It's Sparky:Sparky is in the hospital

[Bichonluver3]

Here I was feeling a little better that Chloe seemed to be okay and what happens?
Tonight I was patting Sparky and noticed the same kind of lumps - one over each hind leg - as Chloe has. He also is doing some panting and I think he has some hair thinning on his back.:(
Sparky is my 7 yo neutered bichon.
Guess it's off to the vet's for a check-up.
Carrol

[Squirt's Mom]

Mornin' Carrol,

I hope it's just a case of being overly aware of Cushing's with Sparky and that this is just a simple case of something that can be treated and forgotten. For the last 2+ years, I have seen Cushing's in every dog that sneezes! :p Never mind that isn't one of the signs! :rolleyes:

Remember to breath! and do let us know what you learn at the vets!
Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Leslie!
You're right - we do become over sensitive about the signs (when I start to see signs in the birds in our courtyard, I'll know I've gone over the top!! lol)
I find the same thing with my son (my 24 yo baby) who is a helo pilot in the Navy. If I let myself, I start to imagine every conceivable awful thing happening. I finally had to just shake myself and remember that he is living his dream and I should be happy and proud for that. It took some time but i think I am getting things more in perspective.
I think it is the same with Cushing's. I am so worried about Chloe that I am always scrutinizing the other 2 dogs. I just have to stop that. However you folks have helped me tremendously so far and, so, I have seen with my own eyes that the treatments work.
Thanks, again, for your moral support. Will keep you updated on Mr Sparky (he's the dog on the far right in the picture).
Carrol

[sunimist]

Having a cushings/addison's baby for several years makes you look at any other baby, like I do with my Suni, with a lot more scrutiny. I think that's probably a good thing if we can keep it in prospective (or not). Awareness is always a good thing IMO.

Hope (with fingers crossed) that Sparky's lumps are not anything to worry about. Keep us updated.

Shelba and Suni~~

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Shelba. Will post updates.

[addy]

Hopefully it is not related to Cushings. We all must get
super Cushings radar. I found myself checking Koko's belly the other day and pinching the skin slightly as it looked a bit different.

I'm on parnoia detail everyday so try to keep it in check. It is hard.

Addy

[SasAndYunah]

Hi Carrol,

hoping with all my heart Sparky's lumps are just...one of those things...and nothing serious.

Best of luck,

Saskia and Yunah :)

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks Addy, Saskia & Yuna!
Will post update when I have seen the doc.

[littleone1]

Hi Carrol,

Keeping everything crossed here that Sparky's lumps are something very minor.

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Terri!
Am calling tomorrow to schedule appointment. I'm wondering if we should just go directly to blood sent to Tennessee? Any thoughts?
Carrol

[Bichonluver3]

Sparky has an appoinment with Chloe's vet Friday at 2:30. Holding my breath!
Carrol

[littleone1]

I'm glad you have an appointment scheduled Carrol. I myself would wait to see what the vet has to say before sending blood work to UT.

Corky has had many lumps removed, and they have been cysts. He has one now on his back, which his IMS said was another cyst. It popped once, but now it is getting bigger again. They're probably going to have to get the core out. It doesn't bother him, but it bothers me because I also worry too much.

Please let us know what the vet says. Sending positive thoughts.

[Bichonluver3]

Please keep everything crossed - even doggie tails. Sparky sees the vet tomorrow at 2:30.
Carrol

[frijole]

Good luck. We'll be thinking of you and Sparky tomorrow. My girl Haley had many many bumps removed while on lysodren and they were all fatty and benign. Hoping the same for you. Kim

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Kim. just hope I don't now have 2 cushy babies!
Carrol

[Harley PoMMom]

Please keep everything crossed - even doggie tails. Sparky sees the vet tomorrow at 2:30.
Carrol

All various body parts crossed here! ;):D Let us know anything as soon as you can.

Love and hugs,
Lori

[labblab]

Tons of positive thoughts being beamed your way from my house, too!!

Marianne, Peg and Luna

[Squirt's Mom]

We are thinking of you as well and hoping today is productive and brings you some relief. Answers are always so nice to have! That "unknown" is what gets to me! ;)

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[Bichonluver3]

Thank you all for your good wishes and support. It means SO much - does away with "I'm in this alone" feeling.
OK - now I'm REALLY nervous. Just 1/2 hour to go. My husband has to take Sparky as I am stuck at work with a butterflies in my stomach. Would you believe I'm working across the road from the vet's?!
BTW, I got an answer from Dr oliver by email to some questions. Some of the answers may be relevant to others but not sure how to post this (cut & paste?)
Carrol

[Bichonluver3]

YAAAAAAAYYYYY!!!!! Sparky's fine!
Thank you, everyone, for all your responses.
Now I feel foolish:o
Apparently, are just because Sparky chose to store some fat on his hips - just like his Mom.
Dr. L. says Sparky is great but is doing a blood panel as it has been over a year.
What is it with these "kids" scaring the beejeebies out of their parents?
Oh my goodness, I even see Cushing's in some of the birds that go by or I guess that REALLY be ATYPICAL (!) cushing's.
Thanks, again, to everybody. Now I'm going to hide my head in the closet!
Carrol

[littleone1]

This is great news Carrol. I'm so glad that there isn't anything to worry about. You don't need to hide your head in the closet.:D I know that I am constantly checking Corky.

[addy]

It is a happy, happy day!!!!!

What great news. We can all rejoice in it :)

Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, again, guys for holding my hand!! Sparky & I really appreciated it. Of course, Sparky now just looks at me and rolls his eyes!:o
Love and tail wags,
Carrol & Sparky

[gpgscott]

Carrol,

What a fine momma you are for Sparky.

Happy dance here also.

:DScott

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Scott! When I rescued these guys, I promised them the best life I could give them and will do anything to keep the promise. Besides, Sparky is a real momma's boy!!:rolleyes:
Carrol

[Bichonluver3]

Well, here we are back with Sparky.
He has peeing and drinking up a storm so took him to the vet today. There was glucose in his urine....................so you know what that probably means:(
I am just beside myself. Two jobs and 2 sick dogs. When does the fun start????

[frijole]

:( Ah Carrol I am so sorry. I know its tough. But we'll be here for you. Hugs, Kim

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Kim!
Between dealing with Chloe's latest UT results and now Sparky, I needed that hug! Will find out results of his bloodwork tomorrow......keep all fingers and tails crossed.
Carrol

[addy]

Hi Carrol,

Wishing you luck with Sparky and hoping for good test results. I know what you mean about promising your pups a good life. Both my pups came out of Animal Control and I promised them nothing bad would ever happen to them again and they woud have a happy life. I never dreamed Zoe would get Cushings so I just try now to make every day a happy day for them. I cry whenever I think of that promise I made.

You'll make it through and we are here to support you any way we can.

Hugs across the miles,

Addy

[apollo6]

Dear Carol
Will be praying for you on Sparky.:(
Wish I could say more.
Hugs Sonja and Apollo

[Bichonluver3]

OMG .... the vet called this afternoon. Sparky's glucose came back at 449 (normal around 80-150). He is diabetic. My husband and I are to meet vet at 4:30 today to go over testing & injections. I am beside myself with worry - Chloe with increased values in her repeat UT panel and now Sparky with diabetes. :( I feel as if I am fighting a losing battle here. What can go wrong next?! I will be so glad to see this year end: lost my father, father-in-law and best friend; had sugery; Chloe diagnosed with Cushings and now Sparky. Sorry if i sound like a cry baby. I know some of you are facing really bad times but I just feel as if everything is out of control and I'm in the "why me?" place.

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi Carrol,

I am so sorry this is all happening at the same time. :( I hope you will consider joining our sister forum at: http://k9diabetes.com/forum/

They have a wealth of knowledge about canine diabetes and they are a very supportive and loving group of people.

Remember we are here for you and Sparky too.

Love and big hugs,
Lori

[frijole]

Carrol - I am sorry you got the diabetes dx but you can do it. I promise. The key is to have an experienced vet on board and the folks at k9diabetes.com will help you get up to speed. You obviously want to get Sparky's levels contained but once they are you will get used to giving the shots. My mom and my brother both had dogs diagnosed this year.

Re the other things going on... I think several of us have had bad years and I feel so bad for you as you really have had an awful one. Please feel free to vent, scream holler, whatever here... we get it.

Hang in there and just know we care and are here. xoxo, Kim

[addy]

Dear Caroll,

All I can do is echo Kim, we are here for you for how ever we can help. I am so sorry for the horrible year and now this. "Why Me" is a perfectly understandable place for you to be.

I sometimes feel there is a reason for it all, we just don't understand what it is yet.

BUT, I think you can do it too. Look how far you have come understanding and dealing with Cushings. My cousin has four cats and 2 are diabetic and she gives them shots. I know you can do it too. Cry and scream and get it all out. You will find your strength, I know you will.

Love,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

You guys are the BEST! Thanks so much. Just got back from the vet's. he spent 1 1/2 hours with us - no charge! he will be following Sparky very carefully as he does Chloe. I am a nurse so the injections are fine. It's just that it is so overwhelming all at once. Don't know what I would do without my Cushing's family.:) I will go to the diabetes website. And, again, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support means so much.
Love ans hugs back at ya'
Carrol

[Casey's Mom]

Sorry about your year - but remember we are here for you okay? Yes you can scream and vent and we will be here to listen and be here for you.

Love and many hugs

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Ellen, that means a lot!
Carrol:)

[Franklin'sMum]

Hi Carrol,
Just sending you hugs.
Jane xx

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Carrol,

Man, life can really be tough at times, huh? I am sorry yours has been so full of loss and grief over the last year.

Many years ago, I asked my dad that "Why me?" question. He told me that only the strongest of us are given the heaviest burdens to carry, not as a punishment or "trial by fire" but as our talent, as a gift. At the time, I decided he was just an addled old man of middle age. :p But as my life progressed and I have been handed more and more to carry, I began to see that he was right. The more I have faced, the more I have learned to carry, the stronger I became. More importantly, another thing he told me then has proven true as well - because of the weight some of us carry, because of that strength our burdens give us, we have been given a balancing weight of compassion, empathy, and humility. These are the talent, the gift, he mentioned and with this gift we are able to reach out to others who suffer and help lessen their burden just a bit - and by lessening their burden, ours is made lighter as well.

I pray the time comes soon when you can look back on this year and see the blessings instead of the pain.

Hugs,
Leslie

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks Jane & Leslie.
Got home from vet's last night and there was bright blood on Chloe's pee pad........just 1 more thing!! UTI?

[addy]

Wishing you luck for your home test with Sparky but I know you are going to ace it:D

Let us know how it goes so we can do the Happy Dance!!!!!!

I have full faith in you and am guessing if Sparky could talk he would be telling his Mommy how much he loves her. ;)

Go for it girlfriend!!!!!!

Love ya,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Oh, Addy, testing was a breeze but results are off the chart. Have posted on K9diabetes:(
Love ya' for being here!!
Carrol

[littleone1]

Hi Carrol,

I'm sending positive healing thoughts and prayers that Sparky's levels will get in the normal range soon.

[addy]

Thinking this is not sounding happy:(

I'm sorry Carol.

Love you,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

I posted on k9diabetes to ask if I should stop curve since he only ate 1/2 his breakfast but no one has answered. Am continuing along but hate to do any pricks if I don't have to.:(
Love you guys,
Carrol

[Bichonluver3]

Got answers from 2 of our experts on k9diabetes. they said to stop curve (as I screwed up!:o) but to test later to make sure he doesn't go to low. Boy, is sparky mad at me:mad:!
Carrol

[addy]

Hang in there!!!!

Love,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Hi Addy!
Thanks for checking in. They told me to feed Sparky the rest of his breakfast, which I did, and 1 hr later, when I tested him, he was at 324. Ideally he should stay between 100 - 200.
They also recommended waiting a couple of days and then do the curve again. They said I did fine for my 1st attempt. Tell that to Sparky:D
Love,
Carrol
BTW 77 degrees and sunny here today after freezing cold all last week. Stay warm:)

[addy]

I think Sparky would say you did fine too!!!!!!:D

Carol you are amazing dealing with your babies. You stay so calm.

I hope the curve goes better when you try again. Do they do a curve at the vets and then you do a curve at home to compare? How did you learn all of this so quickly?

You are doing fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!

We are going to have minus seven Wednesday night. We are heading for 3 days of frigid weather but then TADA!!!! We will hit 38 on Saturday!!!! Maybe some of the snow will finally melt. I can't see to pull out of parking lots or roads the snow is so dang high:eek::eek:

Keep us posted.

Hugs,
Addy

[bernie47]

Hi Carrol ..I to am guilty of looking for signs in my girl Natcho. She is 12 yrs old pants a lot even when air con is on ..and because she has hormone problems and straddles the basket ball at least 4/5 times a day keep a close eye on her ..she eats and drinks normally , but due for her annual seniors check up in April . Will get a full blood work up on her :eek:...my vet says her panting can be inflammatory from arthritis..;) paws crossed for you and your fur baby ..
Catherine & Natcho..

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Catherine. Between trying to regulate the blood sugar in one dog and keep the cushings under control (and keep the third dog from eating our socks!) this is a busy house - lots of learning opportunities lol!! Thank goodness, it seems as if Miss Chloe is still managing okay on her melatonin & flax hulls.
Hugs,
Carrol

Hi, Addy! Well, at least Sparky has not left home:D!! The experts on k9diabetes said to give him a couple of days to get back to "normal" and I will redo the curve on Thursday. He had a curve done at the vets about 6 weeks ago and has 1 fructosamine test there. I will then post the results and let those really knowledgeable folks on k9diabetes interpret it for me and give me suggestions. I will then talk to the vet. I would also like to compare my Alpha Trak glucometer with whatever the vet uses so we can be consistent.
I don't know if I am calm - I just believe I am so busy, I just don't have too much time to dwell on anything. You know what they say- one day at a time;).
Wow, 38, huh? Better get your shorts out:D! Believe me, I remember the below 0 temps plus wind chill factor, growing up in Ontario & Quebec. I can say "Bloody cold" in English and French!!!!
Stay warm, love ya',
Carrol

[Casey's Mom]

You lucky girl - how did you end up in Rancho Mirage? (from a freezing Canadian)

[Bichonluver3]

Hi Ellen!
Short answer: By the grace of God:D
Long answer: I grew up in the cold all my life (I know Sault Ste Marie..brrrr, c'est tres froid!!...) and one winter, told my husband that was the last winter I was going to feel cold.Well, my husband and I are both lawyers but I am also a nurse. There was a job fair for nurses at the Royal York hotel that February. He printed copies of my resume, dragged me to the hotel and set up interviews for me. The next week, I got a phone call from a place in Texas and was hired by them. It took me 8 minutes and $85 along with proof of my nursing and letter of employment to get through immigration. I left Canada 6 weeks later in April, my kids came down in June and my husband had to commute once a month for a year until I got my green card so he could work here also. We were in Texas (Dallas) for about 3 years and then moved to LA. When the kids were on their own, we moved to Rancho Mirage and have never been happier. It is so beautiful. My brother and his wife came to visit and have now bought a house here close to us. Lucky he works for an international company because he does not have a green card. Whew!!!!

[addy]

And you speak French, Bonjour Carrol, Milwaukee is tres froid too!!!!

As you can see, my French is not so good:rolleyes:

That is really a great story of how you came to Rancho Mirage.
Do you get to go home to Canada often?

Okay for some reason all my u's are yellow. Not sure what I did.
Oops, now phone is ringing- gotta run, sorry Carrol hope the pups are good today.

Love ya,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Alors, bonjour a toi, Addy,
The French is not TOO bad but, if you don't use it, you lose it.
I just knew you would be up all night worrying so posted to tell you, your "u's" are not yellow here:D
Babies are fine, thank goodness. Each "normal" day is a blessing.
Talk to you later.
Love ya' too,
Carrol

[littleone1]

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Sparky's testing goes well tomorrow.

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks so much Terri! Give the Corkster a big hug:D
Love,
Carrol

[Bichonluver3]

Well gang, so far so good. Am getting the blood samples near the tail and he seems to be doing okay with that. However, I did, once, have to climb under our bed to haul him out for his test. I'll swear he mumbled something nasty in French and it was directed at me:D!

[lulusmom]

I needed a good laugh today so thanks. That was funny!!!!

[addy]

Mon dieu!!! The little minx:D

That was so funny, laughing all the way home.

Keep up the good work.

Love ya,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Mon Dieu, c'est vrai, mon Dieu!! Now he's parked himself beside the front door (any guesses why?:rolleyes:). And, he's glaring at me:eek:
If you don't ever hear from me again, it's because he ATE me.......:eek:

BTW, things are really rockin' on the K9diabetes site. We're all in this big debate over glucometers, Ocu-GLO and test strips. This is real hot stuff. Even Abbott Laboratories and the Ocu-GLO folks are involved!! We're real rabble rousers, us diabetic pup moms:D

[littleone1]

Too funny! :D I don't think Sparky's very happy with you right now! Does he have his bags packed?

[Bichonluver3]

Yup and he's headed for YOUR house:D

[addy]

Better watch out Terri, Carrol told Sparky you had chicken soup!!!!!!;):D

The boys are funny aren't they? Zoe let's me wash her face and just looks at me sweetly with those big eyes and when I head for Koko with the towel he tears off and when I catch him he acts like I'm killing him:rolleyes::rolleyes:

Maybe they all need a sleepover;):p

Well, rabble rouser, glad to see things are under control at your house.:):):)

Hugs,
Addy

[littleone1]

Hi Carrol,

Corky and I are checking to see how all of you are doing. I hope Sparky didn't try to pack his bags again. I hope all is going well with him.

Corky is still waiting for Sparky to visit him! :D

[Bichonluver3]

Hi Terri!
Be careful what you wish for:D
It was so nice to speak with you last week. I have not been posting as I have had sort of a "blah" week - don't know why, just feeling a little down. Maybe worry about the babies just surfacing.
I am going to repeat Sparky's curve this Monday:eek:
Miss Chloe seems to be panting just slightly more and sometimes seems to be hunting for food. No excess peeing or drinking that I can see. She sleeps through the night fine. She runs and plays. Her tummy, sometimes, seems hard and other times soft. However, during the evening, if we are watching TV, she will want up and down, up and down from the sofa. It worries me when I see all the other pups on Lysodren or Trilostane as Chloe is still on her melatonin and flax hulls. Am I missing something. Maybe she is getting sicker and I just don't know it. How do I know if she needs the other medication? I guess I just need to get myself on track but it seems as if I really don't know anything.
On a happier note, How is the Corkster doing? How has your weather been? We had major rain last night and it has been very windy all week.
Thanks for checking on us, my friend. Take care.
Love,
Carrol

[addy]

Sorry to hear you are feeling blue Carrol. The ups and downs of our puppies is challenging, I can totally relate:)

Leslie started Trinket on a maintenance dose of Lysodren and it is going very well. Did you read back through her thread? You might gain some insight from her experience.

My twitcher is always looking for Cush symptoms with Zoe. A while back she was panting at night if we would watch TV in the den. I was sure it was her Cushings but it turned out to be the lamp shining throught the glass table she would lay under. Once we started turning off the lamp, she stopped panting:rolleyes:

I'm hoping the curve for Sparky turns out well. Did you get some good info on the meters you all were discussing?

I wanted to ask you, when you switch the pups back and forth from Zeal to Embark do you transition at all?

We are having another bad storm with possible 6" of snow and also ice:eek::eek: I hate ice storms. The snow from the blizzard just melted enough the pups could walk on grass a bit.

Well, I am just holding on to the thought day light saving time will
soon be here.:D:D:D That means walkies after work, hurrah;)

Stay dry and I hope you feel better. Dark chocolate can do wonders. I keep a stash in the cupboard;)

Hugs,
Addy

[Harley PoMMom]

It worries me when I see all the other pups on Lysodren or Trilostane as Chloe is still on her melatonin and flax hulls. Am I missing something. Maybe she is getting sicker and I just don't know it. How do I know if she needs the other medication?


Another member here, Tammy, with her pup Crash, is on melatonin and lignans. Tammy has been giving this treatment to Crash for a while now. Carrol, you know Chloe best and you WILL KNOW if she is getting worse...trust your gut!

Love and hugs,
Lori

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Addy!
I really appreciate your note. I definitely will read Leslie's thread. Chloe does not seem the worse for wear - right now she is sitting in the sun by the window, happy as a clam. (no panting). She eats well, plays with kibble treats (jumps and dances around them before eating them) and runs with the rest of "the pack". I guess my fear is that I wouldn't know if she needed the Lysodren or not and she doesn't have any outward signs that would seem to warrant a trip to the vet. But I have not seen anyone on the thread who has maintained their pup on melatonin and flax. That is what worries me when maybe it shouldn't.
Sparky's curve on Monday is strictlly hush-hush. I think I will just spring it on him as a SURPRISE:eek: on Monday. I hope the poor tail has recovered from last time:(
I did not transition from Embark to Zeal as they are pretty much the same in constitution and they showed no ill effects. The reason I used the Zeal was by accident - the shipment of the Embark was late in being delivered to the store. They gave me all the samples of Embark that they had but with 3 dogs, 2 meals a day, I ran through those pretty fast. Anyway, the dogs LOVED the Zeal (but it sure does smell!):rolleyes:
I really can't believe the weather this year. Even in the desert, it has been cold and it poured again last night. However, it is warming up during the day so hope is in sight (soon we will be complaining about how hot it is!!). I sure know snow and ice as I grew up in Ontario and Quebec! Does Zoe have boots? My dogs hate going out even when the ground is wet - the little princess and princes! I hope you are not shovelling that snow:eek:
I think I will try the chocolate. I don't know why I am so "down". It really isn't me.:(
Stay warm.
Love,
Carrol

[Bichonluver3]

Hi Lori!
Thanks for your post. I really don't see a drastic change or anything that I think I need to call the vet about. I think it is just reading all the posts and seeing everyone on the other drugs. Chloe has been on the melatonin and flax since last April. I wonder how long the others have been okay on just this treatment. Maybe I should do another UTK panel to see where everything is at. Maybe it's just that with Chloe and Sparky needing monitoring and Cushings and diabetes both being so hard to regulate and keep under control, that it just all caught up with me.
Thanks, again for your suggestion.
Love,
Carrol

[addy]

Sorry Carrol, I said Trinket and I meant Leslie's Squirt.

Oh MY!!!!!! Anyway Leslie started Squirt on lysodren maintnenance dose, not Little Trinket so read Squirt's thread.

Sorry,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Addy! Also, cannot find Tammy/Crash thread.

[addy]

Your welcome:D

Also, Jane, Franklin's Mom I believe is still on melatonin and lignans.

Zoe's cortisol is high but her other intermediates have either returned to normal or have come down but she has typical not atypical. Because of her colitis and how sick she was in November and December, we are waiting to start her maintenance dose until Spring unless something changes.

I will say now that the metronidazole has her colitis controlled, I see some positive changes in Zoe that I think are from her melatonin and lignans. She is sleeping 30 minutes later than she was, she is friendlier and more loving, not looking for cool places to lay, is not under the lamp table all the time but out with the family. The last month has improved things.

So hang in there Carrol, Miss Chloe is probably just fine. We just go through our "worry spells" I think:D

Love ya,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Oh, Addy, I am so glad Zoe is doing well. Maybe she will continue to do well on the melatonin and lignans (?):). yes, I hope it is just a "worry" thing.
Love ya' too:D
Carrol

[addy]

Hi Carrol,

Just wanted to see how Sparky's curve went on Monday and to say I am thinking of you and the three pups:D:D:D

I also hope you chased the blues away with some chocolate:) FYI-Bunny Tracks ice cream works well too.

Hang in there, Carrol, you have been doing so well. The pups are really proud of their Mom. Miss Chloe telegraphed that via doggie mental telepathy to Miss Zoe and I heard that Sparky was bragging to Corkey about you.;)

Love ya,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Up til now we were doing great. He was eating all his food and pooping & peeing normally.

THEN THIS MORNING:

While I was fixing meds & meals, Sparky vomited most of his meal (undigested)
FBS 157
Refused to eat
Gave 1/2 teaspoon corn syrup to gums
9:30 - called vet's and Dr said no insulin until he talked to me
Vomited small amount undigested food with mucus
10:00 BS 85 Syringed into his mouth 1/2 teaspoon corn syrup and his mirtazapine
12:00 BS 119
Called vet. Said to bring him over

Weighed him at vet's - he has lost almost 1 lb in 2 weeks.

Vet said this is the 2nd dog today he has seen with this low blood sugar on the same insulin!!!

I am to go back at ten to 5 to pick Sparky up.

[Squirt's Mom]

Oh, gosh! Please let us know how he is! Sending prayers and healing white light your way!

Hugs,
Leslie

[addy]

Oh no, Carroll, I don't want to hear this.

Sending prayers and positive thoughts that you just need to change insulin or something.

I hope you can feel my hugs dear friend.

Love,
Addy

[littleone1]

Dear Carrol,

I am so sorry to hear about Sparky. I hope he will be okay. My thoughts and prayers are with both of you.

Extra special hugs - (((HUGS)))

[BestBuddy]

Carrol,

You are on top of things. You kept an eye on the BG and stopped Sparky from dropping too low. Sometimes a diabetic dog just gets an upset tummy and with no food you just need to keep an eye on the BG levels so that they don't drop too much.

All dogs are different but Buddy could get to 60 with no ill effects and it wasn't until he dropped to 30 or under that I could see anything physical.

Hopefully it is only a one day bug so that you can get Sparky home soon.

Jenny

[Bichonluver3]

Just picked Sparky up.
Here's all we know; Dr. L. is stumped! He says Sparky just looks too good to be sick but his liver enzymes are 3000 - way over the top. He suspects it may be a benign hepatic adenoma but wants an ultrasound. Since they do not have the equipment, he hopes to get someone in tomorrow to do it. In the meantime, he gave him IV fluids, a very strong anti-emetic and did in-house blood work. He also sent blood out to the lab.
We will see what tomorrow brings. I guess this is going to be one very long night until we return to the vet's at 8:00 in the morning.
Please keep us in your thoughts the poor little guy is so good and has gone through so much in the past short while.

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, everyone, for your kind support. It means a lot to have friends like you guys :)
Love,
Carrol
PS Got the fence around the pool installed today for Sparky

[frijole]

Carrol, Please count me in as one sending love and warm thoughts your way. Prayers sent too. xoxo Kim

[Bichonluver3]

Thank you so much Kim. Your thoughts and prayers mean a lot.
Love,
Carrol

[lulusmom]

Carrol, your neighbor in Cali is praying hard for your guy. Hang in there and know that we're with you in spirit.

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks so much, Glynda. We know you are an angel and with an angel on our side, everything will be okay. :)
Love and hugs,
Carrol

[Bichonluver3]

Report read: Reference
ALKP 345 *** 23-212
ALT 3823 *** 10-100
AMYL 772 500-1500
BUN 10 7-27
CREAT 0.7 0.5-1.8
GLU 174 *** 70-143
LIPA 2605 *** 200-1800

[Truffa's Mom]

Prayers and good energy flying over you and Sparky. Hope you both can sleep. I'll Be thinking of you today.

[addy]

Im holding you and Sparky close and praying everything is going to be all right.

Love,
Addy

[labblab]

I'm beaming Sparky all my positive thoughts and energy, too. Anxiously awaiting this morning's update!

Marianne

[Cindy Thoman]

Special thoughts and prayers for Sparky!

Cindy and Alex

[Squirt's Mom]

Mornin' Carrol,

SO glad Sparky is home and hope he is better real soon!

I hope you have a better idea of what's going on with him today. Let us know what you learn, ok?

Hugs,
Leslie

[Bichonluver3]

Marcela, Addy, Marianne, Cindy & Leslie:

Thanks so much for your posts. My husband is in LA this week while all of this is happening. I would really feel alone without you folks. I love my vet like a son but even with my own kids, there's nothing like friends.

Sparky ate a 1/4 can of Evo 95% chicken & turkey last night for supper.

He did not vomit this morning (although he had anti-emetic yesterday) and we trekked over to the vet's at 8:00am. Saw the Doc briefly and he said they were trying to contact the ultrasound people but would keep Sparky so he would be there whenever they could come. The vet also wanted him there so he could observe him.

So for now it's just me, Miss Chloe and Mr Grover waiting...

Will keep you update. Please, hold those thoughts...
Love & hugs,
Carrol
________________

[littleone1]

I'm glad Sparky is doing better. I hope he continues to do well.

[Bichonluver3]

Hi Terri!
Hopefully, we will know what the problem is later today.
Thanks for checking in.
Love & hugs,
Carrol

[Bichonluver3]

Well, doc says ultrasound people can't come until tomorrow (sigh), so he is giving Sparky another anti-emetic injection and then I can pick him up.
He says that Sparky looks great in all aspects except ALT & ALKP. That he just looks too good to be sick but something is going on. :confused:
However, Doc just got lab report of blood work. That report showed ALKP at 274 and ALT at 2000 (Doc said that was why he sent blood to the lab: the in-house values he only uses as a guide and he wanted accurate values. He said to feed him today and tonight and check BS tonight before he goes to bed.
He said I could give something like SAM-e and repeat the blood work but that would take a couple of weeks. However, he wants to stay on top of this especially with the diabetes. He wants to solve the problem and then get the diabetes under control.
Sooo....that's all we know for now.
In the meantime, Sparky is his usual happy self.

[littleone1]

Please let us know when you get the results of the U/S. I'm glad Sparky is his usual, happy self. :) That's a good sign.

[addy]

Just checking in for any updates. Glad Sparky feels good.

Sorry you had to cope with it all by your self.

Sending mega hugs,

Love,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks Terri & Addy!
Sparky acts fine but is still refusing food. Will check his blood sugar at his dinner time and then syringe some food into him. Hope we get a quick, easy and good result tomorrow from the ultrasound. I'm a wreck - so tired - so will try to go to bed early tonight.
Will update tomorrow.
Love & hugs to you both,
Carrol

[BestBuddy]

If Sparky has an upset tummy you don't want to overload it with food especially high fat content. I was nearly 100% lucky with giving Buddy a little roast chicken breast (shredded fine) when he wouldn't eat.

He also liked tuna (in springwater).

Jenny

[Bichonluver3]

Hi Jenny!
I am wondering if I should feed him as his Fasting Blood Sugar is 474. I have posted the question on k9diabetes and am waiting for a response. He does not seem interested in food so I was not sure whether or not I should syringe food in.

[Bichonluver3]

Sparky is back at the hospital today for his ultrasound. Doc is going to re-check liver enzymes.

[addy]

Crossing everything I can, Carrol

Love,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Addy.
Love ya',
Carrol

[Squirt's Mom]

Any word yet?

Hoping he is back home soon and feeling better.

Hugs,
Leslie

[Bichonluver3]

No word yet. Thanks so much for checking in, Leslie.
Love & hugs,
Carrol

[addy]

it has been a long day for you.

I'll check in again before bed, you are 2 hours behind my time.

Hugs and Love,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

We are back from the vet's.

Thanks to all your prayers, wishes and support, the news is good.
Sparky had his ultrasound and the sonographer told Dr. L Sparky had most likely ingested some chewed gum. We had considered this possibility but felt Sparky would be much sicker and would have been gone within 24hr.:( We are not gum chewers so who knows where he found it - maybe out on a walk at night when we couldn't see. We will have to be extra careful about watching him.

Anyway, Sparky is now on Denamarin and tonight will have low fat cottage cheese and white rice for his supper.

Have no idea where we are at re blood sugar but will test it tonight.

He can't figure out why he has a shaved spot on his tummy and the other 2 have had a good look and sniff at it as well:)

Right now they are all sleeping - something I hope to be able to do tonight!!

Carrol

[littleone1]

I'm so glad you got good news my dear friend. Get a good night's sleep.

Luv ya bunches.

[Bichonluver3]

Love ya' too, Terri!!
I plan to go to bed early tonight:D How is everything at your house? Give the Corkster an extra big tummy rub.
Love, Carrol

[addy]

Big sign of relief, Carroll.

I hope you all get a good cuddle and some sleep.

Love ya,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Addy!
Hubby is picking up dinner on his way back from L.A. Then, it's off to bed, read and relax with all the doggies. Going to sleep early tonight!!
Love ya' too!
Carrol

[Bichonluver3]

Just a note to thank everyone a million times for being here for me. All you guys are the greatest. It was a scary few days but you folks made it bearable. I am blessed to have friends like you.
All my love & thanks,
Carrol

[Squirt's Mom]

~~whew~~ What a relief! Tho the gum is scary. :eek: Tell Sparky that gum is really bad for his teeth so to leave it alone from now on - plus it makes him feel bad and scares Mommy, so no more gum!

I hope you finally got some rest last nite and are feeling much more positive this morning.

Hugs,
Leslie

[Bichonluver3]

Hi Leslie!
Yup, finally got some rest!:D Sparky, however is still not really eating. His FBS this am is 338 and he ate a little. I think I will give 1/2 dose of insulin and recheck in 2 hrs. Doc is off today but said he will call to check on Sparky. I'm going to ask him if I can give his appetite stimulant. I am concerned because over the last couple of weeks he has been losing weight.
How are your furbabies doing?????
Love,
Carrol

[Bichonluver3]

ALKP is now within normal range
ALT at 766 from over 2800. Doc is really happy - so are Mom & Dad!!:D

[addy]

hip hip hurrah

have a great weekend

Love ya,
Addy

[Squirt's Mom]

Hey Carrol,

Glad those liver values came down! :D

Hows his appetite this morning?

I gotta admit - of all the conditions/diseases I am aware of that pups can get, diabetes scares the peewaddle out of me. So in my book, you are counted as one of the brave souls. I so admire how well you have tackled Sparky's diagnosis, learning all you can, and doing what it takes to keep him healthy. You have kept your sense of humor throughout and your compassion for others has never faltered no matter what else was going on in your house. Your fluffs are so very lucky to have you for a mom.

Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Leslie.
That means a lot coming from you.
Thanks so much for hangin' in there with me.
I changed Sparky's diet to 1/4 cup Embark and 3/4 cups Iam's Weight Control D and he gobbles it up and then looks in everyone else's bowl. Appetite is definitely back. It feels good to be back in a routine.
Diabetes is a challenge but then, between you and me, isn't life as a whole a challenge? But those little furry bodies and those little doggy kisses make everything worthwhile:D
I just had a look at your albums. What precious babies you have. Both you and they are blessed. How are those little critters anyway?
Well, now it's back to trying to balance the blood sugar:rolleyes:
Love ya'
Carrol

[Bichonluver3]

Hey, Addy, what are you doin' hip hip hurrahing on this thread? Your supposed to be on Susan's thread.
Beat ya' back there (dust icon here).............
Love ya' back!

[marie adams]

Hi Carrol,

So glad Sparky's feeling better!!!!

Less Stress for you!!!

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, Marie!

[addy]

Hey Carrol,

Everything okay?

There is a rumor going round that you got a gig as an Elvis impersonator In Vegas.:p

I keep telling everyone that is absolutely ridiculous!!!!:rolleyes:

With Carrol's voice, she would be doing Judy Garland. You should hear her sing Over the Rainbow!!!!!:D:D:D



I had a vicious migraine last week, could not get rid of it:eek:

Love,
Addy

[addy]

Hey Carrol,

is everything okay with Sparky? Why did he have to have his liver checked?

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hey, Addy, what are you doin' hip hip hurrahing on this thread? Your supposed to be on Susan's thread.
Beat ya' back there (dust icon here).............
Love ya' back!

So now you're proclaiming exclusivity of your thread? Is there a test to pass? What's the dress code? Is Friday a "casual" day? Must I wear socks??:confused::confused::confused::confused:


How is Sparky doing.....still well, I hope??:)
Love,
Susan

[marie adams]

Hey Carrol,

We are getting a little nervous...I will give you back the bed if you come home...please let us know how things are with you and Sparky.:o

Hope to hear from you soon!!!

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Carrol,

I add my voice to the others who are wondering how Sparky is doing.
My thoughts are with you.
-Susan

[addy]

I think Marie and Susan are putting it mildly, I am usually more blunt and direct- WE ARE FREAKING OUT SOMETHING IS WRONG:eek::eek::eek:

We love you and care about you, so we are worried about our good friend.

We are here if you need us:)

Love,
Addy

[Bichonluver3]

Thanks, guys. You're the best. Sparky's repeat liver enzymes test was a little better but not what I had hoped. Doc is not overly concerned but Sparky is to remain on Denamarin for another month. Doc thinks it is just taking a little longer for his liver to regenerate. Otherwise, Sparky seems fine and is adjusting to his blindness. I am doing a blood glucose curve today and his numbers are high. Sigh............

HA HA!!! THE ABSENT THING GOT YOU!!! FEELING GUILTY?? HUH? HUH? :p

[Bailey's Mom]

Yay Sparky!!! Anything that has improved is grounds for cheers!!
Palmer was on Denamarin.
Have you thought about getting Sparky a white cane??

[Bichonluver3]

Are you kidding - Sparky "sees" better with no sight than we old guys do with glasses!!!!!!:D

[addy]

WHEEEEEEEWWWWWW!!!!!!!!!! Glad everything is okay at your house.:D:D:D:D

Love,
Addy

P.S. QUILT? what quilt little miss in and out, here and there, :D whats wrong with quilts? quilts can be pretty.


Oh wait, not quilt, you said GUILT!!!!!!!!!:rolleyes::rolleyes:

[marie adams]

Oh Darn, you are back so I really have to give up the bed--that is on the West Coast. On the East Coast you are still out there with the camels...so I get the bed.:p

So glad things are getting better and you are doing okay!!:)

[Bailey's Mom]

I am getting so confused. Who is out and who is in? Who has a bed and who does not? I thought we got rid of those darn camels. Are the clowns still around?? What about the guys who wear white dresses????? Whose thread am I on anyway?? It's getting so dark in here! Oh, geezs....I just stepped in something mooshy. Does anyone know where Bailey is??? And what am I to do with this whale? Where am I? Yoo hoo????
I don't think this is my neighborhood. Has anyone seen Bailey??

Love,
Susan

[addy]

Carrol you better get your ole butt off that camel cause Mom is off the deep end


And I mean that literally and figuratively:p:p:p

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Does anyone know where I am???

Love,
Susan

[addy]

If clicking your heels and saying there's no place like home didn't work, go follow the yellow brick road to the Wizard and he will bring you home

Thinking about you and sending hugs and love,

Addy, Zoe and Koko

[shevan]

Let us know about Sparky. My dog, a Shih Tzu, 12, was dxd last May with Cushings. He's been on Trilostane and was doing so well, his numbers were great, he wasn't panting, etc. Then six weeks ago I find some soft:) lumps under his chin. He has lymphoma, which is incurable, and costly to treat. He is on chemo, just had his first week last week. I do hope Sparky is OK - he probably is; being dxd with Cushings makes dog parents kinda paranoid about anything they see in their dogs, I agree with the others!

[shevan]

I have no idea how to navigate this community. I can't even find why Sparky went into the hospital, and I'm unsure on which dog I am commenting on. If I have erred, I am sorry. This is the trickiest site I have ever visited! I also can't find Frijole's profile! :confused:

[labblab]

I have no idea how to navigate this community. I can't even find why Sparky went into the hospital, and I'm unsure on which dog I am commenting on. If I have erred, I am sorry. This is the trickiest site I have ever visited! I also can't find Frijole's profile! :confused:
Sheila, I am sorry you are having so much trouble navigating. Later on today or tomorrow, I will send you an email from k9cushings@gmail.com in order to give you some tips. Hopefully, that will help! ;)

Marianne

[Bailey's Mom]

Does anyone know where I am???

Love,
Susan

[littleone1]

Carrol, my friend, how is Sparky doing? Did you get any answers as to what was going on with his eyes?

Corky and I are sending lots of love.

[marie adams]

We miss you!!!

[littleone1]

Hi Carrol,

Corky and I are checking on you. I hope everything is okay.

[addy]

Dang Carrol, do I have to rent a plane to fly over Rancho Mirage looking for you?


Honey, we are worried. It is not like you to be gone so long.

Is there anything we can do? Please, let us know you are okay

You can just tap with your foot three times for yes;)

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hey Carrol-
You can tap with your foot just two times for me!!!
Come on now....you can do it.......tap......tap.
OH GOODY- Carol tells us she is okay!!
love,
Susan

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Carrol,

How are things with Sparky? I am getting quite worried about you, dear, you have been too quiet everywhere. Let us hear from you when you can, 'k?

Hugs,
Leslie

[addy]

Me too, sweetie, I am worried too.

Thinking of you and the pups. Zoe is sending a big hi to Chloe.:)

I hope everything is okay.

I hope everything is okay with your son too.

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

MIA, mia, mia!!!!! Attention all furball lovers. Carrol is no where to be found. Please keep your eye out for her.....she has red hair.

Love,
Susan