Kelly_Louise

Picture number 5 is AMAZING.

Just popping in to say hi, send some more healing wishes - and be heartened at the positive news on Jed's health It might be a long road, but it certainly won't be a lonely one.

That's very positive news that they can offer you a payment plan - would make life so much easier if more vets did this (most people just dont have the thousands lying around). I agree that you need a definite diagnosis before opting for surgery. I think, if you can manage to keep her inside with you during her recovery, in a small pen (that is not on slippery floors or near stairs) and separate to the other dogs (who may excite her) - you should be able to keep her quiet enough for recovery and if she is inside in a pen you can keep an eye on her whilst you are going about your day in the house (but she can still see you for company). That way, she can still move around to be comfortable, but if only in a small area then she can not do anything too strenuous. My Chloe was not crate trained - and could not be crated... so we set up a small pen for her. The only time they should come out of that pen is for trips to the vet, and ON LEAD trips to outside to the toilet. Any time outside the pen should ALWAYS be on lead until sufficient healing has taken place and as advised by the vet. Even then, until the muscle has built back up again, I would only exercise on lead for a time. If you need to have cuddle time and spend time with her - start a routine of discouraging her jumping up (on you, or if she jumps up on things). If you opt for surgery, try sitting on the floor with her to have a cuddle, or just sit with her for some company and some attention - rather than having her jump up on you etc. Replace ball toys with chew toys/soft squeaky toys etc. Get her used to other things that will not impact her joints as much. Most dogs will adjust to this after time. They may not like it, but they do accept it if you are consistent with them and they learn what they can or can not do (with your control of course). Even though you may feel sorry for them, you must be firm for their own good and not give them an inch. The recovery and rehabilitation is crucial - but they do not know this. It sounds daunting, and 6 - 8 weeks of confinement sounds like forever... but it is manageable. You just have to come up with alternatives to what would normally happen, and to keep them occupied. It may mean a bit of extra work to ensure they are complying with their recovery, but it can be done. If you are not able to be at home for majority of the recovery, I would look at arranging alternate care, or I would definitely crate them. Hoping it's not a full rupture though, and can repair itself naturally with some rest.

I don't think so, OP has not mentioned that... My Chloe ruptured both her cruciates - and whoever told you that if they were ruptured the dog wouldn't be able to walk or was dragging their legs was extremely incorrect. Chloe walked, sometimes with a limp, sometimes awkwardly, sometimes seemingly okay. They find a way to walk because they have to. Doesn't mean they aren't suffering greatly, it just means they find a way to do it that hurts them the least because they need to get around. Resting will get the inflamation down, and allow them to move around more easily - however, once they overdo it, it aggravates the injury again. Once the damage is done, there is no 'cure'. If you don't opt for surgery, the injury will always be there - you will always need to monitor the exercise and limit any impacting activity/jumping etc. It will, more likely than not, reoccur many times off and on throughout the rest of the dogs life - and you will always need to be aware of it. Any untreated/injured joint is going to develop arthritis more quickly as well - which is another incentive to ensure that the injury does not keep recurring and why monitoring exercise etc is important. But there are alot of things other than surgery you can do to assist, but they will not fix. First and foremost she will need to be as light as possible - get off all excess weight. Surgery doesn't work for all dogs... for us, we had Chloe done 4 years ago and not had an issue since. She was able to continue a normal life (after her recovery period of course). I agree it does depend on the surgeon, but the aftercare and recovery period is just as important. Some dogs, even after surgery can still limp occasionally if they really overdo the exercise - but with successful surgery, at least the knee is stable - and whilst there may be occasional discomfort - it allows them to move around quite normally. Also with ruptured cruciates, once one side goes, the chances are very good that the other will also rupture. This is because the 'good' leg takes up the slack for the injured leg, and puts alot of pressure on it. There have been many people who have successfully managed a cruciate injury without surgery - many on this forum, however it does take alot of dedication and commitment, and involved lots of alternate therapy. It will also depend on how damaged the cruciate is. I think the best way to decide which way to go, is to decide what will be best manageable for you. Alternative therapies may cost less, but with maintenance needed regularly over time, may end up costing more than surgery. If you opted for surgery, you need to decide if you can provide sufficient aftercare etc until healed. Remember that after surgery they are very sore etc, and won't feel like moving around as much. When they start to feel a little better is the danger period - but we kept Chloe in a small pen, and kept her amused with (non moving) games and training/tricks. I was lucky to be living at home then and she had someone at home monitoring her pretty much 24/7 - so I know it's not possible for everyone. But I have heard of others who have taken a couple of weeks off work, and then gone back and been able to manage the recovery. Just depends, you know your dog better than anyone. Your dog is young, and for her quality of life it is important to make the right decision for her.

This is what upsets me greatly too (apart from endangering lives)... at our original vet, we went through the same tests, the maybe's - maybe nots, wait and see, let's test again... and I'd just had enough. The costs for these tests really add up - so we should expect them to be done properly and the issue to be addressed. Not send people away and hope for the best, without even warning them of the potential risks. I'm glad that you have finally got a good result and that Daisy is now being cared for properly. You may never get the answers about why from the vet - I doubt they would want to admit any errors on their part. But I find it horrific that someone has to push so hard and do much of their own research before proper action is taken by the vet. Isn't that what we pay the vets for? How could they send such a sick dog home? Thank goodness you are aware of this now, and can monitor and make sure they are handling Daisy's situation better. I too hope that you see a big improvement soon, and that Daisy can find some comfort.

Very glad that you have found a solution that you are happy with. I hope Raphael really enjoys his new home and new family. HOpefully you will be able to visit him and get updates on how he is doing if he is with your family friend - that way you may not miss him as much. I'm glad you got the help you needed to ensure he went to a good home.

I'm very sorry for the loss of the lovely Rex. He sounds like a truly phenomenal dog who will be greatly missed. Rest in peace Rex.

We have BIG water bowls for the boof head, and I put in a small capful. I think that's on the borderline, she drinks it and deals with it, but any more and I think she'd refuse. Although, she has drunk the ACV out of the cap before

Exactly... I can't believe some vets. They endanger our pets lives, when their job is to ensure their health. I guess we don't know the full story - however, if vets do not know how to best handle a particularly dangerous disease, they really need to be honest and admit it - and then refer the case to someone who IS capable of handling it, and keeping family's little ones alive. Majority of people do not know anything about these diseases - and they can't be expected to know. Chloe has suffered with Cushings for 3 years now, and my parents still do not understand it - but they rely on me to handle it all with the specialist and they know they must follow the vets advice to a tee to ensure she stays well (and alive). These diseases are unpredictable and a roller coaster ride. I can't imagine how I would have coped through it all without working with a vet I trusted 110%. I certainly didn't trust her original vet to handle it... and I wished they'd been honest and told me that they weren't confident in diagnosing/treating it best. It was up to ME (who knew nothing at that stage) to pull her out and take her to a specialist. I just shake my head at some vets these days... Hoping that Daisy is doing better today and that it is not confirmed as Addisons - may be some other less serious cause.

Could possibly be a one off due to the weather? My Chloe has similar very severe allergic reactions about once a year (had one a couple of weeks ago) - they seem to be seasonal, and from what we can gather it is possibly a type of grass when it's wet. Can't be sure mind you, and for once a year it doesn't seem to warrant allergy testing. Nothing else has been changed, no different food etc. But for the last 3 years it has happened around the same time. Her recent one lasted for about 5 - 6 days when she was on antihistamines daily - and then it just settled down and have had no recurrence. It could be something in the garden/outside etc? So many possibilities... allergies are a nightmare Hope your little one is better soon.

Sounds like some kind of allergy??? My girl also has a weeping eye at the moment. She's had antibiotics in case it was an infection etc, but it appears to be linked with the allergic reaction she suffered recently. I think you should take her for a quick trip to the vet so they can check the eye out, and give cream/AB's if necessary - could be anything from conjunctivitis, to something inside irritating it, to some kind of allergy. You don't want to mess around with eye problems, best to treat as soon as possible. How long have the itchy spots/scabs been there? If it is long term, I'd be trying to find out what is causing the reaction, including environment or possibly diet. Could be a reaction to chicken? If it is a one off occurence, antihistamines can relieve the symptoms (but you will need to be advised the dosage by a vet).

No, definitely not over reacting - Addisons is very dangerous. And in any case, it's better to be overly safe than sorry. I think it's one of those things that many normal vets don't necessarily understand very well, or know the best way to treat. They know HOW to treat, but perhaps not the most effective way. If it is Addisons, there must be a cause - so I highly doubt the little one will recover or start to heal without medication. You are very right to be concerned - and should encourage your Auntie and Uncle to keep pushing if they get fobbed off, or told to 'wait and see'. One of the Dolers on here had a dog that went into Addisonian crisis - and luckily the specialist saved him... but not after a tough battle, thousands of dollars - and a VERY close brush with death. And it can happen in the blink of an eye. I wish the little one all the very best - and hugs to you all.

Thant's good to know Teebs, thanks for that. I just rang them and she is still very ill and looking very lethargic. They have sent her home without any medication, waiting to have the next blood test. I offered to drive them back to the vet with her, but they are going to wait and see if she brightens up a bit. If she doesn't they will take her back in the morning. What the hell????? No medication??? what kind of vet sends a dog home who has addisons without medication. My old girl had addisons, if she was very lethargic it would be a sign her addisons was unstable and needed checking. IF it is Addisons, she could go into an addisson coma. Is the vet sure it is addisons or is only guessing until she has more blood tests? TOTALLY agree! A dog who is suspected or diagnosed with Addisons should be given prednisone ASAP. Please understand, if it is not treated - it can be fatal... very quickly. My own dog has Cushings (the opposite of Addisons) - but her cushings medication has pushed her into Addisonian levels at times, and when that happens we have to immediately give her medication and rush her in to see the specialist. Addisons is not something that can be taken lightly - and the dog should not be released (firstly) without medication, and (secondly) until they are stabilised and the levels are acceptable. Even if it is not definite, one pred tablet will not hurt (just in case it IS Addisons). This can stabilise until further tests are done to confirm etc. I would suggest they are referred to a specialist, or get a second opinion if possible.

*nods* Although, you are allowed to shed a quiet tear every now and then...

Had a blackout at work this morning - so of course, as soon as we came back online, here I am to check in and yet again, send lots of healing wishes your way Jed. Sending sloppy doggy kisses to you and your fur kids - from my girls

As soon as you find out, please let us know details of when/where it will air - I'd love to see it! Big congratulations - you take really awesome photos, so it's thoroughly deserved. I've seen so many of your pics that could be worthy of the same accolades. :D I can't even imagine how excited you are! And what a star Charch is :p

Please don't be sorry... we are here for the good and the bad - and appreciate you keeping us up to date with Jed's progress. I'm heartbroken to hear there has been a setback - but, as Jed can see, we're in it for the longhaul and will ride the setback through with her. Keep on fighting Jed. Your furry family needs you. Although I'm sure they are getting nothing but the best of care - they still need their master.

Wonderful to hear such positive news to keep us going until the day Jed feels strong enough to give us her own update

Woooo wooooooo wooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!! Some improvement - well haven't we all been waiting to hear that!! What fantastic news, good work Jed - keep it up! :p Just ducked in quickly with Chloe for my daily ritual of checking for any news (I'm then obliged to report it to Mum - who is also following closely but doesn't have internet access)... Sash would love to come, but I'm afraid that she's just way too nervous around strangers, and petrified of waiting rooms. Although, the muffins may tempt her out. But that's okay, cause Chloe is here to show that it doesn't matter what the odds, or how bad the situation seems - with a bit of heart you can triumph over anything, and come out smiling at the other end. I'm so pleased that there has been a positive improvement (regardless how small). It's the first step in the right direction.

If shy dogs live longer - Sasha will probably outlive me then!

Yet another message to let Jed, and the precious fur babies know we are thinking of them always - and sending them the very best wishes to get well soon and be re-united. I think we're all in it for the long haul. Build your strength Jed.

I always loved the pics of ChiChi... and now, after reading this story... it's cemented the fact that she is a spunky little thing, loaded with attitude - just how I like them I'm now not surprised at all that she survived. I have to say, reading that I had numerous laugh out loud moments, and a few tears. I can say, I'm very pleased that Chi made it - I'm sure she will be the best kind of medicine for Jed when she comes out of hospital. Who can resist a character like that? Happiness in the face of adversity... it will be the motto going forward won't it? I guess there's no better mascot than little ChiChi then is there? God bless little ChiChi - and hears to many more years of projectile vomitting, falling down, running the show - and to seeing Jed through her recovery.

Yep... I thank my lucky stars. That would just be HORRIFIC. AND at Ivy licking the cats bum!!! Bet he was glad he didn't have to do it himself!!!

Ohhhh yes... Sasha does very few gross things... but kitty turds and duck turds are (apparently) a delicacy. I had to be careful walking past the houses of people I knew had cats... she would dive onto their lawn and gobble it up. Luckily, I've put a stop to it... but I think if my attention wavered for a second, she'd be contendedly munching it

Same with Sasha, she doesn't vomit the grass either - it comes out the back end (sometimes with a little help from Mum when it can't come out properly ). Sasha was the same with chicken wings - would gobble them, then just wouldn't eat them anymore. I think, although she loves them, she maybe related to them making her sick. Like with us I suppose, if you have a bad experience with a particular food - you kind of get turned off it? I'm not sure, but I don't question it too much anymore. We just stick to what we know works best. For us, we just had to take Sasha off all raw food. It was the only way. She can handle cooked chicken/beef etc (although I've never given it to her in big quantities - but enough to have made her feel queasy if it was ever going to. She's like a reverse dog - has to do everything differently. Most dogs thrive on raw food - NOOOOOO - not my Sasha, she has to be different Even with fish, Sasha loves sardines. But if I give them to her everyday, she will refuse to eat them anymore. Twice a week is about all I can get away with. It's been an ongoing battle getting Sasha 'right' - and it costs an absolute fortune feeding her the diet she is now on... but it works, she has developed lovely muscle tone and filled out, is bright and healthy looking, and we no longer have the consistent sickly days (only the few and far between ones). I hope you find what will work for your girl soon to allow you to feel happy and less stressed - I know how frustrating it will be, so I can fully sympathise. I also worry about bloat (and everyone laughs at me and says I'm crazy)... but I'd rather be safe than the one time I"m not and be sorry. I ensure Sasha doesn't do much an hour before and after - and everyone knows those rules. I've not had experience with bloat, however I'm petrified of it - so if I did have such a bad experience I know I would be very worried about it all the time. But each dog is different.