Our 5-1/2 month old yorkie came back with a high ALT in his blood work. We are going to have a special test done Next month after our vacation. If he does have a liver shunt, what are our options? Can it be treated with s high protein diet or will it require surgery ? I know this is a loaded question, because we know nothing now. How much is liver shunt surgery? Thank you. Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 5 months and 15 days old | 5 lbs

I am so sorry Skipper may have a liver shunt! The best and preferred treatment for a liver shunt is surgery to identify and close the abnormal blood blood vessels. This will eliminate the shunt and return normal blood flow to the liver. A high protein diet is not used to treat dogs with a liver shunt; in fact, it's a restricted protein diet. A reduced protein diet helps reduce the production of toxic wastes such as ammonia. A minority of dogs can be treated medically with this low protein diet and medications, but surgery is the best treatment for it. A liver shunt surgery is costly and the cost does depend on the clinic. From estimates I have seen at veterinary schools in the US, I would expect to spend at least $2000-3000 on this surgery, but your vet can give you a better idea of the cost. I hope this helps!