Aspirin for Dogs With Liver Problems

Owners may give their dogs aspirin for many reasons such as sluggish behavior, chronic pain, post-surgery discomfort or arthritis conditions. For most healthy dogs, a strictly limited, carefully regulated aspirin treatment is generally considered safe. But if your pet has a liver condition, aspirin can be toxic.

Medications & the Liver

Breaking down medication is the main function of the liver. If the liver is not fully functioning, any medication will remain in the body for a longer period of time. A buildup of even small doses of aspirin or other drugs can prove toxic over time. Many other products contain aspirin, so always check the label for warnings and consult your vet before giving your pet any medication that’s primarily intended for humans.

Long-Term Aspirin Damage

Side effects of long-term aspirin treatment can include stomach ulcers, delayed blood clotting and kidney failure. These can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lighter urine, loss of appetite, extreme thirst and bleeding.

Proper Aspirin Use for Healthy Dogs

Aspirin should be used only as a temporary, short-term remedy for pain and swelling–assuming your dog has a fully functioning liver .An aspirin dose of 5 to 10 milligrams per lb. for a 12-hour period is normally safe for a healthy dog.

Diet Adjustments for Liver Disorders

Dogs with liver disorders will often have little or no appetite, and diets will generally need to be altered to maintain proper nutrition and caloric intake. Your vet may recommend a specific diet, depending on the diagnosis. Some dogs may refuse to eat. In these cases, the pet may need to be force-fed with a syringe or a feeding tube. Daily vitamin and mineral supplements are often advised as well.

Flushing Out Toxins

When a dog’s liver is not functioning correctly, toxins can build up in his bloodstream and cause illness or even death. Besides minimizing or avoiding aspirin and other medications that can cause liver damage, these built-up toxins can be flushed out by your vet with fluids given under the skin. If more dosages are needed, you can learn to perform these injections at home.