23/10/2026
Meet Beau, a 4-month-old Golden Retriever who was rushed to VSS Jindalee after developing sudden vomiting, lethargy and a reduced appetite. Her initial tests revealed severe acute liver injury, with extremely high liver enzymes, elevated bilirubin, jaundice, abnormal blood clotting and dangerously high ammonia levels.
Her ultrasound showed inflammatory changes in her intestines, but thankfully no obstruction. The underlying cause of her liver injury was never definitively established, although an acute toxin exposure remained an important consideration.
Beau required intensive treatment including intravenous fluids, liver support and plasma, with close monitoring in a 24-hour intensive care environment. Her prognosis was guarded. However, Beau had other plans.
During her hospitalisation, she made a remarkable clinical improvement. She became brighter and started eating well again with no further vomiting.
Her blood results followed her recovery:
🩺 Her ALT initially reached approximately 5,900 U/L - it has since fallen
🩺 Her bilirubin markedly improved
🩺 Her previously abnormal clotting tests returned to within normal limits
🩺 Her ammonia level (a concerning 249 µmol/L) returned to a normal 37 µmol/L.
At her recent follow-up:
✨ Beau’s liver parameters have normalised
✨ Her liver function has returned to normal
✨ Leptospirosis has been ruled out
✨ Her medications can now be gradually tapered, with ongoing liver support.
Beau will continue to receive structured monitoring to make sure her liver remains healthy and there is no recurrence of disease.
Beau's story isn’t just about her incredible medical recovery. During her time in hospital, Beau touched the hearts of many of our staff. She quickly became a special patient and members of the team spent their own spare time with her, while she fought her way back to health.
She may be tiny, but she certainly left a big paw print on the hearts of everyone who cared for her. From a tiny puppy who was critically unwell, to a bright, happy girl with normal liver results - what an incredible journey. We are so proud of Beau and grateful for our amazing veterinary team who cared for her every step of the way.
