Pip collie lab x cushings arthritis

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

I'm happy to hear that Pip is doing well aside from his arthritis. Tell him that his Auntie Glynda understands how much arthritis hurts, especially when it is damp outside.

The increase in appetite and peeing sounds like Pip's cortisol may be on the rise. You may want to call your vet to see if she wants him to come in for another stim test before your December 7th appointment....that is if your pocketbook can take it. :D

Hugs,
Glynda

[labblab]

Hi Julie,

I am just picturing Pip enjoying the fireworks! :)

You are so lucky, as I know you know, since so many doggies HATE fireworks (mine included!). As Glynda has said, perhaps you'll want to move up his appointment in the event that his peeing and his appetite continue to increase. He surely does keep you on a roller-coaster, doesn't he -- up and down, up and down. But he is more than worth it. He is such a dear boy.

Please keep us updated as to how things are going,
Marianne

[JHP]

Just to update alls well with pip nothing bad to report he is due for his acth stim on the 7th december
julie pip

[labblab]

YAY!!! :) :) :)

This is the kind of report that cheers us all! We'll we waiting along with you for Pip's test results in December.

Marianne

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

Thanks for the update. Very glad all still is well with Pip. He (and you) certainly deserve a huge break after all he's been through.

Good luck with his soon to come ACTH testing and hope all is within range. I'll be looking forward to celebrating Pip's birthday next month! :D

Louise

[Squirt's Mom]

Hey Julie! :D

Good to hear from you and Pip! And especially good to hear that he is doing well! :D I hope you are as well. ;)

Let us know how the ACTH goes, 'k?

Big hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

If you go on.dip your paws. website there is 1 picture of Pip on the section more photos just thought i would let you know he also is smiling
Julie

[lulusmom]

I just saw Pip on Dip Your Paws and loved it. Thanks for letting us know. Here is a link to the page where members can find Pip's picture.

http://www.dipyourpaws.co.uk/more_photos_12.html

[Roxee's Dad]

Just checked it out and Pip looks like a happy boy. :D:D:D

also liked the little guy at the bottom of the page floating on his back, he's thinking life is good. :D I don't think he's considering changing any lightbulbs.:)

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

Thanks for sharing this. Pip does look like he's enjoying himself. Loved that big smile!

Louise

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Loved the pic of our Pip swimming his heart out and grinnin' from ear to ear! Thanks so much for sharing with us!

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Hi

Pip is doing ok,i've notice over the last few days he's appetite has increased alot nothing else just his appetite although with it being cold and damp is effecting him a bit and he slowed down alot which i expect that after all he needs his hips replacing and but his not in any pain. i'm glad you liked the picture altough it was only one i was very proud mum every week as he such a strong swimmer,and really enjoyed himself.he also being a very protective boy of me at the moment as i'm not to good .although i've just bought a new bed and guess who won't stay of i notice he can be sat on the sofa then he disappears and i know exactly how where he is stetched out on my bed looks so cute.how can i tell him of (which i don't do anyway as hes the perfect)
sorry for going on again
Julie Pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Please take care of yourself! You are so very special.

I am glad that Pip is continuing to do well and hope it holds for a long time!

You have every right to be a proud mom! Pip is a wonderful boy and I know he is proud of you, too!

Hugs and love,
Leslie and the girls

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

I sure hope you'll be feeling better soon. Some days my appetite is bigger than others and although I'm just guessing, maybe it's the same for Pip too since he remains well otherwise?? I know if you see something that is consistently out of whack you'll review it with Pip's doctor as you take very good care of your boy.

Enjoy your new bed! Sounds like Pip already is. ;) My Munchie also has his place on my bed too. There's many a time I wake up and have to physically move him as I'm the one hanging off the edge of the bed and he's comfortably stretched out, head on the pillow and all. It's ok with me though. What we don't do for our furkids! :D

Louise

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

he is due for his acth stim on the 7th december
julie pip

Hi Julie,

I know Pip was due for a stim test last week and was looking for an update. Hope he is doing well. Take a peek at Pip's birthday thread over on the "Everything Else" forum. Lots of birthday wishes for your boy. :D

Louise

[Squirt's Mom]

Julie, honey, are you ok? Please let us hear from you when you can. I miss hearing from you and about Pip.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Hi sorry i've not updated lately i've been very ill
THANK YOU FOR YOU BIRTHDAY MESSAGES I'VE POSTED MY REPLY'

Now Pip went for his acth stim test and his levels have come a back a little low so we are stopping his vetoryl for 7 days and restarting him back on vetoryl 10mg twice a day from this saturday.
We are also going to do another acth stim on tuseday 29th dec and the result should be back the next day
my vet has only given us enough vetoryl 10mg for 15 days and depending on the results wether or not he stays on the 10mg or we increase him back to 30mg (hope this bit makes sense)
Julie Pip

[JHP]

Just to let you know Pip is sort of ok without his medication,He will restart vetoryl 10mg 2 aday this saturday.And he will have his acth stim on the 29th dec.
Well Pip had a nasty fall in the middle of the night.He fell down the stairs.and he could'nt get up. today he is limping very badly and has been crying and whimpering all day.i'm also guessing that his limping is also because its very cold and snowing here.I've checked him over and he's very sore around his hips and also on his front wrist.
Pip is on tramadol 50mg 3 twice aday zubrin 200mg 1 tablet aday zubrin 100mg 1 half tablet aday also 3 seraquin My vet has already told me that they can't him anything else so i just have to grin and bear it.
Merry Christmas to you all
From
Julie Pip

[littleone1]

I hope Pip will be okay, Julie. I'm sure he's sore from the fall. Hopefully he didn't break any bones. It's hard when they can't tell you what's wrong. Please keep us posted as to how he is doing.

[labblab]

Julie, I'm so sorry that you've been ill, and that Pip is hurting from his fall. I hope you'll both be on the mend before long. Thanks for updating us, and I hope you both will be feeling much better and can enjoy a very Merry Christmas, as well!

With my warm wishes always,
Marianne

[JHP]

Hi

Hope you all had a good christmas.
Pip has not been very well over christmas he. is in alot of pain with his hips and shoulder.he pain medication doesn't seem to be working and there nothing else he can have ,he has also been vomiting which i found out today this is due to all the medication he's on.and also because of the pain he's in.but its been very cold and snowing here so that will effect him(he's been crying in pain and even gone for me a few times. but then he crys and whimpers if i not near him so i sat beside him and held his paw until he's fallen sleep and just held him so he knew i was there.
Pip went for his acth stim today the results should be back tomorrow i've enough vetoryl until friday if the results are not back by thursday then i have to call them for more vetoryl until the results are back in tbe new year,
While they had Pip and him nit feeling so well the did a diagnostic profile plus(Ca. Chol, K TBili)13 test in total vetscan everything is ok except his LIVER ENZYMES are raised but have come down slightly from last so they are not worried the vet said this is due to him having cushings .
Julie Pip

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
I am so sorry Pip is not feeling well. Maybe ask the vet if a heating pad will help ease his pain? Some years ago I purchased a canine heating pad I had to use for my Bailee. I put it underneath a folded up blanket and he liked to lay on it during the cold months. Not sure how it would work for Pip with the cushings's and looking for cool surfaces to lay on.

Hope he feels better soon.

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I hate that Pip isn't feeling well. Vomiting in our pups always scares the crap outta me! :eek: Poor fella...not feeling well again. :( That cold and wet can really make arthritis much more painful. I wish I had a sure-fire way to make him more comfortable but I don't. Have you tried a doggy heating pad for him to lay on? That might give him some temporary relief from time to time any way.

How are you doing, sweetie? I hope you are feeling better than last time. Did you, Pip, and your family have a good Christmas?

Give Twinkletoes a kiss from me!
Hugs and love,
Leslie and the girls - always

[JHP]

Just to let you know Pip is feeling very sorry for himself.With being in pain.My vet called today with his acth results which in 53 and the range is 50 sorry nothing else except that but i have to collect all his medication tomorrow so will find out more figures then. .We are keeping Pip on Vetoryl 10mg 2 daily then we will retest him in 1 months times.Also my vet has advise me not to walk Pip until this cold snap is over,with his hips and legs being so painful.i said that i've left that if he wants to go i'll take .but she said just let him potter in the garden. also his stomach is still playing up which is caused by his pain relief medication i have to carry on giving him Antepsin, and Canikur Pro paste but if his stomach doesn't seem to ease up i have to let my vet known.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL
Julie Pip

[littleone1]

Hi Julie,

I'm so sorry that Pip is in such pain. I hope that something can be that will help ease the pain.

Terri

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

So sorry to hear that Pip is in pain again and the meds are causing him tummy difficulties. Poor boy!

Give him a big hug and some get well New Year smoochies from me.

Louise

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Poor Pip....:( If it's not one thing it's another. Bless his heart! Are you still able to use the freeze spray on him? Or has that stopped working? I wish I knew a magic potion that would ease his pain and let him enjoy life again but I don't. There are supplements that can help but it seems like those are regulated over there (?). Like glucosamine/condroitin (combined or separate) and Omega-3 fish oils, but it could take some time to really see any benefit. Have you asked your vet about an anti-inflammatory for Pip, or is he already on one? You might ask your vet about heat and cold therapy; you would use hot towels or heating pad followed by icing the areas of pain. I've not tried it yet but it may be something I will try with Crys in the future.

I still wish you were closer, Julie. Sending you bunches of hugs and love across the pond anyway! :)

Leslie and the girls - always

[JHP]

Hi Lesile,
Yes Pip is on on 3 seraquin a day which has glucosamine/chodrotin
he is also on Zubrin 200mg 1 daily, Zubrin 100mg 1 and HALF TABLETS A DAY i don't have to worry with these as these tablets dissolve on his tongue within 20 seconds,He is also on Tramadol 50mg 3 tablets twice a day.

He is really feeling sorry for himself with not being able to go for his walks as he is so use to having 2 walks a day and we are only on day 3, he keeps bringing me his lead to take him out so now i've put them away as not to upset .
I've also bought him some mind games and puzzles so that he really has to think and keep his brain active with him not being allowed to chase his squeaky toys either .and hes really is a clever a boy as he seems to crack it all the time but i've also got him these to stop him getting bored(if that makes sense)he may be getting old but his brain still works even though we are at that ageing process.
See he loves the snow and playing and also rolling in the snow but all his fun is BANNED now until at least the end march when it starts to get warmer and we can resume his walks and fun again
Julie Pip

[JHP]

Just to update you
I've had Pip at the vets today as Pip is having alot of falls and stumbles this is due to Pip being stiff .He has to be on a lead in the garden just long enough for him to do his business until this cold weather is over,I also have to keep him warm and reduce his food as he's not getting the exercise (as though i didn't already know that.)
We are keeping him on Zubrin 200mg and Zubrin 100mg .But i have to give him his Zubrin first then 2 to 4 hours later i have to give him his tramadol but make sure there is 12 hrs apart from his 2nd dosage of tramadol.
The vet said that when Pip is due for his next lot of medication we can try him on ONSIOR but he would only give him enough for 2 weeks and if that didn't work he would try him on the new pain relief injection that last for 4 weeks (i told him i wasn't very happy about that but he told me not to dismiss as i've read alot about this new drug and im just not happy with giving him it)sorry i don't know the name its TRI something all i know is that its not long come on the market towards the last few months of last year.
I really don't want to change his medication and i definatly don't want to have this injection that last for 4 weeks .
so what i've done is made appointment with my normal vet on 25th Jan just before he has his acth stim to discuss this matter as i'm so worried about this new monthly injection and the onsior medication.

have any of you tried either the onsior medication/ or the new monthly injection pain relief
i would be very grateful for any advice on this matter especially the monthly injection pain relief
Julie Pip

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi Julie,


My vet called today with his acth results which in 53 and the range is 50 sorry nothing else except that but i have to collect all his medication tomorrow so will find out more figures then. .We are keeping Pip on Vetoryl 10mg 2 daily then we will retest him in 1 months times. Julie Pip


According to the U.S. Dechra's Product Insert a dog's post cortisol level should be between 40 to 150 nmol/L and a dog's post cortisol level can reach 250 nmol/L as long as clinical signs are controlled.

http://www.dechra-us.com/File/prod_vetyrol.pdf

Now this is just a thought on my part and hopefully the others will join in with their opinions as well, but maybe if your vet would let Pip's cortisol run a bit higher than probably this would help his pain.

Will be keeping you and Pip in my thoughts and prayers.

Love and hugs,
Lori

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Sweetie,

Is this the injection the vet is wanting to use on Pip? Triamcinolone Acetonide Injection?

Here are some links I found about it, if so. The last two say not to use it in Cushing's dogs so if this is it, I would be very hesitant to allow it's use.

Triamcinolone Acetonide Injection:

http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/Products/ApprovedAnimalDrugProducts/FOIADrugSummaries/ucm111223.htm

http://www.petplace.com/drug-library/triamcinolone-acetonide-vetalog-panalog/page1.aspx

http://www.drugs.com/vet/vetalog-parenteral-veterinary.html


Something you might want to ask about, if you haven't already, is Adequan for Pip's pain. It is also an injection but it is primarily glucosamin, Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan.

Adequan:

http://www.drugs.com/vet/adequan-canine.html

http://www.luitpold.com/canine/faq/faq.htm

http://www.vetinfo.com/adequan-side-effects.html

http://www.caberfeidh.com/Adequan.htm

If the Triamcinolone Acetonide isn't what the vet is talking about, let me know and I will look some more! :)

Big hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[acushdogsmom]

Hi Sweetie,

Is this the injection the vet is wanting to use on Pip? Triamcinolone Acetonide Injection?

Here are some links I found about it, if so. The last two say not to use it in Cushing's dogs so if this is it, I would be very hesitant to allow it's use.Just a quick reply to note that sometimes there are medications that are "not recommended for dogs with Cushing's" only because they contain steroids.

In a Cushing's dog, since the main goal of the treatment is to lower cortisol (which is a steroid) production, we wouldn't usually want to put any extra steroid into their bodies. But in certain circumstances, even though our dogs do have Cushing's, it may be reasonable and acceptable to use a medication that does contain some steroid.

So if the Vet thinks that this med is something that will help Pip to feel better, even though it may be something that isn't usually recommended for Cushing's dogs, it may be just the right thing for Pip.

According to the U.S. Dechra's Product Insert a dog's post cortisol level should be between 40 to 150 nmol/L and a dog's post cortisol level can reach 250 nmol/L as long as clinical signs are controlled.

Now this is just a thought on my part and hopefully the others will join in with their opinions as well, but maybe if your vet would let Pip's cortisol run a bit higher, this would help his pain.I agree with Lori. In dogs who are older especially, it is acceptable sometimes to allow their cortisol production to run a bit higher than we would usually want to see in a treated Cushing's dog, especially if allowing the cortisol to run a bit higher gives the dog some relief from pain or just makes them feel better overall.

We don't want to get so focused on keeping the numbers at a certain particularly low level that we forget about what is also one of the main treatment goals - which is to have the dog feeling well. And if letting Pip's cortisol run a bit higher than the "ideal goal of treatment level" helps him to feel better, I'd say that's the more important thing.

[JHP]

Pip is doing ok, he is now settled with just his garden exercise .
the only thing that he gets very hungry between 7pm and 8.30pm but i don't want to give him anything because of his weight i've had to cut his daily allowance of food with not being able to go for walks but i'm trying to fill him up with fresh veg.(as the way i'm looking at it if he doesn't eat the veg then he's not really hungry although he would eat something else you put down ) i've got to be very firm and strict with him
even though that makes me evil in his eyes
Julie Pip

[JHP]

just a quick update
Pip is due at the vets next monday for his ACTH STIM TEST
We have an appointment before his test to discuss his pain relief and i've also asked them to trim his front claws as they are very long i tried to do them but he wont let me.
Also he won't let me groom him anymore ever time i try he goes crazy and he really loved his grooming session and would let me groom him for hours but the withers his legs and the fur on his chest look really bad and they are the partsd with the most lonest hair on so if i'm not careful i will get very matted and knotted .
Julie Pip

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

Thanks for your updates on Pip. I'm glad he's doing ok and has adjusted to his limited exercise in the garden. Hope your vet will be able to come up with something for Pip's pain relief.

Will be looking for another update after Pip's appointment and ACTH next Monday. :D

Louise

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

My Jojo has fur that will mat too if I don't get him groomed. He's a little turd with a real attitude when you try to brush his haunches or anywhere around behind. I leave that job to the professionals because I'd like to keep my fingers. There is no way I would even attempt to cut the toenails as I have trouble doing my own. :D

I hope your vet can get Pip on an effective pain control regimen that will bring him some relief. Sounds like you could use some relief too. Poor babies. :( I'll be sending positive thoughts your way and will keeping you both in my prayers.

Glynda

[Squirt's Mom]

Mornin' Julie...well, it's morning here anyway! :)

I hope Pip's numbers come back good but most of all that your vet can help him with his pain level a bit more so that he is more comfortable.

I can trim Squirt's nails, but the more they are trimmed, the faster it seems they grow. It is a losing battle. I have seriously considered having her declawed - just don't know which would be worse on her at this point. :o:(

Maybe instead of a brush you could take a cloth or small towel that has some nap to it and rub Pip with it to help tame the hair. It would be like a massage to him, unless that would hurt him too much as well.

Please take care of yourself. Pip needs you, I need you, we all need you to be well and strong. You are just as important and special as Pip. Don't you forget it, either! ;)

Big hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[labblab]

Hi Julie,

Just wanted to say "hello" to you and Pip, and to let you know that I'll be watching for his ACTH results, too!

If Pip will let you, please give him some gentle hugs from his auntie Marianne, OK?

Best wishes always,
Marianne

[JHP]

Just to let update you.

Pip is doing ok although he is very hungry all the time but i dont think its is cushings ,
He went for his acth stim test yesterday, we also discussed his pain relief and we are keeping on what his on for now but if doesn't work our normal vet will decide were we go from then,
Pip has put a bit of weight although i've reduced his food with him not being able to go for a walk
But he is alot more happier in himself as we started going for walks again now the snow has gone we are back to 2 walks aday
Julie

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
That's good news :) I'm glad Pip is feeling better and he is happy that he get's to go for his walks.

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Good to hear that Pip is feeling better. I bet with his walks started up again, his appetite will go down a bit because he's not as bored for one thing. For another, the walks will help increase his metabolism.

It's also good to know that you are walking with him. That will do you both some good just to get out for a bit now and then.

Big hugs to you both,
Leslie and the girls - always

[lulusmom]

Yay, glad to hear Pip is enjoying his walks once again. I'm sure that makes your life much easier, Julie. Keep the good reports coming.

Hugs to you both,
Glynda

[JHP]

Update
Got Pips results from vet yesterday the vet said its very good news his levels are what they are meant to be so deos not need retesting now for 3 months he staying on vetoryl 10mg 2 daily
my normal vet is very happy with his results

[lulusmom]

YIPPEE for PIPPIE

[Roxee's Dad]

Great news Julie, Happy that Pip is doing better. :):):)

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Way to go Pip!!!

[Franklin'sMum]

WOO HOO PIP!

Jane and Franklin xx

[littleone1]

This is good news Julie. I'm glad that Pip is doing better.

Terri

[Squirt's Mom]

:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

Yipee for Twinkletoes!!

[ladysmom06]

Hi Julie,

GREAT NEWS!!!!!!! So happy:D:D to hear that Pip is doing better. He truly is amazing. Hugs to you and him.

[JHP]

JUST TO UPDATE YOU ON THE LATEST WITH MY BOY,

Well his in alot of a pain with his right hip leg knee ankle and his foot his ankle gets very swollen and wrinkley he is not sleeping just pacing up and down all the time .I took him to see our normal vet on monday morning He wasn't a very happy chappie with her either ,Any way my vet said the reason he's in pain and the ankle is swollen and wrinkley is because his bones are leaking fluid.So we had no chioce but to change his pain relief to ONSIOR 40MG along side his tramadol. She also gave him a VETERGESIC INJECTION. when we got home his tongue was just hanging out at the side of his mouth and wasn't responding to me(i called the vet to see if he was ok having the injection with tramadol as he was'nt on that medication when he had this injection before) it was any way he sleep all day monday till tuesday morning .I HAD TO CALL MY VET YESTERDAY LUNCHTIME TO UPDATE HER HOW PIP IS DOING at the moment he is still no better but its to early to know if the onsior will work as it takes 10 days to get in his system.I have to call her monday to let her know how he is doing.

If we go for a walk round the block Pip has gone from a very soft friendly kind dog to very aggressive with other dogs and people which i've also told my vet about the change in his behaviour
which i dont want him to be an aggressive pooch as hes not .
TODAY I TOLD HIM THAT HE'S OFFICALLY A DOG WITH AN a.s.b.o
(anti social behaviour order):(:(:(:(:(

Now regarding his foot i don't know whats wrong with it he deosn't have any cuts or sores nothing stuck in it to make it be so painful.i've even bathed his paw in case while we have been out something has aggravatedit but i can't find anything
so i'm at a total loss at the moment.
Julie Pip

[littleone1]

Hi Julie,

I'm so sorry to hear that Pip is in so much pain. I hope the new medication helps him. It would be so nice if they could talk so they could let us know exactly what was hurting.

You are in my thoughts.

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I was just wondering about you and Pip. Wish the news were better, tho. :( It breaks my heart to think of sweet Pip being in so much pain that he is getting grouchy, but pain will do that....to dogs and people! Just ask Jim....he can tell you that I can be very difficult when things are rough for me. :o

Hopefully the meds will give him enough relief that you will see your old sweet Twinkletoes again real soon. Please keep in touch and let us know how things are going for him....and you!

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[gpgscott]

Julie,

I am very sorry that there is no advice I can offer and hope this new medication brings Pip some relief.

Scott

[JHP]

Hi

Pip is getting there slowly, i had to put him back on his zubrin both strength's as he was just pacing all the time on onsior,I had to call my vet on monday to let her know how pips was doing over the weekend he was more settled and sleeping when i called her we've also got him wearing a BIO COLLAR ,my vet also said about a tens machine (a pain relief machine that gives out little pulses ) i bought him this on weds i have to call my vet tomorrow to let her know how he is doing and i will also find how out how this tens machine works. on pip as its a human pain relief machine and has sticky pads so i'm not sure if i have to shave his fur so its directly on his skin.
We are not going to put Pip throw any more x rays as its not fair to put him throw this as we know his hips are very bad and also his knees are bad so it not going to tell them anything they dont already know hes on pain relief my vet said clinically there nothing they can do.


I sometimes feel very sad and upset as we know pip needs his hips replacing and they won't do it yet there are a few of pips dog friend that are the same age as him and there hips are not as bad as pips that have had the hip replacements operation.
When my vet called to find out if they would do it she told him that he had cushings they said he would be a very high dependancy and the wieght thing is also a problem there is every chance the hips would'nt set and then there would'nt be nothing left for him
i will let you know what my vet says tomorrow,
Ju Pip

[BestBuddy]

Hi Julie,

Sorry to hear Pip is still having pain. I use a TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machine myself and it is good. It's like getting a tiny electric shock so I'm not sure how Pip will like it. Mine has the sticky pads too and I don't think they will stick on the fur because they need to fully contact with the skin.
Let us know how it goes.

Jenny

[gpgscott]

Julie,

My brother in law had a serious hand injury and was prescribed the same device.

It transmits signals that prevent pain from reaching the brain, and in his case it worked very well.

I hope it works as well for Pip.

Scott

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

I, too, am sorry that Pip is still battling pain problems. I am familiar with the TENS unit. Use one and it works for me so hope it will work for Pip. As Jenny said the electrodes do need to come into contact with the skin. I imagine your vet discussed the locations for placement with you so depending on how many electrodes you will be using on Pip and their size, he'll need to be minus some hair on those spots. If the strength of your machine can be adjusted, maybe you could start on the lower end and then increase. The machine does give a bit of a zap!

Hope Pip feels better and will be watching for your update tomorrow after you talk to Pip's vet. Give that handsome boy some soft caresses and a couple of smoochies from me.

Louise

[JHP]

spoke with my vet yesterday,
she said start Pip on the lowest settings for 5 mins then gradually increase him up to number 5 setting gradually increase the time to 10mins twice a day she advise me not to shave his fur where to place the pads she said they would be sticky pads and to put a crepe bandage round his waist so he can't get to the wires.she said it would feel very strange at first to pip.so she has told me to try on myself first so i know how it will feel for pip.
I have to take his bio collar of when using this machine as it will counteract with each other
i let you know how he likes it or not
julie

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

Hope all goes well with Pip's home treatments with the TENS unit. I'm surprised the sticky pads will be on the fur and not the skin. I learn something new everyday. :D Guess if you're wrapping with a crepe bandage it will keep it close to his body and in place. As long as contact is sufficient through the fur (I'm sure Pip will let you know when you turn the unit on) well, that's what counts. I don't find the unit painful at all but it's definitely a different sensation! Sounds like you've got a good plan in place with the gradual strength increases.

Hope the treatments will help with his pain issues. I'll be very interested in reading your next update.

Louise

[JHP]

Just to let you know Pip has had 3 sessions on the tens machine and he loves it (to be very honest if you go take the machine of he gets very sad) so when his time is up i just switch the machine but hes not a stupid dog he know it wasn't on so he had 15mins instead of the 5 mins the vet said gradually increase the time 10 mins twice aday .this morning i went to turn the machine off on my boy was laid on the sofa and the machine on a cushion pick the machine up and held it in his mouth very gentle and wouldnt let me have it but any way he loves it we are on setting 2 level b at moment
When got the machine this morning he was wagging his tail when he saw and stood there while i put the pads on him and the bandage round his waist the got on the sofa while it did its job

[littleone1]

Hi Julie,

I'm glad the pads are helping Pip. It's sound like the tens unit is also helping him, as he doesn't want to let it go. They are very smart. I hope you will see improvement in Pip.

Terri

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,


this morning i went to turn the machine off on my boy was laid on the sofa and the machine on a cushion pick the machine up and held it in his mouth very gentle and wouldnt let me have it but any way he loves it we are on setting 2 level b at moment

When I read this, it just made me laugh :D:D:D Good way to start off my day! Hope it continues to help good ole "Twinkle Toes" :D

[frijole]

Julie,

I had never heard of a dog using this machine before and would love to see a photo of good ole Pip using it! :p I had to use one for my shoulder for a while and I absolutely love the relief it gives me.

Pip is one lucky dog to have you for a mom. Hugs, Kim

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

I'm so glad the TENS unit is helping Pip with his pain issues. The fact that he actually likes the treatments is a plus too. :D This is good information for me to keep mentally filed away for my Munchie should he ever start having problems. Keep us posted.

Louise

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

It is great the TENS seems to be helping and especially that Pip likes it so much! They do help with muscle pain and knotting a great deal.

Hope he continues to feel better and has less and less pain.

Big hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[JHP]

UPDATE
Have Pip at the vets tomorrow afternoon, he has had 3 very nasty falls from the top of the stair right down to them bottom (i haven't been able to carry him upstairs like i normally do as i've broken some of my ribs and i'm not in good health myself at the momen) anyway i've put the TENS machine on his shoulder and leg and this has not worked /he is limping very badly when he trys to walk he front leg gives way and fall on the shoulder which seem to be getting the full impact of his falls and stumbles at the moment .
I have him booked for a check up as he not very happy at all looks sad aand is in some real discomfort i've also tried massage his shoulder .also ears are playing him up
well let you know how we get on tomorrow.

[AlisonandMia]

I'm so sorry poor old Pip has managed to hurt himself again - the poor old chap! And your ribs sound very painful too. Could you and Pip maybe live and sleep downstairs until you are healed up?

I use a TENS machine on myself - a lot at the moment as I've been having back pain. I find that it's great for some types of pain and not so good for others. It seems to be best for old, chronic sources of pain, particularly when there is a muscle spasm involved and a cycle of pain - tension - more pain - more tension has started up. The TENS machine is just magic for that. But it doesn't seem anything like so good for "new" injuries where there is actually a lot of inflammation and damage. It looks like it is similar for Pip. In the first 3 days or so after an injury ice is usually what is recommended - but maybe not so successful on a dog as the ice can be a little uncomfortable and sometimes (for a few minutes) actually makes the injury more painful. Hard to explain to a dog - even a very, very, very intelligent one like your Pip!

Good luck and I hope that both of you are on the mend soon.

Alison

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

Wow! Sorry to read that Pip has been having accidents and that you have broken ribs. Hope Pip didn't fracture or break something too from one of tumbles down the stairs. I think Alison had a good idea about temporarily sleeping downstairs, if at all possible, until you both are healed.

Hope all goes well at the vet visit tomorrow. Will be watching for your new update.

Louise

[JHP]

Been to the vets its actually his elbow that is the problem my vet said it just very badly bruised also he has arthrtis in both elbow, i have to rest him keeping using the tens machine . call her next week to let her know how hes doing.
you can tell the machine is working on hips as he stands up completely straight on his back legs now where as before he was always crouched and bent with his back legs.
Pip will be sleeping downstairs permanently as he just going to do more damage and i'm not not always going to be able to carry him.,
and to honest he goes down stairs at about 1am i go and check on him he's fast asleep on the sofa,(and i do check on him alot as i'm so use to him being on his bed in my room it feels very empty without him) i going down freting and worrying and he doesn't even know i've been there as hes fast asleep. when i get up at 6am he wakes up goes to the loo then has his breakfast.
SO I THINK REALLY HES BEEN READY TO SLEEP DOWNSTAIRS FOR A WHILE REALLY AS THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR 6MONTHS PLUS .
Julie Pip

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

Glad to hear that nothing was fractured/broken on Pip and also that he is ready and willing to sleep downstairs. That's a good preventative measure. Hope the empty feeling from his absence in your room is soon replaced with a feeling of peace in knowing your boy is safe from any tumbles down the stairs.

Give Pip some gentle hugs from me and hope his bruised elbow heals soon. Keep up the good work with the TENS unit. How wonderful that Pip is able to stand completely straight now and using the unit is relieving his pain.

Louise

[labblab]

Hi Julie,

I just want to echo what Louise has said. I surely understand how you miss having Pip upstairs. But it sounds as if this is the safest and best arrangement for him now.

Please give him some big pats from me, too!
Marianne

[JHP]

Pip had his first night downstairs he slept on the sofa all night didn't move once,
so all went very well for him

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi Julie,

This is good news and I am hopeful that this will continue. :D How are YOU doing?

Love and hugs,
Lori

[JHP]

Just let you know we are still having alot of trouble with my boy friday evening a lump appeared on his mouth i've checked his teeth to make sure thay are ok and they there is no cuts or scratchs on his mouth.
His paws are driving him crazy they have become very red and sore and itchy i've been bathing his paws to trying soothe and stop the itching but they are so sore his whole body shakes when you touch them ,i've also been putting dermisol cream in between his toes the same happens his whole body shakes . i.ve made sure we've not changed anything that can cause the irrate his paws ,
again there is no cuts scratchs nothing to have caused this.
i'm thinking he may now have an infection either fungus or bacterial in his paws.
my vet is calling me sometime this afternoon as she wants an update on how my boy is doing.
jluie

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

My gosh - poor Pip sure has had a rough time of it. He must be in a lot of pain if his whole body is shaking when you touch his red, itchy paws. Allergy is also another possibility.

I'm glad you were going to be talking to his vet. Sounds like he may need to go into the vet's office for a look-see and diagnosis of the mouth lump and red paws. Sure hope Pip feels better soon.

Let us know what your vet says.

Louise

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Sweetie,

Please let us know what the vet says about Pip. Bless his heart. To be in so much pain. :( I know this is hard on you, too. :(

Hope you both are feeling better soon.
Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[JHP]

:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(Hi everyone thank you for your replys

Had Pip at the vets this evening regarding his paws some how he has lost a lot of layers on his pads this is on all his paws .they a very smooth sore has no grip when he walks the vet asked if he had trodden in cement or anything i said no we've not changed his food or anything that could of caused this this is the reason his paws a so painful , he hardly has any pads i thought it may be pigmentatiion change
what i have to do now is give him his piriton 2 three times a day also wipe his pads with surgical spirit twice a day to help harden his pads also everytime he goes out in the garden or walk him have to clean his paws so there is no dirt in them to make it worse i have to put dermisol cream in between his toes . the vet we saw said it can take 6 to 9 months for this to heal maybe longer, we are doing this to try and help speed the healing if we let them heal on there own in would be nearly 2 years as this is how thin the pads are. she said with his hips and his feet playing up he's in quite alot of pain and understandably he is going to very grumpy and aggressive he;s fast asleep on the sofa but he crying in his sleep so i'm going to sit and be with him. when i got the hibiscrub to bathe them before we went to the vets the look on his face was PURE FEAR and he started to shake no wonder the poor baby. i will never forget that look on his face .i guess he will be doing that for a while as i will be batheing his feet for the next 9 months maybe longer. I will stay up all night and be the for my boy by his side
the lump has been checked and it nothing to worry about
Sorry don't have any good news right now but my boy is fighter
i will update you how things are going in few days i 'm just going to give my boy loads and loads of tlc
Julie Pip (a very sad and unhappy boy):(:(:(

hope this all made sense

[littleone1]

Hi Julie,

I'm so sorry for what Pip is going through. I hope that this issue will be resolved very soon.

[frijole]

Julie, I wish I had some advice for you but I have to just tell you how wonderful you are as a mom to Pip. Bless you for all you are doing. I will be sending warm healing thoughts your way. Kim

[Squirt's Mom]

HUGS!!!! to both of you!

With love and belly rubs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

Just checking in to see how you and Pip are doing today? I've been keeping track of Pip but haven't post recently and want you to know that you've both been on my mind a lot.

Glynda

[JHP]

latest on my boy
He is getting use to me having to bathe his feet 4 times aday also when hes been in the garden or for a walk i have to wipe his all his paws so there is no dirt or anything to aggravate them 'i also have to wipe all his pads over with surgical spirit over them twice aday to toughen them up (which i have to do for the next 9mths) I spoke to my normal vet friday she said it was going to be a long slow process but what i'm doing will help the healing process .if i did nothing it would be 2 yrs may be longer. the vet we saw last tuesday notice Pip has lost alot of weight she said he's smaller than the last time she saw him.

Also while i;ve been out and about with him alot of people have also coment on the amount of wieght he lost. ive also been asked if i have a new dog as my new dog looks alot younger (although this new dog of my is spitting image of my old boy ) hes my boy and he doesnt look his age now as he is pain free with his hips knees .although he is still walking gingerly on his paws hes a totally differnt dog no more agrresive and nasty dog ,he back to his very chilled out friendly self playing with other dogs and letting people stroke him and make a fuss which he loves

[Squirt's Mom]

Oh Julie! :D

This just made my day! :cool::cool::cool: I am so happy to hear that our Twinkletoes is once again his special, loving self. That is great!

By the tone of your voice in your post, I would say you are happier, too. ;):)

It is just great that the meds have finally relieved his pain and with your loving care, his paws will heal just fine.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

Glad the chilled-out, friendly, pain free version of Pip has returned! So glad for you and your boy. I am sure the 9 months will pass rapidly and with your constant TLC, Pip's paws will heal quite well.

Give that slim, trim Pip some hugs from me.

Louise

[JHP]

Just a very quick update
Pip seems to have increased appetite thirst and peeing very restless ,He is booked in for acth stim on the 19th April.

Pip is having alot of pain and discomfort from his paws he is really having trouble walking.i've done what the vets have told me to do and i know its only been a week and half i've its going to take 9 months for all his pads to mend as im helping the healing process ..
but i'm gutted to see pip having this much discomfort i'm going to collect some meds for hom on monday and i'm going to find out if there is anything else i can do

[JHP]

Newest update,

Pip has been attacked by a japenese akita labrador and staffie,
this afternoon. he is in shock also one of he's ears is full of blood swollen both on the inside and outside he crys with pain yelps if you touch i've been trying to clean his ear for the last hour, but he's not having any of it i cant find any bite marks but his in alot of pain. also he just pacing and very restless just panting very unsettled
ITS REALLY SAD AS WHEN HE PRICKS HIS EARS UP HE HAS THIS HUGE SWELLING ON EAR NEAR HIS HEAD
I called the vets and they say just monitor him if i'm still not happy i will have to call some vets at nottingham i don't even live near nottingham (people i don't know and know nothing about him )as my practice is now closed until monday morning as our vets don't do out hours anymore
Julie Pip

[labblab]

Oh Julie!!!!!! How awful for poor Pip! And how difficult for this to have happened on the weekend. For what it's worth, here is a link to a website that explains more about treatment options for hematomas of the ear:

http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_aural_hematoma.html

I surely understand why you'd rather hold off until Monday when Pip can be seen by his own vet. Hopefully, his ear will not worsen between now and then. The poor, poor boy. :( :( :( :(

PLEASE give him some gentle hugs for me,
(And SHAME :mad: on the owner of those other dogs!!!)
Marianne

[Spiceysmum]

Julie,

So sorry to hear about Pip, its the thing I dread most when out with my dogs. I can't believe that your vets don't provide an out of ours service, how terrible, what if it was something even more serious?

If it was me I would dilute a tablespoon of salt in half a pint of warm water and bathe his ear with some cotton wool a few times a day or even dip his ear in if he would let you then pat it dry. It always helps when my dogs get any sores and I think it would also get rid of some of the germs from the dog bite and help with infection. Hopefully it will be ok until you can get to the vets on Monday.

Linda and Spicey

[JHP]

Thank you Marianne &Linda,

Pip won't allow me near his ear at all he is very unsettled he hasn't stopped panting since yesterday afternoon at the moment hes very restless larthergic disorienated frighten when he walks his head tilts and is off balance. although i did see a bite wound on the inside of his ear flap and its very red and swollen .
while on his walk he is very uncomfortable being out peeps round every corner before going round the corner .
He been attacked in all 7 times altogeteher it took me a long time to build his confidence up after the last one as the mastiff throw him in a fence and bust the fence and the dog just went crazy he was screaming this fight was in a neighbours garden and she came out as she thought it was a child this mastiff had got ,
Each time my dog has been on a lead and these dogs haven't and the thing that annoys me is the owner just watch's and turns the other way until there dogs have finshed attacking dogs a few have attacked pip then left him and gone straight for another dog

sorry for going on
I calling to get pip in to the vets to get a check over and also get his ear sorted out tomorrow
julie pip

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

How horrible for Pip and you. I will be relieved when you are able to get him to the vet tomorrow and have that ear checked out. It's really not ok for people to let their dogs run around off leash like that.

Hope all will be ok with Pip. Poor boy has had more than his share of problems.

Louise

[StarDeb55]

Julie, I'm truly sorry to hear about dear Pip's latest ordeal. TRIPLE SHAME on the owner of these dogs. From your description of events, it sounds like these dogs have been involved in biting incidents & other attacks, previously. Maybe, I'm dead wrong, but doesn't Britain have very strict laws governing vicious dogs, & why hasn't someone reported these animals to the local constables or animal control offices?

Debbie

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
So sorry to read about Pip's latest episode with these bully dogs and unresponsible neighbors. Maybe it's time to carry some pepper spray on your walks with Pip.

Hope Pip will be okay soon, give him lotsa love as I know you will.

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

Gosh darn it, when is Pip going catch a break? I was so mad when I read your post, not so much with the dogs that attacked Pip but their irresponsible owners. In California, if your dog attacks another dog or a person, the dog is quarantined until a ruling is made as to whether the dog will be euthanized. I too thought the UK had laws to prevent this type of offense so I'm shocked to hear that Pip has been attacked seven times!!! I am surprised that the poor guy doesn't have huge behavioral problems after being victimized so badly.

I agree with John and think you should consider arming yourself with pepper spray or a baseball bat when you take Pip for walks. I'm afraid none of my dogs would have survived the type of attacks you describe and you can bet your bottom dollar that despite my love for all dogs, I'd have no problem killing a dog that was attacking any one of my kids.

I hope your vet was able to clean up the wound and give poor Pip some relief.

Glynda

[JHP]

Pip went to the vets yesterday hes very tender and swollen round his neck his ear is infected, has some punture marks on his head and face he also has a swelling on one side of his face, the vet was really nice with him she sat on the floor with him and cuddled him to calm him down till he ws ready to let her examine him, hes on anti biotics . had an injection he is also having a heart tablet to take the pressure of his heart as he is so frighten and scared (this is just a caution method)he back at the vet on friday with my normal vet but if i need them before to call them and they will see him striaght away .
I have to bathe his ear if he will let me (which i tried today and he yelps and crys really badly infact he does like his head ears or neck being touched) the vet also said i must get pip out and about otherwise he will become an agoraphobic dog and we don't want that walking him he doesn't like we open the gate he peeps out the gate then goes back to the front door to be let in. also he wont go in the garden to unless you are stood next to him then he striaght indoors. his head is down tail tucked in between his legs he a very sad site to see i know his scared and frighten but in the house he shouldn't be(my mum told someone and they are going to look out for these people)The vet said pip is a very frighten old man and it really unsettled him
i will let you know how we get on at the vets on friday
julie pip

[JHP]

newest update on pip

Pip was back at the vets yesterday as he been having trouble with his right ear i found out that he has uclers in his ear,
he really prefers not to go out now since tha 3 dogs attacked him
he is booked in for an acth stim and liver test on the 19th april
i'm hoping that we will have some good luck with him soon
kind regards
julie pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Hey Julie,

Man, I want to just, just...I don't know what, but it makes me so mad that Pip is having to pay for someone else's irresponsibility! :mad: He has been through enough and does not deserve this....nor do you, honey. I don't blame him one bit for not wanting to go out. There are big bad bullies out there! :( If we were a bit closer, I'd help look for those people myself! grrrrrrr

What can they do for the ulcers in his ears? More washes, salves I guess? How are his wounds healing? I hope they aren't causing him any pain or problems of any kind! Bless his little heart!

I hope the stim is good in April and that he grows stronger and happier as the days go by. I also hope that you are doing better. You are so special, ya know. ;)

Keep up the good work! You always do, tho! :)

Hugs and love,
Leslie and the girls - always

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

Just read your update and so sorry that Pip continues to have problems with his ear. I can surely understand why he would prefer not to go out since the attack and am surprised he was willing to go out at all after being previously attacked 7 times. :( Hope he will regain his confidence and I do agree with John's earlier post about carrying the pepper spray or some type of a walking stick for protection. Those dogs could also have attacked and harmed you. :eek: IMO better to be prepared to take action for yourself and your handsome boy than become victims again.

Hope all goes well with Pips ACTH stim test next month. In the meantime, take good care of yourself and that precious boy Pip.

Louise

[JHP]

Pip is on a anti biotic ear drop for the ulcers, his wounds are healing nicely but he has more than we orginal thought so i bathe the aswell
he doesnt like the ear being touched as we i try and the ear drops in or goes near it he tilts is head and the ear is flat against the sofa
He is not eating so i'm cooking him steamed chicken breast steamed veg and rice and slowly hes beginning to eat again
Its very heartbreaking to see pip in this amount of pain with his ear he is very sad and disrespondant .
Ju Pip

[Squirt's Mom]

(((((Hugs)))))

to you and Pip

[JHP]

Hi sorry not logged in for a while.(we had some very bad and tragic news about a freinds dog)


Pip is having troubling breathing he's gasping for air he ha a cough he very disrespondant not himself all he still having trouble with his uclerated ear. i spoke to a vet this afternoon and she said with his neck and ear thats could be problem. she said to re book him in so they can check him out.my vet is back on friday.
he is booked in for his acth stim and liver test, this vet has said to starve pip for the liver test i'm not sure if this normal or not as it the 3 months test where they test liver elctrolytes that one.


our friend dog was attacked by a staffie on easter sunday we had just left her she had and her yorkie was attacked by a staffie it ripped her throat open and becky was dead before her owner had picked her up. its so sad for her to go that way as she wouldn't hurt anyone the owners of the other dog just ran off but the sad thing there child watched there dog attack becky.
but at the moment there are alot of dogs being attacked by staffies and pitbulls and the 3 dog that attacked Pip
hope you all ok
we are very sad at the loss of a very beautful yorkie who was an old lady to be taken away from her devoted owners in this cruel way .

[Casey's Mom]

Julie how horrible.

How awful for everyone to witness this tragic incident.

I hope that your vet finds out what is bothering your boy.

Hugs,

[JHP]

Had Pip at the vets this afternoon as he is alot of pain he is limping very badly and having alot of stumbles but it got that bad that he could hardly stand. his not had any pain relief for nearly a month now as they are still waiting for the to come in ,so they gave him a vetgesic injection and its completely knocked him out ,
julie

[lulusmom]

Oh Julie, my heart is breaking for you and Pip. Your boy just seems to have more and more problems that are making him absolutely miserable. I'm not sure I could watch any of my dogs suffer in pain for a day much less a month. Poor, poor Pip. Has your vet talked to you about a quality of life issue for Pip and does s/he think that Pip's problems can be resolved so that he can enjoy life again? I'm sorry for asking but based on your posts in the last several months, it looks like Pip's quality of life just continues to deteriorate and it doesn't seem like your vet has many answers for you.

You and Pip are always in my prayers.

(((Hugs)))
Glynda

[JHP]

Hi Glynda,
Pips quality of life is very good i often ask myself and i've discuss this my vet who says pip still has alot to give . when i'm at the vets on monday i'm going to ask about a pain relief as a back up incase this happens again and we cant get the zubrin.
ANY WAY THIS MORNING PIP WAS UP AT 7.30AM AND HE WAS STANDING UP PROPERLY HE'S IN A LOT BRIGHTER AND HAPPY THAN HIS HAS BEEN. SO THE INJECTION HAS REALLY HELPED HIM BUT HE CANT HAVE THIS FULL TIME
HIS TAIL IS WAGGING NOW AND HIS TOYS Are out and his been playing
julie pip

[lulusmom]

Whew, I am so glad to hear that Pip is doing well today and even playing with his toys. :D:D:D

[JHP]

Hi,

Pip ,Had his acth stim liver kidneys and eletrolytes test there where 13 altogether they tested the onsite lab,the results where perfect .his cushings was high. We waiting for the results of his ACTH STIM TEST which will be back from the lab on thursday at the latest and my normal vet will call on friday after she has looked at them.(my vet said that they knew his cushing would be high but they are awaiting the results to see if he stays on the same dosage or we have to adjust them.

Well regarding his Pain relief. zubrin 200mg and zubrin 100mg we still are unable to get them it the same up down the country i've been checking the internet and its says the same all the time out stock due to suppliers and manufacturing problems/the vet nurse called while i was at our 4pm appointment and they are not giving a date for the medication to come in now before they where just delaying the date when the medication would be in, So Pip poor is just on tramadol although they given him some onsior (which are no good) as zubrin is the best one that works for Pip, the arrangment i now have with my normal vet is Pip can have a vetergesic injection every 2 weeks until his zubrin comes in.
he is still lossin weight bless him.
Julie

[labblab]

Hi Julie,

Thanks for the update, as always! I am really glad to hear that Pip's lab results were good. Although since you are still waiting for the results of the ACTH, I'm not sure which "cushing's test" already turned out to be high? Anyway, I'm sure you'll know more after you talk to the vet on Friday.

I'm really sorry that the Zubrin is so hard to get ahold of. But it sounds as if your vet has worked out a plan to try and tide him over. And I'm certain you're glad that's he losing some weight, right? That will make it a lot easier on his joints.

Do let us know how the ACTH turns out, OK?
Marianne

[JHP]

Hi Marianne,

The test they check on the the onsite lab is called diagnosticprofile plus (Ca, Chol,K,TBili ,ALP, ALKP)13 tests in total but these are the ones that are on my invioce,
I've not long got home from te vets as while i was out Pip has had a fall he's pulled the ligaments and soft tissue damage on his front left leg the gave him the vetergesic i have rest him for a few days then reintroduce light exercise but only if he wasnt to go, he schedule in for to weeks for the vetergesic injection,
UPTO NOW STILL NO RESULTS FOR HIS ACTH STIM
Julie

[JHP]

Hi

Just to let you know Pip acth stim results my vet said he's in the right range and his stable .we are keeping him on vetoryl 10mg twice a day. next ACTH STIM in 3 months .

Still no pain relief as the suppliers not giving a date for the zubrins to come in now.
He's taking thing very very slowly and cautious taking him to the bottom of my street and back to my house takes 25mins .He is vomiting which now due to being in some discomfort with his arthritis and soft tissue damage, he is booked in for his next vetergesic injection on the 6th may as he can have this injection every 2 weeks

julie Pip

[Nathalie]

Hello Julie,

I have been following yours and Pip's journey since I joined the group and it breaks my heart to hear that he is still in such pain.
I am not familiar with Zubrin, but if that is what he needs to control the pain there has got to be a way to to find it somewhere in the country where you live or a substitute I would hope.
You may have done this already but if it where me I would be calling every vet clinic, distributer and post online to local dog groups in the country and neighboring countries if need be.
Keeping you and your Pip in my thoughts,
Nathalie

[lulusmom]

Julie,


Poor Pip. I hope you can get his pain meds soon so that he can get some relief. If Pip is vomiting, you should not be giving him Vetoryl at all. Does your vet know that he is sick enough or in pain enough to be vomiting?

Glynda

[JHP]

Hi Glynda,

Yes my vet knows Pip is in Pian and that he vomiting his having anti sickness tablets that last for 24hrs which today Pip has not vomited at all so far He having steamed chicken brest and steamed rice , as this is gentle on his stomach.
We have been calling round aboput his pain relief meds looking on line and they say out of stock due to suppliers and manfacturing problem , they are not giving any dates when they expect them now before they just giving dates and they just came and went,
Pip can have a vetergesic injection every 2 weeks until his pain relief
until the zubrin comes in he is also on ONSIOR 40MG UNTIL THE ZUBRIN COMES IN

Julie Pip

[JHP]

Just a quick update ,

We have now got Pip back on his pain relief of zubrin 100mg 1 half daily and zubrin 200mg 1 daily . and tramadol 50mg 3 tablets twice aday .

Well my boy is a completely different dog he been back on them since tuesday morning and boy can you tell the differance he walking alot a quicker running chasing the cats , playing and getting upto all his dog antics with his cheeky character . His eyes a bright and he has the twinkle back in them his tail is wagging non stop (instead of the sad sorry look hes had )
His cushing is great he stable and still contnuing to lose weight


SO THIS IS REALLY GOOD NEWS .
Julie Pip

[Carol G]

What great news Julie. It really brightened my day to hear Pip is feeling so much better

Carol & Atty Cat and always Winnie & McGill

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

Now that's the kind of updates I like!!!! Yay Pip!!! I am so happy that Pip is feeling much better. It's amazing how all the alternative pain meds Pip was taking didn't seem to help at all so thank goodness the manufacturer got Zubrin back on the shelves.

Hugs,
Glynda

[Nathalie]

Excellent news Julie!!!:D
I am so glad for you and Pip.

Nathalie

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

So glad to hear you were able to get Pip's meds and his pain is under control now. Great news!!!

Louise

[JHP]

:(:(:(:(:(:(Hi quick update,

Had Pip at the vets yesterday as both his front legs from the top of his wrist down are very very swollen hot and painful and limping very badly .my normal vet examined Pip she confirmed what i thought it was .Pip arthritis has now gone in to his wrist , we are still on the pain relief .i have to wrap a cool compress round his wrist to help take the swelling.down
now Pip has arthritis in both hips both knees both elbows and now both wrists
Pip is booked in for his booster on the 11th june and my vet will recheck and see how his joints ,


have my boy for now (but for how much longer i'm uncertian)
But i hoping that it will settle down.
Juliie Pip

[frijole]

Julie, Sorry to hear this news. Pip sure does have alot of bad luck. Let us know what the vet says can be done about that arthritis. I bet those compresses you put on Pip are very much appreciated. Sounds like Pip is in pain. Poor thing. I hope you can find some relief for him. Kim

[Squirt's Mom]

Dear Julie,

I am not able to respond as I would like lately, but want you to know that I do read as much as possible and am keeping up with you and our Twinkle Toes. You both are on my mind often and always in my heart.

Sending many hugs across the pond,
Leslie and the girls - always

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Jullie,

I'm so sorry that Pip's arthritis has progressed to other areas in his legs. I do hope those cool compresses and his current pain relief will help with the pain and swelling. Are you still able to use the TENS unit for his hips?

Give your boy a gentle hug from me. Hope he is able to feel better.

Louise

[JHP]

Hi Louise, Lesile,
I still use the tens machine on hips but it doesnt not work on his wrist.

We've got another blip with pips health at the moment i had him at the vets yesterday as pip has this holes around his neck and head . anyway these holes pop and green puss comes out of them .them vet found quite alot of these when she examnied him all over his body hes been very hot and panting and chewing at himself making himself bleed (i have coatex medicated shampoo in which i bathed him.which calmed his skin for a few hours ) anyway it turns out to be a skin infection his on anti biotics 1 half twice aday and hes back next tuesday
kind regards
Julie Pip

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

Thanks for the update. Oh, poor Pip. Hope the antibiotic heals the skin infection rapidly. Pip certainly has a lot going on with the arthritis, his cushings, the dog attacks and now this infection. Must be very hard on you as well as there is only so much you are able to do. Sounds like a nasty infection. Hope your boy will feel better soon.

Sending healing thoughts for Pip.

Louise

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Have access to a decent computer for a bit today and wanted to drop in and say HI!!

How is Pip doing? You both are on my mind so much and I am so hoping he is feeling a bit better.

Hugs and love,
Leslie and the girls - always

[JHP]

Hi Lesile

just a quick update


Pip is doing loads better he got the all clear on tuesday hes now back on top form playing running being his cheeky chap .
He is due at the next on the 11th june for his booster and recheck how his hips and other joints are doing .
i
I wish i could same the about myself .i spent just over 5 hous at A&E tusday evening .As i had a fall and have quite alot injuries at the moment so its complete rest for 2 weeks when i'm back at the hosiptal but i won't bore you
Julie Pip

[JHP]

Just a brief update,


Pip is booked in for his acth stim on 28th june .
He's recovering from a bad stomach and his skin has cleared up nicely.
At the moment he has an ear infection which we have ear drops for his ear is full with pus all the way down the ear canal.but nothing is coming out he had a recheck yesterday and the vetr said it will be another 7 days before it will clear up so he back next friday for a recheck and his booster.
julie

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Julie,

I am so sorry to hear about your fall and injuries :eek: I am so hoping and praying that you are feeling much better.

Poor Pip :(:( Those nasty ear infections can be quite a challenge to overcome. Sending tons of healing thoughts and prayers your way for both of you.

Take care of yourself and give Pip a gentle hug from Harley and me.

Love and hugs,
Lori

[lulusmom]

Julie, I totally missed your post about your fall. :eek::eek:I am so sorry to hear about this and hope you are back on your feet soon. I also hope that Pip's acth stim test results are great and that his ear infection clears up well before the scheduled stim appointment.

Glynda

[JHP]

Hi just a quick update,
Pip has had an infection a few weeks ago he went back for his recheck and the infection had gone but my vet noticed that in his ear canal he had a tiny wart which she has never seen in his ear before she said this would explain the problems with his left ear.
Yesterday i had Pip at the vets yesterday evening as he has totally no balance and his co ordinate is not very good i explained to the vet nurse that i thought it was Pip's left ear ,at the vets my vet examined Pips ears the left ear is the problem again Pip's EAR DRUM IS COMPLETELY INFLAMED and my vet has never come across that before in her career as a vet he's on anti biotics and schedule back for 10 days when he has his acth stim test on the 28th june and my vet will recheck him while she has him. but if i need her before then he will been seen.


I HAVE NOTICED THAT SEEN PIP HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH CUSHINGS HE HAD ALOT PROBLEMS WITH HIS EARS .HE VERY RARELY HAD EAR INFECTIONS . BUT SEEN HIS HAVING CUSHINGS IT SEEMS TO BE EVERY 3 WEEKS OR SO .DOES ANYONE ELSE HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THERE DOGS HAVING EAR INFECTIONS ALOT SINCE THERE BELOVED DOG HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH CUSHINGS ,
Julie Pip

[StarDeb55]

Julie, my 1st cushpup, Barkley, would have horrible ear infections 3-4x per year. Some of them would be so bad, his ear could literally drain pus. This was several years prior to his Cushing's diagnosis & then after his diagnosis. My regular vet attributed them initially to severe allergies, but Cushing's does play a role. Cushing's does depress the immune system quite a bit & will make the pup more susceptible to infections of all kinds. Barkley did, indeed, have severe allergies, too, & the only way we finally got a handle on the ear infections was taking B to a vet dermatologist.

Debbie

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi Julie,

Poor Pip. :(:(

Dogs that continually get ear infections might be suffering from hypothyroidism. Has Pip's thyroid levels ever been checked? This test would be called a T4 test. If this test is normal than he probably does not have hypothyroidism. If the thyroid test is low or low normal then usually a Free T4 by equilibrium dialysis test is run to differentiate between true hypothyroidism from sick thyroid syndrome.

Sick thyroid syndrome is common among our cush-pups. In this situation the thyroid gland is normal, but there are factors that are suppressing it from secreting a normal amount of thyroxine into the bloodstream. Diseases like Cushing's disease, diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure, liver disease, and addison's disease can also cause sick thyroid syndrome.

Hope this helps, and keeping you and Pip in my thoughts and prayers.

Love and hugs,
Lori

[JHP]

Thank you for your replys they helped quite alot

About 2 years ago Pip had his thyriod tested and it came back low so my vet put him solixene but it made pip ill; my vet did a complete thyriod test panel which came back that he definatley didnt have a thyriod problem although his levels where low .than he was diagnosed with cushings disesae and agaion my vet checked his thyriod levels which came back low. my vet explained this would explian his thyriod being low as this happens with a cushings dog sometimes .
Julie Pip

[JHP]

Pip is still very bad with his ears that its got to the point that he was crying this afternoon. and hes just circling and very unsettled i phoned my vets this morning and hes booked in with my normal vet tomorrow morning.this afternoon i had to call back for some advice and they said do not do anything with his ears at all until he been seen by the vet tomorrow.they offered an appointment with another vet but i would prefer to see his normal vet on friday.

julie

[labblab]

Oh Julie, I'm so sorry that Pip is so uncomfortable. Ear infections can be so hard to keep under control. My Peg isn't a Cushpup, but she does have allergies and her ears are repeatedly infected. It is NO FUN -- especially trying to get those drops in. :(

I know your vet visit can't come fast enough, either for you or for Pip. Please let us know what you find out, OK?

Marianne

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Keeping our Twinkle Toes and you in my thoughts and prayers always! I hope his ears get better soon and that you have recovered from your troubles.

Big hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always

[littleone1]

Hi Julie,

I'm also sorry that Pip is having problems with ear infections. Corky use to get them all of the time. Once his thyroid level was under control, he didn't have any problems for years.

Since Pip wasn't diagnosed with Hypothyroidism, the low thyroid level could attribute to the ear infections. In January, Corky had ear infections in both of his ears. He had both bacteria and yeast infections. There was once a time when Corky had to have a special medication made up for him. Depending on the kind of infection(s), there are different medications that need to be used.

I hope you are able to get some positive results and treatment that will help Pip.

[JHP]

Pip is back at thevets tomorrow for his acth stim test , now we are not sure if there is something wrong with PIPS EAR DRUMS .anyway after Pip has had his acth stim on monday they are going to load hiom with some steriods and i will continue the treatment at home ,they did not want pip to have steriods before his acth stim as it would mess his results.
yesterday somebody caught Pips ears as they stroked him and my boy went for them (which the lady said that is totally out of character for pip)but i did explain that he was in some discomfort with hes ears ,
julie

[JHP]

Got Pip's ACTH stim test results back he is in the normal range so his medication is staying on the same dosage of vetoryl 20mg daily. ears are still a problem which is due to allergies he has developed a cough of the last week or so .i've had a long chat with my vet today and we are increasing his corvental d back to 500mg . she listened to his chest which is a little congested .any way his back at the vetsc nexts friday for the day and i have to let my vet know how things are going .
julie

[JHP]

Just a quick update pip is doing lots better in himself and is very happy and up to mischief
julie

[labblab]

Oh Julie, that is great news!!! Are his ears better, too?

Hugs to you both,
Marianne

[JHP]

Hi Marianne,

:(:(:(:(:(:( Sorry not been on lately had a few problems with Pip and he taking all my time up at the moment . He had an accident 2 weeks ago. he had x rays . anyway the up shoot of this is i'm Pip is very very arthritic.Pip has had a high temperture and a chesty infection, i saw my vet on monday and his temperature was still high but his chest seemed to be a little clearer he was on anti biotics that we finished on thursday.
Now Pip is still very hot to touch and panting non stop drinking lots of water also he has a very nasty cough also his ears are playing him up i think he may have an infection i've got some jelly type stuff out of his ears/ ..
I'm Not allowed to walk him anymore as hes so arthrtic which he's taking to sort of ok but if he feels like a walk he can do so. Hes not eating properly not really interseted in food at all i had to speak with my vet on friday to give an update but i have to try encourage to eat but how do you force a dog to eat when they don't want to eat i've tried alsorts but hes not interested .
I have to call my vet in a week to update her after she back from holiday.
I'm GOING TO MAKKE AN APPIONTMENT TO SEE HER . THE TROUBLE IS I THINK PIP NEEDS TO BE SEEN THIS WEEK BUT I'M NOT SURE I WANT TO TAKE HIM AS THEY ONLY PUT HIM ON TILL MY NORMAL VET IS BACK OF HOILDAY OR THROW THE WEEK AS MY VET WORKS ON A MONDAY AND FRIDAY they say your vets back friday or monday.
Julie

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I had hoped to hear that Pip was doing better with the infection and all. :( Poor baby. :(

Please let us know what the vet says when you get to see her again. I hope he gets to feeling better soon and wants to eat something for you. I know you are worried to pieces about him but remember we are here with you both, praying and sending many healing thoughts across the pond.

Hugs and love,
Leslie and the girls - always

[mytil]

We are closing this thread for active posting.

Sadly Pip has passed away and Julie has started a new thread in his honor. Always in Loving Memory of a very special boy, Pip (http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2858)