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Jennie | 4 years ago
I Have A Question About Dog Food. Years Ago, We Had A German Shepherd Who Was …

I have a question about dog food. Years ago, we had a german shepherd who was allergic to chicken. We switched him (and our other 2 dogs) to grain free and they all did amazing on it. We mixed proteins and had no issues. Now, years later, we have a german shepherd pup (9 months old now). When he came to us at 8 weeks he was eating Victor grain free active dog and puppy. Our vet is anti-grain free and recommended Purina Pro Plan large breed puppy (chicken). We transitioned over a couple of weeks, but he had soft stools or diarrhea all the time and was itchy. He ended up having anal gland issues. We added pumpkin, bananas, yogurt and nothing helped.
We switched to the sslmon/sensitive skin and stomach puppy formula but it didn’t get better. We ended up adding Victor back in, and he got better. Now he is back on the Victor puppy grain free, mixed with the Victor grain included formula. No issues. But our Vet has us worried about heart issues, and I’m worried that we’re going to get a lecture because she only recommends Purina Pro Plan, Science Diet, RC, Ian’s – big companies with a vet on staff. Should we keep trying these, or stick with what’s working? (Our previous vet retired 🙁 ) We want to do the best thing for our puppy.

5 Responses

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I am anti grain free too. I have seen perfectly healthy dogs die, in some cases even multiple dogs in the same house die from grain free diets and heart disease. It has changed me and I won’t recommend grain free until we know exactly what is happening and why. Along with what we can do about it. For now I don’t feed or recomend grain free. I also do not believe the anal glands are associated with the diet. I’ve seen thousands of dogs over decades and they don’t correlate to diet and anal sac issues. Please don’t think that we lecture because we are influenced by anything other then our training, our individual experiences and our deep fondness for the animals we have dedicated our lives too. To say we are paid or influenced by the pet food companies Is both untrue and unkind. You should find a diet that works for all of you and is safe to feed. My best to you all. Be kind to your vet. They want what’s best for your dog.

    1. Jennie Post author

      Thank you! I definitely don’t think that our vet is influenced by anything. I just feel sort of lost – we’ve had many dogs but never one with a sensitive tummy. We want to do what’s best for him. We’ll keep trying!

  2. Sarah

    Hi- we have a household of german shepherds. We feed Purina One large breed with glucosamine. There is a sensitive stomach option as well as a senior option. At the moment our GSDs are loving the venison option. Our youngest did have an adjustment period of about 2 weeks from when we got him until his stools got back on track with our food. Other than that one instance, we have always been very happy with this food. I should add that their health and lifespan has been great on this diet as well. ..14 years and very healthy up until the end. I would say chat more with your vet and see what comes of it. They may be able to provide you with more information that you will find useful.????????

  3. Laura

    I feed the food the dog does best on. If that means Victor, or some other grain free brand, then that’s what it means. (Though I’m really not a fan of Victor.)

    I have been a fan of Merrick for a long time. Try them, or Castor + Pollux, their other brand. If you think your dog is allergic to chicken, make sure you read labels carefully – LOTS of brands use chicken fat in formulations which do not list chicken as a main ingredient, and even a little of it will make our girl break out in hives and have loose stool. I can feed grain-inclusive foods as long as they’re limited ingredient.

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Sandy | 4 years ago
Dr. Magnifico I Made An Appointment For Princess To See You On September 8th. She Is …

Dr. Magnifico

I made an appointment for Princess to see you on September 8th. She is overdue her shots and I sent a question that you responded to about her having her days and nights mixed up. Last night though while giving her extra attention and rubbing I found a lump on her belly. What is strange is that she slept all night and got up only to get up to eat and go in the litter box. I called the clinic to see if there were any openings but they are booked.
They were going to see if anyone had time just to check her belly. Such a quick change from 24 hours and I was concerned because she was sleeping all night. However within the last 5 minutes she is up playing so i think i will wait to see you tomorrow. The lump is on her belly more to one side and towards the back (dependingon how she is laying). I already lost 2 cats this year and I have one now with lymph node cancer mesentary. If she continues with her usual behavior of up and wanting attention tonight, is it safe to wait until the 8th or is it best for her to be seen sooner. I know to take her to the ER if she goes back to sleeping constantly….although that is her norm for daytime.

As always I appreciate and value your opinion.

Thanks
Sandy

My message was sent earlier today at which time Princess woke up and was playing with something. She went back to sleep and got up several hours ago to eat but then returned to the new bed I had gotten her. I brought out something that she likes to play with but she only played with it for about a minute and returned to her bed. I definitely will see you tomorrow with her and if she starts to exhibit anything more serious I will take her to the ER….unless you get this and think I should take her now. It is now 7:34 pm. This is around the time that she would start to get a little active.

1 Response

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I have walk in appointments available from 1-3 sundays. I hope things are ok. If you want to come in on Sunday just arrive between 1245 and 2. It is first come first served. Take care. Krista.

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Shells | 4 years ago
Hello!! I Found Dr Krista’s YT Vid (Stripes The Cat Re Nasal Polyps) While Researching …

Hello!! I found Dr Krista’s YT vid (Stripes the cat re nasal polyps) while researching my kitty’s condition. I have had Percy out to Pet ER w. initial thick mucus that became tinged w. a bit of blood. He was prescribed Doxy to treat the infection… it wasn’t until during the course of treatment that he began the “snoring” at which point I rushed him back to Pet ER. Having limited funds and no experience w. these issues ever before, I opted for Labs (figuring that would be a start). Unfortunately, the results did not “tell me anything unusual” and I am not a vet. It was then that I learned about these polyps … and I feel confident that this could be what Percy is suffering from (unless there may be a foreign object obstructing his airway). At this point I have no dx!! I’ve been on the veterinary roller-coaster ride trying to determine the best course of action between my local vet (Dundalk Animal Hosp), Pet ER or another vet altogether… at this point not knowing the cause of his breathing issue or how much the costs may be… I guess I can understand why “estimates” can’t be given … I am just trying to determine the LESS COSTLY route and there seems to be no clear answer. My head is spinning and I want the best for Percy and to NOT have to lose him, that’s the bottom line… my heart is hurting as this was so unexpected!! Would it be possible to fit Percy into the clinic’s busy schedule ASAP?? I called this morning and was told that Monday is already full. Emily advised to reach out on Pawbly … I also sent a pm on FB.
I really need help, I cared for 2 cats last year both former strays, one Main Coon mix w. Hypercardiomyopathy and the other cancer of his paw which was eating away. Both these babies tore my heart in 2 but I did what I had to until it was time to journey on RIP… we had a family of 6 at that time along w. my deceased uncle’s dog. My Care Credit card was easily almost maxed out… my boys and I are pitching in together as many ways as possible for Percy. He is the last of our most recent feline family and I do NOT EVER want to stop caring for animals!! Thank you for my restored faith in humanity!! ~Love~ Shelley & Percy

2 Responses

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I am happy to meet you and your cat at my clinic. If that would help. We work very hard to provide affordable options to help people with their pet care needs. I am at the clinic Sunday thorough Thursday.

    1. Shells Post author

      Thank You so much, you are a blessing to ALL pets and their humans!!

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Catherine | 4 years ago
I Have A 8 Week Year Old Kitten He’s Very Active Until Today My Daughter Accidentally …

I have a 8 week year old kitten he’s very active until today my daughter accidentally jumped on his back right leg he’s been limping and crying when touched but still walks on it without meowing he’s still playful and eats he will lay down more then usual and sleeps more often then usual as well should I make a splint for him or go to the hospital does it seem broken

3 Responses

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  1. Sarah

    Being that he is only 8 weeks old, I’m assuming you have a vet appointment already booked for regular visit? I would call and ask if they can see him sooner and explain what happened. Hopefully he is fine????But an X-ray will help confirm anything.

  2. Catherine Post author

    Took my baby to the vet it’s a sprain he has a splint on and he’s resting but still his lovable self thank u guys

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Angela | 4 years ago
I Have Two Puppies 7 And 8 Months Old I Want To Apply Revolution To One Of Them …

I have two puppies 7 and 8 months old I want to apply Revolution to one of them and I am afraid the other one while playing will lick it off and get poisoned what do I have to do separate them for how long or may be do something else

1 Response

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello.
    I tell my clients to apply it right before bed. So this won’t, or is significantly less likely, to happen.

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Annalissa | 4 years ago
My Cat Is Home From A 3 Day Stay At The ER With FLUTD. He Was Partially …

My cat is home from a 3 day stay at the ER with FLUTD. He was partially blocked. His kidneys suffered slightly. He was sent home with pain medication, antibiotics, and something to relieve him of urethral spasms. It has already cost me $2700 and I cant possibly offered another stay as he isn’t peeing too well already after 24hours being home. He is still only trickling pee rather than fully expressing his bladder. What do I do? I can’t afford another hospital visit.

1 Response

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  1. Sarah

    You need to call the vet who did the surgery and speak with them. Is it possible your cat was not ready to come home? Are there signs you should be looking for… signs of milestones or setbacks? Explain that your cat is still struggling with no improvement and you’re concerned if it should have been sent home at all. Are you already scheduled for a follow up appointment? Also explain your budget concerns and ask about options of payment as well. Hope he is ok !!! ????????

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Ashley | 4 years ago
Is My Kitten A Bengal Mix

Is my kitten a Bengal mix

2 Responses

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  1. Laura

    It’s impossible to tell, particularly with a very dark photo. Unless you bought this kitten from a Bengal breeder, or can confirm one of the parents was a Bengal, there’s literally no way to know.

    Enjoy your kitten! And as Dr. M said, get it to the vet asap to get on a good care routine.

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Raychelle | 4 years ago
I Have A 2 Week Old Orphan That Has Upper Respiratory Infection And Low Weight. It Is …

I have a 2 week old orphan that has upper respiratory infection and low weight. It is suffering with anorexia as well. The kitten is also tube feeding. Today is day 5 and the kitten has started showing lathargic behaviors again and has not had a bowel movment in 24 hours.

I am wondering if this is normal or if I should take it to the er.?

1 Response

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  1. Gloria

    I would definitely take her to the vet or ER. This baby is too small and weak to overcome all these problems on its own. This is an emergency, in my opinion.

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April | 4 years ago
My Tabby Cat Male Had PU Surgery 2 Weeks Ago He’s Currently Squatting Every 3 Minutes Like …

My tabby cat male had PU surgery 2 weeks ago He’s currently squatting every 3 minutes like he has to go but nothing he pees a lot at first but just keeps squatting over and over again he’s eating drinking and cleaning but seems to be obsessed with the squatting his stitches are due to come out tomorrow help us ?????

1 Response

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  1. Sarah

    Good morning- if the stitches are scheduled to come out, I would definitely bring these symptoms up at the visit. Make sure that the vet is aware of what is going on… unless have you already spoken to them about this? If you have, then explain your concern as there is no improvement. Best of luck- hope your cat recovers and is ok????????

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Michael | 4 years ago
My Name Is Gail Soth I Am Requesting Help For My 1 Year Old Puppy She Hasn…

My name is Gail soth i am requesting help for my 1 year old puppy she hasn’t been eating nor drinking throwing up. We had her to churchville vet thursday and Friday og this past week and the emergency hospital in belair Saturday she has had 2 x-rays with suspicion of a object lodged in her intestines. We are trying every way to keep her. We’ve put a lot og money up for her but we don’t have the financials to do the surgery. We love are dog and my youngest 2 grandchildren love her to pieces. We had been trying to feed her through a syringe with her medication the doctors have given us. We want to keep our pup and she means the world to us and shes family. Im pleading for help. This is critical and would appreciate it you could help us save our pup.

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I’m so sorry to hear about your puppy. Please call all family and friends asking for help. I would also call all of the local
    Shelters and rescues. Even some of the pet centered foundations. You can go to the jarrettsville vet website and look under resources for a list of places who might be able to help. If you cannot fins anyone to help I can seek help through a local rescue but she would have to be surrendered to them for further care. I wish you all the best.