My dog has gallbladder hyperplasia; our local vet says no treatment is needed. What should I do?
Expert Answer
From the ultrasound image, the gallbladder wall shows increased and thickened echoes, vaguely suggesting possible sludge or stones in the cavity; diagnosis should follow the examining veterinarian, but ultrasound cannot judge the nature of the hyperplastic material or its cause, and ultrasound-guided needle sampling and blood tests are needed. Liver lobe, gallbladder, and bile samples from the dog can be sent for testing to further clarify the potential pathogen. If the dog is still young and the hyperplasia is severe or there is a gallbladder mucocele, the best treatment is gallbladder removal surgery, followed by long-term medication management, diet management, and regular rechecks; the prognosis is generally good and recovery can extend life.
In daily care, keep the dog on a regular feeding schedule with light food, less greasy meat, and more low-fat, easily digestible dog food. If the dog is older and suffering, combine the condition and test results and follow the veterinarian’s advice for conservative treatment or euthanasia.