Alkaline Phosphatase in Dogs: Causes, Treatment, and Disease Prevention.

Reasons for Increased Alkaline Phosphatase in Dogs

Alkaline phosphatase in dogs is one of the liver enzymes that is involved in the exchange of mineral substances in the body, especially phosphorus with calcium. It is present in almost all internal organs and tissues, but its highest concentration is 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 through the body. Alkaline phosphatase in a dog's blood is detected in small amounts in the absence of pathologies and in overall good health of the animal.

Causes of Increased Alkaline Phosphatase in Dogs

During certain processes in the body, the destruction of cell membranes occurs, leading to the detection of increased alkaline phosphatase in the blood of dogs as it penetrates from its usual location. Laboratory values indicate disruptions in the body's functioning or clear changes. High alkaline phosphatase in dogs itself is not a separate disease. Its appearance can be triggered by simple stress, when cortisol hormone is released, the use of medications (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hormonal drugs, anticonvulsants). Also, normal and non-threatening elevation of alkaline phosphatase in dogs can occur in the third trimester of pregnancy or in puppies (around 4-8 months) during active bone growth.

However, there are reasons that should raise concerns about the pet's health. To a lesser extent, improper nutrition due to sweet or excessively fatty food can lead to increased alkaline phosphatase, while more significantly, various oncological diseases can be the cause.

By the way, decreased alkaline phosphatase in dogs may indicate the presence of hypothyroidism, which sometimes leads to loss of voice after complete or partial laryngeal paralysis, deficiency of vitamin C and trace elements, anemia, bone growth disorders. This condition poses a health threat, and attention should also be paid to decreased levels.

What elevated alkaline phosphatase in dogs most commonly indicates:

• Rapid bone growth;
• Pregnancy;
• Lactation;
• Fractures, including those already healing;
• Liver diseases;
• Cholecystitis;
• Kidney and adrenal gland problems;
• Pancreatitis;
• Some tumors, especially osteosarcomas;
• Cushing's syndrome;
• Other reasons.

Clinical Picture of Alkaline Phosphatase

After targeted research, alkaline phosphatase in dogs can be either elevated or significantly reduced. Its content in the blood is determined by conducting a biochemical analysis in a veterinary laboratory. Normal alkaline phosphatase in dogs is 24-124 U/L or 8.0-28.0 IU/L. Interestingly, in Siberian Huskies, according to some data, its elevation is considered harmless and is attributed to breed differences.

Specific manifestations, such as loss of voice or hair loss, are not caused by alkaline phosphatase in dogs. However, in some conditions, the pet owner needs to be alert. Often, its increase affects the color of the feces - it becomes light, while the urine, on the contrary, darkens. Nausea and vomiting, noticeable loss of appetite, are possible. Such symptoms affect behavior and overall weakness, making it difficult for sick dogs to move, leading to apathy.

Preparation for Phosphatase Diagnostics

To determine whether alkaline phosphatase is elevated in dogs, a biochemical blood analysis should be done. In addition to the enzyme content itself, the results provide important information about other elements in the body, aiding in diagnosis. This analysis can be done in almost all veterinary laboratories. Before visiting veterinary specialists, the animal will need to be restricted from its usual activities. For example, fasting for 8 hours. Many products affect the indicators, rendering them useless.

Additionally, it is advisable to avoid stress, even short-term, in cases of very high alkaline phosphatase in dogs. Reduce walks and heavy exercise - let the animal have more rest, and hormones along with trace elements will be in the normal state of the body. It is desirable to speak to the dog in a calm voice, avoiding scolding.

The veterinarian should inquire about the animal's illnesses, its diet, and the intake of medications that may affect why the dog has elevated alkaline phosphatase. Other preparation specifics for the tests will be explained by the personnel of the specific laboratory or clinic, as they may vary.

Care and Rehabilitation for Dogs

Depending on the cause of elevated alkaline phosphatase in dogs, care during and after treatment is selected. Usually, the animal's diet is adjusted if necessary. In case of excess fat in the menu, a light diet is prescribed (boiled chicken, a little rice, ready-made commercial food with the necessary composition). Vitamins and trace elements may be added in preparations when a significant deficiency is detected. However, changing the diet is not always recommended to prevent the dog from experiencing additional stress and another increase in alkaline phosphatase.

In everyday life, the animal is treated gently, voices are not raised, and training should be temporarily suspended, excluding sports activities, running, and very active walks. Limit outdoor walks and encounters with other animals that can cause strong emotions and fatigue. Physical exertion is particularly contraindicated in cases of spinal and limb problems - various arthroses, inflammations, bone tissue destruction.

If alkaline phosphatase in dogs increases due to liver dysfunction, hepatoprotectors are usually prescribed. Serious kidney diseases, gallbladder problems require special treatment. Sometimes, especially in oncology cases, the removal of the affected organ or part of it is necessary. If a dog loses its voice, it is a sign of a specific disease that is treated with specific medications.

Prevention of Alkaline Phosphatase in Dogs

If a dog's alkaline phosphatase is within normal limits, both elevated and decreased, some health problems can be confidently ruled out, but this does not indicate the complete health of the animal. To keep alkaline phosphatase in dogs within normal limits, preventive measures should be followed. It is crucial to adhere to a feeding regimen and rules - do not give the animal sweet and fatty foods. Walks should involve moderate physical activity, as well as activities with a dog trainer or on a sports ground. Once or twice a year, even for visually healthy dogs, a full clinical examination should be conducted, including general tests. It is important not to raise one's voice often and without reason, never to hit the dog or subject it to serious stresses or anxieties. Every owner should take care of the animal and be attentive to its behavior, appetite, appearance, and even natural discharges.