Gallstones

What are gallstones and how do they form?

The gallbladder is a small organ that lies under the liver and stores bile. Bile is a yellow-green fluid that is produced by the liver and helps to digest fats. Bile is transported via the bile ducts to the small intestine, where it is mixed with food.

Gallstones are hard lumps that can form from various components of bile, such as cholesterol, calcium or bilirubin (a breakdown product of the red blood pigment). The exact cause of the formation of gallstones is not yet fully understood, but there are some factors that can increase the risk:

• Hereditary predisposition: Some dog breeds are more prone to gallstones than others, for example Miniature Schnauzers, Poodles or Shetland Sheepdogs.
• Diet : A high-fat or low-protein diet can alter the composition of bile and lead to oversaturation with cholesterol or calcium.
• Diseases: Some diseases of the liver, pancreas or intestines can affect the production or drainage of bile, leading to congestion or infection.

What symptoms do dogs with gallstones show?

Many dogs with gallstones have no or only mild symptoms and require no treatment. However, gallstones can lead to complications if they block the flow of bile or cause inflammation or infection. Possible symptoms are:

• Loss of appetite or weight loss
• Vomiting or retching
• Abdominal pain or tenderness
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes or whites of the eyes)
• fever
• Weakness or lethargy
• Thirst or increased urination

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should take him to the vet as soon as possible. If left untreated, gallstones can lead to serious consequences such as peritonitis, blood poisoning or liver failure.

How are gallstones diagnosed and treated in dogs?

To diagnose gallstones in your dog, your vet will carry out a thorough physical examination and take a blood sample. The blood results may indicate inflammation, infection or liver dysfunction. Your vet will also perform an ultrasound of the abdomen to assess the gallbladder and bile ducts. The ultrasound will allow your vet to see the size, shape and number of gallstones and identify possible complications.

The treatment of gallstones depends on the severity of the symptoms and your dog's condition. If your dog has no symptoms, your vet may take a wait-and-see approach and recommend regular check-ups. In some cases, gallstones may disappear or dissolve on their own.

However, if your dog has pain, inflammation or infection, your vet may prescribe drug therapy. This may consist of painkillers, antibiotics, bile acid supplements or other medications to thin the bile or prevent stone formation.

In severe cases or if drug therapy is not effective, surgery may be necessary. This involves removing the gallbladder or part of the bile ducts in order to restore the flow of bile. The operation is associated with risks and requires careful aftercare.

How can you prevent or help your dog?

To reduce your dog's risk of gallstones, or to help him if he already has them, there are a few things you can do:

• Feed your dog a high-quality, balanced diet that meets his needs. Avoid too much fat or protein and make sure they drink enough fluids.
• Keep your dog's weight in the normal range. Being overweight can put a strain on the liver and affect the gall bladder.
• Have your dog checked regularly by the vet. Early detection and treatment of conditions that can cause gallstones is important.
• Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding medication or surgery. Give your dog the prescribed medication as directed and follow the aftercare recommendations.