problems with my dog, SOS!

Question
I have a 10 year-old Chihuahua mix named Martini.  From the results of a blood screen taken before a teeth cleaning, my vet found that she had highly elevated enzyme levels (a martini with a liver problem, coincidence?!).  My vet did not proceed with the cleaning and suggested my taking Martini to a specialist. After more bloodwork was done and a blood coagulation test (which was normal)was done, I decided to let nature take its course.  I did not want to put Martini through any more tests, especially since she is getting older and also that the anesthesia might cause complications.  Martini is normally an energetic dog and has shown no signs of feeling ill.  Within the past week or so however, I notice her drinking much more water than usual and she has been urinating on the rug.  Can you offer any suggestions as far as keeping her liver as healthy as possible, curing her urinary incontinence, and keeping her comofortable and helping her live longer?

Answer
Hi Sara :-)

High Enzyme Levels isn't always a indication of a Liver problem. A Bile Acid test will need to be performed to rule out any Liver problems.

High Enzyme Levels can also be metabolism related. By this I mean, some foods which Martini is eating may not be giving her any actual benefit and are about as useful to her as throwing it in the Garbage.

But you will need to have a Bile Acid test performed to find out for certain if there is any Liver problems. If her Liver is fine then that is excellent news. Dogs with high Enzyme Levels do seem to ingest a lot more fluids than Dogs with normal Enzyme Levels. This can also be caused by Diabetes.

She will definitely need to be re-tested for Liver Problems, Kidney problems and Diabetes. If these are all normal then you will need to speak to your Vet about changing her diet.

My Dog has the same problem and he is 3 years old. He eats Hills r/d Diet and he hasn't had any problems while on this. Speak to your Vet about putting Martini on Hills r/d Diet and see if you notice a improvement and also have her Enzyme Levels re-checked in 4-8 weeks to see if there is any improvement in that area.

Take care & all the best & please leave me a comment.

Trisha x