12/06/2026
🐾 Case Spotlight: From Subtle Signs to a Healthy Future 🐾
A lovely middle-aged black Labrador came to us after her owners noticed she wasn’t eating as well as usual. Aside from a reduced appetite, she didn’t seem particularly unwell—but routine blood tests told a different story, showing a persistently raised liver enzyme (ALT).
Because early changes like this can be important, we investigated further. A minimally invasive (laparoscopic) liver biopsy allowed us to reach a diagnosis: copper-associated hepatopathy, a condition where excess copper builds up in the liver and can cause long-term damage.
💊 Treatment plan:
She was started on a copper-restricted diet along with chelation therapy to safely remove excess copper from her liver.
✅ The outcome:
Repeat liver biopsies confirmed that treatment had been successful. She has since gained weight, regained her appetite, and is back to enjoying life. She continues to be carefully monitored and maintained on a tailored diet and medication to keep her liver healthy long-term.
💡 Why this matters:
Liver disease in dogs can be surprisingly subtle in the early stages, with only mild signs like reduced appetite or slight blood test changes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can progress to irreversible liver damage due to scarring (fibrosis).
Early investigation and diagnosis can make all the difference, turning a potentially serious disease into a manageable condition with an excellent quality of life.
If you ever notice even small changes in your pet’s appetite or behaviour, it’s always worth getting them checked.
This is our nurse Sarah and the lovely Blue.
