Meet Bella – a senior Mini Schnauzer thriving with natural liver support
Bella is a much-loved Mini Schnauzer with an extraordinary life story. Adopted from Hong Kong Dog Rescue in 2013, she has lived in Hong Kong, London and now Australia. Although originally estimated to be three years old, vets later suggested she was older. Today, she is around 16 and a half, possibly closer to 18, and still enjoys an active, joyful life.
Like many ageing dogs, Bella began showing signs of liver stress, with elevated ALT and ALP levels on her blood tests. Her family wanted a gentle, natural solution to support her liver health and help manage her well-being long term. They turned to our CanineCeuticals® Pure Milk Thistle, a therapeutic-grade liver support supplement for dogs.
The Liver Health Challenge: Elevated ALT & ALP in a Senior Dog
As dogs age, their liver can become more vulnerable to inflammation and oxidative stress. Rising ALT and ALP levels often indicate the liver is working harder than it should. Bella’s family monitored her results closely with their vet and sought a natural liver supplement that reflected their holistic approach to her care.
For the past two years, they have consistently given Bella the Pure Milk Thistle. This herb is widely researched for its ability to support liver detoxification, reduce oxidative damage and promote healthy liver enzyme levels.
The Supplement Routine: Consistent Support with Pure Milk Thistle
After introducing Pure Milk Thistle, Bella experienced an initial steep reduction in her ALT and ALP levels. Her mum, Marion, explains:
“We saw an initial steep reduction on her blood tests in ALP and ALT liver levels back to normal range.”
Although senior dog liver enzymes may naturally fluctuate over time, Bella’s levels remained well-managed with daily Milk Thistle and ongoing veterinary monitoring. Her family later added Denamarin (a combination of additional Silybin and S-Adenosylmethionine) to provide further combined support.
Their vet is pleased with her progress, and her family credits this natural liver-support approach as a key reason Bella continues to age so gracefully.
The Transformation: A Healthy, Active Senior Dog
Bella plays with her younger brother KenjiToday, Bella enjoys a lifestyle that many younger dogs would envy. She still walks twice daily, chases her younger Westie brother Kenji, and delights in beach adventures.
“At 16 years old, Bella continues to be very physically active for her age, with twice-daily walks and generally in good health. CanineCeuticals gives us confidence we can keep Bella healthy and active into her grand old dame years.”
Marion adds:
“Watching Bella confidently adapt to any life changes that she encounters has been a real joy. She loved becoming a beach girl again and delights in her weekend romps at the off-leash dog beach.”
Bella’s story reflects what many pet parents hope for: a senior dog who continues to thrive with vitality, mobility and happiness.
Inspired by Bella’s Story? Support Your Own Senior Dog With Confidence
Bella’s journey shows what is possible when natural supplements, veterinary care and the right knowledge come together. If you would like support in caring for your own ageing dog, we have two helpful resources to guide you.
Free Guide: How to Manage Ageing in Senior Dogs
Just like Bella, many senior dogs can continue to enjoy a wonderful quality of life with the right support. Our free guide shares practical, evidence-based strategies to help you manage common age-related changes, including mobility, digestion, cognitive health and liver support. It is a gentle, easy-to-follow starting point for any pet parent wanting to feel more informed and empowered.
Personalised Online Consultations
If your dog has elevated liver enzymes, a diagnosed health condition or more complex wellness needs, you may benefit from individualised guidance. Our Online Consultations, led by Clinical Naturopath and Canine Nutritionist Narelle Cooke, offer tailored recommendations based on your dog’s unique health profile.
