Receiving a diagnosis of liver failure for your furry friend is an extremely distressing event for the entire family. Knowing that your dog is in pain and unable to perform every tasks such as eating, drinking and going outside to the toilet is heart-breaking. Therefore, every owner wants to give the best possible care and treatment to their pet in their time of need. Liver disease is an extremely common disorder in older dogs and can be caused by a variety of reasons. Hepatitis, infection, anemia, inflammation of the pancreas and trauma can all result in liver failure which could prove fatal if left untreated. Fortunately there are many effective treatments available for different types of liver failure, and something as simple as changing your dog's diet can have a major impact on their recovery.

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Signs of Liver Disease 

Dogs suffering from liver disease will most often appear tired and depressed. They may also start panting, vomiting, drinking excessively, refuse to settle, and you may start to notice their skin and the whites of their eyes turning yellow as the disease progresses. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, take him to a veterinarian immediately who will perform a series of diagnostic tests.

Importance of Diet 

As the liver is responsible for detoxing the blood and producing the necessary chemicals required for digestion, a healthy diet is critical for dogs affected by liver disease. Many veterinarians and canine nutritionists now believe that the correct diet can make a huge difference and occasionally even reverse the effects of liver disease in certain cases.  

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Natural Diet 

One of the best ways to help your beloved pet regain their strength and repair their damaged liver is to feed them a diet packed with fresh, healthy produce. For an emergency detox diet, try different combinations of boiled potatoes, broccoli, green beans and cauliflower. After two to three days, start adding some animal proteins such as boiled eggs, white fish, cottage cheese, chicken breast and tuna. It is important to include plenty of protein in your dog's diet. Try feeding them several small meals a day rather than one large meal.

Prescription Diets 

Many dog food manufacturers offer a wide range of prescription diets that are tailor-made for many different medical conditions. You can buy prescription dog food from veterinarians, pet shops, supermarkets or even order it online. Supplements such as milk thistle, zinc, and vitamins K, C, D and E are all great ways to support your dog's health and help them make a speedy recovery.

As well as making changes to your dog's diet, it is advisable to detox your home to ensure that your dog does not come into contact with any harmful chemicals that could make their condition worse. If you use pesticides or weed killer in your garden, make sure to keep your dog well away from any treated areas. Never allow your pet to come into contact with harsh cleaning products used in the home such as bleach or drain cleaner. Above all, try to keep your dog at a healthy weight and make sure they gets plenty of fresh air and exercise to ensure their long-term health.