In our last newsletter you learned that HRI had taken in two owner-surrendered Havanese due to liver shunts. Within one week, we added a third!

Nancy, who fostered Jill (pictured), took her to Cornell University, and placed her under the care of Dr. Sharon Center, the foremost authority on liver disease. Jill, a 3 1/2 year Havanese presented with poor appetite, less than 7 lb., lethargy, Polydipsia and Polyuria (excessive drinking and urination. She underwent testing, including a Protein C test, and was placed on a restricted diet of Hill's L/D, and Lactulose, a soluble fiber to add in the elimination of toxins. Dogs with liver shunts can't process meat protein well, and it becomes potential toxins. This can lead to a condition known as hepatic encephalopathy, such as head pressing, circling, etc. Jill's improvement was dramatic. Within 48 hours of the new diet, she showed more energy, her appetite increased, and she wanted to play! By the time of her follow-up appointment, Jill had gained two pounds, and was doing great. We were anxious to see the results of the Protein C test. Liver shunt dogs requiring ligation surgery generally test between 30- 50%, while normal dogs test at 74% and above. Jill's test scored a 69%. Dr. Center recommended Jill be maintained on diet at this time. Jill shows a cyst on her kidney, and they'll follow-up with an ultrasound in another two months. Jill was adopted into a very loving home, near to Cornell for followup.

While at the follow-up appointment, Nancy heard of the third Havanese. He is 9 months old, purebred, and will be surrendered by his owner. We'll call him Swiffer, and follow his appointment next month.

Jack, a 6 month old, weighs just 5 pounds. He has a poor appetite, is lethargic, and exhibits head pressing. Jack has been on the Hills L/D diet, but shows no great improvement. He underwent an ultrasound, and bloodwork which was submitted to Cornell. Jack's Protein C result is just 38%. He was examined by Dr. Center, and review of his tests indicate he's an excellent candidate for surgery! Watch for the Chronicles of Jack & Jill, and Swiffer, Part 2, next month.