The effectiveness of taurine and levocarnitine in dogs with heart disease.

In this article, the current state of knowledge of the potential role of taurine and L-carnitine deficiency and supplementation in the genesis and management of cardiovascular disease in dogs is presented. There is limited direct evidence to support the recommendations found in this article or elsewhere in the literature. The temptation to "do something" for our patients can be overwhelming. Whether it be the administration of drugs or prescribing nutraceuticals or prescription diets, the veterinarian should strongly consider the source of the information, the strength of the evidence presented, the financial costs to the owner, and the potential risks and benefits to the patient.