How to Treat Canine Liver Problems Holistically

Canine liver problems can manifest themselves in several ways. Your dog may rapidly gain or lose weight, refuse to eat, behave oddly or even lapse into a coma. No matter what your dog's liver problem may be, the most important thing is to take him to a vet immediately. Once the problem has been diagnosed and a treatment started, you may wish to investigate additional holistic treatment options. These are natural options that do not include traditional medications. Always consult your veterinarian and work with a trained expert when you are treating canine liver problems holistically.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Antioxidant supplement
• Daily vitamin
• Dandelion
• Milk thistle
• Artichoke
• Low-salt chicken broth

1. Make sure your dog is getting her daily vitamin requirements. Choline, inositol and argenine are important supplements, as are vitamins A, C, B-1 and B-6. Selenium can also improve liver function. The best way to handle this laundry list of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial compounds is to ask your veterinarian to recommend a daily vitamin for your dog.

2. Add beneficial extracts to your dog's food. Milk thistle and dandelion extracts can help the liver function more effectively and remove more toxins from your dog's system. As before, do not introduce these to your pet's diet until you have checked with your veterinarian about dosage and potential side effects.

3. 
    
   Avoid tomatoes and potatoes unless your vet says it is OK. These vegetables can cause problems for some dogs.

   Start feeding the dog fruits and vegetables. Raw fruits and vegetables should be a part of his daily diet. They contain valuable antioxidants and amino acids that improve liver function. Artichokes are particularly good because they instigate liver-cell regeneration. Work with your vet to determine how best to incorporate fruits and vegetables into your dog's daily diet.

4. 
    
   Ahhhh ... there's nothing like a relaxing dip in rose-petal water to end an afternoon at the spa.

   Try canine massage. Many dog owners believe that their dogs benefit mentally and physically from regular massage sessions. Some liver problems can be exacerbated by stress, so if you think this may be the case with your dog, a relaxing massage might do the trick. You can learn the techniques yourself or take your dog to a professional masseuse.

5. Consider canine acupuncture. Dog owners who favor massage therapy for their pets are often partial to canine acupuncture as well. This type of treatment uses long, thin needles to focus bodily energy and heal imbalances. Your dog may or may not like this, and you should not do it yourself unless you have had professional training.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult your veterinarian about any dietary changes you make to your dog's daily meals, and also for advice on how to safely and effectively protect her liver.

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