| Ladymom | 02-26-2009 12:01 PM |
Quote:
Originally Posted by Ellie May
(Post 2490244)
And I really don't see how doing a BAT at 20 weeks then following the same protocol prevents overdiagnosis because a dog can have other types of liver disease at that age and high BA unless I'm missing something.
| A BAT at five months is a good indicator of a shunt or MVD. If symptoms develop later on in life, you have to suspect toxins, an inflamatory response to infection or even cancer, issues that the puppy would not have been born with. Then you have to do lots of tests and even an invasive test like a biopsy to rule those out, just like Michele's Lacy had to go through.
Getting a BAT early on gives your vet an idea of what is normal for your puppy and something to compare it to later on. It's done for the same reason most vets recommend bloodwork before the spay or neuter. Not only will it determine if it is safe for your puppy to go under anesthesia, it also will give your vet a point of reference to compare to later on.
With shunts and liver disease being so prevalent in Yorkies, I can't think of one good reason not to BAT all Yorkie puppies as soon as they are old enough. I know the YTCA supports Dr. Center's recommendation, too. | 