What is Milk Thistle?
Milk Thistle seed is well-known for helping to support healthy liver function in dogs, cats, and humans alike, and is gentle enough for long-term use.
Its active compounds are a group of flavonoids called silymarins which:
- Help repair damaged hepatocytes (liver cells)
- Help guard against toxins binding in the liver
- Support production of healthy, new liver cells
- Provide antioxidant protection of liver cells against free-radical damage
Milk Thistle also provides beneficial support when your canine is being treated with medications including:
- Anti-inflammatories: corticosteroids, NSAIDS
- Antibiotics
- Chemotherapy agents
- Immunosuppressants
- Conventional heartworm medication
- Seizure medication
- Bile acids
What is Liver Disease?
There are many different types of liver disease and it can be a life-threatening condition. It should be diagnosed by a veterinarian as it can cause much damage if it is not caught early enough or is not well-managed.
Common Symptoms of Liver Disease
Liver disease symptoms vary depending on the cause and type of liver disease. Some of the common symptoms may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Yellowing of the eyes and skin
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Bad breath
- Diarrhea
- Increased water intake
- Increased urination
A note from our veterinarian...
A healthy liver is important because it detoxifies chemicals our dogs may be exposed to including toxins in processed foods or foods they scavenge, pesticides, and prescription drugs.
The liver performs dozens of different functions in the body including clearing out toxins. Yet liver disease (including cirrhosis) is one of the most common health problems in older canines. It can damage all functions of the dog’s liver, with very harmful health effects.
Even canines without liver disease may need support to metabolize and excrete prescription medications, which are often damaging to the liver. Milk Thistle is an excellent way to support the liver in dealing with the toxic load of medications.
Milk Thistle should be administered to every dog taking liver-taxing medications and especially if the liver is damaged or diseased. Milk Thistle is not contraindicated with conventional medications and is gentle enough for long-term use.
Healthy Nutrition Tip:
Processed foods stress your dog’s liver as it attempts to detoxify the preservatives and other additives like artificial flavors and colors. Go natural! Avoid grains and focus on healthy proteins from free-range, grass-fed animals. Green foods will help detoxify your canine's liver, such as those in Pet Wellbeing's SPARK. Expect your dog’s moods to be lifted as well! SPARK is a veterinarian-formulated, daily nutritional supplement for dogs of all ages.
NOTE: Never use alcohol-based supplements with your dog. Pet Wellbeing Milk Thistle is glycerin-based and safe for dogs.