grumpette

cavnrott I certainly hope that you can get Sophie's gum tumour back under control. I was hoping that the change in appearance was a good sign, a sign that it was regressing. However, the inflamed gum is not a good sign, so I agree an early visit to the oncologist may be in order. I am hoping that other than the inflammation that she is well in herself, and that she is enjoying her activities. Zed_n_Q my thoughts and prayers are with you and Zed. I certainly hope that he stabilises very soon. Wolfgirl I hope that Pearl gets the all clear from her MRI next week. BP I am glad to hear that Kiesha came home today and that the family is complete again. I have my two favourite photos of Sam next to his urn on our dresser in our bedroom. Diesel will be back to his usual self very soon once a new routine is worked out. Our dogs are so incredibly brave and resilient. So much so that it is sometimes very hard to believe that we can continue to be strong for them, until they look at us and give us one of their sloppy kisses, then we know we can continue on as long as they can. Take great care brave ones, and when you stumble, reach out as there are many shoulders on which you can lean.

cavNrott I am glad to hear that Sophie is still doing well and is pain free. Zed_n_Q I hope that Zed is holding his own and still has some of his usual spark BP I hope that you are doing well and getting stronger each day. Ladies please take great care of yourselves, and remember to treat yourselves with love and compassion, the way you have been doing with your beloved dogs. Maintain your strength and hope, and always know that we are thinking of you and your wonderful furkids. Lots of , and support to you all and special :D ;) to Sophie and Zed.

oh no Choppa Chop I am so very sorry to read of the passing of Choppa He was so young, but lived a very good life and did so much to change people's opinions of APBT I will always remember the grace and beauty of his noble face in your pictures. RIP gorgeous Choppa Big hugs to you and your family Renee

Just popped in to see how the sick furkids and their owners are doing today. Zed_n_Q: I hope that Zed is coping with the cooler wet weather, and there is no more flooding at your place. Zed_n_Q very big and lots of to Zed cavNrott: I hope that Sophie's stomach has settled down and that she is enjoying her new, very healthy "human" diet, and also her outings. cavNrott very big and lots of to Sophie Wolfgirl: I wish you and Pearl all the very best with the MRI. May it only be inflamation caused by something that is treatable. Wolfgirl very big and lots of :p to Pearl Dogsforall very big ;) and lots of ;) to Bonnie Staffylov very big and lots of to Olllie May you all have a day filled with happy memories, wonderful moments and lots of love and peace. Stay strong and have faith that you are doing all that you should for your beloved dogs.

Bluepoppy I am so very sorry for you and your family RIP Kiesha May you now run free and easy the way your family wished. BP may your hearts remember all the good times that you had together with Kiesha And I hope that you know in your mind and soul that you did all you could to bring Kiesha comfort and love during the last 2 months. Take great care of yourself, Jeff, Diesel and family.

cavNrott I am sorry to hear about Sophie's gastric bleeding. I hope it is only small and temporary. It is possible that the vet recommended a higher fat diet for two reasons: 1. To coat and protect the GI lining a little 2. Some drugs, like Vit D, E, A and K, need to bind to fat to be able to be absorpted in the intestines I sincerely hope that the slippery elm can provide some relief and that Sophie stays her same vibrant self for as long as possible I wish you both a wonderful day All our and to all the sick furkids and their fantacitc, brave, dedicated owners.

Oh Bluepoppy my heart breaks for you and Kiesha. I am so sorry that you both had a bad day and night. I do hope that the vomiting has now stopped with the administration of the maxalon. Good on you for knowing what is best for Kiesha and demanding it from the vet. Go with your instincts and the research that you have done regarding possible medications for Kiesha. From what you have said it appears that the lack of anti-nausea medication is the reason for this bad turn. Baylee loves the lamb and vegie broth that I make her when she is off colour. You add diced lean lamb (human grade) to 4 cups water with 1 cup barley and simmer for 1 hour. Grate up your carrots, swede, zucchini and any other vegie that is easy to digest and add to pot. Chop up celery and fresh parsley and add to pot. Simmer and serve warm. You can do the same with chicken and beef. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do for you and Kiesha, at anytime. My hopes and wishes for a much better day today for you both

Good morning All I do so hope that the sick Rotties and their owners had a good weekend and enjoyed lots of wonderful moments, where their dogs behaved like their usual healthy self. Bluepoppy very big to Kiesha cavNrott very big to Sophie ZnQ very big to Zed And to all the unwell GSD and other breeds, Wolfgirl and Pearl, Dogsforall and Bonnie, Staffylov and Ollie big to you also. You are all amazing people with the most incredible dogs. I admire your dedication and strength. Please have a wonderful day.

cavNrott That is fantastic news. I am absolutely rapt that Sophie's quality of life is excellent and that the cancer progression has slowed. A big congratulations to yourself for knowing your girl so well and sticking to your plans. Also huge hugs to Sophie for trusting in you so much and helping by being the perfect patient.

Thank you very much cavNrott for your reply. It is very much appreciated, along with the updates on how Sophie and you are doing. I hope that you are all having a peaceful, happy day today and enjoying the gentle sunshine. Hugs and lots of love to Sophie, Kiesha and Zed. Also a big thank you to you Jodie for posting a reply. The more knowledge the better. I hope you and Ollie enjoy each day that you have together.

Bluepoppy Thank you very much for your reply. I was hoping that it might be an option so that you both could enjoy some more quality time with your girls. I think it is fantastic that the change of meds as brought back Kiesha's zest for life. It must make it all worthwhile when you see her smile and romp around. Here's hoping that you have another excellent day tomorrow.

I have a question for BP and cavNrott. Of course you do not have to answer or you can answer privately. My first Rotty Sam was PTS due to the pain and immobility caused by a tumour on his spine, between his hips. He had 2 other soft tissue tumours and a lipoma as well. So this question is for future reference should it happen again. Have you considered radiation treatment for the pain associated with the osteosarcoma? I have been reading that radiation can improve pain management for 4 to 5 months at a time. I am sure that you have considered it and was wondering if it was an option for you both. Also, is the chemotherapy for pain management as well as control of metastases? I hope that you are all in a happy place today, and enjoying your time together.

I hope the special girls and guy are doing well today and that the cold snap is not having an adverse effect on their comfort. cavNrott, bluepoppy and ZednQ stay strong for your exceptional dogs. You are all doing a fantastic job looking after them, but don't forget to be kind to yourselves. Wishing you all hot chocolate, marshmallow and Tim Tam moments today.

You are most welcome cavNrott and BP. I will help anyway that I can, and a science background can come in handy sometimes Take great care of yourselves and your wonderful girls

Natural Herbs Guide It was used medicinally to treat toothaches, skin injuries, gout, arthritis, stomach aches, intestinal worms, and coughs. Uses and Indications Slippery elm is used to relieve gastrointestinal conditions, sore throats, ulcers, and respiratory irritations today. External uses include treatment of skin conditions, vaginitis, and hemorrhoids. It can be used as a cough medicine or as a skin smoother and softener. Dosage and Administration 500 mg capsules can be takes three times daily by adults. Flora Health - Anti-inflammatory - Antioxidant - Breathing Disorders - Cellular Regeneration - Cleansing - Constipation - Detoxifying - Diarrhea - Digestive Upsets - Diverticulitis - Endotoxic Shock (Bacterial Infection Toxemia) - Gastritis - Hemorrhoids/Piles - Hormone Imbalances - Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Poultice - Reducing LDL Cholesterol - Sore Throat The mucilage was traditionally used internally for soothing sore throats and tonsillitis, coughs, dryness of the lungs and digestive upsets, and externally for healing wounds and other skin inflammations. Slippery elm tree and root bark were also used as folk remedies for treating many serious degenerative diseases. The bark is particularly recommended for soothing gastric diseases. The viscous fiber has several beneficial effects on digestion: 1) it reduces bowel transit time; 2) it absorbs toxins from the bowel; 3) it increases fecal bulk and dilutes stool materials thereby reducing stool contact with the intestinal mucosa; and 4) it enhances beneficial bacteria in the gut and provides an excellent substrate for bacterial fermentation. Eliminating estrogenic anaerobes from the gut can significantly help the body to regain critical hormone balances that are required for basic health. The bark has noted anti-inflammatory activity and because the mucilage resists hydrolysis and digestion by stomachs acids and enzymes, it therefore maintains it’s soothing action throughout the entire digestive system. Slippery elm bark mucilage also helps to moisten the throat, nasal passages, and lungs. Slippery elm bark was also traditionally used for treating abscesses, dysentery, urinary conditions and fever. Poultices were traditionally used to support bone and joint health, reduce swollen glands and stop the spread of infections. Greatest Herbs On Earth Soothing Support for the GI Tract. Benefits: • Supports healthy digestion. • Soothes the digestive tract. • Helps maintain normal elimination. • Absorbs toxins from the bowel. • Provides mucilage to soothe the digestive tract. • Helps relieve throat & digestive discomfort. • Supports body during convalescence. • Used internally & externally for skin irritation. Slippery elm is a deciduous tree native to the United States and Canada. The inner bark of the slippery elm was used widely by the Native Americans and later by the early American settlers. Slippery elm is rich in nutrients, easy to digest and soothing to the digestive system. For centuries people have used it to support the digestive system and to maintain regular waste elimination. Slippery Elm is also known by the names Red Elm, Moose Elm and Indian Elm. It helps relieve digestive discomfort and provides mucilage to soothe the digestive tract. Mucilage is a long chain of sugars (polysaccharides) that make a slippery substance when combined with water. Slippery Elm is rich in nutrients and easy to digest, making it an excellent food during times of digestive discomfort. It can be made into gruel. In times of famine, early American settlers used it as a survival food; George Washington and his troops survived for several days on slippery elm gruel during the bitter winter at Valley Forge. Slippery elm supplies mucilage to soothe the digestive and intestinal tracts. Mucilage is a long chain of sugars that form a slippery substance when combined with water. Mucilage can settle the digestive tract, absorb toxins from the bowel and help maintain regular elimination patterns. I would use it with great caution

Slippery Elm Bark Powder Long recognized by health authorities in the United States as an effective medicine, slippery elm bark presently has the approval of the Food and Drug Administration as a nonprescription demulcent (soothing agent) that can be taken internally. Slippery Elm is rich in nutrients and is easy to digest, making it an excellent food during times of digestive discomfort. Slippery Elm was also used internally for conditions such as sore throats and diarrhea. The herb works with the body to draw out impurities and toxins, assisting with the healing of all body parts. Slippery Elm's coating action soothes the irritated tissues of the intestines, colon, urinary tract, and stomach ulcers Could be a problem if it purifies the body by removing the chemotherapy drugs and pain killers, which would result is reduced effective doses being given

Slippery Elm use in cats (it may give an indication, so still looking) By Jean Hofve, DVM As you may know, it is potentially dangerous to give herbs to pets, especially cats. Many people commonly extrapolate a dose of hebs by using the pet's weight compared to the "standard" 150-pound human. A large dog, however, has a comparatively slow metabolism, while a small dog's rapid heart rate and high energy level may make it difficult to get the desired effect. Cats have very different metabolism and enzymes, and many compounds that are safe for humans and dogs (like aspirin) can be toxic to cats. Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva) is an exception to the fears and cautions surrounding the use of herbs in animals. It is very safe and non-toxic. The part of the tree used is the inner bark, which is soft and stringy. Simplest to use is the powdered form, which can be purchased in bulk, or pre-packed in capsules, at most health food stores. It is readily available over the Internet from herb suppliers. Herbalists attribute many wonderful healing properties to Slippery Elm: demulcent (soothing, mucilage-forming), emollient (soothing and protective for skin), nutritive (providing specific food nutrients), tonic (promoting healthy function of one or more body systems), and astringent (constricting, binding or drying effect). It can be used both internally and externally. Slippery Elm is one of the herbs used in the original formulation of "Essiac," an herbal brew widely promoted as a cancer-fighter. In the gastro-intestinal tract, Slippery Elm acts directly. It can be thought of as a sort of natural "Pepto-Bismol." (Pepto-Bismol itself should not be used because it contains salicylate, a.k.a. aspirin). Its mucilage content coats, soothes, and lubricates the mucus membranes lining the digestive tract. Slippery Elm is an excellent treatment for ulcers, gastritis, colitis, and other inflammatory bowel problems. It is high in fiber, and so helps normalize intestinal action; it can be used to relieve both diarrhea and constipation. It may also help alleviate nausea and vomiting in pets suffering from non-GI illnesses, such as kidney disease. A syrup made from Slippery Elm Bark can be used to help heal mouth ulcers from all causes (see recipe below). Slippery Elm is said to relieve inflammation of virtually any mucus membrane, and has been used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions of the lungs (bronchitis, asthma), kidneys, bladder (cystitis, FLUTD symptoms), throat (tonsillitis), and joints (arthritis). Slippery Elm contains many nutrients (carbohydrates, protein, fat, ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, calcium, and several trace minerals) that can be beneficial for recuperating pets, and it may stay down when other foods are not tolerated. It is known as a "survival" food; George Washington and his troops survived for days during the bitter winter at Valley Forge eating nothing but gruel made from Slippery Elm bark. However, Slippery Elm may interfere with the absorption of certain minerals and pharmaceuticals, so is best given separately from any concurrent drug therapy. In the case of cystitis (bladder inflammation), Slippery Elm is thought to soothe the bladder lining. However, it is somewhat high in magnesium, so may be contraindicated in dogs who have an active infection with an elevated urinary pH, where struvite crystal formation may be a risk. (In cats, urinary tract infections are very rarely bacterial.) Slippery Elm bark contains natural pentosans, a class of complex sugars that contains the same compound found in the drug "Elmiron®,"the major pain-relieving treatment for interstitial cystitis (IC) in women. Pentosan has been used by the pharmaceutical industry as an anti-coagulant and anti-inflammatory for more than 40 years. (Anti-coagulant effects are not seen with normal oral administration.) Since bladder disease in cats is very similar to that in women, slippery elm may be especially beneficial for our feline friends. Small, frequent dosages of pentosan has been shown in humans to be more effective than single large doses. Externally, a soothing paste of Slippery Elm powder (mix the powder with a little cold water) can be used as a poultice for hot spots, insect burns, rashes, scratches, ulcerated areas, or other shallow wounds. Native Americans used Slippery Elm bark to stop bleeding. It forms a natural "bandage" that can be left in place for several hours, if you can convince your dog to leave it alone! Moisten with water to remove it. To give internally, mix about 1/4 teaspoon of Slippery Elm bark powder with cold water for every 10 pounds of body weight. For very small dogs, it is fine to use the same 1/4 teaspoon dose. The bulk powder may be very fluffy, so pack it down as much as possible to measure it. Alternatively, use 1/2 capsule (per 10 pounds), opened and the contents mixed with water. Slippery Elm powder will absorb many times its own weight in water, so be sure to add enough to make a moderately thick gruel. This gruel can be given before meals by syringe or eyedropper, or added to baby food, canned food, or a homemade diet. It has a slightly sweet taste and is usually well-tolerated by cats and dogs when mixed with food. Give a dose 5 minutes before meals for sore throat, and before or with meals for digestive tract problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease, until symptoms resolve. Author Anitra Frazier gives the following recipe for Slippery Elm Bark syrup in her book, The New Natural Cat, which applies equally well to our canine companions when adjusted for weight: Into a small saucepan place 1/2 cup cold water and 1 teaspoon powdered slippery elm bark. Whip with a fork. Bring to simmer over low flame, stirring constantly. Simmer 1 or 2 minutes or until slightly thickened. Cool and refrigerate. Keeps 7 or 8 days. Give a teaspoon of syrup (5 cc) for an average-size cat (again, about 10 pounds) 5 minutes before a meal to minimize diarrhea, or to soothe and heal mouth ulcers. Slippery Elm bark is inexpensive and easy to use; it would be a great addition to your holistic medicine chest!

Slippery Elm Uses All species of elm contain varying amounts of mucilage, a substance that swells up and becomes slippery, but does not dissolve when mixed with fluids. One kind, slippery elm, generally has more mucilage than other elms. Taking mucilage may help to relieve coughs and other symptoms that are associated with respiratory conditions such as bronchitis. Mucilage may also make slippery elm useful for treating gastrointestinal (GI) conditions because it coats the mouth, esophagus, and GI tract with a slick residue. Therefore, it may soothe a sore throat, help to alleviate the pain of colic or stomach ulcers, and relieve inflammatory bowel conditions. Additionally, slippery elm may promote the production of GI mucus, further protecting the linings of the stomach and intestines. Additionally, results from a recent laboratory study suggest that slippery elm contains antioxidants that may reduce intestinal inflammation. Antioxidants are thought to protect body cells from damage caused by a chemical process called oxidation. Oxidation produces oxygen free radicals, natural chemicals that may suppress immune function. No human studies have been conducted to confirm any of these traditional uses of slippery elm, however. Slippery elm may also be used to treat constipation. In the GI tract, the mucilage in slippery elm absorbs water. However, because the body cannot digest mucilage, the soft mass that it forms moves through the intestines. Additionally, it may prompt muscles in the intestines to contract. Both effects may help to relieve constipation, but they have not been proved in human studies. Topically, slippery elm may be applied to the skin surface to relieve minor injuries such as burns, cold sores, razor burn, scrapes, and sunburn. Typically applied as a poultice—a soft cloth soaked in a medication and applied to an injured area of skin—slippery elm has also been made into salves by mixing it with an oily ointment base. When should I be careful taking it? Precautions The outer bark of slippery elm is known to contain chemicals that may cause pregnant women to miscarry. Although the inner bark, which is used in medicine, is not believed to contain these chemicals, pregnant women are still advised not to take slippery elm. What side effects should I watch for? Applying slippery elm to the skin may cause burning, itching, rash, redness, or scaling at the site of application. Touching slippery elm products or breathing slippery elm tree pollen may cause allergic reactions in individuals who are sensitive to them. What interactions should I watch for? No interactions have been identified between slippery elm and drugs, other herbal products, or foods. However, because the mucilage that slippery elm contains may coat the stomach and intestines, it may block or delay the absorption of drugs or nutrients. If slippery elm is taken by mouth, the longest amount of time possible—at least 2 hours—should be allowed between taking slippery elm and eating or taking medications. Some interactions between herbal products and medications can be more severe than others. The best way for you to avoid harmful interactions is to tell your doctor and/or pharmacist what medications you are currently taking, including any over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbals. For specific information on how slippery elm interacts with drugs, other herbals, and foods and the severity of those interactions, please use our Drug Interactions Checker to check for possible interactions. No interactions were found for the drugs you selected. You searched for interactions between the following drugs and herbs: Feldene Slippery elm No interactions were found for the drugs you selected. You searched for interactions between the following drugs and herbs: Slippery elm Tramadol

BP Hw is Kiesha coping today? Are her ears still bothing her? Have you increased the pain meds and has it helped her? How are you going/feeling yourself? Take great care

cavNrott Yes I am relieved about Baylee. I now watch her very closely, especially when she exercises. Her breathing can become very heavy and laboured when she as been swimming or running for a while, more so than the other Rotties that she plays with. But she still wants to keep going, even though you can see her heart pounding through the left side of her chest. She will drop and rest a little of her own accord as long as nobody throws a ball etc for her to chase/swim after. But I cannot stop her from doing all the things she loves for fear of her having a heart attack. She can no longer chase balls/frizbees/fetch toys like she used too, and has had to adjust her play to more mind games than strength/stamina games. She does not get the treats that she once got, nor any scrapes, to maintain as healthy a heart as possible and optimum weight. But this is something that we are all coming to grips with. I am just thankful that I have that time to adjust, which is something that I really wish you guys had. I a way I feel guilty for Baylee's good health, in light of your dog's bad diagnosis, and I wish I could make things better for Sophie, Kiesha and Zed, but I cannot. All I can offer is my support, understanding, compassion and assistance should you need ANYTHING.

Oonga In relation to Baylee's health, compared to Sophie, Kiesha and Zed, she is doing fine and is in no imminent danger of passing. She does have a confirmed heart murmur, confirmed thickening of the mitral valve, and a definite narrowing of the aorta. However, they do not believe that the heart deformities are causing the murmur. They also believe that the heart troubles will not affect her life span, if we watch her weight and exercise. I would like to thank everybody for their good thoughts and concern.

RnB Our sincerely condolences on the passing of Tyson. May both you and he be pain free, And may you be able to remember the good times without the overwhelming sadness that overcomes you at the moment very soon. cavNrott and BP this thread is a fantastic idea and don't you dare apologise for fulfilling one of your needs and ensuring that you receive the support that you want, the way you want. This is your haven use it and gain some relief and lots of support. cavNrott I hope that Sophie had a good day today. I would like to thank you very much for the explanation of Sophie's treatment. Your posts help us to understand. BP I also hope that your beautiful girl Kiesha had a pain free day and that you are able to ease her annoying ear problem soon. ZnQ my thoughts are with you and Zed at this extremely difficult time. I sincerely hope that the end is not as close as you think. Please let me know if there is anything that I can do. Griff and Sinna yes old age sucks. It robs us of the beautiful dogs that we have grown to love and cherish.