My dog, a 3 year old, female 5 lb. chihuahua, had blood around her vagina and splatter of blood on the floor. I took her to the vet and he took 2 x-rays and did blood work. She had a swollen liver/hepatitis, so he put her on several medications, cimetidine, metronidazole, and denosyl as well as putting her on Prescription diet l/d. He sees her again in one week to see how she is doing. The office visit and tests cost $300.
Are there any natural alternatives I could try with her after meds do their job? Any suggestions on what I can give and what to look for would be greatly appreciated
Hello,
You may be able to replace the Denosyl with a milk thistle supplement. I find the milk thistle generates a better response from the liver than the Denosyl (which is Sam-e). Hepagen C by Thorne is an excellent liver support supplement, which your dog can continue long term. (To learn more about symptoms and treatments, visit our webpage Liver Diseases in Dogs.)
I’m a bit concerned about the blood because the liver issues really don’t explain the blood around her vagina. If it doesn’t resolve on it’s own she may need further diagnostics specifically in that area. Please be sure they have done a fecal sample to be sure it’s not coming from the colon.
As far as her diet, the prescription diet L/D is formulated for low protein. There are better quality dog foods you may want to try such as Flint River Ranch Senior or Senior plus dry dog food. It actually has a lower amount of protein than the L/D. Best of luck.
Sincerely,
Colleen Smith DVM,CVA