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My dog has a liver shunt. Is SAMe with licorice root okay for liver health?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 114 years and 8 months old | 4 lbs

SAMe S-Adenosyl-100 with milk thistle is what I've been giving to my 15 year old, 4lb Chi/Shitzu with liver shunt. Now the formula has changed from with milk thistle to with licorice root. Is this the same or will it help my dog.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on October 1st, 2017

This is not the same but is fine for your dog. The licorice root is a natural anti inflammatory herbal remedy and it also inhibits liver injury so it's a good choice for animals with high liver enzymes. You may still want to give the milk thistle if you can find it separately. You have done an excellent job maintaining Kandy throughout her life with a liver shunt. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Kandy.

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