Help please!! Pituitary Cushings, just started Lysodren (Jersey has passed)

[destinylee75]

Hi all~my 5 year old German Shepard named Jersey has had Cushings for about 1 1/2 years now, we have been treating her with Melotin & Ligans. Now she has progressed worse and we started her on Lycedren. I am so sick about this treatment...any thoughts, expriences or tips about this medicine~ would be most helpful.
She started Lycedren this past Friday she acted "normal" all day after we gave her the second dose, she was not herself. She slept most of the night only waking up once to go outside. Usually Jersey would patrol the house all night long. I called the vet Saturday morning and they said to stop the medicine and call back this morning (Monday.) When I called this morning, they told me to restart the Lycedren. I did and so far, she is acting "ok"...anyone have any thoughts?
Another thing that concerns me is for the past 3 weeks, she has had 4 nose bleeds....4 that we know of anyway.
Thank you so much in advance for any advice and help!!

[mytil]

Hi and welcome to our site.

From your description of the medicine you are giving your girl was diagnosed with Atypical cushing's right?

I have just a second, but can you tell us how much Lysodren you are giving and the weight of your girl.

Did your vet mention anything about a test to check the cortisol levels - ACTH before starting the Lyso again?

I will be back later on
Terry

[mytil]

Hi it is Terry again.

When you can post the results of the tests your vet performed to warrant starting the Lysodren. Was the current treatment not working? - symptoms increased?

Here is a link on Atypical - http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=198.

I am not sure what is causing her nose to bleed, but what has your vet mentioned? I would have it checked though. Is she still acting lethargic - ask your vet about another blood panel and ask about having her electrolytes checked.

Terry

[frijole]

Hi from me also! Lysodren saved my dog's life. She lived to be 16 1/2! Don't fear it - just get educated on how to use it. That's why Terry asked about your dog's weight and the dose you are on. It tells us if you are within recommended dosing.

Looking forward to learning more. Kim

[destinylee75]

Hi Guys!! Thank you so much for responding... I will post the blood results.... I just have to try to get my two year old to sleep, she does not take any naps during the day and she fights going to sleep!! LOL Jersey weighs 115 lbs and is taking 2 tablets 2 times a day Lysodren 500mg. I'll be back!!!

[frijole]

Thanks for posting that information. That is a very low dose, less than 25 mgs per kg.

I assume you recently had the acth test (2 hr) to get a reading on cortisol and that is what led to the lysodren? If so, please share with us the test results or anything your vet said.

Did the vet give you instructions for using the lysodren? Thanks. Kim

[Bichonluver3]

Greetings from Chloe and me. we are using the melatonin and lignans so cannot comment on Lysodren but wanted to welcome you to the site. However VERY knowledgeable people here will be able to guide you.
Carrol

[Sabre's Mum]

Welcome from me.

We always ask tonnes of questions when you first arrive on this site! :)

It is helpful for us to be able to provide guidance to fully understand the history of Jersey's diagnosis. We can presume many things but can you give us a break-down of what occurred to lead to now dosing with Lysodren. Do you have any test results available to you can post?

Would you also please clarify whether you are undertaking a "loading" protocol with Jersey ie is this a daily dose for a period of time until her post ACTH stim is at the right level or is this a maintenance dose.

Would you please also clarify the dosage. Sorry Kim, but I read it differently ie I took it as 2 x 500mg twice a day ie 2000mg.

I am sure we will have other questions along the way but this may help us help you.

Here is also a link to the Lysodren loading protocol which gives you some great information.
http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=181

Angela and Flynn

[destinylee75]

Hi!! Yes she is taking 2 pills twice a day, so a totaly of 2000 a day. She is in the induction phase now.

Her Cortisol leval was PRE 11.8 and POST 28.1


The ACTH test was 2 hour long. Thank you all so much!!
The normal response to ACTH it (the test) states is....Canine 5.5-20.0 ug/dL

I am supposed to give this 2 pills 2x a day to Jersey for a total of 10 days, any abnormal behavior, I am to notify the vet..

Tonight she only drank a little water....I have to go to work in a couple hours...the vet will not be in this early to ask him....should I give her another two pills, since she did not drink "alot" her "normal" amount of water...We orginally started Jersey on Friday gave her the morning and night doses all was well until the nighttime, she only got up once to go outside..the vet said to stop the medicine and call back Monday(yesterday) morning. We re-started the medicine yesterday....she never woke up all night, until now and drank some water....

Does anyone know if the post Cortisol leval of 28.1 is on the "Low" side in general on the test?? I realize it is on the high range, just wondering if she is just slightly elevated??? thank you all so much!!!!!!

[frijole]

Glad someone clarified that I misread the dosing amounts! OK so you are more like 50 mgs per kg which is good.

I know your vet told you to wait 10 days but any change in symptoms (water or food intake) you should stop giving lysodren, set up an appt for an acth test to see if you have sufficiently lowered the cortisol from 28 to between a 1 and 5.

For some strange reason large dogs seem to take less time and so it could be that she is 'loaded'. IMO I'd call the vet and set up the appt. Better safe than sorry.

Here are instructions for loading fyi. Kim
http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=181

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Destiny!

Glad you and Jersey made it here! :) As you can see, these folks are just great!

Her post cortisol of 28.1 ug/dl is elevated but we have seen higher...in fact almost double that level! :eek: I am curious if Jersey had any testing other than the ACTH. Did she have a LDDS or ultrasound? If so, could you post the results of those tests as well? Also, any abnormal values on the CBC would be great if you have those.

As for the dose she is on - 115lbs converts to 52.27kg. (115/2.2) 52.27kg x 50mg/kg = 2613.50mg/day. So, at 2000mg/day, Jersey is taking a bit less than the recommended dose for her size...but that doesn't mean it is incorrect, just a bit under. MUCH better than too high a dose!

Can you fill us in a bit on how the diagnosis came about? What prompted you to have her tested for Cushing's in the first place? What signs was she displaying?

Does Jersey have any other health issues that you are aware of? Is she on any other meds, supplements or herbs and, if so, what?

Were diabetes and hypothyroidism ruled out? These conditions, among others, mimic Cushing's so it is always a good idea to rule them out at the beginning. The CBC results will tell whether there is anything to look into.

Has the vet seen Jersey concerning the nose bleeds? Has her BP been checked? TBD (tick born disease) checked?

Did you measure her water intake prior to starting the Lyso? If so, is she drinking less as of yesterday? If so, this could be a sign that she is loaded. If you are not sure of how much water she was drinking before the Lyso was on board, this may not be a good gauge for loading. Has her appetite changed in any way? Has her eating behavior changed in any way? Are her stools as firm and formed as they were before the Lyso or have they become softer and less formed?

I am glad ya'll are here! :) You and Jersey are no longer alone on this journey. We will walk every step of the way with you. The collective knowledge and first-hand experience found here is astounding and you simply cannot beat the loving support offered to all here. Please ask any questions you have and we will do our best to help you understand. If you just need to vent, we are here for that, too.

Hang in there!
Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[destinylee75]

Hi All,
I am not good at all on the computer...but I need help, I know this is the place to be...Thank you all in advance.
Jersey has been on Lysodren for the past week.
Prior to starting Lysodren her ACTH test results (on 1/26/2011) were: 11.08 and post 28.1
Now she has been on Lysodren 2 pills 500mg each 2 times a day (she weighs 115lbs)
We repeated the ACTH yesterday and her results (on 2/7/2011) are now 1.6 and post 1.1
The vet told me to start Prednisone 5 mg 1 tablet, twice a day. Yesterday morning was the last dose of Lysodren.
She has not eaten for the past day in a half, barely drinking.
She is very listless and sleeps all the time. Please help, thank you and God Bless!!

[labblab]

I'm so sorry that Jersey's cortisol has dropped low enough to be causing these problems! You will notice that I have moved your new reply to your original thread about Jersey. This way, all her treatment information will be in one place, and that will help folks give you better feedback.

Hang in there! I'm sure you'll be getting some additional replies in just a little while.

Marianne

[Harley PoMMom]

Jersey's electrolytes should have been checked also, did your vet have these checked?

If Jersey is not responding to the prednisone; drinking some or eating some, then if she were my pup, I would take her to see the vet ASAP.

[destinylee75]

Hi Harley PoMMom,

Thank you for your response....

No, her electrolytes were not checked. Is there anything we can give her? How about Pedialyte, the unflavored one?

My vet said that she should eat tonight if not than tomorrow...I should spray water in her mouth so she gets some water....

[labblab]

How long ago did you give Jersey the prednisone? Like Lori, I am feeling very concerned if Jersey is not showing any improvement after taking the prednisone. If her ACTH was performed yesterday right after taking her last dose of Lysodren, her cortisol may actually be even lower today since there is a cumulative dosing effect with the drug. And if her electrolytes were not checked, there is no way of knowing whether her blood chemistries may be imbalanced as a result. Given the possibility of an imbalance with her potassium and sodium levels, I do not know whether it would be safe to give her pedialyte. I'll let others comment on that.

Just to recap, Jersey weighs 115 pounds and you've been told to give her 5 mg. of prednisone twice a day? I'm hoping that others will be stopping by quickly to give you some feedback as to whether or not that is a reasonable "rescue" dose of prednisone for a dog her size.

But bottom line, I agree with Lori that if Jersey doesn't respond to the prednisone, she'd best be seen by the vet before you find yourself in an emergency situation overnight.

Marianne

P.S. I just checked and the standard formula for calculating a rescue dose of prednisone is 0.25 mg./kg. So that would work out to a daily dose of approx. 13 mg. for Jersey. So Jersey's prednisone dose is in that ballpark.

[destinylee75]

Hi!
Her first dose of Prednisone was this morning at 9am. Yesterday at 8 am was the last dose of Lysodren and the ACTH test was done at 2:30 yesterday.

Yes, Jersey weights 115 and I was told to give her 5mg Prednisone 2 times a day.

If I only started the Prednisone at 9 am this morning, that is only 3 3/4 hours ago....when should I go back to the vet? How long does it take usually to see a response? Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!

[destinylee75]

OK, I called the vet...the results from yesterdays bloodwork were:

Glucose 157 H range 60-115
BUN 28 H range 10-28
Creatine 1.5 H range .5 - 1.3
Sodium 140 range 139 - 150
Potassium 4.6 range 3.4 - 4.9
Chloride 119 range 106 - 127
TCO2 14 L range 17 - 25
Ionized Calcium 1.25 range 1.12 - 1.4
Anion Gap 12 range 8 - 25
Hematocrit 39 range 35-50
Hemoglobin 13.3 range 12 - 17

This was about 7 hours after her last doseage of Lysodren

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Destiny,

You should see an improvement in Jersey within an hour of giving the pred. If you are not seeing her perk up after this length of time, I would ask the vet about giving another 5mg of the pred OR take her on in asap. Be sure to tell them to check her electrolytes if you take her in.

Let us know how things are going, 'k?

Hang in there!
Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[destinylee75]

Oh my goodness...you are all lifesavors!!!!!!

I called the vet and he suggested that I give two tablets now (a total of 10 mg) and I can give another 10 mg, two tablets tonight....

THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! xoxoxox

[Sabre's Mum]

Hi Destiny

I see that Leslie was posting at the same time you were. Your vet has checked Jersey's electrolytes ... sodium and potassium ... and the NA/K ratio is 30.4 so within range (if I recall correctly low normal is 27).

The "rescue dose" of prednisone is 0.25mg/kg so Destiny should be getting at least 0.25 x 52.27 = 13mg. Some dogs may need up to double this dose.

Sorry ... I have to go and sort out the kids for school.

Angela and Flynn

[labblab]

I'm really glad that your vet is advising you to increase the prednisone -- hopefully that will make a big difference. And I see that you posted Jersey's bloodwork right at the same time that Leslie was replying to you. Thank you so much for doing that. And those are actually the blood chemistries that we were referring to when we talked about having Jersey's electrolytes checked: primarily her potassium and sodium levels. So your vet already performed that testing yesterday.

I do see that she had a couple of lab elevations, including her glucose level. But I'm guessing that she may have had breakfast before the testing was done? If so, that could have affected the glucose. And if she was dehyrated, I think that could account for the other minor elevations in her kidney results (BUN and Creatinine). ANYWAY, right now we're focused on the potassium and sodium and they are not out of range. So that is good!

Fingers crossed that the prednisone will perk her up. Keep us updated, OK???

Marianne

[destinylee75]

Thank you....yes, Jersey ate a small amount (3/4 cup) yesterday morning at about 8 am...about7 hours before the tests.

[lulusmom]

Hi Destiny,

I am very concerned about Jersey. With her last dose of lysodren being only 27 hours ago and the stim test done only 20 hours ago, you can be assured that cortisol is lower now and is probably still dropping. There is no wiggle room with a post cortisol of 1 with almost two days left for Lysodren to continue to erode the adrenal glands. It is very possible that cortisol is on it's way to 0, if that hasn't happened already. Knowing that lysodren will continue to work for 48 hours or possibly longer, I have to assume that the bloodwork your vet did yesterday is of no value because it is simply not an accurate reflection of the full impact of the effect of lysodren at 48 hours post dosing. Please watch Jersey very carefully because there is a great possibility that she is on her way to a serious addisonian crisis that may not respond to prednisone alone.

The fact that you had to contact your vet to ask about an appropriate rescue dose of prednisone concerns me. Do you know how much experience he has with cushing's?

Glynda

[destinylee75]

Hi Glynda,
My vet is a "Internal Specialist" He said that he felt comfortable treating Jersey....I am so sick, What do I do, He did say after I called him and told him that I now belong to this K9Cushingd Forem that you think the Pred should be higher, since I did not see any difference.... he said that a dog her size 115 pounds could easily take 25-30 mg of Pred....so far today Jersey had a total of 15mg...(5mg this morning at 9am and 10mg around 1:15)....Should I call him back???? She did get up once to go outside and she had a very small soft-formed stool....she was weak...but now she is up on my bed (with my help) and sleeping...Should I call my vet again???
What should they do??? What besides Pred can they help her with??? THANK YOU!!!!!!!!
What are the signs of a serious addisonian crisis ?

[Squirt's Mom]

Symptoms of adverse effects include loss of appetite, vomiting, depression, listlessness, diarrhea and weakness. Any of these signs should be reported to your veterinarian immediately.

Hi Destiny,

Watch Jersey carefully over the next few hours and if you see her worsening with any of the above signs, take her to the IMS or an ER clinic asap - regardless of the hour. If I understand correctly, the things you are seeing now are the lack of appetite, lethargy (listlessness), weakness and some soft stools? If ANY of these do not improve with the pred, or if they get worse, or if she vomits, take her in asap.

You are doing a good job of watching her and that is half the battle. It SUCKS you and Jersey have had to experience this but just hang on and keep doing what you are - watching her like a hawk and talking her IMS and us. ;) And DO NOT hesitate to get her to the doc if you are the least bit concerned that the pred is not doing enough.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[destinylee75]

Thank you so much!!! I will watch her like a hawk!! I am so scared. Thank you all for being here for us. :)

[Squirt's Mom]

You're doing just fine, sweetie. Being scared is a healthy attitude right now because that will keep you sharp. ;) If you feel yourself sliding into panic, BREATH IN...BREATH OUT! We have been known to have group breathing sessions before! :p So far, no tsunamis have been reported. :p

Keep your chin up!
Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[lulusmom]

Hi again, Destiney.

Are you seeing any improvement after administering the prednisone? If not, you should call the vet back and tell him that she is not responding. Lysodren can completely necrose the adrenals, meaning even the mineralcorticoids are no longer being produced. Aldosterone is one of the mineralcorticoids that keeps the electrolytes in balance and prednisone does not address this. Jersey would need to be on iv's and receive injections of Florinef or Percorten V.

Glynda

[destinylee75]

Jersey ate a chicken breast (like 1 half)!!!!! I am so excited...
She also "ate" some snow!!! LOL
She seems to have a little more weakness in her hind legs...I will continue to watch that... She is still ontop of my bed, my daughter and I am right by her side...Our other German Shepard also!!

I honestly did give her another 5mg of prednisone, since the vet did say a dog her size could easily take 20-30 mg...I did not ask the vet about that though....So Jersey has had a total so far of 20 mg of prednisone today....

[lulusmom]

You're doing a great job of monitoring and I'm glad to hear she ate. Keep up the good work.

[destinylee75]

SHe is now cleaning her front paws!!!!!!!! :D:D:D:D:D

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Destiny,

Do you have access to a 24 hr ER clinic?

I am glad that she has eaten some chicken and snow. Is she drinking on her own?

Any more soft stools or diarrhea? any vomiting?

You're doing great!

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[destinylee75]

Thank you...yes, we have a 24 hour emergency, that is where we take Jersey normally...Thank God, they are 45 minutes away...

Yes, she is drinking on her own...just the melting snow with a little chicken broth..since you all said about sodium, I gave her some broth..she loved it, I just do not want her to get sick from it and I will not know if it is the broth or the overdose...

No vomiting at all

No more trips outside...so nothing else passed... I am going to try a banana for potassium...does that sound ok, or should I not giver her one???

[Squirt's Mom]

Word of caution - if that is canned broth make absolutely sure there is no onion in it. Onion can be toxic to dogs and you don't need anything to cloud the picture right now. Boil up some chicken and give her that broth instead.

That is a great relief to know you have an ER close by! Ours is a little bit further, maybe an hour or so. The old one we went to before we moved was just about 5 mins away and I got spoiled! :o:p

If she will eat a banana, that should be ok but don't over do it. Just a bite every now and then.

Hugs,
Leslie

[labblab]

Just to throw in my two cents worth -- since Jersey is now eating chicken and behaving more normally, I wouldn't give her any food or liquids right now to which she is not accustomed. As you've already noted, if you end up with vomiting or diarrhea, you won't know whether it's due to the overdose or instead due to the food and drink. Since she seems to be responding to the prednisone now, I wouldn't mess with her normal routine at all.

Marianne

[destinylee75]

OMG !! Thank you , I am such a idiot!!

Great idea about boiling the breast and letting her drink some of that instead!!
xoxoxoxoxox

[AlisonandMia]

Word of caution - if that is canned broth make absolutely sure there is no onion in it. Onion can be toxic to dogs and you don't need anything to cloud the picture right now. Boil up some chicken and give her that broth instead.



This onion thing is very important. We have seen at least one dog go from low cortisol to hemolytic anemia (which is what too much onion can do) because of commercial chicken broth. I don't know what the case is in the US but here in Australia you can't buy chicken broth without some onion (powder or juice) in it.

I would imagine that the amount that Jersey has had so far won't have harmed her but it is not something that you want to go on giving her - the effect is cumulative. As Leslie said the home-made stuff is the way to go - and you don't have to make it a lovely clear stock either (dogs just don't care!) so just boiling some chicken in water is fine. It only takes 15 - 20 minutes or maybe less to make some chicken broth that a dog will love. And then you can feed the chicken too providing it is boneless.

Alison

[destinylee75]

Thank you Marianne xoxoxoxoxo

[labblab]

I just want to clarify that I think the chicken and home-made chicken broth that Leslie and Alison are talking about would be fine. But I'd really be cautious about giving her anything else that's out of the ordinary for the time being.

Marianne

[destinylee75]

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart, you are all so wonderful...YOU ALL SAVED MY DOGS LIFE today...

God Bless you all xoxoxxoxoxox

[destinylee75]

Hi all...

Jersey has been acting much better...she is walking around the home, she ate her organic dog food mixed with organic chicken. She has been drinking more. Should I continue with the Prednisone through out the night? If so how much?
xoxoxoxoooxoxoxoxxoxoxoxox

[frijole]

What instructions did your vet give you? I assume you haven't had an acth test done yet or if so you don't have the results. I would think you would want to stick with this regime just to be safe. Lysodren continues to work for up to 48 hrs so you want to make sure you are over that hump and you don't want to completely cease prednisone quickly either in case your dog's cortisol is so low it still needs a little bit of prednisone as a supplement.

Hopefully someone who has 'been there' will post but I wanted to make sure you didn't stop entirely yet. Sounds like you've made great progress already. Hang in there.

Kim

[destinylee75]

Thank you Kim, that is what my husband thought....just wanted to make sure....we did give her 5 mg at 9:00......THANK YOU SO MUCH!!

[Sabre's Mum]

Hi Destiny

The 5mg you gave this evening will be fine. I would confirm with the IMS tomorrow as to what doses he would like you to give Jersey. From what you have posted I presume that he wants you to give 10mg in the morning and 10mg in the evening? I gather from your posts that Jersey in fact had her last dose of Lysodren on the day of her ACTH stim. Therefore Jersey is likely to go even lower than the post value. So as the others have said keep a close on her and she takes a turn for the worse ... rush her to the emergency vets.

Generally ... you will need to give Jersey prednisone for at least few days. It is a very individual thing and it all depends on the dog. When Sabre went low we gave him prednisone for three days (at a "rescue dose" for his weight") ... other dogs have needed to be on prednisone longer.

You are doing a great job ... hang in there.

Angela and Flynn

[destinylee75]

Hi Angela and Flynn,
Thank you so much!!

[destinylee75]

Hi All,

Last night Jersey acted ok all night, she woke up once and drank and went outside, her stool was very soft.

This morning she is acting like she did yesterday, very lethargic, only ate 1/2 of her organic dog food with boiled organic chicken.

She also had diarrhea this morning...I told him all of this....

The only major difference is today all she wants to do is sit and stay outdoors, which it is freezing here today, we are only at 8* (I live in Northern NJ) Also that she is drinking on her own today.

I called the vet, he recommended that I giver her 10 mg of Pred this morning and 5 mg tonight....feed her a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice and call him tomorrow morning with a update.

My question to all of you is...am I harming her in any way if I give more Pred? It seems like the vet is hesitant for Jersey to have "alot" of Pred....Why would this be???

Thank you all xxoxoxoxoxoxoooxoxxo

[lulusmom]

Hi Destiny,

As Marianne mentioned in a prior post, the rescue dose for Jersey would be 13mg but she further mentioned that some dogs may require double the dose. I have no idea why your IMS is hesitant to let you give Jersey 10mg at night but then, I don't know why your vet isn't more concerned about Jersey. I'm a real worry wart and if she were mine, at the very least, I'd take her in to get her electrolytes checked. It's been 48 hours since the last dose but there is no guarantee that the Lysodren is done doing its thing so continue being vigilant in watching her because she could still get worse.

Glynda

[destinylee75]

Hi Glynda,

I am the same as you, I am a worry-wort!! I always take things to the more extreme..... Anyway, I contacted my "primary vet" who is local to take her electrolytes checked...what else should I suggest they check???

I just made the appointment for 2:20, which is 3 hours from now...

I am so sorry to all of you helpful, wonderful people! I just have no clue!!

xoxoxoxox
Destiny

[lulusmom]

Having the electrolytes checked is the most important thing right now. If they are okay, then aldosterone is still being produced. Don't apologize for not knowing everything there is to know about cushing's and lysodren. It's a convoluted disease and it takes a very long time to wrap your head around everything. Don't fret and just know that you are doing the right thing by taking Jersey in. That will give your gp vet a chance to check her hydration and her overall general appearance. Let your vet decide if he needs to do more.

Glynda

[destinylee75]

Thank you!! xoxoxxo I'll be "talking" you all later on!!

[Sabre's Mum]

Hi Destiny

I agree with Glynda to get the electrolytes checked.


My question to all of you is...am I harming her in any way if I give more Pred? It seems like the vet is hesitant for Jersey to have "alot" of Pred....Why would this be???

A dose of .5mg/kg is not a lot of pred and as said previously ... yes the rescue dose is 0.25mg/kg but some dogs may need double this. To put this in perspective ... my Vizsla Flynn was on over 3mg/kg for a about three months for his health issues, and then on to a reducing dose for over a year. If the dog needs 0.5mg/kg I believe they should have it ... just my personal opinion! The important thing with pred is not to withdraw it in one hit. At a low dose you can just give that dose and take the dog off but as the dose increases you will need to drop a little. Maybe this is what the specialist is trying to do, but as I said earlier, it depends on the individual dog and Jersey just may need to be on 20mg per day just now.

Angela and Flynn

[Squirt's Mom]

Thinking of you and Jersey!

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[destinylee75]

Hi guys...

My "regular" vet says Jersey is not dehydrated, she does not have a fever...If I am at all concerned about the electrolytes, I can give her a total of 2 cups of childerns unflavored Pedilite. Her appearance was good, her heart was fast, she believed because she was nervous.

I am just so happy that someone else examined Jersey.

Tomorrow my husband will be home with Jersey... I am leaving him in charge of contacting you all ~ if he needs to!! LOL

I am so nervous with all of the Cushing Disease "stuff"....all I want is my little girl to be back to normal, I love her so much...it breaks me to pieces that she is a sick little sweetie.

Thank you so much for everything....xoxo

[AlisonandMia]

I think the fact that her heart rate (no matter that it was because she was nervous) was fast is a very good sign - when the electrolytes are out of whack due to low aldosterone the heart rate is incredibly (and dangerously) slow.

It does sound to me like this is simply a case of very low cortisol (which just needs pred to counteract) and that her aldosterone production is still adequate. I'd have been a tad happier if her electrolytes had been checked though.

Alison

[destinylee75]

PLEASE!! I know, me too...but I can not fight "city hall" The first sentence out of my vets mouth was, "So Dr. Kantrowicz wants us to run some tests?" I said, actually I would like you to run them....I further explained that I belong to this K9 Cushing forem.....and how everyone was so well informed on Cushings....

She did exam Jersey....I just pray that was enough....

What would you all do about tonight???,,,,The "specialist vet" this morning told me to give Jersey 10mg of pred in the am (which I did) than he said at night, 5 mg....

Just yeaterday she had a total of 30mg of pred....do you think it is a drastic cut in this short period??? Would there be any harm if I gave her 10mg tonight instead of just 5mg???


She did eat 2 1/2 - 3 cups of chicken, rice and some dog food. Drinking more than she did all day......

I am so confused....thank you!!

[destinylee75]

My heart is telling me to give her 10mg of Prednisone tonight...I just need "reinforcement" from all of you!!! I am not a vet, I do not want to hurt her in any way!! Thank you!! xoxoxo

[lulusmom]

Destiny, if Jersey were mine and she was still acting listless, I'd give her 10mg tonight.

[destinylee75]

Thank you so much, I will right now!!! xoxoxoxo
Sweet dreams!!!!!:):):):):):)

[destinylee75]

Has anyone had any success with a Homeopathic vet???

This Lysodren and Predinsone medicine scares me to death....

Please share your thoughts on both....thank you in advance
xoxoxoxxoxox

[lulusmom]

Hi Destiny,

If there was a homeopathic treatment that effectively reduced cortisol, I dare say that none of us would be giving our dogs Lysodren or Trilostane. If I haven't mentioned it to you yet, the more experience you have under your belt and the more you educate yourself about the disease and Lysodren, the more confident you will be and you will no longer stress out about the what if's. My dogs have treated with both drugs and I have a healthy respect for both but I do not fear them.

Glynda

[destinylee75]

Hi Glynda,

You are correct, I know...I just am so sick over the fact that I am killing something inside my little girl (even though actually it is killing her "more").....The medicine made her so dazed and "confused"....I called out of work two days this week, made my husband stay home today with her....Am I the only one that is "crazy"?!??!?!?!?....Maybe just denial, I just want everything to be healthy and happy... this REALLY SUCKS!!!!!!

I "save" spiders and bugs if they are in my home! I put a paper cup over them and take them outside. I just can not get over, how I gave this drug (Lysdren) and it made my Jersey-girl so "sick"....

I know I have to get over this and just believe that I am doing the right thing for her...

xoxoxoxo
Destiny

[Bichonluver3]

Hi Destiny!
We know exactly how you feel. We've all been in the "life sucks" place. But it will get better. Listen to what the "Wise Ones" (and I capitalize for a reason:D) tell you. They've never steered me wrong yet. They know what they're talking about. They will help you get over this hurdle. And, remember, you and Jersey are part of our family now: families stick together and families are forever.
Love & hugs,

[AlisonandMia]

It isn't the Lysodren itself that has made her sick - it is not necessary for a dog on Lysodren to get sick. What has made her sick is that she has had a little more Lysodren than she needed and it has reduced her capacity to produce quite enough cortisol for her body's needs. That is where the prednisone comes in - prednisone is the equivalent of cortisol.

This is one of the inevitable problems with treating Cushing's: In Cushing's way too much cortisol is being produced by the adrenal glands and the dog starts to get what you might see as "cortisol poisoning". A certain amount of cortisol is necessary for normal functioning but too much is, well, too much - and this produces the signs and symptoms of Cushing's. The medications (mostly Lysodren and trilostane (Vetoryl) these days) used to treat Cushing's work by lowering cortisol. Unfortunately it is impossible to know at the outset particularly what dose an individual dog will need and so quite often a dog gets a bit too much medication and so the cortisol goes too low. As long as the medication is stopped before things get too bad (critically low cortisol and, much more seriously, loss of production of aldosterone) and prednisone given, no real harm will be done. If things do go further and aldosterone production is affected then emergency treatment with fluids and other medications (to replace aldosterone) can be necessary along with prednisone.

How long Jersey is going to need daily prednisone is anyone's guess. My dog only ever needed prednisone for one day (her adrenals regenerated super fast) whereas others have ended up on a small dose of prednisone for the rest of their lives. Neither is a terrible thing. The thing with prednisone when used to replace cortisol that the dog cannot any longer produce is that, if the dose is right, it should not cause any unwanted side effects as all you are doing is replacing a normal amount of a normally produced hormone. If you start getting side effects (Cushing's symptoms like excess urination and thirst, big appetite, pot belly, panting etc. etc.) then this is a sign that the dose is too high. If the dog seems to be weak, lacking in energy, has a poor appetite, diarrhea etc. (varies from dog to dog) then that likely means the dose is too low.

There are many dogs, both "overtreated" Cushing's dogs and dogs with naturally-occurring Addison's disease, that have lived long and healthy life on a small dose of daily prednisone. Getting the dose right is the main thing.

My dog went too low two or three times in the course of her treatment and although she obviously didn't feel too good for a short while, a dose of prednisone had her feeling much better within the hour. Looking back on it I believe she probably suffered far more from her perfectly routine spay at 8 months than she did from her Cushing's treatment with Lysodren. Overall Lysodren gave her her life back, freed her from constant, miserable hunger and bedwetting and a horrible big pot belly, and she went back to being a feisty, fit little rat terrier who had twice as much stamina and zip as anyone else in the household!

I know the early stages of treatment are scary - you are new to it and there is a lot to get your head around and how your dog will respond to the meds is an unknown. But it does get better....:)

Alison

[destinylee75]

Thank you both Carrol and Alison for your inspiration...xooxxo

I thank every one of you for all you have done for me this past week...I told everyone at work today how "YOU" saved Jerseys life already....

I do feel confident that I am in the right place.... and now have a wonderful extended family....God Bless you all....

Sweet dreams and Goodnight all! oxoxoxoxxoxoxo

[Casey's Mom]

Hi Destiny, just wanted to chip in and welcome you to our site.

My dog Casey has been treated with Lysodren for two years now and will soon celebrate her 15th birthday. She is happy and enjoying life, today we had to get my sister's shepherd to "herd" her back to us at the park because we couldn't catch her. She is almost completely deaf but that is her only disability (and also why I never let her off leash anymore without my sisters dog there to herd her back). I too was scared of Lysodren in the beginning but with knowledge you will be fine and your dog will thank you for it!!:)

[destinylee75]

Ellen, Casey and Desi,
I am so happy to hear that:)
Thank you so much!! xoxo
Destiny

[labblab]

The important thing with pred is not to withdraw it in one hit. At a low dose you can just give that dose and take the dog off but as the dose increases you will need to drop a little. Maybe this is what the specialist is trying to do, but as I said earlier, it depends on the individual dog and Jersey just may need to be on 20mg per day just now.

Angela and Flynn
Hi again, and I hope that Jersey is continuing to improve! Are you still giving her prednisone, and at what dosage?

I ask because I do want to highlight what Angela wrote earlier. If you continue to give prednisone (especially higher doses) on an ongoing basis for longer than a few days, you have to be careful as to how you ultimately discontinue it. The dosage has to be tapered down over a bit of time. That is why doctors and vets typically give specific dosing instructions as to the amount that the patient should receive over the course of time.

Do let us know how Jersey is doing, OK?

Marianne

[destinylee75]

Hi Marianne, (and All!!)

We are currently giving Jersey 5mg in the morning and 5mg at night. Our vet told us to continue with the 5mg morning and night and to call him back on Monday morning, where than he may cut her back to 2.5mg... (Still no Lysodren yet)

About a hour or so after we give the prednisone, she does appear to me a little dazed....

But all in all, she is acting good...she seems happy, her tail is wagging and she want to be around us.

She does not want to eat any dog food, she only wants her organic chicken and rice!! Which is fine by me, as long as she is happy and eating. She only wants to drink water when I put a little of the water that I boiled the chicken in...

Thank you so much ALL for caring, it means so much! xoxoxox

Destiny, Chris, Kayla Lee-Ann, Jersey and Odin

[marie adams]

Hi Destiny,

We have all gone through the education of Cushings, but I can tell you that The Wise Ones know their stuff. If it weren't for them I would not have been able to figure out what was best for my Maddie Girl in the beginning, middle, and when the end came. I didn't want to give Lyso either, but what I wanted was the quality of life back for Maddie. She loaded nicely each time we had to go through a load. She never got sick or had side effects, but it was everyone here who helped me. Each vet has their own level of understanding Cushings so you have to make sure you know what is best that comes with educating yourself on the disease and asking all the questions you want right here. If you are lucky you will have a vet who knows what is going on with the disease also.

My Maddie was doing very well on maintenance, but cancer got her in the end--not really fair, but that is what life dealt her. She let me know it was time.

Take care of your little one and ask away all the questions you have because you will get all the support you need!!

[destinylee75]

Hi Marie, Your Angel Girl Maddie & all,

Thank you so much for your uplifting words. xoxoxo

Jersey has now been decreased to 2.5 mg of Prednisone, two times a day. She also begun Blood Pressure medicine (Norvasc 2.5 mg two times a day.)

I have to call the vet back on Wednesday, with a update.

She is acting great! She is so happy, so spoiled... she loves her chicken and rice meal still and is enjoying homemade broth in her water.

Love and Happy Valentines Day to all :)

Destiny, Chris, Jersey, Odin and Jax

[destinylee75]

Hi again all....

I was wondering what is the best dog food I should be feeding Jersey????...
Currently we feed her Natural Planet Organic dog food. The protein is 23%.
We also give her Cranimals, which is a organic cranberry, blueberry and raspberry supplement. This we have continued since we started the Lysodren.
Before Jersey started the Lysodren she was on: Melotin, Ligans,
Cranimals, Nordic Naturals Omega 3, Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega + CoQ10, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Organic Pet Superfood "Digestion" and the Immunity supplements.

Are there any special supplements I should consider? I was thinking Milk Thistle??

Thank you!!

Destiny, Chris, Kayla Lee-Ann, Jersey, Odin and Jax

[frijole]

Destiny - If you could - please post the fat content/% of that food. The main thing with cush dogs is you want them to have some protein but the food needs to be low in fat.

Regarding supplements - milk thistle helped my girl's liver values go down. Also I added fish oil and glucosamine as she was an older gal and it helped her arthritis. Kim

[destinylee75]

Kim,
The fat says 14%
xoxoxo Thank you
Destiny

[Harley PoMMom]

She also begun Blood Pressure medicine (Norvasc 2.5 mg two times a day.)


Does Jersey have high blood pressure?

[destinylee75]

Hi Lori,
The vet said it was elevated. They checked the blood pressure because Jersey was getting nosebleeds. I have not noticed any nosebleeds in about two weeks though...I do not knw the exact number when she was tested about a week ago, I do know that two years ago it was 200, but they did nothing than....

I will call the vet to see what it was about a week ago... I am going to work now, so I will not be on the internet until much later on.

Thank you!! xoxo

[Harley PoMMom]

My boy, Harley, has high blood pressure which is controlled by Amlodipine besylate (Norvasc) and Benazepril. High blood pressure really does need to be addressed and I am so glad that you and your vet are making sure that Jersey's high blood pressure is getting under control.

High blood pressure can break the small blood capillaries in the nose and this leads to bleeding.

Love and hugs,
Lori

[destinylee75]

Hi Lori and all...

Jersey's blood pressure was 200.....is that high enough that she should have been put on medicine (which she was)??

Thanks again all!!!!!!:):):)

[Harley PoMMom]

200 is definitely high enough, Harley's vet and I are trying to keep his at around 140-150. High blood pressure can really take its toll on a dog's organs/sytsem so getting this under control will really benefit Jersey's health.

Was Jersey anxious at all while they were taking her blood pressure?

[destinylee75]

No I do not think so, as a matter of fact about 1 1/2 years ago or so, my "regular/general" vet took her blood pressure and it was 200 than....I do not know why they did not put her on anything than..:confused:..but I guess with the nose bleeds we have seen, it is time....

I have to call the "specialist" vet tomorrow... she started with a very loose stool again, and I have been giving her rice and chicken still, with added dog food, poor girl. :(

xoxoxo

[Harley PoMMom]

Canned, plain (no spices) pumpkin works very well for some dogs that have diarrhea.

[destinylee75]

Thank you!! xoxoxo

[destinylee75]

I have but yet another question....my other dog has cronic ear infections, he has Disloid Lupas...He is always put on motomax? Not sure of the spelling right now....Does anyone have any good ear solutions you use?? Or any natural remedies that work?? thank you!!

[lulusmom]

My mom and a few friends have had excellent results with Vetericyn.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA02F0006KI2&nm_mc=OTC-Froogle&cm_mmc=OTC-Froogle-_-Dogs+-+Health+Care-_-Vetericyn-_-9SIA02F0006KI2

[Harley PoMMom]

I really don't know if this works, never tried it but here is the link: http://www.itsfortheanimals.com/Adobe/Blue%20Power%20Ear%20Treatment.pdf

[frijole]

Canned, plain (no spices) pumpkin works very well for some dogs that have diarrhea.
This does work! Note though.. don't give much. One tablespoon will do it. I did it with morning and evening meals. Any more and you risk making the diarrhea worse. Kim

[destinylee75]

Oh my goodness, I could not stop reading "its for the animals"website, alot of great info... BUT I did purchase the Vetericyn for the ear solution from Amazon.com......I have to look for organic pumpkin tomorrow at the store...goodnight all... ;)

[destinylee75]

Everyone please say prayers and send happy thoughts... I just got home and Jersey is very lethargic, we are going to bring her to the Emergency room vet....she also threw up....she is huffing and puffing alot, very deeply... I will not have any internet access, so please pray for her thankl s xoxxooxx

I will make sure they check her electroylites and Aldosterone

[Harley PoMMom]

Tons of prayers being said and sent for Jersey. Was Jesrsey ever tested for pancreatitis?

[Roxee's Dad]

Sending prayers and positive thoughts your way.

[destinylee75]

Hello, all This is Destiny's Sister. Thank you all so much for helping Jersey in this time of need. You really saved her life! <3

My sister Just updated me and wanted me to post on here for you guys.....

Jersey has a 106 f fever, and they started her on IV for fluids. Other then then the doctor said she is doing better, at the moment. That is all we know at this point in time.

We thank you for your prayers,chants,wishes, and good thoughts/vibes. I will keep you posted. They said they would know more in about a half hour. Thanks again! <3 Tiffany

[Sabre's Mum]

My thoughts and good vibes are with you.

Take care
Angela and Flynn

[destinylee75]

They are going to keep her overnight, to monitor her. Just an FYI if my sister doesn't get a chance to come on here. Thanks everyone. I am sure she will update you in the morning when she hears from both doctors. Have a good night or day depending on where you live! :) Thanks again! you all are so wonderful!

[Bichonluver3]

Lots of love and prayers coming your way from us, also. we will have Jersey in our thoughts,
Love & hugs,
Carrol & Chloe

[destinylee75]

Hi all, it is me Destiny!!

Jersey is staying overnight, for them to monitor her. Her fever was 106.1 she is going to have IV fluids through the night along with a antibiotic...

She was so weak, she would not walk down our flight of stairs...
She was unable to get out of our Jeep, they had to wheel a bed to get her out of the vehicle into the hospital.

Blood pressure was 130, down fom last week of 200...we did start her on blood pressure medicine Monday night (Norvasc 2.5 mg 2 times a day)

RBC 5.43 range 5.5-8.5 Low

BUN 34mg/dL range 7-27 High

CREA 1.9 range .0 - 1.8 High

ALKP 1774 u/l range 23-212 High

GGT 12 u/l range 0-7 High

Glucose 124 range 60-115

I'll find out more tomorrow morning...Thank you all xoxoxo

[lulusmom]

Hi Destiny,

I am so sorry that Jersey is having such a hard time. I checked some of the side effects of Norvasc and collapse is one of them. Here's the entire list:


Norvasc can create numerous side effects in animals. Quite frequently, a missed dose can lead to a spontaneous increase in blood pressure, ultimately resulting in blindness, kidney damage, seizures, or collapse. Some other side effects of the medicine include drowsiness, dizziness, loss of appetite, weight loss, collapse, or a rapid or slow heart rate. One of the most important side effects of the drug is low blood pressure or ‘Hypotension’ caused by increased dilation of arteries, resulting in depression, weakness or even fainting.

Fingers and paws crossed and prayers being said.

Glynda

[destinylee75]

Only a small update.... I just called b/c I can not sleep..

She is resting but her fever only decreased slightly.

xoxxoxox

[destinylee75]

What do you all think about the doseage instructions for Jersey's blood pressure medicine???

She weighs 113 pounds, and is on 2.5 mg TWO times a day Norvasc (generic Amlodipine)
Reading the dose instructions, I kind of think it should only be given one time a day! :confused::confused:

[Harley PoMMom]

Harley weighs only 24 lbs and is on 2.5 mg Norvasc (generic Amlodipine) BID and 2.5 benazepril SID.

With Harley I did have to adjust him slowly to these meds and dosages but I thought it was because he has kidney disease.

Although 130 is a really good number, with Jersery's blood pressure dropping from 200 to 130 so quick this may be what is making her feel somewhat lethargic.

Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Love and hugs,
Lori

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Destiny,

Oh honey, I hope Jersey is much improved this morning. What a scary nite! :( If she has to stay another day, you might take a shirt or blanket or something with familiar scents on it to put in Jersey's cage. Often this will help comfort our babies when they cannot be home.

Please let us know how things are going and know we are with you.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[destinylee75]

Hi Guys,
I just came home from visiting Jersey, she still has 105 fever...
Our vet believes she has Pneumonia, they took x-rays and there is alot of "gunk" in the lungs.
She never ever coughs, but is breathing very deeply.
They still have her on IV, with now two antibiotics.
The vet said he is not giving up on her because she is still alert yet. THANK GOD!
I found her to be alert, she was happy that I was there, she wanted me to pet her belly, she was even more excited when my husband arrived. I combed her for a while. We are going tonight at 6:00 when we can visit her again.
She is extreamely weak, she only walks a short distance and collapses. I do not have anymore details about her blood work other than what I posted eariler...
Blood pressure was 130, down fom last week of 200...we did start her on blood pressure medicine Monday night (Norvasc 2.5 mg 2 times a day)

RBC 5.43 range 5.5-8.5 Low

BUN 34mg/dL range 7-27 High

CREA 1.9 range .0 - 1.8 High

ALKP 1774 u/l range 23-212 High

GGT 12 u/l range 0-7 High

Glucose 124 range 60-115

I do not like that the red blood cound dropped and the liver went so high, Please continue your prayers for my Jersey girl...Thank you all from the bottom of my heart...

I can not understand how Tuesday night she was actually playing and so full of life..even Wednesday morning she was fine...by Wednesday night (last night) she was so so so sick....It all happened so quickly.

[Harley PoMMom]

Tons of prayers being sent and said for sweet Jersey. Hope she is feeling better soon. Here is an article on Pneumonitis & Pneumonia (Infection/Inflammation) in Dogs: http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2096&aid=339

Love and big hugs,
Lori

[destinylee75]

Hi Lori and all...
As of 9:30 last night her fever was 103.9 when I called at 3:30 it was at 102.7.
She was alert last night, still very very weak. She was so happy to see us, she drank water but did not eat for us. Keep her in your prayers please. xoxoxo
Destiny

[destinylee75]

Now her fever is up again 104, it went down last night b/c they gave her cortisol.

Her lungs are getting filled with fluid.

They drained them and sent a sample out to a lab. We should get the results tomorrow.

She can not walk at all.

They still have her on two antiobiotics and iv fluid.

Now her kidneys are not producing enought urine as they should be.
They took tests and her kidney levals are rising. They just started medicine for this.

They tell me there is still hope, I am not giving up...Love to you all.

xoxxoox

[lulusmom]

Hi Destiny,

I am saying lots of prayers for you and your girl. Prayers are powerful and I believe they can make a difference.

Hugs,
Glynda

[Harley PoMMom]

Sending hugs, healing energy and keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers...we are not giving up either.

With much love and big hugs,
Lori

[destinylee75]

Thank you both...has this happened with others that you know of?

What was the outcome with them??

[lulusmom]

Hi again.

Years ago, I had a little Maltese who collapsed on the groomer's table. This came out of nowhere and she was as ill as I've ever seen a dog. She was a very delicate 4 lbs and I was terrified. After much testing, she was eventually diagnosed with hepatitis. She spent several days in the hospital and fought like crazy to live. I'll always be grateful to God and the vet for saving her life. Three years later I lost her to sudden and total kidney failure. They couldn't save her that time.

It sounds like Jersey is very, very ill but if your vet said there's still hope, then you keep thinking positive thoughts and praying and we'll do the same.

Glynda

[destinylee75]

ok...I know....I will. thank youxoxoxox

[destinylee75]

Jersey is now getting Oxygen
We were only able to visit with her for five minutes, she was alert and happy to see us. Her fever was still 104 xoxoxox

[Harley PoMMom]

When you see sweet Jersey next time give her some gentle hugs and kisses from me and my boy, Harley. Were you able to take a piece of clothing in of yours to her, so she has something of your scent?

Love and hugs,
Lori

[destinylee75]

Lori and Harley,
I will, thank you...I can not wait until tomorrow to see her...
We did bring two shirts, however they do not have it in by her with the oxygen:(
Goodnight, thank you for your support. xoxoxo
Love, Destiny

[Sabre's Mum]

Destiny

My thoughts are always with you and Jersey. Big hugs to both of you.

Angela and Flynn

[destinylee75]

X-rays are showing more bacteria around Jersey's lungs. More fluid build up today. She is still on oxygen. We are waiting for lab results to show which antibiotic that she must get next. Her fever has come down. She's looking better however her lab results (kidneys) are getting worse.WE ARE STAYING POSITIVE & PRAYING xoxo

[SachiMom]

Sending a ton of healing thoughts and prayers for Jersey.

Hang in there and stay positive.
Hugs ~ Mary Ann

[Casey's Mom]

Destiny I am sending lots of love and healing prayers for Jersey - I hope and pray for a better tomorrow.

Love and many hugs,

[Harley PoMMom]

She's looking better however her lab results (kidneys) are getting worse.WE ARE STAYING POSITIVE & PRAYING xoxo
Could you post her kidney values here, please. Are they giving her fluids?

Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Love and big hugs,
Lori

[Truffa's Mom]

Sending lots of prayers and healing thoughts to Jersey.

[destinylee75]

Jersey passed away.
xoxo

[Wolfpak]

Oh no! Lord knows you did everything you possibly could have for her. I'm just so terribly awfully sorry. Deepest condolences for your tragic loss of your beloved fur-baby, Jersey.
Bless you

[Spiceysmum]

So sorry to hear that Jersey has passed away, My thoughts are with you.

Linda

[Squirt's Mom]

Dear Destiny,

I am so, so sorry to hear that sweet Jersey could not overcome this latest challenge. I know you are devastated and my heart breaks for you.

Please don't let yourself think you failed Jersey in some way - you did not. You gave her your all and she knows that. Today Jersey is strong once again and she will be watching over you with the same love and devotion you showed to her until you are together once again.

Please know that we are here for you anytime.

Our deepest sympathies,
Leslie, Squirt, Trinket, and our Angels, Ruby and Crystal

[Tobias]

Hi: I have never posted on this thread before but have been reading along and silently sending you support and understanding. Losing Jersey has to be so devastating......you just wrapped your love around her in a way I could just feel in these posts. In all the final moments that came before her passing she felt this love and that it was the most powerful "send off" you could have given her. She was here for such a short time, it seems, yet she left having been very, very loved. I send you love and blessings and light, with a deep sense of gratitude that there are people who care so deeply. Linda and Toby

[bev]

So deeply sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Beverly

[Harley PoMMom]

Dear Destiny,

I am so, so sorry for the loss of your beloved Jersey. I know there are no words to comfort you at this most painful time but know that we are here for you and do understand what you are going through.

Godspeed Jersey.

With Heartfelt Sympathy,
Lori

[Sabre's Mum]

Oh Destiny ... I am sorry to hear of the loss of your dear Jersey. My thoughts are with you.

Take care
Angela and Flynn

[lulusmom]

Destiny, I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time.

Godspeed sweet Jersey.

(((((Big Consoling Cyberhugs))))
Glynda

[frijole]

Dear Destiny, I was sick the last few days so am just learning what all went on this week. I am so sorry. Jersey was very loved and well cared for and just know that she knew that. You did everything you possibly could. I wish I could heal your pain. Take it slow and when you are up to it let us know how you are. RIP dearest Jersey. Kim

[littleone1]

Destiny, I am so sorry to hear about Jersey. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Hugs,

Terri

[destinylee75]

Hi all,
I am so depressed, I did this to her...I should have never started the Lysodren treatment, deep in my heart I did not want to do it.
I am always eating organic, I use organic bath soap etc. I would never put myself thru any kind of Chemo..(I believe in the Gersen Therapy)
I can not believe I did this to her, I am so upset.
I thank you all for everything.
I'll be in touch, I am just lost.
God Bless and much love,
Destiny

[Harley PoMMom]

Dear sweet Destiny,

You did NOT do this to Jersey so get that thought out of your head. The only thing you did was love her deeply and try everything humanly possible to make her better...that is all we can do.

You were a devoted mom to Jersey and everyone could see that. There is no place for this guilt you are carrying because you did nothing and I mean you did NOTHING wrong. Please talk to us, we do understand and we love you.

Love and big hugs,
Lori

[addy]

Maybe, no matter what we do or our best efforts, maybe sometimes, it is just their time to leave us. I cannot imagine the grief and shock you must be in, but it is that very grief and shock that has you thinking you are to blame somehow. You are not. Please know that. Your effort for Jersey could not have been greater, or more loving and caring.

My heart goes out to you for the terrible ordeal you have been through. I cry for Jersey and shed tears for you as well. I pray you will find peace as you work through your grief.

I am so very, very sorry Destiny.

Love,
Addy

[Roxee's Dad]

Dear Destiny,

I am so very sorry for your loss. Rest in Peace Sweet Jersey, you are our newest and brightest star in the sky.

[destinylee75]

Thank you all as always, I love you all.
xoxoxo I (we) will get thru this...thank you all for your support!
xoxoxxo
Destiny, Chris, Kayla Lee-Ann, Odin, Jax and Angel Jersey

[Wolfpak]

Destiny,
Assuredly you did everything in your power, and with expert veterinary advice and assistance!
Regardless of the source, steroids suppress the immune system, Jersey's own body was producing way too much.... she contracted pneumonia, and likely the lysodren did nothing to contribute to the pneumonia.

One of my dogs needed huge steroid doses to overcome life threatening pulmonary inflammation... she then almost died of severe pyometritis (a rescue who had given birth recently) uterine infection, after barely surviving the lung crisis. The vet said that if she developed pneumonia, there would be no hope for her. We were simply lucky that she didn't.

What I'm trying to emphasize is it's the massive amounts of steroids circulating in Jersey's system, that you tried so hard to STOP with the lysodren, that suppressed her immune system, and likely led to pneumonia. Please don't blame yourself for her getting sick... you did everything possible, getting the best care imaginable. Destiny, you're to be commended for going above and beyond in caring for your dear Jersey.
Its so very difficult and shocking to lose a beloved fur-baby, we always wish we'd done something differently, or done more. But have peace knowing there truly wasn't anything more you could have done. You are a wonderful Mama to her to have treasured her as you did! My heart goes out to you and your family.
Penny's Mom

[zoesmom]

Destiny -

I am so sorry to read about Jersey. Do not blame yourself. You did all the right things but sometimes, their fate is simply out of our hands. I don't think it had anything to do with the lysodren but rather with the severe case of pneumonia. RIP sweet girl. Sue

[Tobias]

Hi destiny and thank you wolfpack for this post. I did not understand about the pneumonia and the steroids/hypercorticism making it more likely because of immunosupression. I have just been chewing on my fingernails because I thought maybe Toby should not start lyso (which he is scheduled to do soon)...I read the entire thread all over again for clues as to what happened, trying to learn. Destiny and Jersey have already taught me so much and now you have added. To Destiny I say love and blessings, and may the healing come that you were the most wonderful guardian a dog could hope to have. Jersey Shine on and light Destiny's way....hugs and love to all from Linda and Toby.

[destinylee75]

Thank you all so much...there are some who sware (and evidence that proves) that Lysodren helps.....ALL I CAN SAY IS FOLLOW YOUR HEART. If you have any doubt, don't do it, or wait a little longer. I truly wish I could turn back time and listen to my heart. xoxoxo I really wish I didn't start it, I had doubt in the beginning...

[missbeagle]

Destiny,

I am truly sorry for your loss of your sweet, beloved Jersey.

You might want to check out www.petloss.com
Monday is the night for the candle lighting ceremony .... you might
want to consider participating.

May God and doG bless you and your family now.

Gretchen and Rusty
Wilmington, NC

[destinylee75]

Thank you so much, I am taking it really hard. xoxoxo

[Casey's Mom]

Destiny - I am so sorry for your loss of Jersey. May her light shine down on you now to help you deal with her loss.

Love and many hugs,

[k9diabetes]

I am sorry to know that Jersey has passed away.

A friend of mine last week lost her dog, who was apparently healthy on Saturday. Sunday morning she seemed ill and very early Monday morning she passed away... They don't know what happened to her, perhaps a heart problem. But she showed no symptoms prior to the last 36 hours.

I don't believe that you did any of this to her. She was a very sick girl and you did whatever you could to help her. And you adored her, which means that her time here on earth was the best it could be.

With deep sympathy,

Natalie

[bgdavis]

So very sorry that Jersey didn't make it. You did everything you possibly could for her. Carry her always in your heart.

Bonnie and Angel Criss

[destinylee75]

Thank you all so much, today it snowed at my house about 10 inches. I can just see Jersey playing and running all around...she loved to get covered in snow.
My little girl is asking about her, I keep saying she is in our hearts and up in Heaven. She looks puzzled, but than she places her hand over my heart and my husbands heart and than finally hers and smiles.
We will get thru this, it just really hurts....I see her everywhere, she is everywhere. I love you all...thank you so much for everything.
xoxoxo

[addy]

You have lost a member of your family. The grief is real and deep. It hurts. Destiny, you can come here as often as you need to; to ask for a hug, to tell us a memory, to vent, whatever your grief may need. We are here always for you.

Did Jersey eat the snow? I bet she liked to bury her nose in it. I had a German Shepard while growing up. We called her Snow Girl. She would even roll in it.

One day your precious memory will bring you joy. Jersey lives forever in your heart and is part of your soul. She is a part of your very being. That is why it hurts so bad now.

Love,
Addy

[destinylee75]

Hi Addy,
Yes!! Jersey loved snow, we were bringing it to her when she is in the hospital. She used to love just to lay outside and have the snow fall on her...

We cremated her, and I just ordered a beautiful necklace to place some of her ashes in. I am still so sick, so lost...she was my Jersey girl!! She would have been 6 in three days...her birthday is on the 24th...my birthday is on the 25...it sucks!!

xoxoxox

[makita1996]

Hi Destiny,
So sorry to hear of your loss..... such beautiful stories, especially of the snow... Makita loved the snow as well... we loved it when it snowed b/c it was like she was a puppy again, that she was not sick or arthritic... I also had Makita cremated and ordered a sterling silver floating heart necklace that I can place some of her cremains in... thank you for sharing your stories and your heartache...it has helped me in so many ways to work through the grieving process and to know that I am not alone.... sending a big hug to you and your family.....

[destinylee75]

You are not alone, God bless you also. I am so sorry for your loss.

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal...
Love leaves a memory no one can steal...
When something you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.. ~Author Unknown xoxoxo

[Truffa's Mom]

Every tear that you are shedding today is your pain trying to get out of your aching heart, so let it flow, because I assure you that Jersey is in your heart already mending your soul and forever she will be there, using her new angel’s wings to soothe you in any way she can. She is with you; her love is imprinted in your heart and spirit from the next second your lives crossed each other’s.

“Another soul has left us
Another Angel born
Another spirit to love and guide us
But yet another heart is torn.
A mother gave a present, a set of Angel's wings”

So Destiny, if you can listen behind the pain and the uninvited guilt, listen to your heart, because Jersey is there, she always has and she always will. She knows that all you did was because you loved her, and all she felt and heard all her life was YOUR HEART telling her and showing her how much you adored her, treasured her, respected her and cared for her, and for that she was very blessed.

So please close your door to that ugly feeling of guilt, it serves no purpose, it will only pray on your sorrow, and I am pretty sure that Jersey wouldn’t want her mom to suffer more during this painful time.

I know how broken your heart might feel right now, It is so hard to loose our furbabies, but they have to go, I don’t understand why their stay with us is so short, I don’t know how hard this journey is going to be for you, the only thing I know is that thanks to Jersey you are now surrounded by wonderful people here a K9Cushings, and for sure outside this forum, that will listen to you, and support you in whatever manner you need.

My prayers and thoughts will be with you and your family during this difficult time. I’ll go tonight to the Monday’s Candle Ceremony, I often go to commemorate my baby’s life (Truffa), she is at the Rainbow Bridge and I always tell her about the new babies that will be arriving to their forever home, she is an excellent host so probably she already offered Jersey a big cup of chicken soup and a mango lollipop, her favorites.

If you are up to, you can go to http://rainbowsbridge.com/Candlelighting_Tribute/default.htm (http://rainbowsbridge.com/Candlelighting_Tribute/default.htm),
Or http://petloss.com/newchat.htm (http://petloss.com/newchat.htm)

Tons of healing thoughts and loving hugs to you. Godspeed sweet Jersey girl, I think it is you sending those beaatiful flakes to your mommy's house, please keep shaking those beatiful fluffy clouds to let your mom know that now you are whole again.
When Tomorrow Starts Without Me

I know how much you love me,
As much as I love you,
And each time that you think of me,
I know you'll miss me too.
But when tomorrow starts without me.
Please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name
And petted me with her hand.
She said my place was ready,
In Heaven far above,
And that I'd have to leave behind
All those I dearly love.
But, as I turned to heel away,
A tear fell from my eye,
For all my life I never thought
That I would have to die.
I had so much to live for,
So many sits and downs to do,
It seemed almost impossible,
That I was leaving you.
I thought about our lives together,
I know you must be sad,
I thought of all the love we shared,
And all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday,
Just even for awhile,
I'd wag my tail and kiss you,
Just so I could see you smile

For every time you think of me,
I'm right there, in your heart For every time you think of me,
I'm right there, in your heart

[destinylee75]

Marcela,
I thank you so much for your beautiful message to me, it means so much. Thank you thank you thank you...with time I know it will ease, I am just so upset. But with your kind words, I will be guided without guilt, in time. I just can not get over, just how good she looked hours before she died. It is sooo sad.

This I will say over and over...

"So please close your door to that ugly feeling of guilt, it serves no purpose, it will only pray on your sorrow, and I am pretty sure that Jersey wouldn’t want her mom to suffer more during this painful time."

xoxoxo
Destiny

By the way, we did light a candle for our Jersey girl xoxoxo

[apollo6]

Destiny
I am so sorry to hear about your lose. Know you did everything you could for your baby.
You are in my prayers
Hugs Sonja and Apollo

[Wolfpak]

Dear Destiny,
Your dear Jersey lived and passed knowing your love. It is a blessing that she was "good" up until shortly before she passed. She rested securely in your love!
Pneumonia can be like that. Really, you did NOTHING to make her come down with it. Its a function of the immunosupression caused by Cushing's, not by the treatment!

Yes, her life was cut way too short! Only 5 years.... that is simply not nearly enough time. But what a blessing to have known love your love and kindness for that time!
Truly, our beloved furbabies - your Jerseygirl - is forever with you in your heart! Be kind to yourself; that is what she would have wanted!
Take good care,
Penny's Mom

[jrepac]

So sorry to hear of Jersey's passing...way too young :(

But, as the others have said, the lysodren likely did not cause the lung problems....Cushings disease weakens the immune system, period. If it was a problem w/the lysodren, you would have been dealing w/a much different kind of situation.

I am sure that you fought hard for Jersey...sometimes these things happen quickly and unexpectedly. My baby was sick w/a cough a week before she passed away; I regretted not bringing her in to the vet since she seemed to be recovering fine. You just can't predict these sorts of things. It's very hard. Be easy on yourself.

Jeff & Angel Mandy

[caroleh]

Hello Destiny: I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your precious Jersey. I recently lost my little Schnauzer and although we have nine other rescue dogs Fritz was just plain special. He was like velcro when it came to his mommie. And even when he wasn't feeling well he still managed to mount the stairs to be with me. I just couldn't believe it when we lost him. I just didn't think it was time for him to leave me. The tears flowed and flowed and then I started looking into Petfinders within my area. I asked my husband what he thought about my adopting a rescue Schnauzer in Fritz's memory. He told me to do whatever would make me happy. We had rescued Fritz and I just knew he would want me to rescue another baby needing a loving family. I saw this Schnauzer on Petfinder and his little "foo foo" face grabbed my heart. His owner was having to let him go cause at 86 she couldn't keep up with him. My hubby and I are retired and I have to laugh at what a hard time Petfinders gave me cause I wanted to adopt this year and a half old dog. They were certain I would "croak" and then Teddy wouldn't have anyone to take care of him. Several people told me I should sue them for discrimination cause they sure read me the roit act about my age. It got downright unbelievable. This one particular woman finally relented and we adopted Teddy. He has a home full of love and is absolutely having the time of his life with our inside Beagle and five cats. He is in heaven.

What I originally wanted to say to you Destiny before I got carried away. Why not think about adopting a dog in Jersey's memory. That way you will save a life and your family will have another wonderful furry friend to love. Your little daughter will be delighted. At first I personally thought that wasn't the best idea in the world but after looking at all of the beautiful faces on Petfinder I was hooked. Just go to Petfinder.com and look for the dog you are interested in in your area. I wish you and your family the best and I am so very sorry about Jersey.

Carole

[destinylee75]

Happy Happy Birthday to my sweet Jersey...she would have been 6 today...xoxoxo

[Harley PoMMom]

Happy Birthday, sweet Jersey. Big hugs to you, Destiny.

Love and more hugs,
Lori

[labblab]

Such a bittersweet day, but hopefully your sweet memories will be the ones that fill your heart.

Destiny, thank you so much for allowing us to join you today in celebrating Jersey's life and spirit.

With many hugs,
Marianne

[destinylee75]

Thank you both so much!! I just can not believe she would have been six today!! I can "feel" that she is all around me, that is what keeps me going thru the day. xoxoxo

[labblab]

Destiny, you may already know about our special candle-lighting site, but I've just been there now to light a birthday candle for Jersey girl. If you should wish to light one, too, I feel certain she'll see the glow of our candles from her party at The Bridge...:o

http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=517

Marianne

[destinylee75]

Thank you Marianne, thank you so much xoxoxo

[Sabre's Mum]

I just wanted to say a big happy birthday to you Destiny! Hugs from me to you.

Take care
Angela and Flynn

[destinylee75]

Thank you xoxoxo

[maish costello]

Destiny,

I just read...............sending you hugs.........xoxo

[destinylee75]

Maish,
Thank you...it hurts so bad, cherish every moment...Love you! Yesterday was Jersey's 6th birthday, today is mine..I am usually so happy...now just so sad & depressed.
xoxoxo
Destiny

[frijole]

Destiny, Sending you strength and love for your birthday. xoxo Kim

[destinylee75]

Kim,
Thank you...xoxoxo
I am going to be positive!!
Destiny

[addy]

Thinking of you and wishing you a belated Happy Birthday.

Love,
Addy