have them do a biopsy on the liver when we have surgery to remove bladder stones.
I would not take the lack of symptoms to mean that there is no possibility of MVD or some other liver issue. If it were me, I would stick with a diet specifically for liver pups (possibly with milk thistle supplement) if you do not plan on doing a liver biopsy. I feel the same way about the prescription food but it is proven to work and completely balanced. I will probably ask for a referral to a nutritionist so that I can homecook in the future. I believe LuvTaycieGirl homecooks for her pup Taycie that has MVD and is having good results...I was actually going to contact her for more info on Dr. Remillard's diet once we have more answers.
I'm hoping for the best with Cruz...keep us updated. |