Portosystemic Shunts

Question
We just buried our 15 year old tri-colored Sheltie, Kelsey. We filled the void in our life with a eight week old, sable colored Sheltie we've named Molly. After two weeks with us she has developed focal seizures, in which her head pulls back and her eyes blink, then loosing her balance falls to the ground.  They are as many as 10 in one miniute.  The Vet observed the seizures and did some chem-profile which came back with high liver enzymes, elevated protein levels, high ammonia, high pre and post bile acid levels and high blood sugar levels.  His diagnosis is Portosystemic shunts and our only two options seem to be surgery or euthanasia. Her only visible symptom thus far are the seizures, however we know she can begin to decline quickly and are becomming more and more attached each passing day.  Are there any other options or financial assistance available for surgeries?  

Answer
Unfortunately in this case there aren't too many options.  Most patients need to have surgery, but it can be very risky.   You could try a low protein diet such as L/D and Lactulose to help bind some of the ammonia; however, I am afraid that her having such severe signs at a young age will only worsen and not have a good outcome.   I would make sure to contact the breeder as s/he should reimburse you for the purchase price of the pup and that money could be used toward surgery...otherwise there isn't any assistance out there that I am aware of.