The effect of the probiotic Enterococcus faecium SF68 on liver function was studied in healthy dogs by monitorizing serum concentrations of ALT, ALP, total cholesterol and triglycerides. Thirty-six healthy dogs were randomly allocated to a probiotic or a control group. Enterococcus faecium SF68 was administered only to the probiotic group for 14 days. A blood sample was taken from both groups of dogs at days 0, 14 and 28 of the study. Serum ALT, ALP, total cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations and CIBDAI score were determined in all dogs in these three days. The probiotic did not induce any significant change on mean serum ALT and ALP concentrations. A trend to increase mean serum total cholesterol concentrations was seen in the probiotic group that reversed when the probiotic administration ended. Mean serum triglyceride concentration showed a progressive increase that became significant 14 days after ceasing the probiotic administration. In the control group no variation of these parameters was seen. In conclusion Enterococcus faecium SF68 had no significant effect on serum ALT or ALP concentrations but a tendency to hyperlipidaemia was seen. A longer trial will be warranted to assess if the probiotic effects could be clinically relevant and its potential use in hyperlipidaemic dogs.
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