Deciding when to euthanize a dog with liver failure is a difficult and heartbreaking decision for any owner. The liver is a vital organ in the body and is responsible for filtering the blood, producing various factors for biochemical pathways, and aiding digestion. When it begins to fail, it can cause many health complications that ultimately can be fatal. Keep in mind that the decision to euthanize should be made with the best interest of the pet in mind, and it is important to consider all factors that may impact this decision carefully. Here are some things to think about when considering euthanasia for a dog with liver failure.

When To Euthanize A Dog With Liver Failure

Deciding when to euthanize a dog with liver failure can be one of the most difficult and heartbreaking decisions a pet owner must make. The decision should ultimately depend on the pet’s overall quality of life and comfort level. If the dog is no longer responding to treatments and/or its condition is deteriorating rapidly, the vet may recommend euthanasia as a humane and dignified end-of-life solution. In addition, signs such as severe pain, loss of appetite, an inability to move or stand on its own, or difficulty breathing may all be indicators that it may be time to consider euthanasia.

What Is Liver Disease In Dogs?

Liver disease in dogs is a broad term that encompasses any disorder, condition, or disease in which the functional capacity of the liver is compromised. Examples of liver diseases that affect dogs include chronic hepatitis, copper storage disease, cirrhosis, and liver failure. Common symptoms of these diseases include lethargy, vomiting, weight loss, anorexia, jaundice, and black tarry stools. Diagnosis is sometimes complicated, and treatment depends on the specific type of liver disease.

What Is Considered Liver Failure In Dogs?

Liver failure in dogs is an acute or chronic condition typically characterized by a gradual breakdown and eventual failure of the liver over time. Dogs may exhibit a variety of symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, jaundice, weakness, and seizures, depending on the health of the liver and the extent of the damage. Liver enzymes and/or bilirubin levels will typically be elevated when liver failure is present.

Steps To Deciding If You Should Euthanize Your Dog With Liver Failure

Make sure you have explored all of your treatment options and discussed a prognosis with your veterinarian.
Examine the quality of life your dog is currently leading; is he/she in severe pain, having difficulty with basic daily activities, or not responding to treatment?
Talk to family and friends about your decision and get their opinions.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider speaking to a qualified animal counselor or support group.
Take the time to grieve. Euthanizing your pet can be a very emotional decision. It’s important to take the time needed to properly process the decision.
Consider speaking to the veterinarian about options for aftercare and the euthanasia process.
Make sure to obtain aftercare records and any recommendations from the veterinarian.
When you are ready, make an appointment with your veterinarian to carry out the euthanasia procedure.

What Happens When A Dog Is Dying From Liver Failure?

When a dog is dying from liver failure, it will generally experience extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, dehydration, weight loss, vomiting, and jaundice in its tissues and skin. Generally, dogs with liver failure will not last more than a few weeks unless they receive veterinary care. It is important to seek medical attention to give them the best possible outcome. Veterinary supportive care including IV fluids, vitamin supplementation, and antibiotics may help to improve their quality of life during this difficult time.

My Dog Is Dying Of Liver Failure

I am so sorry to hear about your dog’s liver failure. It can be so hard to watch a beloved pet suffer. It is important to consult with your vet to get the best advice and treatment for your dog. They may be able to suggest certain medications that could help to improve your dog’s quality of life or further treatment. No matter what happens, know that you are giving your dog love and comfort during this difficult time.

Dog Liver Failure Shaking

Dog liver failure shaking is a common symptom when the organ is failing. Shivering can be caused by one of two things. First, a decrease in protein production can lead to decreased muscle control which leads to trembling or shaking. Second, the toxins created by the failing liver can damage the nervous system, causing the dog to shake. This shaking can become quite severe and can cause pain or difficulty for the pet.

Senior Dog Liver Problems

Senior dog liver problems are generally caused by age-related decline in liver functioning, poor nutrition, or illnesses like cancer, infection, or exposure to certain toxins. At times, it can be challenging to determine the exact cause. Still, symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, yellowing of the eyes and skin, loss of appetite, weight loss, dehydration, and fatigue. Treatment is tailored to each case and may include dietary modification, medication, surgery, or supportive care.

What Causes Sudden Liver Failure in Dogs?

Sudden liver failure in dogs can be caused by a variety of diseases, conditions, and toxins. The liver is a crucial organ and is responsible for metabolizing drugs, detoxifying compounds, and other metabolic processes, so any harm to the liver can have serious consequences. The most common causes of sudden liver failure in dogs include metabolic diseases, toxins, cancer, infections, and trauma.

Metabolic diseases: Liver disease can be caused by a variety of metabolic diseases, such as hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and copper storage disease. These diseases can be inherited in certain breeds or acquired due to nutrition and lifestyle.
Toxins: A wide range of toxins can cause sudden liver failure in dogs. These include certain medications, household cleaners, industrial chemicals, and plant materials such as oak, Easter lilies, and Rhododendrons. Even small doses of these toxins can cause serious damage to the liver and cause liver failure in dogs.
Cancer: Cancer of the liver can cause sudden liver failure in dogs as well. This can occur as a primary condition, where tumors are located in the liver, or as a metastatic condition, where cancer spreads from another location in the body to the liver.
Infections: Viral and bacterial infections can cause sudden liver failure in dogs, as can protozoan parasites. These infections can cause inflammation of the liver and damage to the cells, leading to necrosis and failure.
Trauma: Trauma to the liver caused by an accident can cause sudden liver failure. This usually requires surgical intervention, but if the damage is too severe, it may not be reversible and the dog may die.

Toxins That Cause Liver Failure In Dogs

Aflatoxins: These toxins usually originate from a mold that grows on certain grains and grains products, such as corn, soy, and wheat. When dogs eat contaminated food, the aflatoxins can cause severe liver damage.
Acetaminophen: This common pain reliever can cause serious liver damage when consumed regularly or in high doses.
Tetracyclines: Certain antibiotics have been found to cause liver damage when given in high dosages or over long periods of time.
Anticonvulsant Drugs: These drugs, used to treat epilepsy and other seizure disorders, have been known to cause liver damage when given in high dosages for long periods of time.
Copper Toxicity: High levels of copper can accumulate in the liver and cause severe damage. Oftentimes, this occurs with dogs that are fed liver-based treats and foods that have been heavily supplemented with copper.

Dog Breeds Prone To Liver Disease

Shih Tzu
Cocker Spaniel
Pekingese
Miniature Schnauzer
West Highland White Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier
Pomeranian
English Springer Spaniel
Dachshund
Basset Hound

How To Diagnose Liver Failure In Dogs

Look for the signs and symptoms of liver failure. Symptoms of liver failure in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, poor appetite, jaundice, abdominal swelling, changes in appetite, depression, excessive drinking and urination, dizziness, and lethargy.
Perform a complete blood count and chemistry panel. Blood tests play an important role in the diagnosis of liver failure and can show elevated liver enzymes, decreased protein levels, elevated cholesterol, and decreased platelet count.
Do an abdominal ultrasound. An abdominal ultrasound can investigate the liver and detect any abnormalities that may indicate a liver disorder.
Do a liver biopsy. A liver biopsy provides the most accurate diagnosis of liver failure and can show the extent of the damage or the specific cause of the liver disease.

What Are The Signs Of Liver Failure In Dogs?

Signs of liver failure in dogs can vary, however, some of the most common symptoms seen in dogs with liver issues include:

Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Weakness and fatigue
Yellowing of the gums, tongue, and whites of the eyes (known as jaundice)
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain and/or distention
Itching of the skin
Dehydration
Excessive urination and/or increased thirst
Disorientation
Sweating
Seizures and/or coma in advanced cases

What Are The Symptoms Of A Dog Dying From Liver Failure?

The symptoms of a dog dying from liver failure may include depression, lethargy, weakness, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, seizures, collapse, and coma.

Stages Of Liver Failure In Dogs

Compensated Cirrhosis: When the liver is damaged, but it is still functioning relatively normally.
Acute/Progressive Liver Failure: Liver failure that occurs quickly and can be fatal if not treated.
Uncompensated Liver Failure: An advanced stage of liver failure that involves severe fatigue, weakness, abdominal swelling, jaundice, and ascites.
End-Stage Liver Failure: The most advanced stage of liver failure, in which the liver is unable to perform the basic functions necessary for health and survival. The prognosis is typically quite poor, and death may occur within days. Liver transplantation may be the only option for survival in some cases.

Final Stage Of Liver Cancer Before Death Dog

The final stage of liver cancer in dogs depends on the individual animal and the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis. Generally, the final stages of liver cancer in dogs are marked by jaundice, poor appetite, lethargy and weight loss. Seizures, vomiting, abdominal swelling and difficulty breathing are some other symptoms that can indicate that a dog is in the last stages of liver cancer. An increase in the dog’s pain levels may also be present at the end stages. Ultimately, if left untreated, liver cancer in dogs is fatal.

Can You Treat Liver Failure In Dogs?

Yes, depending on the cause, treatment for liver failure in dogs may include medications, appropriate diets, fluids, and other supportive therapies. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be recommended.

Various Treatment Options for Dogs with Liver Failure

Diet Management: Managing your dog’s diet is the key to treating liver failure. Try to feed your pet a low-protein and high-carbohydrate diet, as high levels of protein can put a strain on the already-failing liver. Also, opt for foods that are easily digestible and low in fat.
Medication Treatment: Veterinary-prescribed medication is commonly used to help improve liver functions, ease the symptoms of liver failure, and prevent further damage to the organ. Your vet may prescribe medications such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, anti-ulcer drugs, cholesterol-lowering agents, hepatoprotectants, and special supplements.
Surgery: If your pet’s liver failure is the result of a medical condition that is not responsive to medication, your vet may suggest surgery to remove the tissue that has been affected. This can be especially beneficial for dogs with cancerous hepatitis.
Liver Transplants: Liver transplants are very difficult and expensive procedures, and they are only applicable to certain cases of liver failure. Pets must be in the right overall health in order to be candidates for transplant, and the rehabilitation process can be long and difficult.
Alternative Therapies: Holistic therapy, such as acupuncture and herbal supplements, may be beneficial for pets suffering from liver failure. However, you should always have your dog’s vet check and approve these treatments before beginning.

How To Care For A Dog With Liver Failure?

Give your dog a low-protein, low-fat diet. Your vet can advise on the appropriate nutrients and calorie levels for your dog.
Provide plenty of fresh, clean water to drink, and encourage your dog to drink more to help flush toxins from the body.
Meet with your vet regularly to monitor your dog’s health.
Give your dog medications as prescribed. These include antibiotics, anti-nausea medications, and other drugs prescribed by your vet.
Provide supplement vitamins and minerals to help reduce stress on your dog’s liver.
Reduce stress in your dog’s environment by providing quiet and warm areas for your dog to rest.
Provide gentle exercise for your dog. Your vet can make specific recommendations regarding the types and amounts of exercise that are safe for your dog.
Seek emergency care if your dog shows any signs of worsening health, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.

FAQ

Q. How long can a dog live with a failed liver?

A. The length of time a dog with a failed liver can live depends on the condition of the dog and the treatment the dog is receiving. Generally, if a dog is given proper medication and treatment, it can live anywhere from a few weeks up to a year or more.

Q. Can dogs come back from liver failure?

A. In some cases, dogs can recover from liver failure with appropriate medical care and management of the underlying cause. However, the prognosis for a full recovery varies depending on the severity of the liver disease and the underlying cause. As such, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your canine is suffering from liver failure.

Q. Is liver failure painful death in dogs?

A. Death from liver failure can often be very quick and pain-free in dogs, as long as the underlying cause is identified and treated appropriately. However, it can potentially be quite a painful process if your dog suffers from prolonged biliary obstruction or other related complications that may arise.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to euthanize a dog with liver failure should be a decision made by the pet parent or guardian in consultation with their veterinarian. It is important to consider the quality of life of the dog along with the various treatment options available. Factors such as the age and general health of the dog may also play a role in the decision-making process. Ultimately, the decision should be made with the dog’s best interest in mind and as a last resort.