Portosystemic Shunts in dogs
Conditions noted in Veterinary text books include the above, more commonly known as a liver shunt which unfortunately, affects Yorkies. A tremendous amount of research has been done on this subject and continues and if you would like to read further surf the net and check it out.
This condition seems to affect various animals and there are obviously different types of shunts, some affecting giant breeds, the older dog and some acquired shunts etc. but the one most affecting the Yorkie is the Portosystemic shunt.
The Portosystemic shunts are abnormal vascular connections between the hepatic portal vein and the systemic circulation. In this situation the blood in the gastrointestinal track is diverted past the liver therefore limiting the livers bodily function of detoxification etc. The severity of the shunt can be slight to severe. Research has proven that this could be hereditary in some cases, but this is not conclusive. This type of shunt becomes obvious early in a puppies life.
Most common signs of this condition are depression and lethargy, an unbelievably quite puppy, a sign of blankness, disorientation, temporary blindness. Dog walks along the wall and keeps going – hyperactivity. These systems are brought on usually an hour or two after eating. If the animal has been fed high protein eg. Chicken, mince etc. the attack should be far worse. As the ammonia level in the brain increases the dog starts exhibiting the symptoms above. These symptoms can also be far worse including fitting, coma etc.
This condition can be diagnosed by blood tests and also by a scan.
This condition does not mean guaranteed death of your puppy, however treatment is necessary. Surgery is an option but this would be undertaken only in certain instances. Medication can be given orally and a prescribed diet fed. Should you encounter this situation consult your vet. There are also Specialist Vets who manage this condition very successfully. Contact the website for more info.
I receive a fair amount of calls from people who have bought Yorkies only to be confronted with this problem, the most recent being two days ago where the Lady was devastated at the loss of her baby and told me the Breeder concerned was bad news etc. Please be aware it is very difficult to diagnose this condition in a young puppy. This only starts to manifest as the puppy gets older. It is very unlikely that the Breeder intentionally sold a sick pup. Breeders if you should notice a very quite pup, not as playful, ordoes not interact with its litter mates, investigate. Your vet can do blood tests, at least this way you will have peace of mind and you will be assured of passing on a perfectly healthy baby. Dog owners should you have a bad experience with this. Contact your Breeder - offer Proof from your vet of the illness and that it is the same puppy bought from them (believe it or not – there are plenty of chancers out there) An excellent way to prove identity of a puppy/dog is with a micro-chip. This is of benefit to all concerned.
Benefit to Breeder – someone elses breeding can not be passed off as yours.
Purchaser – your dog has a chip under the skin and can be traced back to you in the event of being lost etc.if stolen you can prove ownership.
Most important to the dog/puppy – in the correct hands they will be re-united with their owner.
THE YORKIE – Love and be Loved.