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My daughter's Dalmatian is suffering with jaundice and liver problems. The vet isn't sure but has treated her for two weeks for hepatitis. Sparky is still somewhat yellow and has very little appetite. Blood work indicates no sign of leptospirosis, which was also suspected. Her bilirubin levels are slowly getting better, but she's just not herself. Any ideas?

Jaundice can be associated with many diseases. Some are primary liver diseases though others are not. Since Sparky has been ill for over two weeks she should have a thorough workup including coagulation testing, abdominal sonogram, and chemistry profiles and blood cell counts repeated at regular intervals. In order to arrive at a definitive diagnosis a liver biopsy may be necessary. If this turns out to be the case it is likely that a small piece of liver can be obtained by means of an ultrasound guided needle in a relatively noninvasive procedure. I suggest you ask Sparky's vet if he can perform the workup in his office. If not he should be able to refer you to a facility where this work can be done.

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