Increased alkaline phosphatase in dogs. Symptoms of a developing disease. What are the causes of elevated alkaline phosphatase in dogs?
Hello! Please help me figure it out. Caucasian Shepherd Dog, boy, 12 years old. In winter, we were treated for dirofilariasis. In May we consulted a doctor about high temperature and refusal to eat. We took biochemistry several times. The most recent tests showed that everything was normal, except for alkaline phosphatase, which was already 4000. Before that, she was jumping. First it was 2700, then 2370, 3146,1754,1400 and the last 4000. On ultrasound, all organs are fine, the only one is a small formation on the liver, which began to quickly decrease after treatment with Heptral. The doctor suggests that the prostate gland needs to be removed. But on ultrasound she is completely fine, there are no neoplasms and there are no biochemistry indicators that would indicate that the problem is there. As far as I understand, the doctor also has no confidence and 100% confirmation that the cause is in the prostate gland. Please tell me where the problem could be, what it could be when all the indicators are normal, but one AP is jumping like this. My fault is that the tests were done in a human laboratory, and not in a veterinary laboratory. Maybe it's because of the reagents that these indicators are happening? In general, I just don’t know what to think.
Answer
Goreyko Mila Alexandrovna
Chief veterinarian, dentist, Ph.D.
Hello, alkaline phosphatase may be elevated due to impaired bile flow (cholestatic hepatobiliary disease); nodular liver hyperplasia (develops with aging); cholestasis; diseases skeletal system(bone tumors, osteomalacia, etc.); Hello again! Shch.F. may be increased with liver tumors. Also Shch.F. may increase due to neoplasms and inflammation in other organs. If there is lameness, it is recommended x-ray examination limbs on the subject malignant tumor in bones, sh.f. may also be overestimated because of this. The indication for removal of the prostate gland is malignant neoplasms(not cysts). For prostate cysts, increased size, inflammation, castration is indicated to reduce hormonal levels affecting the prostate gland. Hello. Nodular liver hyperplasia does not require specific treatment. At severe cases surgical treatment is performed. Dynamic observation is necessary.
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Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme that participates in phosphorus-calcium metabolism and ensures the hydrolysis of esters. The concentration of alkaline phosphatase is observed in the intestinal mucosa, kidney and bile ducts, bone cells and liver. Normal enzyme levels in adult dogs are up to 100 units/l.
Causes
At pathological process In the body, the permeability of cell membranes increases, as a result of which cells are destroyed. So alkaline phosphatase, or rather, its excess, penetrates the blood. This can be confirmed by the result of a biochemical blood test.
This does not always mean the development of serious pathologies in the body. For example, in puppies and young animals, enzyme levels may increase due to intensive skeletal and bone tissue development.
An increase in phosphatase in animals after fractures, as well as in bitches during pregnancy, is not a deviation from the norm.
Another common cause of elevated enzymes is taking certain medications, such as steroid hormones, anticonvulsants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
An increase in phosphatase can occur with calcium deficiency and consumption of fatty foods, as well as with the development of serious pathologies in the dog’s body: cirrhosis of the liver, oncology of the mammary glands, bone tissue, biliary tract, pancreatitis.
And this is far from full list life-threatening diseases. That's why when detected suspicious signs It is so important to contact a veterinarian promptly.
Main symptoms
The process of increasing alkaline phosphatase levels has no specific clinical signs. The dog owner should be alert to the following signs:
- dark color of urine;
- light shade of stool;
- lack of appetite;
- nausea, vomiting;
- lethargy, low mobility, fatigue of the pet.
Only diagnostic studies can confirm or refute an increase in enzymes.
Diagnostics in a veterinary clinic
To put accurate diagnosis, the veterinarian needs to collect an anamnesis and carry out a series of manipulations (visual examination, including the condition of the coat, palpation of the abdomen). To the necessary diagnostic studies include ultrasound of the kidneys and liver, x-rays (if certain indicators are present).
Biochemical analysis is given after necessary preparation. Before the test, the dog should not be fed; the last meal should be no later than 8 hours before the test.
The dog owner must tell the veterinarian how many times a day the pet eats and what food is preferred - natural or industrial food. If in this moment the animal is taking any medications, the veterinarian must also be informed about this.
A few days before the procedure, the animal should not be subjected to severe physical activity or stress. It is advisable to invite a specialist home to take blood in familiar and comfortable conditions for the dog, with the owner nearby.
The result is ready the next day, but if there is doubt about its accuracy and information content, a repeat blood test is prescribed.
Treatment method and prognosis
As a rule, the dog is prescribed a course of medications aimed at eliminating the underlying disease that caused the increase in enzymes. So, if the process has developed against the background of liver pathology, the drug Essentiale is prescribed, which stabilizes liver function. The dosage is determined by the veterinarian.
At the end of treatment biochemical analysis blood is done again. Enzyme levels at the same level or their increase indicate that the treatment was ineffective. In this case, there is a need for surgery to remove the affected organ.
In the postoperative period, the level of phosphatase is also increased, but this is not considered a pathology. Over time it will normalize.
During the treatment and postoperative period, the owner must strictly follow the specialist’s recommendations. Under no circumstances should you self-medicate or prescribe medications without consulting a veterinarian.
As for the prognosis, it all depends on how timely and competently the treatment (surgery) was carried out. The development of pathology leads to chronic diseases organs.
What to do at home
IN postoperative period great importance is attached to feeding. You should not suddenly change your diet and switch your pet from its usual natural food to ready-made food from well-known manufacturers. The food should be dietary, preference should be given to boiled dishes, for example, chicken.
A small amount of rice is allowed. Portions of food consumed, regardless of whether it is “natural” or ready-made food, should be reduced.
Prevention measures
TO preventive measures In this case, we can include, first of all, feeding the dog with balanced low-fat food. The hedgehog should be given in small portions so that the dog does not overeat.
Timely examinations at a veterinary clinic will help avoid many problems, including increased alkaline phosphatase in a dog.
Alkaline phosphatase in dogs is one of the liver enzymes that is involved in the metabolism minerals in the body, especially phosphorus and calcium. It's in almost everyone internal organs and tissues, but greatest content found in liver cells bile ducts and kidney tubules, bones, intestines and placenta. It breaks down phosphoric acid from organic compounds and transports phosphorus further throughout the body. Alkaline phosphatase is detected in the blood of dogs in small quantities in the absence of pathologies and general good health animal.
What causes elevated alkaline phosphatase in dogs?
During certain processes in the body, cell membranes are destroyed, and then increased alkaline phosphatase in the blood of dogs will definitely be detected, since it penetrates from its permanent location. Laboratory indicators indicate disturbances in the functioning of the body or simply obvious changes.
By her own High alkaline phosphatase in dogs is not a separate disease. Its appearance can be triggered by simple stress, when the hormone cortisol is released, the use of medications (non-steroidal inflammatory, hormonal drugs, anticonvulsants). It is also normal and not dangerous to see an increase in alkaline phosphatase in dogs during the third trimester of pregnancy or in young animals (approximately 4-8 months) during active bone growth.
However, there are also reasons that make you worry about your pet’s health. Less - poor nutrition due to sweet or too fatty food, to a greater extent- various oncological diseases.
By the way, low alkaline phosphatase in dogs may indicate the presence of hypothyroidism, which sometimes leads to loss of voice after complete or partial paralysis of the larynx, lack of vitamin C and trace elements, anemia, and impaired bone growth. This condition poses a threat to health and it is also worth paying attention to its reduction.
What does alkaline phosphatase indicate in dogs when its levels are elevated most often:
- rapid bone growth;
- pregnancy;
- lactation;
- fractures, including those already healing;
- liver diseases;
- cholecystitis;
- kidney and adrenal problems;
- pancreatitis;
- some tumors, especially osteosarcomas;
- Cushing's syndrome;
- other reasons.
Clinical picture of alkaline phosphatase:
Alkaline phosphatase in dogs after targeted studies can be either increased in the results or significantly decreased. Its content in the blood is determined by undergoing a biochemical analysis in a veterinary laboratory. Alkaline phosphatase in a dog is 24-124 U/L or 8.0-28.0 IU/L. Interestingly, in Siberian huskies, according to some data, its increase is considered harmless and refers to differences in the breed.
Specific manifestations such as loss of voice or hair loss, alkaline phosphatase in dogs doesn't call. However, in some conditions the animal owner needs to be wary. Often its increase is reflected in the color of stool - it becomes light, and urine, on the contrary, becomes dark. Possible nausea and vomiting, a noticeable decrease in appetite. Such manifestations affect behavior and a general loss of strength, then it is more difficult for sick dogs to move, and apathy appears.
Diagnosis is difficult, and veterinarians do not have a consensus on the causes of elevated alkaline phosphatase in dogs and their quick determinations. In addition, opinions differ about the growth indicators; some experts suggest not paying attention to this. Therefore, clarifying the nature of high levels of alkaline phosphatase in dogs is often delayed indefinitely. It is necessary to conduct a comprehensive examination of most of the animal’s body, which will show a picture of what is happening and help identify problem areas.
Preparation for phosphatase diagnosis:
To determine whether alkaline phosphatase is increased in dogs or not, you need to take a biochemical blood test. In addition to the content of the enzyme itself, its results give important information and about other elements in the body. This will help with diagnosis. This test can be done in almost all veterinary laboratories. Before going to zoomedicine specialists, you will have to limit the animal in its usual things. For example, do not feed 8 hours in advance. Many products affect the indicators and they become useless.
Additionally you should avoid stress, even short-term, in the case when the dog’s alkaline phosphatase is very high. Reduce walks and serious exercise - let the animal have more peace and hormones, along with microelements, be in the normal state of the body. It is advisable to talk to the dog without raising your voice and not scolding him.
The veterinarian should ask about the animal’s diseases, its food, and medications that may affect the dog’s high alkaline phosphatase levels. Other features of preparation for research will be told by the staff of a particular laboratory or clinic; they may differ.
Dog care and rehabilitation:
Depending on the reason for the appearance of alkaline phosphatase in dogs, care is chosen during and after treatment. The animal’s diet is usually adjusted if necessary. If there is excess fat, a light diet is prescribed on the menu (boiled chicken, a little rice, ready-made industrial feed with the required composition). They can add vitamins and microelements to preparations when a significant deficiency is detected. However, food is not always changed so that the dog does not receive additional stress and another increase in alkaline phosphatase.
In everyday life, the animal is treated kindly, the voice is not amplified, it is advisable to leave training for a while, exclude sports activities, running and very active walks. Going outside and meeting other animals is limited, which can cause strong emotions and severe fatigue. Physical activity is especially contraindicated for problems with the spine and limbs - various arthrosis, inflammation, destruction of bone tissue.
If alkaline phosphatase in dogs increases due to liver dysfunction, hepatoprotectors are usually prescribed. Serious illnesses kidneys, gall bladder require special treatment. Sometimes, in particular in oncology, they resort to removing the affected organ or part of it. If a dog loses its voice, then this is a sign of a specific disease that is treated with specific drugs.
Prevention of phosphatase in dogs:
The dog does not have alkaline phosphatase in overestimated or underestimated levels - this means that some health problems can be safely ruled out, but this does not indicate in full health animal. To keep your dog's alkaline phosphatase within normal limits, it is recommended to follow preventive measures. It is very important to follow the feeding regime and rules - do not give the animal sweets and fatty foods. Walks should involve moderate physical activity, as should classes with a dog handler or on the sports ground. 1-2 times a year, even a visually healthy dog, undergo a full clinical examination with general analyzes. You should not raise your voice often and without reason, never hit a dog or expose it to serious stress or anxiety. Each owner must take care of the animal and be attentive to its behavior, appetite, appearance and even natural secretions.
FAQ (frequently asked questions):
Question: My dog does not have alkaline phosphatase, what does this mean?
Answer: Most likely it is normal. She cannot be completely absent. It is better to consult a veterinarian.
Every owner who sincerely loves his pet should get tested to know if everything is in order in the body of your four-legged friend. The dog itself may not feel that something is wrong in its body. It is in this case that, as a rule, various tests are prescribed, among which a phrase such as: may occur.
In this article we will examine in detail this element of the biochemical blood test. We will also consider the main reasons and factors due to which it can rapidly increase and pose a danger to your four-legged friend.
What is elevated alkaline phosphatase in a dog?
Alkaline phosphatase in dogs takes an active part in the metabolism of phosphoric acid, freeing it from organic compounds, and helps transport phosphorus in the body. The highest level of phosphatase is in bone tissue, intestinal lining, placenta in pregnant bitches, mammary gland during lactation, and kidneys. This substance also affects bone growth, which is why growing dogs have more of this substance than adults.
Alkaline phosphatase in dogs is considered normal to be 8.0-28.0 IU/l
What causes increased alkaline phosphatase in a dog’s blood?
Nature has thought out everything to the smallest detail and never increases a single indicator just like that. The same goes for alkaline phosphatase.
- Increased alkaline phosphatase in a dog is caused by the following factors:
- Possible diseases of bone tissue, for example a tumor, cancer metastases.
- Hyperparathyroidism.
- Lymphogranulomatosis with damage to bone tissue.
- Osteodystrophy.
- Liver diseases.
- Tumor diseases of the biliary tract.
- Infarction of the kidney, lung.
- Calcium deficiency.
- Poor nutrition, in particular fatty food, which many owners feed their animals.
- An abscess that provokes an inflammatory process in the body.
- Cirrhosis of the liver.
- Also, if the animal is healthy in all respects medical indications, this figure may be increased due to the active growth of the animal.
- If your dog is a Husky breed, then this is quite permissible norm. Peculiarity of the breed.
- Possibly due to a tumor on the bones.
This is a list of possible prerequisites. At the moment, it is known for certain that such a deviation is not a direct sign of any disease. Most likely, the body thus gives timid signals that it is not feeling well.
The opposite can also be observed, alkaline phosphatase deficiency.
- Alkaline phosphatase deficiency in dogs occurs due to the following reasons:
- Hypothyroidism
- Failures in the growth of bone tissue. Lack of zinc, magnesium
- Anemia
- Possible reception medical supplies- Many medications have this side effect.
If an increase or decrease in this substance in the dog’s blood is detected, then treatment should be started immediately. Before you begin treatment for this condition, you should find out why it fell. To do this, the veterinarian prescribes a biochemical blood test. Alkaline phosphatase in a dog depends on many factors. However, the main impact on this indicator is liver.
A very caring, loving dog owner will immediately begin to take appropriate measures to return phosphatase to normal condition. As a rule, after taking hepatoprotectors The pet's health improves significantly. And the tests return to normal.
What to do if your dog's alkaline phosphatase is elevated
Perhaps this is exactly the question: “ What to do if your dog's alkaline phosphatase is elevated"and occurs in anyone caring owner, who received tests with this result. First of all, the doctor must prescribe additional research in order to identify and eliminate the cause similar condition.
It is quite possible that the reason lies in inflammation, which needs to be treated. Or the liver of the four-legged friend could not bear the culinary delights that the household treats him with. Instead of making wild assumptions and conjectures, we strongly recommend that you revisit veterinarian, who, using the most modern equipment, examines the pet from head to paws, performs an ultrasound of the organs, x-rays and performs other necessary manipulations.
Also, if such a condition is once discovered, the owner will have to undergo tests more often than usual. For example, once a month. This will help to quickly monitor the condition of your four-legged roommate, and, if necessary, carry out necessary research. It is likely that an experienced veterinarian will also prescribe anthelmintics, which should be taken at the rate of 1 tablet per 10 kg of weight.
How to choose a veterinary center for testing - elevated alkaline phosphatase in a dog
Choosing veterinary center To pass the analysis, you should pay attention to the reviews, reputation, and experience of veterinarians. The YA-VET veterinary center has been providing testing services for quite a long time, which allows us to talk about impressive, accumulated experience. We also perfectly understand the worries of any loving owner, and therefore we try to do everything possible to ensure that the analysis result is ready as soon as possible.
We fundamentally do not use outdated equipment, which can give unreliable results. The laboratory regularly undergoes modernization, which helps to achieve even more accurate and faster analysis.
Doctors undergo various seminars and courses, and laboratory assistants gain experience every day so that the treatment is the most adequate and the prognosis is only bright. An increase in alkaline phosphatase is a loud signal from the body that something is wrong. The cause itself must be eliminated exclusively experienced specialists that can really help.
During the treatment process, you should also donate blood for biochemistry in order to monitor the condition of your four-legged pet. In addition to biochemistry, you can additionally take a classical analysis.
How is treatment done if a dog’s alkaline phosphatase is elevated?
As mentioned above, if the analysis showed that alkaline phosphatase in a dog is elevated, this is not an independent disease. He is being provoked various reasons. In order to successfully cope with it, you need to eliminate that very factor. If the cause is, for example, a diseased liver, then the necessary therapy should be carried out. However, in the case if alkaline phosphatase levels continue to rise, it is necessary to take certain measures, for example, by implementing urgent surgery by removing the affected organ. During the recovery period, of course, the indicators may increase, however, when the problem is solved, everything should return to normal and the caring dog owner will only have to carefully follow the doctor’s instructions. If the reason for the increased indicators is due to a diseased liver, then the animal will have to drink Essentiale. The dosage and duration of administration should also be prescribed by a veterinarian.
How to prepare a dog for donating blood for biochemistry - the dog’s alkaline phosphatase is elevated
This analysis will require special preparation from the owners. 8 hours before the test the animal should stop feeding. Any food can affect test results. For example, a recently eaten piece of sausage can cause an increase or decrease in this indicator. The stress that the animal experiences in the veterinary office can also affect the results.
To Alkaline phosphatase levels did not fluctuate much, it would be appropriate to use the “Veterinarian at home” service. Modern technologies make it possible to take any analysis from an animal in a comfortable, home environment.
A few days before the planned test, you should reduce physical activity at the dog. If she, for example, works out with a trainer, then it is recommended to cancel classes for a while and limit herself only to a short walk through the park.
If your four-legged friend is taking any medications, you should notify the veterinarian who will collect the biochemical substance. As a rule, blood can be drawn before the appointment. medicines.
As a rule, in such modern veterinary centers as “YA-VET”, you can get analysis results in record time. short time, which is important for the peace of mind of the owner. All manipulations related to blood sampling are carried out exclusively with disposable instruments.
Recommendations for proper nutrition of the dog during the treatment period - increased alkaline phosphatase in the dog
During the period of recovery treatment It is recommended to feed the dog its usual food, which it has been eating for a long time. Also, you should not suddenly change living conditions, for example, the climate in which the animal lives constantly - to subtropical.
If increased alkaline phosphatase in a dog - recommended make sure that there are no conflict situations in the house. Everyone knows that dogs are excellent psychologists who sense human moods.
Any stress can cause a deterioration in health and an increase in alkaline phosphatase in a dog. This can trigger other symptoms that may be unpleasant for your pet. Walk your friend more often at a calm pace, making sure he doesn’t get tired. Before recovery, it is recommended to completely exclude canned foods from the diet, since they have a significant impact on the condition.
Better to comply dietary food. Boiled chicken, a little rice, kefir. Only when the veterinarian gives permission can you return the cat to its normal diet. Talk to him in a calm, gentle voice. remember, that high level alkaline phosphatase tends to be life-threatening for the dog. The diet should be safe, no food from the human table. Only specialized food for sick animals, which must be prescribed by a doctor. If the disease is left unattended, the growing rate will sooner or later lead to the animal refusing to eat altogether and dying from starvation and dehydration.
What should a veterinarian do when examining a pet?
If you come to the YA-VET veterinary center, you will be amazed at how professionally and carefully our veterinarians treat every animal, from a dog to a rat. What actions should a competent veterinarian take upon his first visit?
- Visual inspection of the animal
- Palpation of the abdomen and liver for painful sensations in these bodies
- Wool inspection
- Questioning the owner about what kind of food and how much the animal has received recently
- If this indicator increases, the owner will be offered hospitalization of the pet for a more thorough examination of its health condition. Don’t be afraid, because our hospital employs real professional doctors, as well as highly specialized doctors
- The doctor will also suggest taking a biochemical blood test, from the results of which further conclusions can be drawn.
The owner must be extremely honest with the doctor, since the prescribed treatment depends on his answers. Also, all doctor’s prescriptions, even feeding, must be strictly followed. For example, if the doctor recommends feeding your dog rice and chicken, then you should not feed pineapples and rabbit meat.
What should you look for when choosing a veterinary clinic for treatment when your dog’s alkaline phosphatase is elevated?
First of all, when choosing a veterinary clinic, you should pay attention to the remoteness. It should be located near your place of residence. This will allow, if necessary, not only to quickly obtain qualified assistance, but also as convenient as possible to hand over necessary tests, including a biochemical blood test. Determine whether the dog’s alkaline phosphatase is low, normal, or high. If the veterinary center is located near the house, this fact guarantees that the animal will receive qualified veterinary care in a timely and prompt manner.
Efficiency is especially important, for example, during poisonings and heart diseases. In such situations, minutes count. Another advantage of a nearby veterinary clinic is that it can reduce your pet's stress levels. Sick animals tolerate trips of any length most poorly, and when it comes to taking tests, such a shock can significantly affect the results of laboratory tests.
Before your first visit to the veterinary center, we also recommend that you read reviews from previous clients who have passed through the hands of doctors. Then visit without a pet to get acquainted with the environment and staff. If there is a veterinary center near your home, then you are very lucky. It’s impossible not to appreciate the clinic for animals “YA-VET”! It is very beautiful, modern and cozy here. Four-legged friends will certainly appreciate caring attitude staff to their problem. Our doctors will find mutual language with any dog, even the most aggressive and angry one.
You should absolutely not save money on your beloved pet, who is experiencing real suffering and cannot talk about it. And our doctors, having carried out the necessary diagnostics, will be able to make a reliable verdict at an adequate cost. Remember that it never hurts to get tested, especially gentle hands Our nurses will draw blood completely painlessly.
Dogs, like humans, periodically need to be examined by doctors. If a person goes to an appointment at a city hospital, clinic or private medical center, dogs have only one way - to veterinary clinic. There, specially trained doctors will examine the animal, take it to laboratory analysis his biological fluids. Unfortunately, sometimes the tests are not all right. Owners often wonder, for example, why alkaline phosphatase in a dog’s blood is elevated and what this means for the pet. In this article we will discuss what exactly an increase in this enzyme indicates, and whether you should be afraid in advance.
Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme that takes part in metabolic processes phosphoric acid. It serves as a knife, separating this acid from various organic compounds. In this way, an extremely important element for the proper functioning of the biorobot, phosphorus, moves through the body.
Alkaline phosphatase accumulates to a greater extent in the following segments of the dog’s body:
- animal skeletal tissues;
- the inner mucous layer of the dog's intestines;
- in the tissues of the placenta;
- inside the mammary glands at the time when the whelped bitch feeds her babies.
Veterinary medicine determines normal indicators alkaline phosphatase found in the body healthy dog:
- Thus, in an adult animal it can be up to 100 units per liter;
- in growing puppies, the required figure may increase slightly due to what happens at their age active growth bone tissue.
Unfortunately, an increase in the indicator of interest to us, detected in the study of blood serum, in fact cannot be a signal characteristic of any specific disease.
Causes of elevated alkaline phosphatase in dogs
According to the information available today, an increase in alkaline phosphatase in dogs can be provoked by various reasons, both causing concern and, on the contrary, completely natural.
Table 1. Causes of elevated alkaline phosphatase in dogs
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Taking medications prescribed by a doctor to treat a particular illness | So, provided that your animal is suffering from any illness for which the use of the remedies listed below is recommended, alkaline phosphatase may increase and will not affect the dog’s well-being at all. So, we are talking about: These funds can affect the increase in the indicator we are discussing. |
| A certain state of the dog's body | Yes, some natural processes, occurring in the animal’s body, can determine the detection of increased levels of alkaline phosphatase in your dog in tests. Let's list them: |
| Pathological processes developing in the animal’s body | An increase in alkaline phosphatase may also indicate the development of many very unpleasant diseases unfortunately, serious, often life-threatening your pet, and minor ones that are quickly cured. It's about O: |
| Belonging to a specific breed | Interestingly, one of all the breeds existing today in the world has an indicator such as alkaline phosphatase that is naturally elevated. We are talking about huskies - dogs that were bred by breeders for hard work in extreme conditions. Their metabolism ensures a constantly elevated level of alkaline phosphatase. In addition, this indicator may be higher than normal in husky mixes. |
Symptoms of elevated alkaline phosphatase
Unfortunately, it will not be possible to diagnose an increase in alkaline phosphatase in dogs on your own without tests and studies, as, in general, there are no specific signs characterizing an increase in the amount of this enzyme. However, if it accompanies the development of any disease, you should pay attention to the following changes in the behavior and well-being of your pet:
- lack of interest in food, especially favorite treats, refusal of the required portion of food;
- lethargy, apathy, desire to sleep all the time;
- lack of interest in playing with the owner, as well as in receiving scratches and strokes;
- constant nausea, vomiting, expectoration;
- darkened urine;
- lightened stool;
- any behavioral deviations.
As you can see, the symptoms in this case are not at all unique; they are characteristic of almost all diseases. At the same time, you need to pay attention to them in any case, since a timely response and an immediate visit to the veterinarian can save the life of your pet, while “delay is like death.”
Diagnosis of pathology
Carrying out diagnostic measures to detect an increase in the enzyme of interest to us is the competence of a veterinarian and no one else. You will not be able to independently diagnose your beloved animal completely and adequately, especially if you do not have a veterinary education. Needless to say, many owners simply do not know what alkaline phosphatase is, and that its increase is characteristic of the development of many ailments.
So, in order to understand that a pet is suffering from an illness associated with an increase in phosphatase, the doctor must carry out the following diagnostic measures.
1. First of all, a visual inspection of the dog brought to the appointment is necessary. This simple examination will help the doctor:
- exclude some obvious illnesses;
- form an opinion about the general condition of the dog;
- note deviations in her behavior and appearance, which may indicate any illness.
After finishing general examination, you can begin more thorough external examinations.
2. It is necessary to carry out palpation abdominal cavity animal (dog's belly). In this case, we will talk about identifying or, conversely, convincing in the absence of such phenomena as:
- local painful manifestations;
- enlarged dog liver, etc.
3. Assessing the coat is the third stage of the inspection. You will be surprised, but the condition of an animal’s fur can tell you about many things, including the presence of any problems in the body. So, provided that the assessment of the condition of the coat has been carried out, the doctor proceeds to collecting information from the owners and laboratory examinations, as well as hardware diagnostics
4. So, first of all, the veterinarian will begin interviewing the owners to describe the dog’s diet. So, in some cases, increasing alkaline phosphatase may be justified:
- overfeeding the animal;
- creating a diet consisting of fatty foods, not suitable for the dog, feed;
- excess vitamin C in the animal menu;
- feeding “forbidden food” - sweets, chips and other prohibited animal products.
Animals picked up from the street or abandoned animals that have been cruelly treated, unfortunately, can often “boast” the desired increase in alkaline phosphatase, due to a whole “bouquet” of problems
Provided that such an imbalance in nutrition occurs, it is possible that the disease can be cured simply by changing the animal’s diet.
5. When information has been collected during the external inspection and interviewing the owners, it will be time to conduct a hardware examination. We are talking, first of all, about ultrasound examination of the dog's abdominal organs, which will indicate whether everything is in order in the animal.
6. After receiving the ultrasound results or at the same time, biological fluids are submitted for analysis. So, most often veterinarians require blood tests:
- general;
- biochemical.
Provided that the cause of the disease is not clear and the level of alkaline phosphatase in the animal's blood continues to increase, the owner will be asked to leave the pet at the clinic for a series of examinations. inpatient conditions, and treatment prescriptions.
How to properly prepare for blood biochemistry if you suspect an increase in alkaline phosphatase
As you know, in most cases, in order to obtain reliable results when conducting tests, it is necessary to first prepare the pet. Actually, this statement is also relevant for people, since we ourselves fast for a long time before a blood test.
The owner of the dog whose blood will be taken is warned that the animal is prohibited before the test:
- feed any food for 8 hours, at least industrial feed, even homemade (any food, in fact, contains the same substances that will have Negative influence to obtain reliable results by changing their indicators);
- give something to drink other than plain water;
- a few days before the analysis, it is better to stop conducting regular training with the animal if it goes to a dog handler, prepares for competitions, or receives other intense physical exercise.
Please note a very important fact: The fact is that if your pet is taking any medications, you must first inform the doctor about this.
As we mentioned above, the following medications lead to an increase in phosphatase levels without any consequences:
- hormonal steroid drugs;
- non-steroidal medications that eliminate inflammatory processes in the body;
- vasoconstrictor drugs.
However, you need to understand that sometimes the processes taking place in the body of any living creature can be unpredictable, especially when they are influenced from the outside. Provided that your dog is taking medications not included in the list above, they may also affect the level of alkaline phosphatase, or cause other changes in tests that will indicate the presence of active ingredients, not pathologies. Because medications may affect the results obtained, discuss with your veterinarian in advance:
- is it possible to cancel them;
- for a certain period of time to conduct a blood test;
- how exactly to cancel;
- and when to take the tests.
In order to minimize the pet’s level of anxiety, which can make it even more ill, all procedures are carried out at a fast pace. In addition, you may not know, but stress can also affect the final results of tests prepared in the laboratory. That is why the owner must be present when materials are taken for analysis and inspection. Otherwise, not only the fear of needles and strangers, but also anxiety, and at the same time universal sadness from separation from the owner will be added to the pet’s anxiety.
Treatment of the disease
An increase in the amount of the enzyme we are interested in in a pet’s body cannot, in essence, act as a separate disease, since it is always a consequence of some kind of illness.
This means that elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase cannot be cured because it follows a specific disease.
Duty veterinary doctor- study the animal’s tests and make assumptions about what caused the increase in the enzyme
The tasks of a doctor who has received an unsatisfactory analysis of a particular dog are as follows:
- discover the root cause of the increase in the disease;
- treat her;
- eliminate negative impact clinical manifestations of this disease.
Unfortunately, conservative therapy(carried out only when using medications) is not always able to help your pet. In some cases, when it comes to damage to any organs, you have to part with part of a particular system. In other words, you may not be able to cope with medications alone, and surgery will be the solution to your problem.
By the way, even if conservative therapy in your case will probably have a certain beneficial effect, you need to understand that it should be prescribed by a doctor. You yourself do not have the right to choose:
- nor medicines;
- nor their dosage.
An increased level of phosphatase in a pregnant dog is an absolute norm, there is nothing to be afraid of
We ask you to remember once and for all: Owners are prohibited from diagnosing illnesses in their pets and treating them themselves, as there is a high probability that you will harm the animal. The fact is that some medications can help a pet, while others will aggravate implicit negative processes in his body. If the drug or its dosage is selected incorrectly, the immediate death of the dog is quite possible.
Feeding during treatment and recovery period
Provided that doctors have detected a change in alkaline phosphatase levels, it is necessary to immediately change the dog’s diet. However, this must be done with caution.
Thus, doctors do not recommend completely replacing a dog’s usual food with any new one. However, it is strictly necessary to exclude canned food (for example, wet food), since during this period of time it is contraindicated for the body.
If the increase in the indicator was at all associated with the animal’s food, it is necessary to understand the specific reason for the changes, and:
- reduce the fat content of the animal’s diet;
- reduce the amount of food fed to the dog;
- Remove foods containing excess vitamin C from your diet.
Sometimes it happens that your animal’s attending physician decides to prescribe a specific therapeutic diet for your pet. In this case, you must follow his instructions 100% in order to cure your pet, so to speak, with little loss of life.
Additional Precautions
In addition to observing the specific rules for feeding the animal, which are relevant at the time of its passage medical procedures associated with an increase in the level of the enzyme we are considering, it is also necessary to follow the rules that will protect the pet’s health from deterioration and, on the contrary, will contribute to better rapid recovery animal. Let's look at them.
1. So, first of all, you need to remember that while you are receiving treatment, your dog becomes “not travelable”. No, you can still take her for walks outside the city, however, traveling and even traveling to nearby areas is strictly not recommended, since climate change will have an extremely negative impact on the pet’s health.
Even for a healthy dog, as well as for a person, acclimatization threatens the restructuring of all processes occurring in the body, and is difficult. What can we say about a pet weakened by an illness, who devotes all his strength to basic recovery.
2. The second rule to follow when treating elevated alkaline phosphatase levels is that any stress to your pet during this time is like poison. Even small conflict situations will affect various processes in the animal’s body, and can aggravate the situation. We advise you to refrain from “showdowns” with your dog during treatment, even if there are behavioral disorders. It’s better to be patient, wait until the dog is fully recovered, and take him to a dog handler.
3. The third rule means that your pet must strictly avoid unnecessary stress. So, during his illness you will have to give up:
- classes with a dog handler;
- preparatory training before competitions;
- preparations for exhibitions;
- games for walks;
- active games at home.
Provided that you are the owner of a very playful pet, you will have to pull yourself together and not respond to the dog’s offers to play. In addition, you will have to shift your walking time a little so that for a while you stop meeting your dog’s equally active friends with whom she is used to and really wants to play.
Refusal from active games is a necessary measure during the treatment of an illness that has caused an increase in phosphatase levels
Please note: a ban on excessive physical activity does not mean that you should wrap your dog in blankets and not even let him get up. Without movement, the body quickly becomes depressed. Your task in this case is to walk the dog at a calm pace, for a long enough time so that its muscle corset is strengthened, its organs receive enough blood and oxygen, and at the same time, so that overexertion does not occur.
Prevention of disease in dogs
To ensure that you and your pet never experience elevated alkaline phosphatase, or that the disease does not recur a second time, you should resort to following various preventive measures described in this section.
Don't let these measures seem complicated or dreary to you. As practice shows, following them, compared to further treatment, is much:
- easier;
- easier;
- cheaper;
- calmer.
Let's look at them in order.
Regular check-ups with a veterinarian
So, the first recommendation concerns regular visits to the veterinarian. Like humans, dogs periodically need to undergo examinations by doctors, the only difference is that the owners visit several specialists at a time, and the dog only one, in best case scenario two. Nevertheless, regular inspection, carried out every six months, accompanied by tests, as statistics show, can significantly reduce the risk of receiving tests with elevated levels of phosphatase.
Even if your dog is completely healthy on the outside, negative processes can occur inside his body.
The danger also lies in the fact that dogs, like cats and other animals, are very patient and may simply not show that they are in pain. A veterinarian's examination and tests will help stop the animal's suffering.
The correct daily menu for your pet
It is very important to properly plan your dog’s diet. We are not even talking about selecting the content of certain nutrients or fortifying them. We are talking about the elementary exclusion of products prohibited by veterinarians from the daily menu of dogs. We are talking about products such as:
- fatty meats and fish;
- semi-finished products;
- fried food (absolutely any);
- salty food;
- food flavored with spices (spicy foods are especially dangerous);
- baked goods and other flour products;
- sweets with any composition;
- food waste that people love so much, for example, chips, soda, ice cream, etc.
What the human body, or the dog’s body, sometimes cannot even digest, is difficult to bear, but endures. Thus, the substances contained in chocolate that are beneficial to us are not excreted in dogs.
We will look in detail at what you should not feed your dog, which foods are strictly prohibited for representatives of any breed, and can harm them.
Even one small bar of real, pure chocolate can lead to the death of a pet. Regular intake of sugar provides animals with early blindness, spicy food disrupts the functioning of the stomach and intestines, fatty food“hits” the liver and pancreas of animals.
Remember, we are what we eat. This statement is also true for dogs. Food can already heal and support us required level health.
Tracking your pet's overall health
Track general condition dogs are your direct responsibility as the owner. The changes associated with it can manifest themselves in completely different ways. For example:
- the dog turns from cheerful to sad;
- The always calm dog is worried;
- love is replaced by aggression;
- drowsiness and apathy appear;
- food refusal occurs;
- new allergic reactions are unexpectedly detected;
- urine (darkens) and feces (lightens) change color;
- Dyspeptic disorders begin: vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, belching, etc.
Any changes that are not typical for your pet should cause you concern. Most likely, the animal is unwell and really needs to visit a doctor.
Prophylaxis of rickets in young animals
As we have already discussed, elevated alkaline phosphatase levels can occur in puppies. To ensure that it has natural causes and not pathological ones, veterinarians recommend preventing dogs from rickets. It includes the following aspects:
- include vitamins and minerals in your dog's diet mineral supplements, for example, specially purified fish fat with vitamins, and also necessarily with phosphorus and calcium;
- Regularly walk puppies in the sun to ensure that the body produces enough vitamin D.
As you can see, it's not difficult at all. However, we strictly do not recommend selecting supplements on your own. This issue should also be entrusted to a veterinarian. Let him recommend more expensive products, the substances from which will be absorbed by the pet, than you buy the cheapest, and at the same time useless, products.
Checking mammary glands in lactating dogs
Another mandatory item is regular examination and palpation of the mammary glands of your dog who is nursing puppies. Not only is pregnancy itself a process that can trigger cancer, but also feeding sometimes aggravates the situation in the most negative way. It is not at all difficult to palpate a dog's mammary glands. The main thing is that you should not find any:
- seals;
- balls;
- tumors;
- thickenings, etc.
If you notice any of this, immediately go to the veterinarian; most likely, this is incipient oncology, which should be immediately prevented.
Protecting your pet from stress
It is the owner’s job to protect a beloved family member from stress. As we have already said, the presence of anxiety can greatly aggravate the animal’s health. In principle, we do not recommend solving dog behavior problems with physical violence, however, if you still use this method of punishment, it is time to abandon it.
Rudeness towards your pet during this time should also not be tolerated. The more upset the dog is, the worse it will become. Give up moralizing, wait until the dog recovers, and then, if necessary, solve the problems that arise with the dog handler.
The owner's love - healing power. Support your pet in the fight against disease
Let's sum it up
The sooner you contact a veterinary clinic if you notice any deviations in the behavior and well-being of your pet, the more likely it is that an increased level of alkaline phosphatase will be diagnosed, which means that the root cause of changes in the indicators for this enzyme will quickly be determined.
Next, the doctor will select the appropriate treatment for your pet, and he will soon recover. In the most severe cases, when the pet still cannot be cured, the doctor helps alleviate its suffering and seriously improves the animal’s quality of life. Be that as it may, the day you got a dog, the responsibility of caring for it and responsibility for the animal’s condition fell on your shoulders. Take the issue of your pet's health seriously, and most likely everything will end well for both of you.
Video - Decoding the blood test of dogs
