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Mary Fischer | 6 years ago
My Friend Has A 1 Yr Old Female German Shepherd, Baby Sister Of My Male GSD. She …

My friend has a 1 yr old female German Shepherd, baby sister of my male GSD. She was diagnosed with EPI and has been getting PancreVed in her food, every meal.
She is not seeming to be getting better or gaining weight. She’s lost about 12 lbs. although she doesn’t act as if she’s sick at all!!
Do you have any recommendations for this or advice? And is it hereditary?

My boy in the left and his sister on the right.

Thank you,
Mary

4 Responses

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Cab you tell me how this was diagnosed and how it is being treated? And even if the standards of care were met if they aren’t getting better you need to go back to vet for another discussion on what’s next with the plan. I have been treating a 1.5 yo GS for months and although I also suspect EPI if he isn’t gwtting better we keep looking for the cause and the answers. We have tried multiple medications. Bloodwork and treatment plans. It is often not a simple quick easy answer. It is a long discussion and discovery process. Please go back to your vet or ask for a referral to a specialist.

  2. Sarah

    I agree with Krista. There is no sign of improvement. Talk to the vet about changing treatment or adjusting it. Ask about testing for other possible illness and more bloodwork. Ask about initial diagnosis. Also ask about timing for feeding and how many times per day should she be eating. I hope she starts to improve.????????

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Jason | 6 years ago
Good Day- We Are Owners Of A New 12-week-old Rescue Puppy Names Bruno. He Has Been …

Good day- We are owners of a new 12-week-old rescue puppy names Bruno. He has been a great addition to the family and we are working thought having a new puppy in the house.
Reference to crate training at night, should we be waking up in the middle of the night to take him out (4-5 hours or so), or should he alert us that he needs to go out and then we wake up and take him out? We do walk him before going to sleep in his crate. Please advise your thoughts.

2 Responses

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  1. Laura

    Yes, when crate training, someone should wake up in the middle of the night to take puppy out…unless you stagger bedtimes in such a way that he’s only in there 4 hours.

  2. Krista Magnifico

    Hello!
    My answer depends on a few things. For the first week I just tel people to focus on getting used to each other I’m more worried about the stress of acclimating than the hard core training although both should be thought about simultaneously. If he is waking up at night then yes help to reassure hi and to get him on a potty break schedule by getting up. Most puppies won’t sleep more than 3-5 ours at a time until they are about 4-6 months old. So getting up as soon as he gets up helps to reinforce he is loved and cared for and it also helps with housebreaking as they have to go to the bathroom as soon as they get up. Over a few weeks he will start to sleep longer and get used to your schedule and be able to hold it through the night. Please also remember the tenants of housebreaking are ringing the bells on the door as you go out. Giving a key word like “time to go potty” directing him to his potty area immediately upon being outside and rewarding him for going. Also don’t let him wander in the house as this will fool training.
    Crate training is always rewarded when entering and used after he has been adequately exercised and rewarded for going in. Never make the crate a bad or scary place. It’s his home within your home.

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John | 6 years ago
Hey, I Had A 10 Year Old Beagle Who Was Suffering From Ivdd In The Neck And …

Hey, I had a 10 year old beagle who was suffering from ivdd in the neck and was paralyzed on all four legs. All of the vets I brought him too told me he needed surgery or he may never walk again. So I paid around $7500 for the ct scan and surgery. After the surgery my beagle couldn’t fully wake up and was having trouble breathing he was placed on oxygen. I left the hospital around midnight and received a call around 4am that my beagle was not breathing and they had to perform cpr, by the time I arrived at the hospital he passed away. Is this normal for this to happen after surgery? And what could have caused this? I feel like I should have just let him heal on his own after watching videos of other beagles with ivdd getting better with out surgery.

1 Response

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I’m so sorry for your loss. This is not an common consequence of your pets condition or surgery but death from surgery is always a risk. Did you speak to the veterinarians? Did you ask for, or, did they offer a necropsy to try to identify the cause of death? You certainly should ask for help in understanding what happened and they should be willing and ready to assuage any questions or concerns that you may have. You are also able to ask for a copy of the medical records and ask your vet to help you comprehend them. There are also other options available to you like use and inquiry from the state medical board. I hope this helps and I am so sorry for your loss.

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Laura Tomaschefsky | 6 years ago
What Are Your Recommendations To Comfort Dogs During Thunderstorms And Fireworks? My Mother-in-laws Dog Is Petrified …

What are your recommendations to comfort dogs during thunderstorms and fireworks?
My mother-in-laws Dog is petrified over loud noises and hides, shakes, growls, gets very very panicked… etc. You can’t even hold him and try to comfort him when he gets this way. She has tried the thunder blanket and that didn’t work. He’s actually starting to freak out as soon as it gets dark.
Is there any over the counter meds available that would relax him? If so what and how much for a 19lb dog? Can dogs have Xanax or Valium?

1 Response

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I actually offer a lot of advice to clients. First I try a thunder shirt and recommend putting a cage or crate in the darkest quietest part of the house with heavy blankets on top to dampen the noise. I also recommend that you talk to your vet about medications that might help. There is a huge assortment of things you can try. They can discuss lots and lots of options from things like antihistamines to prescription medications like sileo or even diazepam etc. try to use background noise like a tv or radio and keep calm even if your pet isn’t. There are other options like DAP (a pheromone) or over the counter homeopathic options. It’s best to talk to your vet as there are a huge number of options and a huge range of patient needs.

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Pam Brooks | 6 years ago
Had CT Done Of My Cat Lucas Due To No Resolution Of Respiratory Problems With Antibiotics. …

Had CT done of my cat Lucas due to no resolution of respiratory problems with antibiotics. Here are the results.

Moderate to marked thickening of the roof of the nasopharynx
• Otitis media bilaterally
• Lymphadenopathy left medial retropharyngeal lymph node

The marked thickening of the mucosal lining of the roof of the nasopharynx in conjunction withthe enlarged left medial retropharyngeal lymph node are highly suggestive for neoplastic
, and round cell neoplasia is the top differential diagnosis. Differentials include mast-
cell tumor, squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, other. The mucosal thickening of the roof
of the nasopharynx can explain the bilateral otitis media due to mechanical obstruction of the
openings of the auditory tubes into the nasopharynx. A differential to neoplastic infiltration is
marked non-infectious inflammation (e.g. lymphocytic plasmacytic, eosinophilic) or
granulomatous inflammation (e.g. Cryptococcosis) but the later one is considered far less likely
here. The findings are not typical for inflammatory polyps.The bilateral otitis media is explains the history of head tilt and Horner’s syndrome.
Rhinoscopy/retrograde pharyngoscopy is recommended for further evaluation including FNA
sampling and biopsy. FNA sampling of the left medial retropharyngeal lymph node is warranted
as well. The prednisolone treatment may influence results of the samples.

I think all the tests and surgeries that may follow will be out of my budget. Already spent over $1000 to date with no resolution.
Wondering if there are veterinarians who would go in and remove the polyp – appears to be a poly under soft palate – just to give the cat some relief and time.

Opinions and suggestions are welcome.

2 Responses

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  1. Sarah

    Good morning- I’m sorry you’ve been through so much already, and still are having issues. Did you speak candidly with your primary vet already about all of these findings and your wishes? (Meaning the removal of the polyp or at least some relief) That is probably where I would start. I would also make a few phone calls… local rescue organizations that may be willing to help fund your surgery. Or possibly your vet may let you pay a little at a time as you have already paid so much? I hope things get better soon!????????

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Barbara | 6 years ago
I Have A Cat 10 Years Of Age, Flash. He Had A Tumor That Was Detected After …

I have a cat 10 years of age, Flash. He had a tumor that was detected after he chewed on his privates and was unable to pee. I took him to the vet and was told they had to remove tumor and his male parts. So after spending about 1500.00, a discount because I also had my other cat that cost 500 for shots and fixing and chipped. After about two months my cat once again had issue peeing. I am now told it will cost another $2000 to do another surgery where they will make a knew opening. I am at ends wit because I can’t do another $2000 when thinking the first surgery was to fix the issue. Was something not done correctly the first time? All I am told is that he heals too fast and the tissue is weak and can’t maintian an opening to pee needing a new one.

2 Responses

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I’m sorry but I am not quite sure what is going on here. I think that I would recommend that you get a second opinion from a feline specialist or a vet your friends or family recommend. Or go back to your vet and ask for assistance in exposing what’s going on and why?
    I think you need some clarification before making any big decisions. In the meantime you can ask about intermediate palliative care. Please keep me posted on progress and good luck!

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Jaymi | 6 years ago
Hi, I Just Had A Scare With My Mini 10yo Pomeranian, Diagnosed With CHF Heart Murmur 5/6, …

Hi, I just had a scare with my mini 10yo Pomeranian, diagnosed with CHF heart murmur 5/6, but went to the cardiologist and said she has grade 2 murmur, no CHF, but mitral valve disease… During this whole thing, I noticed a bump on her nipple, and mentioned it to the vets, but wasn’t worried enough cus there was so much going on w her heart. Now that we got that cleared up w Cardio, I’ve caught my breath but am even more anxious to think she has Pyometra. I’ve been noticing sticky, red discharge from her vagina for a while now, mentioned it to cardio vet, had no comment. I had mentioned it to her regular ver before, and butt scooching, and they cleaned her anal glands. I am beyond anxious and so scared to lose my baby girl. I have an appointment for her to be spayed, which I was already anxious about due to her age and enlarged heart, but now I feel so hopeless and I’m sorry but I’m having trouble trusting vets… i know I shouldn’t say this but how has no one caught anything… Its a much longer story, I’m sorry. I noticed today a lot more discharge, it used to just accumulate a bit in her vag, but noticed it across her bum today… It was hard to tell at first cus she’s black, but I just don’t know what to do. Should I reschedule spay appointment earlier? Anyone, please help me… Not even sure how this site works… found it online researching Pyo…

photos are kinda graphic, sorry..

2 Responses

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I’m very glad to hear that your cardio appointment went so well. Consider that a HUGE win! It gives everyone a huge sigh of relief in everything you do moving forward. As far as the possible pyo goes I would strongly recommend you call your vet ASAP and be seen by them. Schedule her spay based on this exam and your vets concern about whether it meds to be done immediately or whether it can wait for your scheduled surgery date. Abnormal discharge is abnormal. A sick (lethargic, inappetant, or depressed) dog should be seen immediately. We have an old saying in vet med “never let the sun set on a pyo”. Or another words you don’t wait a day to treat! Good luck. Keep us posted.

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Pam Brooks | 6 years ago
My Cat Was Taken In To The Vet In May To Treat Allergies, Difficulty Breathing…

My cat was taken in to the vet in May to treat allergies, difficulty breathing (snoring sounds) and a head tilt. Was given an anti inflammatory, antibiotic (convenia), vitamin b-12, ear drops, and an X-ray. Diagnosed with asthma brought on by allergies. Lungs ok. Three weeks later breathing and itching had improved, but third eyelid started showing.
Vet would not see him and said to go to a specialist.
Took the cat for a second opinion. That vet said we should check for nasal polyps. Was sedated and had an exam of ears and throat. No polyps were visible. Vet felt a small enlarged area under the soft palate, but could not confirm this was a polyp. Head tilting stopped after first visit. Recurred a few days ago. Not present now. Second vet recommended going to a specialist for ct scan. It is cost prohibitive and I’m not sure it is necessary. Third opinion from an online site recommended we try antibiotics for the respiratory issues. Started on one antibiotic today for ten days. And started on purina fortiflora.
Looking for any other advice or experience with issues like this. I’ve never had a cat with these problems.
Thanks.
#cats #nasal #headtilt #respiratory #polyps

9 Responses

Comments

  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    This is a tough one. The problem really lies in the inability to localize and identify the lesion causing all of the clinical signs. I would look into Horners Syndrome and see a cat specialist. I also would consider a long discussion with a trusted vet on what is treatable and what isn’t based on most likely diagnosis. That’s really what you need. Help from someone who will talk about your case within your budget and comfort zone. I have to add one more thing. It really bugs the heck out of me to have a vet who won’t talk to you further after you discuss and confide in your inability to see a specialist (who will likely want a ct that you also can’t afford). Sorry. Soapbox moment.
    Keep me posted on your cats status please.

  2. Pam Brooks Post author

    Thank you. I just found your videos on removing nasal polyps on you tube. Was so hopeful yesterday that the second opinion vet who did the exam with Lucas under anesthesia would find a polyp in his throat and remove it. But instead she said she felt something kidney bean size under his soft palate. She wasn’t real confident of what it was. I went for the second opinion and told them I could not do the specialist route due to cost. Then I ended up being told I need to go see a specialist and spend 1-2 thousand for a CT. After that I could not pay for anymore treatment. So I searched around and had a vet online recommend the antibiotics. No one yet has given me options. Although the second vet said well he could live with polyps. I said but he is getting worse. The head tilt went away and came back. She said nothing else. I feel like I’m in an airport being moved through the system in the midst of storms that no on wants to discuss. And when I ask questions like can we give him steroids for inflammation – she says oh no I wouldn’t do that.
    I am scheduled for a consult with a vet from Cornell on Sunday. Maybe that will help.
    The other option I’m considering is just paying for a consult with a specialist – internal medicine I guess. When you call they won’t tell you what anything costs until you beg them. So I am leary of spending more money twith a specialist who may tell me they can’t do anything until I spend even more money on a ct.
    Sorry, frustrating week.

  3. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I completely understand your frustration. For al of the reasons you mention we added a storyline section to this site. If you can please add a story of your experience at each vet you went to and include the prices of each visit. I hope it is a way for others to see what the cost of care is and even which bets are affordable and helpful. Stories are entered by service provider. So each visit is entered separately but reference that you added one for each. It is a new feature so let me know if you have any questions or problems. We really are working hard to help people like you. Keep us posted. Good luck. Ps I think Cornell is a great option.

  4. Pam Brooks Post author

    For more information on this subject please see these credible resource pages; ACVS Nasopharyngeal Polyps; https://www.acvs.org/small-animal/nasopharyngeal-polyps

    Dr Magnifico, this is the link you posted. Figure 5 sounds like what Lucas has – a small polyp under his soft palate. Is this a surgery that a general practice cat vet could perform. Or only a surgeon. Cost is an issue for me. But I want to help Lucas before things get worse. Thanks.

  5. Pam Brooks Post author

    It says the mass will regrow with the simple removal shown. But it would be some relief and I’m not sure how fast they grow. Thanks.

  6. Pam Brooks Post author

    Went to a new vet today. What a difference from the others! Quiet, calm environment. Cats only patients. The vet was so thorough. Spent a long time with Lucas. When Lucas got anxious, he allowed him to go back into his carrier and calm down. Then he continued the exam by removing the top of the carrier. Lucas stayed in the corner and was much calmer. Going to try a new antibiotic – to hit what might be a middle ear infection. Onward!

  7. Pam Brooks Post author

    Thanks Dr Magnifico,
    The consulting vet from Cornell recommended I find a good vet interested in pursuing what is going on with Lucas, and listening to me regarding my budget. That was the same advice you gave! By the way the Cornell consult was excellent. The vet was very familiar with nasal polyps – and did not feel like this is the problem.

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ow | 6 years ago
My Cat Has Thrown Up 3 Hairballs In The Past Week. This Started After We…

My cat has thrown up 3 hairballs in the past week. This started after we had began packing to move, he has also had a diet change. I noticed no other problems with him. Could this be due to stress or is it something bigger?

2 Responses

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  1. Sarah

    This could be a combination of stress from the move and all that goes along with it and the new food. Your cat may be grooming more often to sooth any stress they are feeling. I would keep an eye on him…maybe jot down how often he is grooming, when hairballd occur, what is going on just before or around the time they occur, and if it continues share this info with your vet. Best of luck!

  2. Stacey Harris

    My cats also went through a stage of throwing up hairballs; one of my cats was a domestic long-hair. I solved her issue by shaving her each summer in May and she stays short through December. Also, it made it much easier on her grooming habits, which would lead to hairballs each month. I switched both to a high fiber dry kibble, grain free and hairballs have almost completely been eradicated. I’m wary of highly “colored” kibbles found in the cheaper grocery stores that include many dyes and artificial flavors/colors. These caused both of my cats to vomit commonly. Finally the good news; my vet said the best place for a hairball is one that’s been thrown up. As violent as the act of expelling a hairball is, it beats the alternative of a colon obstruction. Hope this helps!

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Pawbly | 6 years ago
I’ve Got A 9 Week Old Puppy At Home, She Is Passing Stools Normal Colour…

I’ve got a 9 week old puppy at home, she is passing stools normal colour not to much but is crying when trying to pass. She has been wormed and I’ve just given her, another one as requested by previous owner. Will this fade eventually once worms are killed she is scooting her bum on the floor too

3 Responses

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  1. Laura

    Since she’s only 9 weeks old, you can’t have had her long. Which means either you have a vet visit happening in the next couple of days, right? Ask your vet. 🙂

  2. Jennifer Taylor

    I would speak with your vet. There are different wormers that are parasite specific. It could be as simple as the wormer you are using is not covering the parasite the puppy has….or it could be something completely unrelated. If she is crying when passing stool I would try to get in to your vet as soon as possible. I hope your puppy feels better soon!

  3. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I always tell people that if their puppy isn’t acting normally that you should assume something is wrong and see a vet. If you are worried tell your vet. If they aren’t helpful or reassuring seek a second opinion. You are the only advocate your puppy has.