This problem hits hard, impacting many types, but it’s particularly rough on Bedlington Terriers, Doberman Pinschers, and Labrador Retrievers. It happens when too much of a specific metal builds up inside, causing major harm and a bunch of other troubles.
Honestly, there’s no easy solution, but we can definitely keep it under control and shield ourselves as best as possible. That means sticking to a strict eating plan and staying on top of prescribed treatments.
Dietary changes
If you want your pup feeling better, the first step is changing their diet. Skip the beef liver, lamb liver, and other organ meats, and steer clear of treats loaded with copper.
Thankfully, there are plenty of options available with reduced levels. Your vet can help you choose the best one for your furry friend.
| Dietary Component | Restriction/Change |
| Copper intake | * Reduce significantly (ideally to 0.1-0.2 ppm dry matter) |
| High-fiber foods | * Increase |
| Fat | * Moderate |
| Vitamin C | * Limit |
| Fruits & Vegetables | * Encourage |
| Commercial diets | * Look for low-copper options |
| Homemade diets | * Consult a veterinary nutritionist |
| Food Group | Foods to Limit |
| Protein Sources | Liver, kidney, organ meats, shellfish, chocolate, nuts, legumes |
| Carbohydrates | Wheat, corn, barley, oats, rice, potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots |
| Fats and Oils | Sunflower oil, safflower oil, corn oil |
| Fruits and Vegetables | Avocados, bananas, mangoes, oranges, grapes, raisins |
| Vitamins and Minerals | Vitamin C supplements |
| Food Group | Foods to Encourage |
| Protein Sources | Lean chicken, turkey, fish (whitefish, cod), eggs, low-fat cottage cheese |
| Carbohydrates | White rice, pasta, barley (limited), oatmeal (limited), green beans, broccoli, cauliflower |
| Fats and Oils | Fish oil, olive oil, canola oil |
| Fruits and Vegetables | Apples, pears, berries, cantaloupe, spinach, kale, lettuce |
| Vitamins and Minerals | Vitamin E supplements (with veterinarian guidance) |
Medication
If there’s an excess of this mineral in the system, a vet might suggest dietary adjustments and possibly prescribe medication to help remove it. One commonly used option works by binding to the mineral, allowing the body to eliminate it through urine.
Other medications may also be considered. Zinc acetate, for example, works by reducing how much copper the body absorbs from food. Another option is trientine, which, like penicillamine, is a chelating agent that helps remove extra copper from the body.
Chelation therapy involves medications like D-penicillamine and zinc acetate to reduce levels in the liver. While effective, it requires careful monitoring to manage possible side effects.
| Medication | Dosage |
| d-penicillamine | 10-15 mg/kg body weight |
| Bis-choline tetrathiomolybdate | 1.25 mg/kg body weight |
| Trientine | 600-1200 mg/day |
| 2,3,2-tetramine | 25-50 mg/kg body weight |
| Medication | Frequency |
| d-penicillamine | Every 12 hours (without food) |
| Bis-choline tetrathiomolybdate | Once daily (with food) |
| Trientine | Divided doses, 3-4 times daily (with food) |
| 2,3,2-tetramine | Every 12 hours (with food) |
Surgery: In serious situations where extensive harm has occurred, an operation might be necessary. This could involve taking out affected sections or even replacing the entire area. However, a full replacement is a complicated process and isn’t always an option everywhere.
| Type of Surgery | Purpose |
| Liver biopsy | Figure out what’s going on by checking the tissue from their organ. |
| Portosystemic shunt (PSS) placement | Ease tension in the portal vein due to severe issues with this organ. |
| Liver transplantation | Transplant a failing organ with a properly functioning one. |
Treatment process
The method will vary based on how far along it is. For minor issues, changing what they eat could be enough to handle it. But if it’s more serious, the doctor will probably suggest treatment along with adjusting meals.
They’ll keep a close eye on them to make sure the treatment is effective and not causing any problems. Frequent tests and checkups will help keep an eye on how things are progressing and maintain the right levels.
The Cost of Managing This Condition
Managing the expenses of addressing this condition can be challenging for many pet owners. The overall cost of care can vary widely based on several factors, including its severity, the chosen approach, and the location of the veterinary clinic. Here’s an overview of possible costs:
| Treatment | Cost per Year (USD) |
| Wilson disease medication | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Liver transplant | $750,000 – $1 million |
| Chelation therapy | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Dietary modifications | $5,000 – $10,000 |
1. Diagnostic Tests: The initial diagnostic tests, including blood work, ultrasound, and possibly a liver biopsy, can cost several hundred to over a thousand dollars.
2. Medications: The cost of their medications for chelation and supportive care can range from $50 to several hundred dollars per month, depending on their size and how long they need it.
3. Specialized Diet: Special diets prescribed by veterinarians can be expensive, costing around $2 to $4 per day, depending on the brand and type.
4. Surgery: If surgery is deemed necessary, the cost can be quite substantial, ranging from a few thousand to over $10,000 for liver transplantation.
5. Veterinary Visits and Monitoring: Regular veterinary visits for check-ups and monitoring can incur additional costs.
It’s important to note that managing this condition is often a long-term commitment, and costs can add up over time. Pet insurance may help cover some of these expenses, so it’s wise to explore options to reduce the financial burden.
The Emotional Toll of Treatment
Supporting a furry friend through this situation can be an emotional rollercoaster, testing patience and strength—but it’s all worth it for that unbreakable bond. Here’s what many caregivers experience along the way:
Hope and Determination: Starting brings a spark of hope—the belief that it will work and your pup will recover. That hope becomes a driving force, keeping you committed to the process.
Heartbreak: When things get worse or the first steps don’t help, it can feel crushing. Seeing someone you love so much in pain is one of the toughest moments to go through.
Regret and Reflection: Many pet owners struggle with guilt, questioning if they could have done something differently to prevent the illness or catch it sooner. However, the truth is, this condition is largely influenced by genetics, leaving little room for second-guessing.
Financial Strain: The bills can add up fast. It’s smart to think ahead, look into things like coverage plans, and figure out how to handle the costs.
The Power of Community: Leaning on friends, family, or online groups can provide much-needed support. Connecting with others who’ve been through similar experiences can offer comfort and understanding.
Balancing Comfort and Time: Throughout the process, you’ll constantly assess your pup’s quality of life. Striking the balance between ensuring their comfort and cherishing every moment together is a delicate and emotional task.
Unbreakable Bond: Despite the challenges, the love between you and your furry friend grows even stronger. That bond becomes a source of strength, carrying you through the hardest times.
This journey is undeniably tough, but it’s also a testament to the profound connection we share with our furry companions.
