Pip collie lab x cushings arthritis

[JHP]

Hi everyone

I just giving you and update regarding my golden baby boy.
Well things got very bad from last thursday Pip couldn't walk or even get up .we had to help up to go in to the garden and support him while he went to the toilet by Easter i was in tears as things just wasn't improving (my mum uses a deep freeze spray for her back and joints so i asked my if i could just try on Pip)and it worked he was able to stand up unaided by 11am easter day he was playing and running about so i contiuned to use on him and we haven't look back except today as he had a bath i didnt use today and i frontlined him.
Went to the vets today told her how pip was and what i used she logged of the practice page and went onto google and typed in what i was using she hasn't got a problem with me using that at all afterlooking what was in it she just double checked which i was using as there are some with anti inflammotorys but this on hasn't so shes fine if it works not a problem.
Pip is still food food food and drinking alot she said after his las results she couldn't put his vetoryl up as he was his levels where 11 and they should range is between 30 and 50 ,
We are retesting him again on the 8th may where its likely she will put his vetoryl back up to 2 daily (as pips levels are either to HIGH or to LOW)We have only had 1 blood test where he has been perfect with his readings.
I asked if he could be diabetic she said NO he was tested in march an they where fine as checks pip regulary for diabetes with being a cushing dog .his liver is fine .although she did say his cholesterol was up (didn't really understand and she didn't say anything else)
Today she checked his claws as some of them are starting to fall out not break or snap they come whole , so we have to keep a watchful eye
As i email you my golden most handsome boy is asleep with his head on his mums lap
(i know to some people he not handsome just a fat dog but to me and the people that really know pip he's handsome)
We had alot of people ask us Pip must of won best in show alot and has noe retired my mum said NO his just a normal rescue dog. i told he's not just a rescue hes our boy and you should be very very proud when people say that to as they are making a complement about my boy and you just say his a rescue,
Pip has lost weight he went upto 38 kilos and his now going not by much but he's 35.5 kilos:D

thats my news on my golden boy
hope you all had a nice easter
Julie Pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie! :D

As you know, I am THRILLED that you and Pip are finally here with us once again! :D:cool::D:cool::D

That was a good thought you had to try the freeze spray on Pip! I doubt that would have ever occurred to me. My sister-in-law uses it and simply swears by it so I am glad to know Pip is getting some relief from it, too. Amazing how quick it worked!

2 1/2 kilos may not be a whole lot, but it sounds like you have found the key to helping him lose weight after all you have tried, and every little bit helps. If I could drop a ton or two, my knees would be much happier! :p I bet Pip can tell the difference already! :) Even a few ounces can mean alot to pups sometimes!

In looking for you, folks all over England have now heard the names, Julie and Pip, so you tell your mom and anyone who asks, that we think Pip is more than "best in show"....he and his mom are world champions!!!

Hugs and welcome HOME,
Leslie and the girls

[labblab]

Oh Julie, I'm so glad to see you, too!!!!!!! :D :D :D :D :D

I'm so happy that Alison got your address, and Leslie is not kidding -- she has been doing everything in her power and contacting everyone she could think of to find you and Pip...:o You are both well-loved here and you were sorely missed.

Speaking of "sore," I'm also relieved to hear that Pip seems to be feeling better now that you are using the freeze spray. I don't know what that is, so I will have to look into it myself, since my elbow is acting up after pruning my hedge!

Thanks, AS ALWAYS, for this update.
It is so good to have you and your sweet, handsome boy back with us again.
Marianne

[Carol G]

Julie,

I'm so happy you found your way here.

That is wonderful that the spray is working on Pip. I am battling arthritis with my boy McGill so I'd like to know the name of what you are using.

Again, I am so happy handsome Pip is doing well.

Carol, Winnie (always), McGill & Atty

[mytil]

Oh Julie,

I too am so very glad you are here and thank you so much for the update on Pip - we were so worried.

I am glad he has some comfort and please keep us updated.

Terry

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

I, like those who have posted before me, am so happy you and your handsome boy Pip are with us again!

I've never heard of the freeze spray either but would certainly like to know what it is so I could learn more about it. I am glad it is giving relief to Pip. Is he back to chasing after the Kitty cats again??

Thanks for your update. Always interested in seeing how you and your boy are doing.

Louise & Munchie

[JHP]

thank you for your replies.its great to be back.Pips still doing fine can't stop him at the moment using the freeze spray

julie pip:)

[Barney's Mom]

Hi Julie,
Glad to hear that the freeze spray is working for Pip!


Cheryl

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
Welcome back, glad Pip is doing better:).

Can you tell me more about this freeze spray? Name, is it a prescription?

Thanks & Give Pip a belly rub from us.
John (Roxee's Dad)

P.S. BTW - Rescue dogs are the best, they have saved many a human, and they always have a special place in my heart. Glad Pip found you.

[Barney's Mom]

Hi Julie,
Welcome back, glad Pip is doing better:).

Can you tell me more about this freeze spray? Name, is it a prescription?

Thanks & Give Pip a belly rub from us.
John (Roxee's Dad)

P.S. BTW - Rescue dogs are the best, they have saved many a human, and they always have a special place in my heart. Glad Pip found you.

Well said!

[JHP]

Here a link to the freeze spray i use on pip

www.deepfreeze.co.uk THIS IS THE ONE I USE AS ITS DOESNT HAVE ANY ANTI INFLAMMTORYS IN MY VET HAS ALREADY SHECK THE INGREDIENTS AND DOES NOT HAVE A PROBLEM USING ON PIP THERE ARE SOME FREEZE SPRAY OUT THERE THAT DO CONTAIN ANTI INFLAMMTORY'S
bUT PIP CAN STAY ON HIS PAIN RELIEF MEDICATIION WITH THE ONE I USE
TWICE ADAY MORNING AND EVENING I SPRAY ON ALL HIS JOINTS STAND NEAR HIS FACE SO THE MIST FROM THE SPRAY DOESN'T GET IN HIS FACE. JUST SPRAY AND MASSAGE .HE PLAYING AND RUNNING.
AS I'VE SAO=ID IT WORKS FOR HIM.
jULIE pIP

[JHP]

Just to update you all

Pip is fine but he will not being having his ACTH STIM on the 8th may pips doing great its just like having a pup again i've been painting the fence over the weekend and pip eeps trying to run off with the brush to get some attention. the reason being i at the hospital again to see the consultant at the deaf clinic on thursday.then on the 8th of may i at the hospital to talk about surgery for my deafness' so that the reason i've had to cancel his acth stim as there no way i will be back to get him to the vets and noone esle is aviaqble to take him so i've had to reschedule
julie pip

[gpgscott]

Hi Julie,

I hope he runs your legs off:D

Thanks for posting the information about the freeze spray, I also know nothing about it.

Scott

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

I am glad Pip is feeling so much better and wanted to wish you all the best with your consultation at the deaf clinic and your appointment at the hospital regarding possible surgery for your deafness. This is exciting news.

Sending lots of scritchies for your boy, Pip and positive thoughts for you.

Louise & Munchie

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I can just see Pip snatching that brush and taking off with you hot on his tail! :D That is a most pleasant, satisfying image! :D:D And, like Scott, I hope he keeps you running and jumping!

The surgery possibility sounds wonderful and I'm sure it is exciting for you! Please do keep us informed on how it goes for you. I will be praying for the best outcome possible!!! And lighting a candle or two as well.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

BAD NEWS REGARDING MY BOY.(HIS NOT IN ANY PAIN)

Pip has had a very very nasty fall,and he could not get up at all every time he trie he just can not get up this happened at 1pm today he got up on his legs at 4pm tonight and his legs just gave way .then at 6.30pmpip had another nasty fall he just doesn't seem to have the strength on his back legs to support him.i(i've used the free freeze spray he's not any pain as he will let me touch ) he needs support to go to the toilet or he will be on the floor.
Right now he's in bed i've keeping checking on him to make sure hes ok.
I have to coleect some medication tomorrow morning for him so will have a word with the vet.They may just say rest him for a few days.and if hes know better bring him back
My mum says just rest him as he's been ruuning playing cat chasing and of course running of with my paint brush he has just over done it as its the first time in a long time that he's not been in any pain
OR AM I JUST A STUPDI OVERPROTECTIVE MUM?????????
aBOUT ME I'M NOT LOOKING FORWARD ABOUT THE SURGREY AS I HAVE VEY LONG HAIR AND THEY WILL HAVE TO SHAVE QUITE ABIT OF AND I LOVE MY HAIR. IVE BEEN DEAF ALL MY LIFE .AND IN THE LAST 9 MTHS STILL GETTING USE TO THE HEARING AID AN MY RIGHT SIDE WHICH I DO NOT LIKE AS MY WORLD HAS ALWAYS BEEN QUITE SO MY BRIAN HAS TO ADJUST TO SOUND
TILL I TAKE MY HEARING AID OUT THEN ITS NICE AND QUITE AGAIN
I WILL LOOK STUPID WITH MY HAIS SHAVED ON THEE LEFT WITH LONG ON THE RIGHT SIDE
JULIE PIP

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

It may be that Pip has just overdone recently but I think I would have the vet check him out just to be sure. With the spray keeping his pain away, he may have hurt himself and not be feeling it like he usually would. So I would take him in....but I am an overprotective mom! ;):)

I can't imagine being in your place. Your hair will grow back just as pretty as ever, I'm sure. In the meantime, you can just set the new trend over there! :p:D But there really is a LOT of racket out in the hearing world and it's easy for me to see how it would take your brain a great deal of adjustment to deal with it. Certain types of sounds get to me, they make me anxious and I can't wait till they end or I can get away from them. I love being up in the wee hours of the morning because it is so very quiet and still. Among all the racket, Julie, you will also hear such beauty that it will bring tears to your eyes and an lump to your throat. You have a strength and courage that is admirable.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[labblab]

Hi Julie,

I am hoping to "second" everything that Leslie just wrote to you! Everything she said is so right and so true. I am packing tonight for a trip (going to a family wedding), so I do not have much time to post. I won't be back until next week, but I'll be thinking of you and Pip and everyone here who is near and dear to me!!!!!

As always, sending (((hugs))) to you and to our dear boy ~
Mariannne

[JHP]

Hi Lesile,

Thanks for youe advice.
Today Pip is up and walking and his legs are not giving way when he stands up he's just pottering in the garden altough he had i little walk early this morning .;
Spoke to the vet nurse when i collected his medication this afternoon.they advice caution and just rest him for a couple of days.and not let him oiver due as pip needs a hip replacement .but with him being a cushings he would be high dependenacy also the weight is an issues they said would do the surgery upto the age 13 or 14 these surgeon on does large dogs .Anyway lost the track becuse his a cushings pup weight is another factor he told my vet that if he did now and the hip doesn't set theres nothing left for pip so the aim is to get him down to 28kilos and go from there my vet said pip being cushings and the physio afterwards he doesn't have the stamnia as he gets tired very easily
but if he know better after resting and taking things slowly they will get him to see a vet.
But as we know everything that life throws Pips way he just to battle on and get over there courage hes has is amazing when i sometimes think has nothing left its like he smacks me in the face with a wake call not to give up even if he feel really poorly and you can tell by looking at he will still get his toys out and play for a while the just go off to his bed for a few hours maybe the rest of the day .
then there are days when his plays all day running around walks everywhere i go hes there which i love cos his my boy.then a coupple days after it catches up with him and just chills out for a day or so (i really miss him when hes not following me about as we've only been away from each other for 1 night and thats when he had major surgery.and had to stay in the vets iwas gutted that i never got him own till the following day SAD I KNOW)the vet said pip would be bettwer at home with huis mum as they couldn't get him to eat they tried and treid but still so they said if i could get him to eat something i could take him home and he eat for his mum.
sorry for boring you all if you.ve made it this far down
Julie Pippie

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

You're never boring! :p

Pip's good days/bad days sound like me! :rolleyes: Get up feeling good so I go and do, then the next few days I sit and moan & groan, popping pain pills! :o But those good days sure are nice so I don't blame Pip for ripping around when he's up to it! :p

Our Ruby needs a hip replacement more than likely but that's just not in the cards. :( She's our big baby, weighs about 50 lbs. She still climbs the stairs but it's hard on her at times. Then she has times when she jumps and romps around the living room like a puppy! I'm always afraid she'll fall and that will be that, but Jim says let her be happy and he's right. I give her Tramadol when she's in pain but that's not very often. After seeing her Xray, I know she had to hurt more than she shows! They are tough little souls, aren't they?

I'm glad Pip is feeling better and that there was nothing new for him to have to deal with! :eek: :D

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Just a quick update on pip.

He's back running about and playing .In the next few days i will getting Pips pool so he can go and play in there and have fun while i'm getting my garden sorted out.
My problem he has all his cushings syptoms full on i can cope with the excessive panting but the food or the drinking is getting really bad my vet won't do anything as his readings where low she say we just have to grin and bear until he has his next acth stim on 15th may? i went to collect some medication for him tonight and ask the vet nurse if the could test him for diabetes when hes in for his next acth stim she said she has tested him a few times and is happy he doesnt have diabetes (but my vet also said there was no way he had cushings)but we did the 8 hr test and he was caught at the right time as his levels where very high before and after .I say i know my dog and its not like pip to be hungry all the time and thirsty just usually when his cushings plays up and we adjust his meds and his ok .MY vet thinks its behavoiural with pip but no matter how much i feed him fresh veg and his daily allowance hes gone FOOD MAD 'I just dont know what to da anymore .
Pip doesnt think i'm going to naughty to get food his a dog. so i cant understand this hes never been a big eater until a couple of years ago then he was diagnosed with cushings started Vetoryl and his appietite decreased just never got the weight of him which is a big problem.so something else must be going on for him to be hungry all the time,.we've done thyroid test and his low but that comes with a cushings dog .i think they are feed up with pip i sometimes wonder how he would be if he wasn't on such alot of medication
any way thats all
julie Pip

[JHP]

just a quick update Pip is doing fine he's in his pool playing and splashing everyone that walks past him in the garden .he still very FOOD MAD but he's not getting anything except his daily allowance and his veg.
Although i dont think food will really be a problem as he likes to be in his pool all day and most of the night hes in the shade where the sun can't harm him (IT'S REALLY ABATTLE TO GET HIM OUT OF THE POOL AS he perfers playing in there andno amount of bribing can get him out pool but eventually he gets out doesnt like me very much after i ve made him get out but hey its tough being pip really NOT)
well thats all
julie;)

[Carol G]

Hi Julie,

I'm so happy to hear Pip is doing fine and enjoying his pool.

Carol, Winnie (always), McGill & Atty Cat

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

I can't even tell you how big my smile was after reading about Pip in the pool. That was a great way to start my day so thanks for sharing.

Glynda

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

Glad to hear Pip is doing better again. Maybe being in his pool and the cool water helps his hip and joints??? Must do your heart good to see him playing and having fun. Does mine good just hearing about it. :D

Louise

[gpgscott]

Hi Julie,

You have been through so many ups and downs. I am glad Pip is doing better and hope you both enjoy the spring.

Scott

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

So good to hear this report on Pip! The pool may really help his legs feel better not to mention cool him off. It's really neat that he likes it so well! :cool:

Squirt just hates water and after her leg surgery I was told to take her swimming 4 times a week. So we would go out to the lake, I would walk out as far as I could holding Squirt, then put her in the water and she would swim for the shore like mad! Then the chase was on to catch her again and take her back out. She hated the water part but the chase was great fun and a big game to her! :p Needless to say, we both slept like rocks on swim days! :D

Hugs to you both,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

:):):)Hi everyone


Just to let you know things are very good with pip (i bet you are expecting bad news but i don't have any for you)he perfect playing running and just being a dog rolling cat chasing

Ihoping to put some picture's of pip in the gallery with honey my baby girl they are the last photos of us 3 before she died. (she was a very very poorly girl too and if you knew her would be able to tell from the photo. akthough i a little worried on putting her on as she was a big girl to and i don't want people being horrid about her the reason was cancer and the vet couldn't take the tumors away as if they missed one cell if would have killed her out right so i may just crop her out not sure .

Anyway going back to my lad his in top all kinds of mischief again although he does get tired very easily his still up for loads of fun i do alot of crafts and he runs of with my things when he thinks i've spent to much time crafting the other day i was sprinkling glitter and pip came up nudge me and the glitter went all over him now this is a new game for him.
Also he's being doing some jobs for my mum as she is disabled he helps her by pulling the washing from the machine into the basket and pushes over to the troyble dryer and put the washing in there if my mum drops anything he will pick up for her.he does quite alot for her. no one ever taught he just did _(i sometimes think pip is wasted with me as he would have been a good for the disable ) its not very often he has a grumpy mood even when he really in pain .
sorry for going on
julie pip

[Carol G]

Hi Julie,

That makes me so happy to hear how well Pip is doing. I'm looking forward to seeing your pictures in the gallery and don't you even think about cropping out Honey.

That is wonderful how Pip helps your mum! I'm sure it makes him feel so proud.

Carol, Winnie (always), McGill & Atty Cat

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

Great to hear everything is still going well for Pip. That is fantastic how Pip assists your mum all on his own with no special training. Wow! Munchie needs to take some lessons from Pip!!! :D

Louise

[ladysmom06]

Hi Julie,


Just to let you know things are very good with pip (i bet you are expecting bad news but i don't have any for you)he perfect playing running and just being a dog rolling cat chasing


Happy:D:D to hear that Pip is doing so well. I can just imagine how happy this makes you feel. Hugs to you and Pip.

[Truffa's Mom]

Hi Julie & Pip. I was fascinated by your story. You truly have an amazing spirit and for sure Pip is your canine reflection.

Glad to hear that Pip is doing better, love the stories around the pool. Hydrotherapy and that miracle deep freeze sounds like a perfect combination for him, it will help him loose weight and exercise her legs effectively.

I think you're doing good with the weight loss program. As Leslie said, any ounce less for them is a big improvement; believe me, we've being fighting obesity in Truffa even before cushings. She eats so little that sometimes I feel guilty. When we finally crossed the line below 78 pounds (35 kilos), we where super happy, 2 months later we were 86 pounds (38.7 kilos)....well my husband was here so they got a "little" of his cooking - every meal during the weekends, and during the week a "little bit" of his supper.....and for a senior dog with cushings that's a lot!!!. So my hubby had some new rules : either you go work around USA or South America, or the only thing you're getting at night when you're home are veggies, or you'll have to toughen up and not cave when you see the "begging eyes". So he is working in South America for 2 months and we are on a strict diet now.

I am crazy freaky natural person now and I started Truffa on a weight loss supplement that I am going to try.

http://www.petnaturals.com/vitamins_supplements/k9-slim-down-plus.php
Today we finished one bottle of http://www.shop.petfriendly.com/product.sc;jsessionid=35C057AF994D22F752309B8F89D4 4663.qscstrfrnt03?productId=78&categoryId=7, and we are going to be weight :D.

The other thing is the coconut Oil, which helps with mobility problems, weight loss and apparently a lot more health issues : http://ptpetsupply.tripod.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderfiles/crazyaboutcoconut.doc, http://nutiva.com/articles/healthy-dogs-use-coconut-oil/

I will keep you & Pip in my thoughts. What about a pretty scarf around your head while the other side of your hair grows up?. I'll bet you'd look more pretty than you are right now.

Marcela & the Choco Labs

[JHP]

Just need some advice please.

Has anyone with a cushings dog ever had trouble with the dogs ears .AS JUST OVER A YEAR PIP HAS CONSTANT PAIN WITH HIS EARS SOMETIMES JUST A LITTLE WAX (i CLEAN HIS EARS EVERY DAY) SOEMTIMES EAR INFECTIONS, BUT LIKE NOW THEY ARE VERY RED AND IRRTAING THE LIFE OUT OF HIM HE TILYS HIS HEAD I'VE CLEANED THEM TODAY BUT NOTHING HAS COME OUT.ALSO WHEN I GO TO WIPE THE FLAPS WITH COTTON WOOL AND JUST INSIDE THE EARDRUM HE CRIES

His still fine just don't know about his ears they seem to get harder the ear cleaner /drops they give as it loopks like his ear canal is narrowing (my vet did say that his canal isw narrowing
Iwould be very greatful for any advice
thank you
julie

[JHP]

just to let you know pip at vets as ears are so painful and discomfort he cant take any more so i'm off to get hom checked out
juile

[JHP]

update on my boy after his vet visit this afternoon.
Seem's as though Pip has chronic ear problems. His ears are clean (the vet said his ears cant get any cleaner) there is no wax no mites no forgien body.
When he looked in Pip's ears he said they are clean as i've already said but there is a creamy white colour he said its some type of infection the name is called pseudomonas it's not like your normal ear infection this 1 is harder to treat apperantly .I asked if there was anything i could do to prevent this happening with Pip and the vet said no once they get this type of i=ear infection he will always get it .
the vet gave Pip his first lot of ear drops while he were at the practice and showed me who to put this in i have to go all the way down the canal
and also gave him some anti biotics the same as the ear drops
AURIZON EAR DROPS TWICE DAILY
MARBOCYL pTABLETS 80MG TWICE DAILY.
they want to see him in a week .Pip is in for his acth stim on friday at 12pm. then i have to go to hospital to deaf clinic then have another appointment with the vet at 5.10pm friday evening so Pip will stay with vet until i get there to discuss his ears .

julie

[Patricia ann Wh]

Hi Julie,

There is a product that I use for everything. My dog's uti cleared up so fast it even blew me away. Its Mesosilver. Yes, its been around forever, but this is the only one I would ever dream of using. It is the only SAFE silver on the market. My girlfriends 2 dogs had some kind of skin infection and they were on antibiotics forever, this (spraying it on) cleared it up in no time. Really.

http://www.colloidsforlife.com/silver_Ear_Infection.html

http://www.colloidal-silver-colloids.com/contrib/mesosilver-testimonials.htm

Its for topical use and internal use.
Read up on it, I know it seems too good to be true.
I don't know why people are so afraid of things that have been around forever, try this, I'm telling you - it works.

Its so safe you can use it for conjuctivitis, I have a friend that has used it on her dog - sprayed it right in her eyes, it cleared up - after trying 2 rounds of antibiotics!!!

Patti:)

[JHP]

Hi Patti,
thanks for the link i will have a look and research Pip is out for the count he's not even woke up for his food and he's very food mad at the moment.
I've just uploaded some photo's of with Honey on the gallery but have done as a PRIVATE ALBUM so only members that contact me can see.
Thanks again
Ju Pip

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I've never posted on your thread before. Last summer, Wylie was bothered by his left ear. I looked inside and it was red (inflammed). My regular vet was too busy to see him immediately - I didn't know what it was at the time and didn't want to wait, so I took him to another vet. It turned out to be an ear infection. Wylie never had an ear infection before, as far as I know (I had him since he was 2-1/2 yrs old). Then 2 weeks later, he had a skin infection...and to make a long story short, he then got diagnosed with Cushing's and we believe these infections had to do with his lowered immune system due to Cushing's. I'm not familiar with pseudomonas, but I wonder how controlled Pip's cortisol levels are and wonder if this infection can be controlled better if the Cushing's is controlled better:confused:.

-Susy

[JHP]

Hi Susy,
Thank you over the last tear or so Pip has had truble with his ears i asked my normal vet if could be his cushing at the start she said no .but before pip was diagnosed with the cushing he never ever had anything wrong with his ears
Pip is in next friday for his acth stim/


LABBLAB
hope you found the photo's of pip and honey

julie

[SasAndYunah]

Hi Julie,

sorry to hear that Pip has problems with his ears. Was there a bacterial culture done to make sure it is (solely) pseudomonas? And if so, was there also an antibiogram done to determine to wich antibiotic this particular strain of pseudomonas is sensitive for?

Also, cleaning Pip's ears every day is not a good idea. It will destroy the natural balance in his ears. One way or the other, all earcleaners are "aggressive' when used daily....so you better not do that anymore :)

And one other thing, did the vet mention that the Aurizon eardrops contain Dexamethasone? And did the vet mention that the Marbocyl can have side effects that could be confused with Cushing's problems? The side effetcs of Marbocyl can include vomitting, soft(er) stools, hyperactivity, changing drinking pattern...so you see why these side effects could be confused with Cushings problems :)

Whising you and Pip all the best,

Saskia and Yunah :)

[JHP]

thank you no the vet didn't mention that at all i've look up on internet and said what you have stated to me
I did'nt know it would effect his cushings all the vet said was that he would need a speical ear drop and anti biotic's as a normal erar drops and cleaner wouldn'y touch it.
i've always cleaned pips ears with a dog ear cleaner i get from the vets i use to do twice a week then we saw a vet never seen before and she suggested doing pips ears everyday twice aday .i only did that a couple of times as nothing was coming out and pip was going crazy with his ears
so i just went back to twice a week
thank you do you think i should stop the ear drops and tablets only pip is a lot more settled and relaxed with his ears
juile

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I just found this article, and of course it's only one vet's findings/belief, but this is what he wrote (link to article is below):

"In dogs, Pseudomonas otitis is the principal disease process caused by this organism. Almost all cases of resistance Pseudomonas are associated with chronic and recurrent otitis induced by a primary/underlying disease ( atopy, food allergy, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s, and conformational
abnormalities of the ear). It is likely that the chronic alterations in the otic microenvironment associated with persistent inflammation, sets up a state of hyperhidrosis which is preferred by Pseudomonas. The unique pathogenicity of Pseudomonas allows it to take advantage of the diseased tissue and develop resistance to antibiotics.

The single most important component for the successful treatment of chronic/recurrent otitis is control of the underlying disease process that has caused the alteration in otic microenvironment. Both allergies (atopy and food allergy) and endocrine diseases (hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease) are common causes of otitis . The infection will not be successfully managed and the recurrent otitis will not stop until the redisposing/underlying disease is identified and controlled. Bacterial culture’s and antibiotic sensitivity profiles should be used to determine which organisms are present and for the selection of appropriate antibiotic therapy. During the course of treatment, cultures and antibiotic sensitivity panels should be repeated to monitor changes in the bacterial population and antibiotic resistance."

http://www.itchnot.com/images/What_are_the_infections_and_Why.pdf

-Susy

[SasAndYunah]

Oh no Julie, do not stop the drops and the pills. His ears must be very painfull and itchy...and the meds will help relieve those symptoms. But just wanted to make sure that if Pip vomits...or becomes hyperactive for example, that you don't panic and think it is his Cushing's...it could very well be the side effects of the pills :) And with the Dexamethasone in the eardrops...I would wait with the ACTH test..untill Pip is off the eardrops to make absolutely sure that the Dexamethasone in the eardrups is not interfering with the results of the ACTH test :)

But a bacterial culture and an antibiogram might be a good idea. The earinfection could be "just" the pseudomonas but there also could be a fungus or yeast infection as well, for example. It's good to know for certain wich bacterias and/or other organisms are involded, since this will help to determine the very best treatment. (pseudomonas is resistant to most antibiotics...so randomly prescribing anti biotics is useless) They can test to which anti biotic the specific strain of pseudomonas is best responding to. I know, that here in The Netherlands, there are no (commercial) eardrops or ointments that contain the right antibiotic to treat pseudomonas. What they will do is make a tailormade cream or bottle of drops by adding the right antibiotics to the (neutral) cream or drops. This is, as far as I know, the best (and actually only) way to treat pseudomonasinfections in ears. But you need a bacterial culture and antibiogram...

But keep giving Pip his current meds for now...they will at least help to relieve (some of) his painfull and itchy symptoms for now.

Saskia and Yunah :)

[JHP]

I need advice regarding Pips ear drops


Everytime i put Pip's ear drops in he cries and whimpers:(:(:(:( mainly on the left side his ears are very painful and itching red and sore Do you think i should STOP giving him the ear drops and just give him the anti biotics tablets as right now he's not liking his ears touched at all :(:(:(

i would be very greatful for any advice
juile:

[Spiceysmum]

Hi Julie,

Sorry to hear Pip is having trouble with his ears now. I think you should carry on with the drops, hopefully they will start working soon. Spicey had the Aurizon drops last year and they worked well. When their ears are sore they do whimper when you put the drops in and Spicey always hates it when the vet looks deep in her ears. Also like Saskia suggested I would wait a bit longer before having the ACTH test. Spicey was due to have a test when she was on the drops and we had to delay it for a week as the lab said it could have an influence on the test.

Linda and Spicey

[JHP]

Hi

Just an update on Pip

We had to call the out of hours vet today as pip is in a total mess with this PSEUDOMANS INFECTION IN BOTH EARS.The read what the other vet put on friday when he was seen .my mum spoke to the vet as pip is vomiting and crying everytime we put the ear drops in. she said that Pip has a very very nasty ear infection unfortunalty we have to carry on with ear drops (and she understands how pianful and distress this is making pip )the reason it he does like the his ears being touched and and the ear drops in is because they are so red and imflammed all the way down to his his ear canal to the middle ear so its going to be very painful for pip. we have to carry on weith the drops and anti biotics as its importantto get this uneder control.
the vet said pip may just sleep and want to be left alone as this infection is nasty and making him feel very poorly(she is right there he is just sleeping) i must wake him up for anti biotics and ear drops,
it bank holiday here she will see him on tuesday and may be change his anti biotics mum said he was there on friday as they want to see him in 7 days
she said would see him before and our normal vet could still see him on friday.
Although Pip has cushings and other health problems i've never ever seen him so DISTRESS like this it's very heartbreaking to see my baby like this .
Anyway i forgot to tell you pip now wieghs 35. kilos he gone from 36.9 to 35.kilos although i'm expecting him to put weight on as he's not doing anything other than sleep
I've put some poicture on of Pip with honey , he was 4 years old there and onlt a kilo overwieght . so you may think he is slim .i will be putting some new photo of my chumky boy on shortly
julie

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
Sorry that Pip is feeling poorly. I hope the meds do their work fast and Pip starts to feel better soon. It is so hard to watch your baby suffer and know there is nothing you can do except meds and waiting.
We will be keeping good thoughts for Pip's quick recovery.
John (Roxee's Dad)

[ladysmom06]

Hi Julie,

Sorry to hear that Pip is in a lot of pain from the ear infection. Hoping the medicine starts working soon and he can get some relief. Hugs to the two of you.

[forscooter]

Hi Julie,

I am so sorry Pip is suffering so with that ear infection! Scooter always had them and I know how painful they can be. He would cry even if you just touched his ear lightly sometimes. It was horrible.

The good news is that they did get better over time with medication. Unfortunately that's the only way the ears will get better...I wish there was another way...but please know that we are sending our very best and hope Pip gets some relief SOON!

Sending Pip lots of healing wishes!!!
Beth, Bailey and always Scooter

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

I'm sorry to hear that Pip is so miserable with his ear infection and understand how upsetting that is for you. Just wanted you to know that I'm thinking positive thoughts for you both.

Louise

[JHP]

Pip is still in some discomfort with his ears, still being sick today he's not eaten anything i've put in front of him.He just sleeping i manged to put the ear drops in again he was crying whimpering and he did a little scream still doesn't like his ears being touched . still carry on with the treat for pseudomonas may have to get him back tomorrow tried giving him his other medication didn;t want to know. Haven't be able to get him to take his VETORYL TODAY .but its only 1 day without medication .will hopefully take tomorrow even if i have to give him some chicken that if i can get him to eat.
julie

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

I'm sorry that Pip is having another rough day. :( A dog that doesn't eat is usually a sick dog and you should never give Vetoryl to a sick dog. So you may want to wait until Pip's appetite is back before resuming dosing. We'll have fingers and paws crossed here in the hopes that Pip will feel much better soon.

Glynda

[JHP]

Thanks Glynda,


I can't get him to eat still and take his normal mediction ,Spoke with vet practice they just say this type of ear infection is very nasty.I said about Pip's ACTH STIM on friday this has be cancelled as the vet said he needs 2 week's clear of the ear drops All he'as doing in sleeping still drinking and vomiting .its really knocked out of him.

Julie

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I have been out of town and am sad to read that Pip is having such a hard time with his ears.

He needs some proteins to help him heal. Since he is drinking, maybe you could try some chicken broth or beef broth, or even make a stock using some veggies he likes along with some meat. This way he will get some nutrients he needs yet doesn't have to chew, which with painful ears may be too much for him right now. Try to get him to take some liquid nourishment until he can chew without pain. If he won't take that, then get some NutriCal. It will provide all the nutrients he needs.

Hope things start looking up for you and Pip again soon and that he is chasing cats again in no time!

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
Just checking in and hoping Pip is recovering. Hope he is feeling better by now.
John (Roxee's Dad)

[JHP]

Just to keep you update on the latest with Pip


He went back to the vets on friday his ears a just a little pink although he's still not happy with his ears being touched, my vet said she could give him more ear drops but is steriod base and will effect his cushings. but ultimatly he will need his cushings test . she also said we could give him a gently ear cleaner to use every day to try and soothe them.when the vet looked in them on friday there was stiil no wax mite's.what the vet said try is 1 drop of olive oil 1 daily in both ears to see if that to see if that help soothes the irration and to give his ears a little coating.
he still not happy with his eares being touched he shaking his head and tilting which my vet saw on friday as i've already said there is nothing in them.the reason he was being sick was due to the anti biotics
My vet also said Pip has some sort of allergies which we will be looking into .(maybe ? ) not sure at the moment giving him time to get over the ear infection. i said to my vet he's had infection's before but this one has really taken it out of him
he still sleeping quite alot he started eating again on friday also taking his regular medication .

This morning he went for a walk and we had a nice stroll we went where he want to go (the only thing is he was a bit mad as he fancied to in the canal and i wouldn't let him so i spoiled his fun) but we where out for about 1hr 15mins.but i let him go where he wanted to go.

he is booked in for his ACTH stim on the 28th may as vet said about 3 weeks after ear drops
well that my news
julie pip

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

Thanks for the update. Glad that Pip's ears are a little better and that he still feels like taking a stroll. This infection has certainly taken its toll on him, poor boy. Hope he fully recovers soon!!

Take care,
Louise

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
Very happy that you are seeing improvement in Pip. I hope he feel much better real soon.
John (Roxee's Dad)

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I'm glad there has been some improvement with Pip's ears and that he felt like taking a walk with you. You tell him that Auntie Leslie said he can't play in the water until his ears are well. BUT, he can chase all the cats he wants. ;)

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Thank you for all your replies

This morning Pip's ears were very red sore and hot does like them being touched again his shaking his head and also head tilting very badly you cold teel he was in some discomfort and they were making him irratable,
spoke to the vet nurse left a message for my vet who contact me back and has prescribed him the aurizon again for 1 week (HIS ATCH STIM HAS BEEN PUT BACK FOR THE 1 WEEK IN JUNE SOME HE HAS PLENTY OF TIME OF THE EAR DROPS)
Juile Pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Poor baby. :( Am keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
Also keeping good thoughts for Pip. Poor guy has been thru enough and needs to catch some good luck.
John (Roxee's Dad)

[JHP]

stil having lots of trouble with his ears although hes sleeping quite alot at the moment he's only awake for about 2 hrs aday at present he seems really drain and tired but i cant get his cushings check until 5 th june due to the ear drops
julie and pip

[AlisonandMia]

Hi Julie,

Re the ear drops and the ACTH stim test - I think you have been using Aurizon ear drops on Pip. I see that the steroid in Aurizon ear drops is dexamethasone and this is good because it means that you can have an ACTH stim test done even while he is having them put in his ears every day without it affecting the test at all.

This is because dexamethasone (unlike any other steroids) does not "read" as cortisol on testing. This is why it can be used in the Low Dose Dexamethasone Suppression test that is used in Cushing's diagnosis.

If the dexamethasone in the ear drops is the only steroid that Pip has received in the course of this ear infection then you should be able to get the ACTH stim done any time you want without having to worry about it affecting the results in any way.

Alison

[JHP]

Pip is really not well at all he has all the cushings very hungry all the time drinking excessivly no energy.
His ears are still causing him some discomfort and irration
also his he not walking very well and has only had a walk about 3 doors up and turned striaght round
but its been very cold and damp here so that may be why hes joints are playing him up .
I went to vets today to collect his wormere and they are 100% sure he cannot have his acth stim while on aurizon ear drops has to be 2 weeks minuim so i cannot have him tested to see if he levels are up and his medication needs adjusting


julie

[Squirt's Mom]

Hey Julie,

Poor Pip. :( Seems like every time he gets to feeling good, something happens and brings him down again. Just not fair...to either of you!

I am wondering if perhaps the Trilo has caused some of Pips intermediate/sex hormones to elevate, causing him to keep having the cush behaviors. Was he ever tested for Atypical Cushing's with a full adrenal panel from UTK? I can't remember. :o Having the arthritis worsen when the cortisol is lowered is not that surprising as the cortisol "treats" the inflammation. But the difficulty he has had in getting his cush signs/behaviors under control just makes me wonder if some of his other hormones may not be out of whack, too. Especially since we know the Trilo will cause some of those to elevate. I just we knew what was causing his problem and how to address it. :( Hopefully the ACTH will give some answers.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Hi lesile

I don't think he was ever tested for Atypical all i know is that they tested his thyroid it was a full panel (a posh test but don't know what its called)before he was diagonesd with cushing and the vet said he definatly didn't have a thyriod problem only one of the levels where low which can happen with a cushings dog the vet did put him on solxine for low level but the medication made him very ill.

when ever pip has his acth stim and we get the results they are either to HIGH or when he was last tested his levels where to LOW so we have to adjust his medication all the time he is either on 2 vetoryl 30mg morning and evening dose or when she reduces him to 1 vetoryl daily he a mess or if its really really low no medication for a week then retest him then his levels are very very high and the vet does what the lab suggests i don't know i keep asking my vet could anything else be going in she said he has behavioural problems but pips not a naughty dog and doesn't show any behavourial problems the only thing he has is separte anxiety but they say that because our bond is very strong if i not around he panics and vomit and shakes even my mum cannot console him hes never left on his own.once i come home hes fine every time i get up to move you can put money on it pip is right necxt to me even when hes asleep at night and i get up because i can't sleep or come down for a drink of water pip will get up and follow then get back on my bed and come for a hug if try and move my hand as it gone dead even though he's asleep he will put his paw up to stop me from moving he more secure when when he's with His mum (but thats because of him being very badly treated beaten starved when i got him he was very thin the bones were showing on his head and they are the last things to go he was stabbed broken jaw cut marks on the inside of his hind legs he had never been on a lead ifeed him when i got him home the as he was covered in fleas i bathed him he fell asleep as that was his first bath in his short life of 18 months and since then we've only had 1 night apart from each other and thats when he had major surgery 2weeks after honey died as there was someone going poisoning dogs and they got pip but the stuff they threow over also had glass metal and wood in so he need major surgery on his intestines and bowel as there was no way he was going to pass that it was 2 weeks after honey died the vet said pip would be better at home with his mum as he was meant ti been for a week but he had an overnight stay.
and sinxce i got him at 18mths old he was unsure what was going to happen to for about 2months nowe he's very spoiled but hes never show any behavouiral problems only seprate anxiety.
sorry i.ve done it again if you got this far down and not fallen asleep SORRY FOR GOING ON AND BORING YOU

Julie Pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Sweetie, you never bore me! :) It always makes me smile and gives me the warm fuzzies when you tell about how you got Pip and how close you two are now. He is truly blessed to have found you!

I believe I would think about having the UTK panel done on Pip. If his other hormones are elevated, that could well be a big part of his problem getting regulated. Unfortunately, I believe you will have to take him off the Trilo awhile to get the testing done, but maybe I'm wrong. The treatments for Atyical, melatonin and lignans, aren't prescription in the US and we can get them at just about any pharmacy, health food store, even WalMart. And they are easier on the pups as well as us moms and dads. Something to consider anyway. Hopefully some of those with more experience will chime in on this, too.

Hang in there!
Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[Wylie's Mom]

YOU ARE NOT BORING, JULIE!

It's hearbreaking knowing how Pip was treated in the past, but it makes it that much better to know he is now in such a caring home and being spoiled (like he deserves:p).

I'm sorry he's not feeling well:(.

-Susy

[labblab]

Oh Julie, I am so sorry to hear that Pip is still having such problems. I'm sure that it is your loving care that has kept him going through all of these rough spots. And I'm counting on it doing the same, now.

Regarding Leslie's suggestion about testing Pip for elevated hormone levels other than cortisol -- I do think this is something we have touched upon in the past. But since you live in the U.K., the situation is more complicated for you than for us in the U.S. Pip's blood sample would have to be sent here to the U.S. for analysis. That can probably be done without too much trouble. But the real trouble is that you may not have any alternative treatment for Pip's high cortisol OTHER than trilostane. Here in the U.S., dogs can be shifted to a different drug, Lysodren, if it seems as though trilostane is causing some problems. But Lysodren is generally not an option in England. I think it is very difficult to obtain. So as long as Pip needs to have his cortisol level reduced, I don't know that he has any choice other than to remain on the trilostane, regardless. It is such a shame that it seems as though he has a number of issues going on, and that the treatment that helps one may not be so good for another. :(

I know you have been up and done with the ACTH results, though. And if it starts turning out that his ACTH results repeatedly are too low -- even though he is still having Cushing's symptoms -- then you may well want to talk with your vets some more about having him tested for elevations of other adrenal hormones (this is the test that Leslie is talking about).

Marianne

[Wylie's Mom]

There is information on the UTK site for shipping from outside the US:

http://www.vet.utk.edu/diagnostic/endocrinology/shipping.php

[Squirt's Mom]

and some info on Lysodren in the UK:

Lysodren in the UK/England

http://www.penstone-vets.co.uk/cushings.htm
Treatment of the pituitary-dependant Cushing's Disease requires administration of tablets. A chemotherapy-type drug is used called Lysodren (Mitotane-OPPD). This is a human drug that has to be imported into the U.K. from the U.S.A. under special license.

UK Office
Masters
380 Centennial Avenue
Centennial Park
Elstree - Hertfordshire
UK - WD6 3TJ
Telephone: + 44 (0) 208 327 0900
Facsimile: + 44 (0) 208 327 0901
Email: info@masters-uk.com

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

You're not boring! I remember reading that Pip was abused prior to coming to you but I didn't realize how badly. :mad: What a horrid life he had in the past, poor boy.

He is one very, very lucky boy to have you as his Mum!! Spoiled??...I believe he's very much loved!!!

Louise

[JHP]

Hi Everyonr

Thank you for all your replies,
I know about mititane i asked my vet practice about itbut they are not licensed for that drug but there is a dog down the from my house who also has cushing and her dog is on mitotane (she is at a different practice than mine.i have another dog that live not so far from me and the dogs has cushings she is also on vetoryl her dog doesn't seem to lose any weight and is and still has syptoms of his cushing but as i say hes on vetoryl she is at the same vets practice as us and they prefer vetoryl .

Anyway going on to we called our vet practice yesterday afternoon at 1.30pm, for advice as he really is not well at all .the vet nurse said our normal vet was at lunch but she never got in contact at all (which is very unlike her as she always contacts you back my vet is always very hectic as she a very popluar vet with every one but she only the monday and friday and it doesn't matter if she full booked up with appointments she will always fit Pip in her schedule and if sshe cannot the other vet will go and have a quick chat but she does copme throw and see while we are with the other vet but thats very rare) anyway going back to Pip hes right side is very painful and his stomach is sore he skin is very he's ears still very red and irrating him doesn't like them being touched he's getting like open sores on his stomach he's got know enregy and very lethergic he's not doing anything my mum called and the nurse said she would call us back but a 8pm our vet never and my mum said this is not like onr vet as she hasn't called us mum said there must of been something going that she could'nt get back to us.
So in the end my mum called the out of hours number the vet called us back mum explian what was going on with pip as i've already said she said that even when pip is not well he always has something for a little play but hee's not doing anything he got nothing no energy (by this time i was very unhappy mum said we called and the vet hasnt got back to us she said its not like our vet not to call and she apolized on her behalf of the practice but she told my our vet will always contact is back because its Pip and said our surname even if our normal vet got the message at 10pm she wopuld call because its Pip the vet mum spoke to is going to find out what going on and why our vet never got back tous (but said yes its Pip and she would get back to us because its Pip.
anyway we've done what the vet has told us to do and we just have to watch him over the weekend.
Julie Pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I am so sorry Pip is having so many problems. :( When did the sores start? Has he been able to see his usual vet yet? I am worried about this latest development in Pip's situation. :(

It is a shame you can't convince his vet to use the mitotane. It seems that the vetryol is just not doing him justice. The infections, sores, and continuing lack of control of the cush signs tells me his disease is not being addressed by the Trilo. Pip has been through so much in his life, it is not fair that he now has to suffer from this, too.

Please keep in touch and let us know how he is doing.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

I always see my normal vet and if pip is ill in the week the other vets treat him and put us on till our normal vet is back on a friday i left message and they said she would call but as i said already she never so we called the out of hours practice who apolgised and she said if we call she our normal vet would contact us back because its pip
anyway the sores started to appear on wedensday the vet my mium spoke to said to bath the which i'm doing with hibiscrub which if i took pip to the vets thats excalty what they would use she also said that Pips belly maybe just upset and sometimes cushing dogs do get an upset stomach and can be painful.

i've given him piriton for the redness of his skin and also to help with the irration of his ears .
this morning i gave pip a bath as he was uncomfortable with his skin i use COATEX which i get from the vets this has help he just pinkish on his stomach now and a little more settled i still bathe these sores

I worried something else is going on with Pip other than his cushings and have said this to my normal vets as she knows every part of pip she checked his liver kidneys pancreas she also checked his thyroid and 1 reading con=mes back low which happens with a cushings dog as i have a friend with cushings and her dog's reading for thyroid come back low but its not actual the thyriod causing the problem also my vet has tested him for diabetes that was feb march time and she until then he didn't have that.
My vets seems to think its behavourial problems with Pip but all he suffersw with is sepration anxiety but when i m home hes fine he never left home alone there is always someone there with him and if there is i take to a friends and he will stay there till i go and collect him
I KNOW MY DOG AND SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH HIM OTHER THAN IS CUSHINGS .
Julie Pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Sweetie,

We always say we know our babies better than anyone and if you think something other than the Cushing's is going on, then follow your gut. That is certainly a real possibility. His case has been frustrating and usual from the start. It wouldn't surprise me at all to find there was some other issue at play here. Do you have access to specialists there? It might the wisest move to have Pip seen by an internal specialist with fresh eyes. It's easy for the vets that see them all the time (and us sometimes :o ) to get tunnel vision and contribute everything to the Cushing's, so fresh eyes may be just the ticket for Pip.

I'm glad he is somewhat more settled after his bath and hope he has a better day today.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[Squirt's Mom]

Hey Julie,

How is Pip doing? I sure hope you have seen some improvements! Keeping you and Pip in my thoughts and prayers for good days to come.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Hi Lesile,

Pip is doing fine his ears are finally getting there he pants alot .
But he's doing loads better this afternoon i've been doing some gardening ans Pip's been doing he's bit i layed the plants where i wanted them and he was digging holes where he wants the plants and if i put them in different place he would pull the up.
Now regarding walking thats a bit hit and miss at the moment if he goes for a walk in the morning he's very reluctant to go for his evening walk he really has slowed down quite alot over the last month or so .but i think thats alot to do with his hip dyspalisa (needs a hip replacement) and his arthritis in the rest of his joints.
He still got a good appetite I HAVE A DOG THAT WAGGING HIS TALE ALL THE TIME AGAIN AND HAS THE SPARKLE BACK IN HIS EYES AND HE FOLLOWS BE ABOUT LIKE IF USE TO DO. HE PLAYS WHEN HE WANTS TO WHEN HE HAD ENOUGH HE STOPS.
although he sleeps alot now ,My vet said Pip would always be old before his time.He's 10 in december he's a large dog and his weight is against him.
I think Now i'm starting to see the ageng process with Pip now
julie

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

So glad to hear that Pip's ears are finally on the mend and that he is feeling better again.

The aging process does affect all of us, but as long as Pip is still wagging his tail, plays, has the sparkle in his eyes and has a Mum that loves him....that's what counts IMO!!

Give your boy some extra pets from me.

Louise

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
So very, very happy that Pip is on the mend. I hope he continues to improve. And let the old man sleep when he wants to. He earned it:)

John (Roxee's Dad)

[Truffa's Mom]

Yippeee, what a good news !!!!! :):):):):)


I HAVE A DOG THAT WAGGING HIS TALE ALL THE TIME AGAIN AND HAS THE SPARKLE BACK IN HIS EYES AND HE FOLLOWS BE ABOUT LIKE IF USE TO DO. HE PLAYS WHEN HE WANTS TO WHEN HE HAD ENOUGH HE STOPS
I agree 200% with you, that's life at his purest. I am in need of a good gardener, I will hire you on the spot mister Pip!!!!

Big hugs to you both

Marcela & The Choco Lbs

[labblab]

Oh, I'm so relieved to hear this update, too!!!!!!!! I've felt so worried about Pip, but so helpless as to knowing what has been making him feel so poorly. So it's wonderful to hear that he's doing better...:) :D :) :D :) :D

Marianne

[Wylie's Mom]

I'm so happy to hear that Pip's ears are getting better:D:D:D:D!!!!

-Susy

[JHP]

Thank you for your replies

i 100% sure it's the start of the aging process now as he usual goes upstairs and sleeps on his bed but he's becoming very reluctant to go upstairs now. Although he won't be 10 till the end of the year some of my friends say it cant be the start of the ageing process most large dogs are in the prime at 9 but pips very different to most dogs even my vet said Pip is going to be old before his time,

now that Pip is reluctant to go upstairs i've been looking to get him a cage so that he has his own space at night my sister wont disturb him when she gets up at 3am for work but i;m not sure if he will like being in a cage as when his at the vets he bangs his head on the cage and looks very sad and unhappy sometimes my vet takes Pip out of the cage while waitng for his bloods and puts him in the prep room and she said pip is far happier being around people and not being stook in cage so this may not be a good idea i will have to have a very good THINK and chat with the vet to see if he will accept or not as io dont want to upset and make him stressed in a cage i thought of making him very unhappy makes me cry which i'm doing alot now.
He has now stopped his evening walking altogether he goes for 1 long walk in the morning now as he seems at his best in at 8am
julie

[JHP]

Hi Everyone

just and update on Pip
I'm not really sure what to do now as he very restless not wanting t go out for a walk and sometimes his all food then like the last few days not really inreseted he's having alot of trouble with his backs legs to quite frank im not sure with its time to do what i have to do .
Although hes booked in on the 5th june for his acth stim i don't know wether to wait for the test and see if what his levels are like as i don't want to have to do that just incase its his levels that are causing the trouble
He mainly sleeping now but doesn't seem to get comftable
he wakes up he will eat his breakfast then he just sleeps doesn't wake up for his other to meals if i go to wake him for his meals he just doesn't reallt want to know(i've just bulk bought his natures diet senior lite and wondering if its that he's gone of so i 'm off down town shortly to see try a different flavour)
mum says if he's asleep don't wake him up but he needs his medication

I'M REALLY HOPING THAT I'M WRONG AND ITS NOT TIME TO CALL TIME ON MY BOY
Julie Pip
p.s thank you for allowing me to post on your new look and exciting website
thanks again

[Spiceysmum]

Hi Julie,

Sorry to hear Pip is not well again. It seems he bounces back for a few days and then goes downhill again. It must be very upsetting to see him like this. I can't remember, is he still on Vetoryl? What does the vet think of his lethargy and not eating? I wouldn't wait until the 5th June before going back, you could perhaps have his electrolytes tested before this date.

I hope he can recover from this latest setback and can enjoy his walks and playing in the garden again. Thinking of you both.

Linda and Spicey

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
I am so sorry to hear of Pip's up,s and down's. I hope it is only temporary and he bounces back soon. Is Pip still on cush treatment? Possibly his cortisol is too low?

I will continue good thoughts and keep you and Pip in my prayers today. Give Pip some extra lovin from me.

[gpgscott]

Hi Julie,

Glad you found us and very happy to have you and Pip as members.

They all age differently and you just have to be aware of their illnesses and physical frailties and then just go with it.

You are doing fine, you are seeking professional care when you need it and you are looking out for Pip's needs concerning mobility. You may find that you have to vary the diet regularly to keep him interested in eating. A good thing to add to the diet is boiled rice and chicken.

Scott

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Goodness! Our boy just can't seem to string together those good days for long. :( Not fair.

Did you ever talk to your vet about something else going on with Pip other than the Cushing's? I'm beginning to wonder if he wouldn't be more comfortable stopping the Trilo and just addressing the pain issues. Maybe using Anipryl to control the signs. I can't decide if lowering the cortisol is making his arthritis that much worse or if the med just isn't working for him, letting the infections keep coming back. Lowering the cortisol can make things like arthritis come to the forefront and letting it remain high can cause infections like with his ears. I just wish an answer could be found that would give him some relief every day.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Hi
Pip is still on vetoryl 30mg 1 a day,
I still have to hang on for his acth stim in june as they say 3 weeks after ear drops ,
i still think we are missing something but my vet seems to think behavioural promblems which i'm not convience at all
julie pip

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

Thanks for the update on sweet Pip. I just realized that I can't recall that you have ever posted the results of any of Pip's acth stimulation tests. It would really help us understand how your vet is monitoring treatment. I am sure that your vet would be happy to give you copies of the acth stim test results so that you could post them in chronological order here. It would also help if you could remember and post any changes in dosing your vet made based on the various results.

Give that big boy a big hug for me and tell him that he has lots of aunties and uncles here that want him to get better real soon.

Glynda

[Wylie's Mom]

I found this in a cached file, post is dated 02/27/09, regarding 02/23/09 stim:

"GOT Pips acth stim test results back Pip's level's are creeping up that why his smyptoms are back he is on VETORYL 30MG TWICE DAILY FROM NOW TODAY, HE IS DUE BACK IN FOR HIS NEXT ACTH STIM ON 20TH APRIL"

Looks like the the April 20th stim never happened because of the ear meds.

Julie, do you have the actual results from this stim? or was there a more recent one?

-Susy

[JHP]

Hi
I do not have any results for any of his acth stim our vets don't like give us that information. all i know is that he is either to HIGH or LOW. I think we have only ever had acth stim we he's been on track.
We started Pip's dosage on 120mg 1 daily he was on that doseage for a while then they drop his doseage to 1 vetoryl 60mg 1 daily than they drop again as they said the vetroyl was working to well for pip then they went to vetoryl 30mg 2 daliy then it was vetoryl 30mg 2 vetoryl for 3 days and 1 vetoryl then continue to with this routine then before christmas we started him on vetoryl 30 mg 2 daily and continue this until his last acth stim where his levels where low .
so i don't really know all i know is that he can not have his acth stim until 5th june 09 but i'm may be going of to cornwall for a few weeks so may have to registar pip down there as i may never come back to my home town again so i'm looking at the vets down there in fact it's very unlikly i will return but i'm taking pip with me
julie

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Julie,

If you are leaving, you should get copies of Pip's records for the next vet... including all test results. Also, you should tell your vet that it would be good for you to have in case you ever need to go to an emergency vet.

How is Pip doing today?

-Susy

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Hope Pip is feeling a bit better. :)

Now listen, you can move where ever you wish and of course take your precious boy with you! However, you must take us with you, too. ;)

Hugs to both,
Leslie and the girls

[Roxee's Dad]

Oh yeah, Don't leave us behind:(

We all care about Pip and need to know how he and you are doing. I believe you have an operation comming up?

[JHP]

Hi Everyone,

Thank you for your replies
Pip is doing ok he statred going on 2 walks again since tuesday the evening walk is not as far as the morning walk but at least he's still going out. He be very worried and confused about his mum as i'm in a right state. his been very confused and sometime sad yesterday was a very bad day and he spent the whole day on my lap and if any one came near me he would growl at them as if to say my mums upset dont even think of coming near her when i walk about as i'm not sleeping my protecter is there by side he's wagging his tail he spent the day in his pool splashing and playing he's statred to get a few sores with always playing in his pool i drying him off so hes skin isnt wet or anything and the sore i'.m putting DERMISOL CREAM i got from the vets.

Now regarding my operation the consultant and i have decided not to do this operation as it will leave my face disfigured and nevre damage on the left side as they prefer to do the operation when you are 4 years old. also the consultant says the is a very high chance that that my brian will not adjust as i've never had any sound before as he put it my they called it a dead ears being deaf ,so really i'm not missing out by not having the operation as i cant hear any way.

Of course if i move i would still be in contact with you as i would like to keep you informed on pip although its seems its all bad times pip but as i say when he's good hes good.today my sister took me out for the day to try and cheer me up mum was putting the washing out and pip was with her then she said he disappeared and then next thing she saw in the washer was pips blankets and sheets so she washed them (i said to mum you are joking as the he had all clean bedding put on yesterday and we washed them and dried them ironed them yesterday and put them away.)mum thinks pip may have been ill on them and didn't want her to see and just put them in the washer, and i remember 1 time he made a mess on the kitchen floor and he went up stairs got one of his towels and and put over he's wee then put the towel in the washer then he was vomitng and he put his beeding in a bag and put near the bin
julie pip

[Wylie's Mom]

Oh my gosh! I just love Pip! I wish you had a web camera on him all day... I would tune to that channel! But, for now, please keep writing, I love reading about Pip. I just hope he has more of those good days;).

-Susy

[labblab]

Dear Julie,

Pip is such a special boy! And he loves you so much -- protecting you when you are upset...And to think that he takes care of his OWN laundry!!!!!

I am so sorry that you have been upset, though. It must have been so disappointing to make the decision not to go through with the surgery. I know for me, it makes it twice as hard when I've gotten my hopes up about something and then it doesn't work out after all.
And to also have the worry about Pip on top of everything else. I so hope that he will start having more good days again.

Are you still going ahead with your move? Is this something you are excited about, or will it be a hard move to make? Sometimes I think "moves" are a little bit of each. There are some things you look forward to, and some things that you know you will miss very much.

Julie, please do let us know how things are going with you and Pip. Even if the news is not so good, we want to know, anyway -- that way we can be thinking about you. And if the news is good, that is a bonus :)

Hugs to you, and big pats for our Pip ~
Marianne

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

My wash room is stacked up...think you could send Pip over to help? :p That is just amazing that he takes care of his own messes! Such a smart boy!!! :D

All things considered, your decision about the surgery is the right one. After you talked about the possibility of this surgery for you, I sat one day for a bit and just listened, trying to separate all the different sounds around me. Then I tried to understand how those sounds would affect someone who had never heard them before and I decided it would be terrifying for me. Since you have never had hearing, you aren't losing anything (tho for some reason I thought you had hearing in early childhood :rolleyes: ). The side effects and possible consequences you mentioned are reason enough to stay with what is known and familiar to you. Plus, now your beautiful hair will remain as it is! :D

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[Truffa's Mom]

I love Pip, his personality is amazing!!!

Somehow your decision of not doing the surgery sounds like you and your doctor have weighted all the pros and cons, and you seemed very OK with it. Thank you for letting us know and we'd love to keep hearing about you and Pip.

Take care Julie

[JHP]

Hi everyone


I REALLY NEEDS SOME ADVICE PLEASE REGARDING MY GOLDEN BABY ,HE OK SORT OF
PROBLEM 1
my PROBLEM now is that Pip is starting to eat quite a lot of soil and mud which he has NEVER EVER DONE in the whole time i've had him yes he rolls in wet mud and soil But never actually eat and is quite alot .(i've heard of cats eating soil and mud )I'M very concerned about this for him to suddenly sort eating soil and mud .Pip has always eating grass but he is never sick and i know they eat grass if there stomach is upset (but pip has medication for his stomach Antespin liquid form)
PROBLEM 2
Pip's Knees his fine playing in his pool but when he comes out to get dried.off he cries alot when they are touched and i'm being very gentle as i'm never (this will sound strange)but anyway i'm never ever rough with Pip when i dry him or bath him or even groom him i take quite alot of time on this with Pip due to his hips dsyplasia now arthritis in some of his joints so i'm very gentle as i don't what to have him in any discomfort (told you is strange my sisters think i'm crazy BIG TIME as he just a DOG )but not to me he's not.Anyway Pip is due for his acth stim on friday then on the following monday Pip is booked in for the results and his annunal boosters ,Now i wandering if i should ask my vet if she can x ray Pips knees as if you just touch them when he has a cuddle he cries and looks very cross at you because you hurt him

PROBLEM 3 WHICH HAS REALLY ANNOYED BIG TIME :mad:
Pip is insured with PETPLAN and has been since i got Pip at 18mths old he has the highest cover out so every year his vet fees return back to unlimited
My PROBLEM now they have put EXCULSIONS AND CLAUSES on his policy which is DEATH FROM ILLNESS COVER REMOVED FROM 05/07/08 WHICH I'VE ONLY JUST NOTICED AS HIS POLICY IS DUE TO BE RENEWED IN A FEW MONTHS
This EXCULSION Death from illness cover removed since Pip has been Diagnosed with CUSHINGS DISEASE which i'm very annoyed they never wrote and said they where doing that and i cant get any reason why before on his policy the only illness we ever claimed for was his hips and 1 claim for a major surgery on his bowels and intestines when he was poisoned 6 years ago after Honey Died .this exculsion has only come on since Pip was finally diagonsed with cushing disease HAS anyone else had this trouble with there insurance company i'm ANNOYED AS TO INSURE PIP THIS YEAR IS NEARLY £500.00 and to suddenly taken the cover of death by illness after 6years and half years is digusting just because he's a cushings baby. his petplan is covered for life (what they forgot to mention was if your dog gets canine cushing then we will put an exculsion on him in the way death from illness. i think its because sometimes there is alot of complications with a cushings dog so far this year on his cushings we've spent just over £3,000 and that with out his hips &arthritis stomach or ears


sorry for going on again but that has really annoyed me just because his a cushings dog
sorry again
julie and Pip

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

My Jojo eats mud too and I was wracking my brain trying to figure out why he was doing it. It seems that mud is a natural antacid as well as a good source of calcium. I'm not sure he knows that he needs calcium but he since he is being treated with lysodren, I think his tummy is a bit upset at times. He doesn't eat dry dirt, just mud and he's been doing it for about a year form time to time so I'm not worried about it. I do make him stop when I see him do it though because it drives me nuts. :D

Regarding your pet policy.....I am a long standing insurance geek (39 years in the business) and I think I understand what you are saying. It really sucks but insurance companies can legally slap a death of illness exclusion on a long standing insurance policy once a dog reaches a certain age. It sucks even more that dogs are considered property by the courts so death benefits are usually limited to the actual purchase price of the deceased dog. The good news is that all of Pip's other insurance coverages are still effective right?

Glynda

[Spiceysmum]

Hi Julie,

Is the water in his pool warm or cold? If it is cold it could be that it affects his joints.

We had a similar problem with our pet insurance last year when the cost of both of my dogs policies doubled due to claims we had made.
We haven't got the death benefit because we rehomed both of them so we didn't have to buy them. They have got you 'over a barrel' though because you can't change insurance companies as no other company would insure Pip for Cushings or any other problem you have ever claimed for. Luckily we have just had our renewal through and the price hasn't increased at all this year!

Linda and Spicey

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

It really sucks that your pet coverage would do that to you and Pip! :( I don't blame you one bit for being annoyed. I would be LIVID!!

Sorry, Glynda, but I think insurance in general is one of the worst things humans have ever come up with!!! :mad: I remember my dad coming home from the office with fresh garden veggies, eggs, home-raised beef and poultry, home made honey, jellys and jams, breads, cakes, etc. as payment from patients who could pay in no other way. No money, no insurance, but they were cared for anyway. Today, with no ins. and no money....too bad. They will keep you from dying on their premises and that is IT! :mad:

ok...I'm through ranting... :o

Keeping you and Pip in my thoughts and prayers.
Hugs and love,
Leslie and the girls

[lulusmom]

Now you know why I rarely reveal my secret life as an insurance professional. Closet smokers got nothing on us closet insurance geeks. :D Thank goodness I didn't come up with the theory of insurance...I think the master concept started in almost 2000 BC to protect merchant ships' goods. By the way, health insurance is one line of business that I've never dealt with and have my own issues with my medical insurer. I seem to pay more premiums for less coverage every year and they screw up every claim I submit. I hate em. :D If we ever meet someday, we can sit down over a long cup of coffee or a tall glass of bubbly and I'll explain why insurance premiums are so high. It isn't because insurers are lining their greedy pockets.

I'm not sure about the UK but the individual states regulate insurance companies and the respective Departments of Insurance take consumer complaints very seriously. I highly recommend that anybody that feels their insurance company, including pet insurance companies, is not acting in the utmost good faith, file a formal complaint and hold their feet to the fire.

Sorry for hijacking your thread Julie but I wanted to make sure that everybody still loves me, despite my profession. :D:D:D:D

Glynda

P.S. Leslie, I'm not sure that a lot of hospitals will actually save people for fear that they will die on their premises. There are tons of lawsuits out there against medical facilities that didn't treat and the people died in the ER or outside the facility. It's a dirty shame for sure.

[Squirt's Mom]

(i always love ya, Glynda....:D )

[JHP]

Hi Glynda

Don't worry i think your the best with all your knowledge on both cushings and insurance your job should'nt matter its you as a person that count and is what people love you for being you not your job.(hope that makes sense)

Anyway Pip and his pool the water is is warm .(i would never allow him to get in a cold pool because if its a hot day and pip gets into a cold pool he could have a heart attack i always check the temperature so its not to hot or to cold.
now regarding my baby i going to the vets tomorrow and have him booked in for x rays and his knees as he cries if you touch them and also yelps so i need to find out exactly whats going on with my boy as his pain relief is working on his huip dsyplasia and arthrtis in his elbow but it not touching the pain in his knees so i think i need to find out what wrong as there no way he will any one near there them
The eating mud and soil i've looked on the internet and ther give 3 possiable reasons
1) an old dog being senile which Pip is not as i already had him checked as i thought he weas losing the plot at one stage and he got the all clear (sorry but thatys how i put it to my vet)
2)something to dietary not getting the right neitrients in his food
3)There could be something wrong with his Metabolism
Which again i'm going to dicuss with my vet as i've said Pip has always eaten Grass but has never been sick and i know they eat grass if they have a stomach upst but pip has never eat soil or mud but and its driving me crazy so i'm going to discuss with my vet all the possabilitys that is causing this sudden thing with Pip
kind regards
julie Pip
thinking of you all

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Julie,

That's so strange I just saw on TV a couple days ago that Haitians are resorting to eating mud cookies. I don't know why Pip would be eating mud & I don't know much about pet insurance.

I'm not sure if I posted this information to you before... there are a couple articles on this site, "joint decisions" & "shock wave therapy" (under the "My Whole Dog Journal Articles" heading), that might interest you regarding arthritis.

http://www.dogaware.com/


Don't worry i think your the best with all your knowledge on both cushings and insurance your job should'nt matter its you as a person that count and is what people love you for being you not your job.(hope that makes sense)

Julie, this makes complete sense and I totally agree with you;).

Wishing you and Pip the best!

-Susy

[JHP]

NEWEST UPDATE ON PIP

Pip is schedule in on wednesday for x rays on his KNEES i just ask for them to be done. as Pip is in quite alot of pain and discomfort .he has to be there for 8.30am to 8.45am. he is last on the list. i need to know whats causing this problem with his knees, My vet should be calling to let me know if he can any of medication or not.his pain medication is stopping the pain for his HIPS and arthritis in he's elbows but doesn't seem to touch his kneeS and its now making him very miserable and you can tell he is not comfortable..
I've not mentioned the eating soil or mud at the moment as for me his knees are more important. to me at the moment i can cope with the eating mud and soil.
Pip is also in the vets on friday for his acth stim which i've also asked them to do his ANNUAL BOOSTER while they have him as he has again stopped going out in the evening and his was booked in for his results and booster on monday.
some days he will eat 1 whole tray of natures diet 390g tray senior lite which is spilt into 3 meals but today he has only eaten a little ,.At the moment Pip is in his bed and has been there since about 10.30am i do not wake him up for his meals when he does wake up if he wants food i give him his food but just lately he's not interested (maybe through all the mud is eating.only joking )
As soon as i know whats going on with Pip's knees i will let you all know
Kind regards
Julie Pip,

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

I just wanted to comment on the booster shots. I am assuming that these are the same shots that we give our dogs here in the U.S. and if so, please reconsider annual vaccines. My two cushdog's IM said no more vaccines for them. I have two other healthy dogs that I wouldn't think vaccinating annually. As a matter of fact, unless somebody holds a gun to my head, they won't be getting any further vaccinations. I am a rebel you know? :D

With Pip's multiple issues, I highly recommend that instead of an annual booster, you might consider an annual titer test, to check the level of Pip's immune defenses. I believe that every pet owner do this, whether their dog has cushing's or not. I am providing a link that explains titers in more detail.

http://www.canine-epilepsy-guardian-angels.com/titer_test.htm

Glynda

[gpgscott]

Good thing to post Glynda, there is no good reason to give boosters to a dog which is not in need of them.

Scott

[JHP]

Hi Glynda and Scott,

Pips booster our vets in England recommend that they have all DHPPI AND LEPTO 2 injections annually ,I've also looked on Pip pet insurance and they recommend annually boosters as they can cancel the insurance policy.
Regarding Pip's petplan policy the highest policy the do i still have last years insurance papers and vet bills and Pip was insured for DEATH BY ILLNESS so i look again and they have put the exculsions on DEATH BY ILLNESS REMOVED from 08/ 09 when his new policy started last july 5th o8 so this afternoon i emailed Petplan wanting to know the reason they decide to exclude DEATH BY ILLNESS for my own peace of mind. As this has only happen since Pip was diagnosed with CUSHINGS DISEASE i asked them if it was because he's a cushing dog or simply because of his age anyway i'm still waiting for a reply if i get no anwsers mum will ring up and find out why .Pips policy is due to be renewed on 5th july 09 and this time i will be checking to see if they take anything else off which in theory they should not as Pip has the supreme dog insurance which is the top level as i've already said to insure pip with a lifetime cover costs £466. SOMETHING I FORGOT THE REST .
anyway my vet called this evening Pip can have all his medication except his pain relief i told how he was but i forgot to say Pip is eat quite a large amount of soil and mud. but i will tell the vet on wednesday when he goes in for his x rays on his knees i explained that he pain relief is ok with his hips and elbows but doesn't seem to be touching the pain and discomfort in his knees i also said that he cries in pain with knees and that he doesnt like them being touched at all .
Pip will be very MARDY AND GRUMPY tomorrow as i'm going to give him a bath so he smell nice and fresh and is clean for when he goes in for x rays on wednesday and yes i also clean his teeth TWICE aday morning and evening he has his own dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste her prefers the chicken toothpaste(Both of my sisters think i'm MENTAL AND THEY SHOULD LOCK ME UP for cleaning Pips teeth twice aday) my youngest sister has 2 dogs and she never cleans hers i 'm a bit brutal and tell her off she says i'm the crazy one not her .but we clean our teeth twice aday. i just say when NATIONAL PET SMILE WEEK MY PIP S TEETH ARE PERFECT AND WHITE. FOR AN OLD DOG HE WON'T BE LOSING HIS TEETH THROUGH BAD ORAL HEALTH CARE.
HAVE'NT SEEN MUCH OF PIP TODAY AS HE JUST SLEEPING QUITE ALOT

but hopefully come wenesday evening i will know whats causing my baby discomfort in his knees
Julie Pip

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Wow, sqeaky clean ears & squeaky clean teeth... you're such a good mom;).

I wonder if you can find out whether the insurance company would accept the titer test in lieu of the boosters... or if your vet believes the titer would be better, she can contact the insurance company:confused:.

-Susy

[JHP]

WHILE PIP IS BEING ADMITTED TOMORROW FOR THE DAY I WILL SEE THE VET BEFORE HIS ADMIITED AND WILL ASK THEM ABOUT TITER TEST

I WILL UPDATE YOU SOME TIME TOMORROW OR THURSDAY ON HOW we get on with his x rays haven't seen pip much today only for his breakfast and his walk this morning at 6.30am where he had the smallest amount of food as he has spent the whole day in my bedroom on his bed i went to offer him some food this evening at 5.30pm as Pip is not allow anything to eat after 6pm tonight only water but he just refused his food and turned over the other way.JUST NOT INTERESTED
he just got up to go to the toilet for his last pee HAD A LITTLE DRINK OF WATER and HAS gone straight back to bed
JULIE

[Wylie's Mom]

Don't forget to ask about the mud eating (and lack of appetite for regular food)... I really do wish him well.

-Susy

[JHP]

Hi Susy

thank you i forgot to say that to mynormal vet last night she called but this morning i had to contact them about some medication as then need 24hrs notice so i can collect when i get him tomorrow evening i mentioned about the mud eating to the vet nurse and asked if i would see a vet tomorrow or would they just admittec him the nurse said i will see the vet and she has put a note on his file to discuss his mud eating so i will do that thank you again
julie

[JHP]

HI

THIS IS VERY breif i have Pip at home at the moment .
I need time with boy and do a little thinking i will update you in the next fews days with all the news of today's x rays and visit to vets i just cannot talk about it at the moment,
i have my reason and at the moment i just can't say anything
i hope you can all understand and just give me some time i need to get every thing clear and sorted in my head first

YOU ARE LIKE MY FAMILY BUT I CANNOT SAY AT THE MOMENT
IT will probably be friday when pip is in for his acth stim test. if you do not hear from me then it will MONDAY EVENING OR TUESDAY

I'm so very SORRY I CANNOT SAY ANY THING AT PRESENT
LOVE TO YOU ALL I REALLY NEED THIS TIME TO SORT THINGS OUT IN MY HEAD SORRY AGAIN

THANK YOU TO ALL FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT AND HELP
JUILE

[Wylie's Mom]

Take your time Julie... we love you too!

-Susy

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

It's o.k. Take all the time you need to sort things out and when you're ready, we'll be here. Much love to you and Pip.

Louise

[gpgscott]

Yes Julie,

Same from me. Please post what and when you are ready to. We are all waiting and very interested in Pip's treatment and health.

Scott

[lulusmom]

Oh, Julie, you know that we love you too and none of us are going anywhere, so you just take as much time as you need to sort through things. We'll always be here for you and Pip.

Warm Hugs,

Glynda

[Squirt's Mom]

I am with you, as well, Julie.

Big hugs to you and Pip,
Leslie and the girls

[labblab]

I'm here, too, Julie. Whenever you are ready, we'll all be right here for you and Pip.

In the meantime, I'll be keeping both you and Pip in my thoughts and my heart.
Marianne

[frijole]

Prayers and warm thoughts being sent from my house to yours. Hugs, Kim

[JHP]

Update on my baby

I'm now ready to discuss the out come of his x rays . his knee's are not to bad he has a little arthritis in there but nothing really to worry about.
The problem is actually his hips the socket and ball joint part.,My very bad news is that the sockets are disintergrating on both sides the right side is the worse as ball has no where to sit at all,the left is the same but know where as bad as right side, He is not a candadte for a hip replacement as both of his hips are very bad so they won't touch him as he needs 1hip strong enough for the surgery on the other while that is heeling and physio side but as both hip a very bad they wont touch him
what the vet is doing at the moment is more medication
zubrin 200mg 1 tablet aday
zubrin 150mg 1 and half tablet aday
seraquin 3 a day
the new tablet is caled TRAMADOL 50mg 3 capsules twice aday and pip can be on this long term with his other pain relief.
weight is an issue
Pip only eats a small amount of food in the morning(he's only eating for a jack russuell size dog )i asked the vet if he could he could live on that amount of food and if he's hungry he will let me know .
at present he sleeps alot it took all day yesterday sleeping of the G/A he has a cough but i think thats alot to do with tube down his throat with the G/A
Now this is the very very bad news if this new medication and his normal pain relief doesn't work and we can not get Pip out of pain or comfortable then i will have Pip between 6 and 8 weeks before he dies (but we are hoping that the new medication with the combination of his pain relief his on will work.
anyway today he seems quite alot brighter and he is standing properly on his his back legs he's being jumping to get on the sofa he's now had 12 tablet over 2 days and he's like a different dog (they said it would be fast acting to get into his system but i didn't think it would be this quick.

anyway yesterday we did alot of calling round and Pip will be starting going to the hydro pool the lady we spoke to has agree to give pIP HALF AN HOUR IN THE POOL EVERY WEEK AS AN HOUR WILL BE TO MUCH AT THE DUE TO HIM WITH THE STATE OF HIS HIPS AND ALSO BEING A CUSHINGS DOG ONCE HE BECOMES A LITTLE STRENGHT AND FITTER HIS SWIMMING WILL GO TO A HOUR .
SO IN NEXT FEW WEEKS PIP WILL BE OFF SWIMMING AND THAT WILL ALSO HELP WITH HIS WEIGHT .THE HYDRO POOL IS A REFERRAL CENTRE AND THE LADY I SPOKE TO SAID SHE WILL DEAL WITH THAT AS SHE USE TO BE PIP VET NURSE AND JUST SWIM HIM.
I CANNOT LET HIM GO BEFORE THE 2 WEEKS AS I HAVE ALOT HOSPITAL APPOINTMENTS SO THERES NO WAY I CAN GET HIM TO THE HYDRO POOL SO WE'VE AGREE FOR 2 WEEKS /
tHE VET SAID TO SWIM PIP OPNCE A WEEK
Pip had his acth stim today and his booster. he seem to be walking quite alot better than he has in a very long time.
We are booked in on Mondayevening for the results and also to recheck how pip is doing on his TRAMADOL as he has enough for 5 days
thats my news
juile

[SasAndYunah]

Hi Julie and Pip,

I am so very sorry to hear about Pip's bad hips. But I am very glad to hear that Pip will be going to hydrotherapy...since this will definately do him some good :) I wonder if it is possible for you and Pip to go twice a week for 30 minutes? And even 30 minutes could be too much at first... so perhaps 3 times 20 minutes a week? Do they only have a pool at that hydrotherapy centre or do they also have a underwater tredmill? And do they give warmwatermassages? Sorry for all the questions :)

Actually, how bad were Pip's hips graded? It ranges from HD A till E, E being the absolute worst. My Sogno had HD E in both hips and he still was a candidate for a double total hip replacement...at least as far as his hips went. But due to severe weakness/instability of the front legs, he was refused since he needed his front legs during recovery.

But hydrotherapy and lifestyle adjustments are the very best you can give Pip. Definately no long walks anymore (even when he seems to be doing well on the Tramadol), rather 6 walks that last 10 minutes than 1 walk that will last an hour. No more chasing balls or anything else that will make him run, turn, jump or "break" suddenly. Only straight movements. No more jumping on sofa's or beds, no more walking stairs, etc... All these things are vital in making his life with HD better for him. And sometimes, when on painkillers that do a good job, the dog is not capable of making the right decission and for example still likes to walk further. But you have to be Pip's decissionmaker :)

All my best to you and Pip,

Saskia and Yunah :)

[gpgscott]

Hi Julie,

This is called hip displaysia. It is a congenital defect and is common in large breeds. Moria has it. At about six months of age she had what is referred to as a TPO (triple pelvic osteotomy). In this proceedure the hip is segmented in three locations and the geometry changed with respect to the femoral head (ball on the top of the large leg bone) and re-attached with plates and screws.

In our case she is now 15 and has one hip which is fairly normal for a 15yo and the other is hopelesly arthritic. (we did not do the second as imaging indicated too much deterioration for success after the first had healed sufficiently).

In your case you have a Pip who hurts, he does not know why. The pain meds are a good thing and neccessary. The NSAIDS are also a good thing for the condition but can have side effects.

I still think you need to ask about Adaquane which is a non NSAID and helps Moria a lot.

There is also a procedure called FHO (femerol head osteotomy) which I understand is being perfomed now in larger breeds, previously it was only considered appropriate for small breeds.

If surgical intervention is not possible there are a wide range of meds to help relieve Pip of his discomfort.

Please let us know how the treatment proceeds.

Scott

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Julie,

If there's a comfy couch that Pip usually jumps on, maybe you can provide something that he can use as a step, so he doesn't need to jump. When I noticed that Wylie was starting to hesistate before jumping off the couches & bed, I bought ottomans. He always uses the ottoman for the couches (I took the legs off of it, so it's only 30cm high). He wasn't using the ottoman for the bed, but I believe he hurt his front leg a month age when he jumped off it - he limped a little for a couple days. I've noticed that he is now using the ottoman to go on & off the bed:p.

About the NSAIDs (Zubrin) that Scott had mentioned, Wylie got really sick on one of them (Rimadyl)... I know that Pip doesn't have much of an appetite right now, so this may be tricky, but here are some of the side effects to be aware of:


Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences depression, loss of appetite, diarrhea, an increase in drinking and/or urination, jaundice (e.g., yellowing of the gums, skin, or whites of the eyes), vomiting, bloody or black stools, fast or heavy breathing, changes in the skin, incoordination, or behavior changes...
taken from http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=0+1303+1456&aid=3213

I like the idea of hydrotherapy & what Saskia says about the change in lifestyle makes alot of sense;).

Thank you for the update & wishing you & Pip the best,
-Susy

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

I haven't got anything to add to the already excellent advice you have been given. Just wanted you to know that I'm here with you and Pip and thinking positive thoughts for both of you.

I agree about the lifestyle changes. Have to do that forever more for myself due to an injury. It will take patience on your part to retrain Pip to "keep things simple" but I know you have a lot of love for your boy and the patience to do whatever is necessary for him.

By the way....out of curiosity, did the vet say anything about the dirt/mud eating or did I miss something somewhere??

Give your handsome boy a great big hug from me.

Louise

[frijole]

Julie

My dog is 15 1/2 years and has had problem with getting up and down. I tried the Adequan that Scott talked about and it has really helped her. They are shots. Haley is getting one a week for 4 weeks then monthly.

The reason why I tried it is because I read "Adequan canine is a prescription that helps prevent the cartilage in your dog's joint from wearing away. It helps keep the cartilage healthy and intact so that the bone in the joint cannot touch other bones."

This is from their brochure which I took. Good luck. Glad our Pip has such a great mom. Hugs, Kim

[JHP]

Hi

I know it's called hip dispalysa which Pip has had since i got he him at 18 months old, he has very bad athritis to more since he last x ray about 4 months ago. HE NOT A CANDADTED FOR SURGEY AS BOTH HIPS ARE VERY BAD AND HE NEEDS 1 HIP STRONG ENOUGH TO TAKE THE SURGERY ON THE OTHER HIP AND NITHER OF HIS HIPS ARE STRONG.
All the i know is the the sockets that the ball sit are disintergrating .
the hydro pool the vet said once a week would be fine until pip is a bit stronger
I spoke had a long chat to the lady that owns the canine hydro pool she said it depends on the fitness of the animal to how long the animal stays in the pool but we both agree to swim for half hour until pip is stong enough then it will be increased gradually.

anyway today pip is now standing straight up on his back legs which he hasn't done for such a very long time he has had a small walk but he's seem to be walking a little faster than he had been doing.
He is eating just his breakfast meal as i do offer him his other 2 meals but his just not interested in the other to meals ,but the vet said if pip is hungry later on in the day then he will come to me and let me know, she also said that he could live quite happliy on just eating his breakfast (i was very unsure but he seems to be doing ok at the moment) hes food is NATURES DIET SENIOR LITE 390mg tray which is cut into 3 equal slices and his only eating the 1 slice for breakfast .
Pip is back at the vets on monday for his acth stim results and recheck to see how he's doing on tramadol which he has enough for till monday.

hope this answers all your questions
j

[JHP]

Hi
Pip is doing ok he can stand properly on his hinds legs which have be sloped down for so long he still not eating mush Does alot of sleeping but the TRAMADOl has something in to sedate him him slightly but the vet said if he sleeps to much he would have to come of them.
hE GONE FOR A WALK NOT FAR HE GOES THEN WHEN HE'S HAD ENOUGH TURNS ROUND AND TO COME WE ONLY GO HALF WAY ROUND THE BLOCK ON MY STREET WHICH IS 5 HOUSE BEFORE WE GET TO MY HOUSE BUT SOMETIMES JUST HAS A STROLL UP TO THE GRASS AREA AND TURNS TO COME HOME WHICH AGAIN IS 4 HOUSES FROM MY HOME SO HE DOING THINGS AT HIS PACE.AND HE SEEMS TO KNOW WHEN HE'S HAD ENOUGH.
SO HE TAKEN TO THAT PART BETTER THAN I THUGHT HE WOULD AS PIP IS THE SORT OF DOG THAT NO MATTER HOW BAD HE IS WILL ALWAYS CARRY ON.

Now the mud eating i did mention this the vet did'nt say anything only some dogs do that i told her its the fiorst time pip has ever done since i've had him/ Anyway we are booked in with our normal vet on monday so will have a good chat about the mud eating and also more details about hips
he doesnt seem to be in any discomfort now as this afternoon he came for a hug i lifted him on the sofa and gave him his hug and i put my hand on his hip but he never cried or flinch or yelped did'nmt even look at me for touching his hips
i hope the hydro pool will help his hips and i know swimming him will also help with his hips the vet we saw on weds says she want pip at about 22kilos he now weigh 34,2kilos so still have a very long way to go but i can't see him getting to 22kilos now although he' will be swimming so who knows he may reach 22kilos .
julie pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I am so glad to read that Pip seems to be feeling better and that he is handling things ok. You sound as if you feel a bit better about things, too, and I am really glad for that, too! :D I know being able to hug him without causing him pain was wonderful for you and Pip both.

With Pip eating only breakfast now and then starting the swimming, he may lose the weight pretty quick, which would help his legs. You may have a skinny boy on your hands before long!

So good to see things are looking up for ya'll again. Hope it holds!

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[Buffaloe]

Hi Julie,

I really think the combination of the three things you will be doing for Pip are going to help him a great deal. When he loses a few kilos (or even more) of weight, that's going to take alot of pressure off his hips. That alone is going to make a huge difference.

I know you are getting him on the very best pain medications which will make him alot more comfortable. Lastly, the hydro-pool is a great idea. Pip will get alot stronger and improve his fitness level without any pressure on his hips. It will be great for his muscles, his heart, his lungs and probably even more. My dog is 14 1/2 and during the summer I get her in the pool and she "doggie paddles" like crazy. I just hold her under her tummy and she paddles hard trying to get out of the pool, then she swims around a little. I really believe it is excellent for her muscles and fitness with absolutely no impact, no wear and tear on her joints.

I know Pip is a really tough boy and he knows he is deeply loved. The combination of all three things you are doing for him is going to help him so much.

Ken

[ventilate]

Julie
My giant schnauzer uses both tramadol and Adaquan injections, they both work very well for her too. She can get 2.5 tablets 2 times per day, but I only give her 1 tab 2 times a day as I once gave her 2.5 and she got very sleepy, but her hips are not as bad as Pips, it really does make a difference for them doesnt it? My dog also is on a medicine called neurontin( gabapentin) it is a human medicine used to treat fibromyalgia and for treating pt with diabetes that have poor circulation in extremities and the nerve pain that comes from that. It has really helped my dog as well. Cold water fish oil helps too.
Hope your dog continues to do well on the meds, it seems it is working good so far.
Good luck and hugs to your and yours
Sharon

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Sweetie,

Just dropping in to let you know you and Pip are on my mind today, hoping all goes well at the vet's and that you come home with some hope for your precious boy.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Hi Lesile.
Sorry for lastest update on my boy being late

firstly acth stim results she never said the figures but they are very very very low so we have STOPPED the vetoryl and he's due to be retested on the 22nd june i think i know its round the time .sorry had so much on my mind

Pip hips he's coming for hugs and attention the tramdol seems to be working his hind legs are no longer sloped nor is he rigid he's hind legs are sTraight when he stands up and now when he gets up from lying down or sitting patiently for his mum he getting up straight away usually it would take him at least 10 mins to try and get up he started to increase his walk time and also seem faster when he's walking i can't seem to catch him up . i'm trying to stop him running as It won't help his hips and nor jumping up trying to get next doors cat. i tell him to STOP:mad: AND HE LOOKS SO CROSS AT ME BUT I DON'T WANT HIM TO DO ANY MORE DAMAGE THAN THATS ALREADY THERE IF THAT MAKES SENSE Pip is still not eating alot he's eating for the size of a yokshire terri i asked the vet if could live on that amount of food she said yes if his hungry he will let me know but he's not interested he only has his breakfast.
pIP IS BACK IN At the vets in 10 days as our normal want's to check him over and see how he's doing on the tramdol but she want's to see him before he starts his swimming at the canine hydro pool he will is booked in for 10 sessions they still say swimming him one day a week until his a little stronger and fitter
so i know the amont of food his eating and the swimming will help lose weight and take quite alot of pressure of his hips and the rest of his joints.
mud/soil eating. i mention this to my normal as and said pip has never eaten soil/mud before she said in the wild they would do that but pip is getting some netrients that are noramally in mud that he's lacking he has now stopped eating mud soil i read somewhere that it calcuim which is bones but since after 3 days on the tramadol he just stopped
thats my new sorry its so long again hope you've made this far down/
LOOKS LIKE MY BABY REALLY IS A TOUGH GUY AND A REAL FIGHTER
Julie Pip

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
I am so happy that Pip is doing better. I hope he continues to improve. This is really good news that you needed after the long and bumpy road both you and Pip have been on for the last few weeks.


LOOKS LIKE MY BABY REALLY IS A TOUGH GUY AND A REAL FIGHTER

And a special boy indeed. ;):)
Give Pip some belly rubs from me.:D:D:D

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

This sounds good to me! :D

Stopping the Trilo may help his hips, too. His numbers being that low could well be why his appetite is off. As his cortisol comes back up a bit, he may become more interested in food. For now, your vet is right, when he gets hungry he will let you know. If he decides to just stop eating altogether, tho, be sure to let your vet know asap...as if you wouldn't. :o I know that you would do just that!

It's really hard to keep them down when they start to feel a bit better, isn't it? Ruby worries me to death climbing the stairs all day long. Sometimes I will shut her up in our bedroom upstairs when I am coming right back so she won't follow me down then back up. She looks at me like "what did I do wrong?"...bless their hearts. :( They just don't understand that we are trying to keep them from hurting themselves.

I'm glad his urge to eat mud seems to have passed. No telling why or what he was after but hopefully he got enough! :p

Glad to hear from you and your boy. :D He really is a fighter, just like his mom!

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I'm so happy for you and Pip:D:D:D:D!! I agree that the low cortisol was probably making him lose his appetite... and maybe the Trilo upset his tummy so much that he felt the need to eat mud. If the numbers were as low as your vet says, did they suggest giving Pip a little prednisone?

I'm so glad to hear that he's doing so well:p;).

-Susy

[JHP]

Hi everyone,:):p

Pip is doing very well he's back by side when ever i moved he seem alot quicker than myself as i have problems with my joints to(I SAID TO HIM WILL HAVE SOME TRAMDOL AS THEY ARE DOING YOU GOOD SO HE LOOKED AT ME AS IF TO SAY THOSE PILL ARE FOR ME NOT YOU)
He's still only eating the his breakfast .my mum being very naughty as she went and bought him some gravy bones (which i DISAPPROVE OF QUITE ALOT) Mum said that Pip having 1 gravy bone half an hour before he goes to bed will not harm as he's only eating breakfast
He
is back on the the 15th june for recheck on the tramdaol and see how he's getting on the vet wants to see before he
starts he's swimming at the hydro pool he is booked in for 10 sessions but if he needs more than that of course he will he will go (i might actually carry on letting him swim after the 10 sessions as it won't do him any harm i don't think just as long as we don't over do him )
HE'S BOOKED IN FOR 22ND JUNE FOR HIS ACTH STIM



I.VE HAD QUITE A FEW TEARS OVER PIP FOR
THE LAST WEEK ALSO OTHER THINGS THAT HAVE HAPPENED TO ME WHICH MADE ME NOT EAT FOR 15DAYS I'VE JUST STARTED TO EAT SOMETHING BUT NOT ALOT
But i'm still very upset and tearful but not about Pip now,
I'm just so glad that i have my Pip back to his normal self he's always wagging his tail gets very excited and now has his beautiful smile back and also the sparkle back in his eyes and they are nice and bright


I
WILL GET SOME PHOTOS DONE OF PIP WHEN HE START SWIMMING AT THE HYDRO POOL AND PUT THEM ON PICTURE AND ALBUMS IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE MY BOY
SWIMING(OR MAYBE NOT )IT'S UP TO YOU
loads of Love
Julie Twinkle Toes (Pip's nick name's i'm afraid i have quite alot of nick name's for him nice names but this one is his favourite):):):)
YES I KNOW YOU THINK I MAD FOR GIVING HIM A NICK NAME MY SISTER THINKS I CRAZY,

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I am so glad to read that our boy has the sparkle back in his eyes...and hope that will help put the sparkle back in your eyes. It does my heart good to know that you are eating a bit now. :):):)

One of Squirt's nicknames is Fuzzybutt so Twinkle Toes isn't too bad...it's cute and Pip likes it so that's all that matters. Squirt likes Fuzzybutt, too. :p I also call her Hobbitfoot, but she's not too fond of that one. :rolleyes: Isn't it funny how they seem to know all the silly names we call them?

Those swimming sessions will probably do him a world of good! And we already know he loves the water so he should enjoy them, too.

I bet your mom is just feeling sorry for Pip but maybe he will hide the bones and not eat them. :D Just don't tell you mom and she will still feel like she is helping him. ;)

Thanks for the update...I always look for word on Pip.
Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Hi Lesile

Today iis the 1st day since Pip started the tramadol that he's been awake without no sleeping he's played alot and is very alert
regarding the gravy bones mum got him
He eats them alright when he's eating them he looks at me as if to say look what i#'ve got and you can't do nothinhg as my grandma is giving me them and you won't go up against her cos you will lose
love julie and pip

[labblab]

Hi everyone,:):p
Julie Twinkle Toes (Pip's nick name's i'm afraid i have quite alot of nick name's for him nice names but this one is his favourite):):):)
YES I KNOW YOU THINK I MAD FOR GIVING HIM A NICK NAME MY SISTER THINKS I CRAZY,
Julie, I couldn't believe it when I saw that Pip's nickname is Twinkle Toes, because THAT IS OUR NICKNAME FOR OUR LITTLE LAB GIRL, LUNA!!!!!!!!:D:p:):D:p:)

Our older girl, Peg (black Lab) has giant paws (like a bear!). But little Luna (9 m/o yellow Lab) has delicate little paws with long, slim toes. So we immediately nicknamed her TWINKLE TOES!!!!!

So OF COURSE I do not think you are crazy for giving Pip a nickname. If you are crazy, then we are too! :p :p :p :p

I am especially glad to hear that Pip is doing better once again. You have gone through so much worry over him. I do so hope that you will have an extended break when he is feeling better -- and so are you.

(((Hugs))) and pats to you and to your Twinkle Toes ~ :)
Marianne (and Peg and "cousin" Luna)

[Wylie's Mom]

I'm so happy Pip is feeling so good:p:D:p:D!

Here are some of nicknames that other people have for Wylie: Sled boy, Wylieman, the Wylster, Fuzzy Butt, and my favorite... Chunky boy:p!!! (I just call him 'Puppy')

-Susy

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

What a relief to read Pip is doing better again. Low cortisol would definitely cause him to feel crummy! As far as posting pictures of Pip swimming in the hydro pool in your album...YES, please do. I'd love to see pictures of your boy and I know others would too.

I guess I belong to the "pet nickname club" as well, as I have several nicknames for my Munchie (and for my cats too) and they all know their assorted names. :D

Hope you're feeling better soon, Julie.

Take care,
Louise

[ladysmom06]

Hi Julie,


You and Pip have been through so much - HAPPY :D:D:D:D to hear that he is doing better. Hugs to the two of you.

Luv,
Lynne and Angel Lady 7/98-3/09

[labblab]

Julie, I have sent you a PM about your request to change your username :). Be sure to take a look at it, OK?

Marianne

[JHP]

;)Hi to you all

Sorry not update for a while,
1ST thing since Pip has STOPPED his vetoryl until he is retested on the 22nd june all his appetitie drinking you know the usual has come back and its only been 4 days with out the medication did think it would happen so quick though i don't know why as you never know what to expect with a cushings pup really, I was a bit naughty i gave him 1 vetoryl tab this morning as i had a feeling it was his cushing and want to be sure .sure enough after i gave him the 1 pill his syptoms stopped but of course i cant give him any now until after next friday when the results are back does he need them or not but i had a gut feeling and proved to be correct but he will not be getting anymore vetoryl now till after his acth stim test and we get the results back,
:D:D:D REALLY REALLY GOOD NEWS WITH PIP PAIN MANGENMENT
Really dont' know where to start he's on his zubrin200mg 1 day Zubrin150mg 1 and half tablet aday. serquin now the tramdol 50mg 3 capsules twice aday he's a completely diffrent dog he running, jumping ,trying to climb next door fence to get there cat,pla standing upright before it would take him about 10 15 mins to get up now he gets up straight away no problem i telling him you should'nt be doing this or that mums says i'm just FRWETING to much he's been in apin for so long that his enjoying himself he walks alot quicker now i now have of lead in a secure field (would never before as he was really slow if he got any slower he would stop) any way i find myself running after im to catch up with which of course pip thinks is a game he waits till i'm a few seconds away and of he goes running off again then waiting for his mum to catch up i think you get the picture
he's always wagging his tail very sparkly eyes they are happy eyes if that makes sense, before he always looked very sad but that would be the pain he was in now his pain free
Anyway people have mention the differeance in him he's just like he was when he was 2yers old even looks younger too.
He's ears and skin was has been very red now he;'s notin pain his skin is white only a little pink on his ears but they are normal looking pink if that makes sense if not sorry but i know what i mean
We are back at the vets on friday at 10am for a recheck on how hes doing as you can read for yourself he's a different dog competely
just check to make sure he gets the all clear to start swimming at the hydro pool
he still looks like hes losing wieght i know i have way to go yet to get him at 22 kilos but with his diet swimming should get there in no time one vet once him at 18 kilos' slight under weight as it would be better for his hips
TRAMDOL IS A HUMAN DRUG this is the strange thing my mum was given a prescription for tramadol and people that have asked what pain relief pippi's on i say they just started him on tramdol they say there doctors have prescibe but no chemist can get hold of tramdol they say its a manfacture thing yet i can get from vets for PiP WHICH MY MUM AND THOSE OTHER PEOPLE SAY IS VERY STRANGE AS ITS THE SAME AREA CANT GET FOR HUMANS BUT CAN ANIMALS REALLY WEIRD

any thats my news some good news at last for all my k9 cushing freinds
love Juiie Pip:p:D:p

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Julie,
Very happy to hear that Pip is doing much better.:D:D:D I know it's been a rough time and you both deserve a break. Just be careful that Twinkle toes:cool: doesn't overdo it. Too much running and jumping can do more harm to his hips.

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

I'm very happy to hear that Pip is having a really good run at the moment. Has your vet explained why you should not give Pip his Vetoryl? It just seems a bit odd to spend money on an acth stim test if there is no dosing. Does your vet want to reconfirm a cushing's diagnosis perhaps?

Glynda

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I am so glad to hear that Pip is feeling his oats! I can just see our Twinkle Toes playing chase with you in the field. :D Just be careful and don't let him hurt his hip...hard to do, I know, when he has been in so much pain and now feels better.

You sound much better, too, for which I am doubly grateful.

Let us know how the testing goes.

Hugs to you and belly rubs to Pip,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

hi julie,

i'm very happy to hear that pip is having a really good run at the moment. Has your vet explained why you should not give pip his vetoryl? It just seems a bit odd to spend money on an acth stim test if there is no dosing. Does your vet want to reconfirm a cushing's diagnosis perhaps?

Glynda
yes the vet said because pips levels where very very low so lab suggseted to stop and retest him in a few weeks,
this is what i mean either he is very very low levles or his levels are very high we have only ever had 1 acth stim test where his reading where perfect
hope this answers the question glynda
julie

[JHP]

Hi Everyone
update on pip we went back to the vets this morning he could'nt walk very well but he only had enough tramadol for 10 days so his last dose was 9pm last night , i told the vet you are seeing him how you would normally see the you haven't seen him all week he's like a total different dog he gets up straight away he be running playing a very happy dog wagging his tail As when our vet saw him he was like he would normally be looking very sad and also cant get up i did say as i ve already mentioned that he ran out of tramdol he has enough on month now .his skin was very red and sore the same as his ears but once i got him home and gave him his 3 tramdol tablets within 10 minutes his skin was normal colour and so were his ears so i'm now thinking that the skin problem and partly ears being red was because he was in so much pain as while he was tramdol his skin was normal .
He is booked in on monday for ACTH STIM i also mention that he had all that since we stopped his vetroyl that he has a very huge appetitie drinking you all known the rest being a cushings dog owners ,
WE ARE VERY BUSY WITH PIP ON FRIDAY AS HE STARTS HIS HYDRO THEARPY SWIMMING BOOKED IN FOR 10AM THE VET SAID IT WILL TAKE IT OUT OF HIM HIS BOOKED FOR 10 SESSSIONS AS THAT HOW MUCH THE INSURANCE SAY IS ENOUGH FOR HIM AND WILL ONLY COVER 10 SESSIONS IN THIS YEAR's NEW POLICY YEAR THAT FOR ALL DOGS THAT ARE INSURED WITH PETPLAN
I've already told mum and the vet i wiil contnue swimming him after his 10 sessions
Anyway on friday afternoon pip is at the vets for his acth stim results but depending how worn out he is if i take him for the results as i normally don't take him for results
julie

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

Glad that the Tramadol is helping Pip feel more comfortable. Pip is not alone with the issue of skin turning red. The same thing happens to my Munchie. If he is in pain or especially when he gets stressed even a small amount, the inside of his ears will turn bright red (even the whites of his eyes can become pink). As soon as he relaxes his skin is normal in color.

Hope Pip's stim test goes well tomorrow. I'm interested in hearing how he does with his hydro therapy swimming. Sounds like he has always enjoyed his water play and hope he feels the same way about his therapy. Remember to take pictures. :D

Louise

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

LOVE the new name here, by the way. :D Very sweet.

I can't wait to hear what the tests show for Pip. I hope his numbers are much better this time and you can get back to treating him soon.

Let us know how the swimming goes for him - and you. And like Louise, I wanna see pics! :p

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Hi everyone

Just to let you know that pips in for his test aas some of you already know ,
To honest i'm so glad as Pip has all the cushing's signs again BIG TIME. I'm just hoping that the we can start him back on his vetoryl,
justr have to wait and see if the test resyltss match the spymtoms
love top you all
JULIE

[gpgscott]

H Julie,

I hope the therapy is good for Pip, and I am sorry the symptoms are back.

I thought you said the test was going to be last Friday, was it put off?

Scott

[JHP]

Hi Scott,
Pip ACTH STIM was cancelled twice back in april due to the pseudomonas ear infection,He then had an x ray on 3rd june the vet prescibed tramadol50mg 3 twice aday ,then on 5th June he had his ACTH STIM got the results on 8th June and the results came back very low very low LAB siad STOPPED THE VETORYL rests in him in a FEW WEEKS . so thats why he was retested yesterday.
Hopefully we will start the vetoryl again and Pip has all his cushing's syptoms back,
he has 1st swim on friday if he got the all clear to swim which he has ,back at vets on friday for the results
hope this makes sense ,
juile

[gpgscott]

hope this makes sense ,
juile

You always make sense.

Please let us know how the therapy goes.:)

Scott

[JHP]

Hi hydro pool update

Just a quick update Pip had his 1st session in hydro pool it went very well as soon as he saw the pool he wanted to get in but sam said we just give you a little shower (pip looked confused as he could see water so why would they want to shower him) any he walk up the ramp had 10 mins altogether with a rest time the longest they will swim any dog is 25 mins but pip was very eager to get back in the pool that he only ever had 1 min rest time they where very pleased with him as he's a natural swimmer and was going at a steady pace. I got some pictures and also video him on my mobile phone.
when his time was up sam showered him again and blow dried him like they do at groomers .
She also said that Pip would be going on the the wall of fame at the hydro centre wall with all the other dogs she said pip would be sore and should sleep may be stiff tomorrow aswell but at the moment he's full of beans .
Anyway of to the vets later to get his results from acth stim test.
we checkin later and let you know how we get on
Julie Pip :p:p:p:p:p

[labblab]

Oh Julie, this is great news -- I am so glad Pip enjoyed hs swim!!!!!!!! :D :) :p :D :) :p :D :) :p

Marianne

[gpgscott]

Very nice Julie, heres hoping the therapy does him a lot of good.

Scott

[lulusmom]

Well you just made my day and have me grinning from ear to ear with your report on Pip's first hydrotherapy session. He is undoubtedly a natural born water dog...probably has webs between his toes too and wow, he's all fresh and clean when it's all over. Where do I sign up for my dogs? :D

Glynda

P.S. We'll be looking forward to hearing the results of the stim test. Is there any chance you can write the numbers down this time?

[Wylie's Mom]

Thank you for the hydro pool report:D:D:D - I'm glad he enjoyed it so much!

As Glynda requested, please get those stim result numbers;).

-Susy

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

So Pip is full of beans and he's even going on the "wall of fame", huh... Fantastic!!! :D :D It's so good to hear that he thoroughly enjoyed his hydro pool session.

Will check back in later to get the latest info on Pip's stim test.

Louise

[JHP]

Hi everyone

Just to let you know what's going on regarding his acth stim test
SORRY NO FIGURES,
Right here goes the vet said we are back on track within the range so he is back on vetoryl 30 1 daily,I have to contact the vet monday to let her knowif his drinking and appetite has decreased if not then then he will be going on vetoryl 30mg 1 daily and 1 vetoryl 30mg in the evening one day then just 1 vetoryl 30mg next and alternate
(hope this makes sense been give some different medication and they or makng me very sleeply i know what i mean but not sure if its coming out right)
SORRY FORGOT ABOUT FIGURES WILL ASK FOR THEM ON MONDAY
Julie -Pip

[JHP]

just a quick update



Pip is is doing fine now he's back pon his vetoryl we are doing 2 tablets every other day. so today he is on just the tablet ,
any on sunday evening while out walking he was attacked by a staffie it got out of a garden pip was in the wrong place at the wrong time anyway my sweet and and normally gentle boy went back for this staffie (as he's been attack 4 times before but by german shephard's and bull mastiff's and a set of 3 huskies all of there leads with know onwer in site are they looked the other way) my sister had hold pip and i went to the ladies door knocking at the door until she respondant and told her she ask if pip was ok and and then resume to get her staffie in and put in the garden and said sorry.
He's ok at present with it being hot he stands near the hose pipe when he's to hot which i sprinkle over him when he's had enough of the weater he walks away (but i don't turn the water off when i go inside to get a towel to ddry him of) my boy has the hosepipe gentle in his mouth and guess who gets soaked to his mum so this is a new game for pip which he's enjoying alot as he will do anyone that pass him if the water is still on.

anyway another session on swimming of friday
julie pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I've been out of town but have read the updates on Pip. Sounds like he is doing much better with the pain meds in his system and with the swimming. The swimming will help make that hip stronger so it's really good he enjoys it so much!

Is Pip ok after the Staffie got him? That had to be scary! I'm glad your sister was there to help and that the Staffie's owner at least said she was sorry and asked if Pip was ok. Some folks wouldn't have even opened the door!

I'm glad his numbers are back where he can take the Trilo again. Altho, it doesn't sound as if the cortisol has been bothering him too much lately. :p Other than the thirst and hunger, he seems to be enjoying life a great deal and that's what counts most of all!

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

I am so glad that Pip is okay after the run in with the Staffie. I wish I could be a little fly on the wall during one of his hydrotherapy sessions. Actually, I think I would prefer to be there to watch Pip spray you with the hose. :D:D:D

I know you are going for record here to see if you can be the first member to never post results of an acth :D:p:D but we'd really appreciate it if you could get the stim numbers from your vet and post them for us. How many milligrams is each Vetoryl tablet?

Hugs to you both,
Glynda

[JHP]

Just another update

Pip is now back on vetoryl 30mg 1 aday and then 2 every other day
my vet call back this afternoon and said to have another ACTH STIM next friday as she doesn't want Pip to go into surpression again and see whats going on she is on hoilday for 2 weeks so another vet will be doing the test and giving thr lab test results (i will ask for them so you can finally have some reading on my boy.


Will Pip went to the hydro pool this morning got the 10mins early and he was very eager to get into the pool he was all showered down life jacket on just waiting for ther lady to arrive who gets in the pool .The sam will swim a dog in a pool in 25 mins that doesn't include rest times she think's Pip will be swimming for 25 mins by week 4 as he's a natural and is so eager to get back in the pool he won't have the right rest time as he just wants to swim.
I can give you the website where Pip goes swimming although he's not on the website yet so you can have a look at where he goes ,www.dipyourpaws.co.uk
but she will be putting him on the wall fame and may video him to go on there website.
so now you have the website you can follow the link and have a little peek at where my boy is so eager to get there
He was a bit naughty as we just come out from the hydro pool and he spotted there cat and started to chase after there cat on the way to the car bless him as they live on the grounds sam was watching him from the window and the cat did get away.


i will get the figure's and post them on the website i just have had so much going on i've been really ill myself and having nurses coming to my home and also phoning every other day to see how i'm doing.
i promise Glynda you will get your figures
Julie and the swimmer :p:p:p

[JHP]

Just to let you know Pip is still doing fine,
He's booked in for an acth stim test friday now he's back on vetoryl 30mg aday 1 day then and vetoryl 2 aday morning and evening they just one that he doesn't go in to surpression again although he is very food mad again
I'm not giving him any more food than his daily allowance all though he has 3 walks aday and he's swimming to so he may be more hungry as he's never had this much energy in all the time he's had cushings so the pain relief meds Zubrin,tramadol, seraquin combined with the swimming,
Anyway this all the news i have for all good
julie pip:p

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Sweetie!

So good to hear that our boy is doing so well these days! :D I keep going to the Dip Your Paws site hoping to see him on the wall of fame so you tell them to get his pic up there! Pip has a whole world-wide family wanting to see him swimming! :p

You sound a bit stronger and happier, too, and for that I am very grateful! :D You tell your nurses and family that I appreciate the care they are giving you from the bottom of my heart.

Hugs and love,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

ANOTHER UPDATE ON MY BOY,

Pip went for his swimming but he really didn't seem to want to be there (which is like him) he was very wobbly agitated just very restless kept trying to get out and get to the car .so he did'nt spend much time there at all.
from swimming he went for his acth stim test which when i collected him 2 hrs after test anyway he has a bandage on where he's bloods where taken and i thought a bit strange then i remember as pip has had bandage on after an acth stim test a few times before
which means his blood pressure was high and our vet said they couldn't stop him bleeding so they put the banadage on (so that explain his restlessness and not wanting to swim this morning
I get the results on monday i will ask for the figures glynda so you get some tests results on the website
thats all
Julie Pip

[JHP]

Hi to you all just another update on my boy,
Some good news and bad news
Well we went for the result's of his acth stim (GLYNDA DON'T FAINT BUT I HAVE THE RESULTS AWIATING FOR YOU):p

ACTH STIM RESULTS AS FOLLOWS
Cortisol pre ACTH 114.0 nmol1/1 25- 125
Cortisol post ACTH*122.0 nmo1/1 125- 520
hope this makes sense to you as i've not got a clue it's the first time i've ever seen the figures i just go on what i'm told. but it was a different vet so i asked for a copy she was fine to give them as my normal just tells me

:(:(:(:( Anyway Pip has another ear infection in both ears so he's feeling very sorry for himself have ear drops again for them Easotic 1 squirt in both ears daily , he is back next monday for a recheck to see if he can go swimming as the vet said do not swim him this week and if he gets the all clear he can restart swimming again:(:(:(:(:(
Pip will be very sad as he loves his swimming but i'm sure he will make up for it next week
thats all my new's
Julie Pip

[labblab]

JUlie, thanks SO MUCH for posting Pip's ACTH results!!! From what I can tell, his results are quite satisfactory. :) :)

When the results are converted into "American" units, they are:

Pre: 4.1 ug/dl
Post: 4.4 ug/dl

This result is squarely within the desired treatment range for Vetoryl. One question out of curiosity -- was the ACTH performed on a morning after he had previously received two doses on the preceding day, or only one dose? I don't know whether his test results would differ significantly depending on his dosing schedule, but I am just curious.

I am so sorry to hear about his ear infection. It sounds as if he has really been enjoying his swimming, and is has to be such good exercise and such good therapy for him. So I'm hoping that he'll soon be able to jump back into the pool again!

Thanks again for posting his test results, and be sure to give him a big hug for me,
Marianne

[ladysmom06]

Hi Julie,

Sorry to hear that Pip has another ear infection. Hoping it gets better real soon and he can get back to swimming again. Hugs to the two of you.

[BestBuddy]

Hi Julie,

Those numbers look really good. So sorry to hear Pip has another ear problem and hope it clears up soon.

Jenny

[lulusmom]

Okay, Julie, I have now picked myself up from the floor after reading Pip's stim results. :D:p:D I am so proud of you for posting!!!

Those numbers are really good but like Marianne, I would be interested to know how long after Pip's last dose did the vet do the acth stim test and how much was the last dose. Don't you hate it when you give us really good test results and we still ask questions? :D FYI, we ask because we care a lot about you and Pip.

Glynda

[JHP]

Hi Glynda, Marianne

Just to answer your question the acth stim test was taken after 4hrs of his morning dose at 12pm also this was the day he was on 1 aday
Pip is not doing so well he had an allergic reaction to the ear drops has sickness and diarrehoea he has also got some open sore on his feet and knees the one on his knee only found out a i gave him a bath as he was due to be frontline he doesn't like it being touched
i will get the vet to check on monday when his in fp=or a recheck on his ears and also to find out if we get the all clear to start swimming again
Pip wieght is now 33.8kilo's so finally he starting to lose some of his weight
julie pip

[JHP]

Pip still has an ear infection he's back at the vets next monday morning due to pip having the ear infection he cannot go swimming
till he gets the all clear hes put some weight on so got into trouble there i know this sounds crazy but pip eats his as tiny amount of is breakfast then in the evening i give him a 1 oatabix with the tinest amount of skimmed milk and his been lose weight when i give him the 390mg tray of natures diet spilt into 3 meals he deosn't lose the weight ,

anyway i called sam to cancell this weeks swimming and she said its best not to swim him as they don't want to make it worst best for the ear to be free from infection
thats all the news
julie and pip

[gpgscott]

Hi Julie,

I know there are drops that can be used for humans with 'swimmers ear' and I wonder if these drops are appropriate for dogs as well. Many human meds are appropriate for dogs.

Scott

Here is a link for description and treatment in humans. http://www.emedicinehealth.com/swimmers_ear/article_em.htm

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I'm sorry he still has an ear infection, and he's not allowed to go swimming. Is there a way that Pip would allow them to cover his ears?

-Susy

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I hope Pip is feeling better now and that he is able to start swimming soon. He loves it so, it is a shame he has to be kept away for a bit.

I hope his sores have cleared up, too, and that his skin is better.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

Just catching up on Pip's thread. Sorry to read that he has another ear infection, poor boy! Hope it heals rapidly so he can resume his swimming.

Louise

[JHP]

Hi to you all just a quick update

Well i had Pip at the vets 3 times this week already his ears have cleared up.He well in himself but he's has bad diarrheoa also there is now blood present they have put pip on a course of anti biotics although he doesn't have a temperture,they have done some bloods to be sent away just to make sure nothing else is going ,
He's fine in himself i'm back at the vets on monday to see our normal vet in the morning his results will be back in the afternoon.
thats all
julie pip

[gpgscott]

Julie,

Sorry about this issue. I am sure the Drs. are on top of it but it is puzzling that antibiotics would be prescribed without a clear indication of a bacterial issue.

Please let us know.

Best to you and pip

Scott

[labblab]

Julie, I'm sorry that Pip's tummy is giving him problems, but I'm relieved to hear that his ears have cleared up. Also, thanks very much for giving us the additional information about his ACTH test!!!!

I'll be hoping for improvement with his diarrhea. My Luna has had several unexplained bouts over the last several months, and my vet always gives us some metronidazole (Flagyl) which seems to clear her up. I think it acts as an anti-inflammatory as well as a general antibiotic/antiparasitic agent. Maybe the medication that the vet gave you for Pip is something similar. If so, I hope it works as well for Pip as it does for my Luna.

Hugs to Pip, as always ~ :)
Marianne

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

Glad to hear Pip's ears have cleared up but sorry that he now has diarrhea. Poor guy, if it's not one end.....it's the other! :(

My Munchie has also been prescribed the same drug that Marianne's Luna has for unexplained diarrhea and it takes care of it. Hope whatever Pip has been given will work as well for him and clear up the diarrhea soon so Pip will feel better. He needs to recover so he can go for his swim!!!

Give your boy a big hug from me.

Take care,
Louise

[JHP]

Thank you for your replie's

Pip has blood in his diarrheoa thats why they gave us the anti biotic's
she thinks it's about of colitis they have also done some bloods just to make sure nothing else is going on liver kidneys full blood count etc.Pip is fine in himself just the diarrheoa. i will update you on monday some time after i get the results afternoon or tuesday as thety are being sent away. these
the tablet's they prescribed for him
Oxytetracycline 250mg 2 tablets 3 times aday on an empty stomach.
Oxytetracycline 100mg 1 tablet 3 times aday on an empty stomach.

Salazopyrin 2 tablets 3 times aday

[gpgscott]

Hey Julie,

Got it now, I did not know that the Met.. was an antibiotic, it has been prescribed for us also although Moria's bowel has never become disturbed to the point where it bleeds.

Scott

[JHP]

just to let you know Pip is fit and healthy:D:D:D:D:D:D:D got the all clear for him to start swimming again:p;):p;) which he went back on friday and did 15 mins in total without the break time ,
he is due for his acth stim on 10th august 4 weeks after restarting him back on vetoryl 30mg 1 aday then the next day of 2 tablets morning and evening.
thats all my news
Julie Pip:p:p:p:p:p

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

I've been watching for an update on Pip and boy am I glad to hear that he is doing so well. I am sure he was excited to get back in the water and no doubt, it did your heart good to watch him having so much fun.

Please keep us posted and don't forget to get a copy of the acth stim test again. I recall that you mentioned your regular vet refuses to give you a copy right? If that is correct, you need to remind him of two things. 1) you paid for it and deserve a copy and 2) Pip has issues and if you ever need to take him to an emergency clinic, you want to take his current medical file with you and that should includes copies of all of his tests. There is absolutely no way that your vet should be denying you copies of any of Pip medical records. If that doesn't work, tell him you have a friend that will kick his butt if he doesn't give you those test results. :D:p:D

Big hugs for you, mom and Pip,
Glynda

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

So glad to hear that Pip is well again and was able to go back for his swimming session. Will we be seeing some swimming pictures in the gallery soon??? :D :D

Give Pip some extra pets from me!

Louise

[JHP]

Pip is doing ok still, he's not long got back from the hydro pool so is taking a few hours sleep they took some photos of him today
i will let you know how we get on when we get the results friday he is in on monday for his acth stim test
Julie

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

they took some photos of him today
i will let you know how we get on when we get the results friday
Julie

Great! I look forward to seeing Pip's pictures. :D :D It's wonderful that he's still feeling ok and hope he has good results when he gets his stim test on Monday.

Louise

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I'm so happy to hear Pip is doing well. I'm looking forward to seeing the pictures, too... and dying to see a video of him in action at the pool!

-Susy

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

It's great to hear that our Twinkle Toes is doing better and able to swim again! I know he was glad!

I have been at my brothers and he has a pool. So Squirt and I would swim some every day...she HATES it but it's good for her legs. I only let her swim a short distance since she doesn't get to swim much. I will fill the tub at times deep enough that she has to swim but not daily...maybe I should tho, huh? ;)

Can't wait to see those pics!

How are you doing these days?

Hugs and love,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

:confused:
Just to let u know the latest (sorry no figures ) Pip levels are starting to dip again so he is staying on the dosage he is on at the moment ,the vet said in 2 weeks they will test him for addison's disease just make sure he's not slipping into addison's disease (as this can happen i'm very confused as i know nothing about this disease) but they want to stop him slipping in to addisons :confused:
then in 1mth is schdule in for his acth stim test to check his levels the vets said Pip eithers goes to high or slip's low this is all i know as this is what i've been told (i'm so confused i express how much)
My Boy has the start of another ear infection so the have given hims some more ear drops he is back next thursday to have ears ears check
Julie Pip

[labblab]

Hi Julie,

I'm sorry to hear that you are still having a hard time keeping Pip's ACTH results stable, and that he seems to be swinging downward again. This is just a guess on my part, but what the vets may be planning in two weeks is to retest Pip's "electrolytes." This is a test of his blood levels of minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorous. Pip's hormone levels will affect these blood chemistries. And of course, his Vetoryl affects his hormone levels. So if his Vetoryl dose is too high, he runs the risk of these chemistries getting "out of whack" -- especially the levels of sodium and potassium. When your vets talk about the risk of Pip going Addisonian, this is what they are talking about. Addison's Disease is the opposite of Cushing's Disease. Instead of too much cortisol being produced, there is too little. And when that happens, electrolyte imbalances can occur. And those can cause very serious problems. Even life-threatening problems if they are not caught in time. So I am wondering whether Pip's ACTH results are starting to get low enough that your vets are wanting to make sure that his electrolytes are remaining OK, in between running another ACTH test in 30 days. If his electrolytes do show an imbalance that the vets are not happy about, I feel certain that they will lower his dose or even stop his Vetoryl immediately and allow him to take a break again for at least a while.

I know that you always watch Pip like a hawk. But if he starts acting "off" to you in any way, I know you'll take him back to the vet right away, even before the test that is scheduled in two weeks. And when you take him back next Thursday to have his ears checked, you can find out whether his electrolytes are indeed what it is that they are wanting to recheck.

Big (((hugs))) to our boy,
Marianne

[JHP]

Hi Labblab

they are checking his potassium and sodium levels in 2 weeks time
there the 2 to watch out for they say and they are checking them to make sure he doesnt slip into addison's disease as he is either to low or to high
but at present they say his levels on beginning to dip on the low side
thank you for your help and advice
julie pip

[labblab]

they are checking his potassium and sodium levels in 2 weeks time
there the 2 to watch out for they say and they are checking them to make sure he doesnt slip into addison's disease as he is either to low or to high

Good! That sounds as if they are doing the right thing to watch out for Pip. I'll surely be interested to find out how his test turns out.

Marianne

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Just checking in to see how Pip is doing? Hope all is well with you both!

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Hi Lesile,

Pip is doing ok , nothing really to say.he is at the vets on friday for bloods check he isn't going into addisons .he seems to be losing weight very easily after all this time of staying the same for years(i really don't know how he's losing as he has a huge appetite he just having his dog food and he munchies on carrots.
thats all my news
Julie Pip

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

I would think that Pip is losing weight because of the hydro-therapy he has been getting. Right?

Glynda

[JHP]

I would like to think so he's not been swimming for a week due to the ear infection .he only has 4 session left also he munching on fresh carrots (now if he hungry he does go round looking for food and steal it he just looks and i get him a carrot and his tail wags so he gone from unhealthy things he would just take to fill him to fresh carrots the more healthy way .


Julie pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

The exercise and new diet could be kicking in at last and letting him lose some of that weight that has been plaguing him for so long. I hope his ears clear up soon!

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Just a quick update,
Pip is doing ok although he's got a big appetite for some reason he is of swimming tomorrow morning,then tomorrow afternoon he is at the vets for some bloods tests just to check he isn't going into addisons as his levels were creeping to low again,
retest him for his acth stim on 7th sept
well thats ,my news
Julie Pip

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

If Pip's appetite has picked up quite a bit, it sounds more like his cortisol levels are climbing as opposed to going too low. Please let us know what the vet has to say.

Glynda

[JHP]

Just to let you know pip had the bloods test to make sure everything was ok WHICH IT WAS FINE HES BACK IN THE RANGE due back on the 7th for acth stim
he also went swimming and they put cotton wool and a bandage type over his ears just to make sure he never got any water in them as twice we had to cancel due to ear infections thats my news

julie

[labblab]

Julie, I'm so glad to get your report that Pip's electrolytes are all OK. And also to hear that he's able to get back with his swimming. This is all good news. :) I'll keep my fingers crossed that his ACTH test results will also be in range.

Thanks for letting us know,
Marianne

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Great news on Pip's electrolytes! :D I hope when he is ready to start back on the Trilo he doesn't get too low again....poor baby has had a time of getting regulated. :( I know what a toll it takes on both of you to keep going through this cycle of too high, then too low, then back again. It's frustrating to me so it's gotta be torture for you.

Pip will get to go swimming again! Yipee!! :D Bet he's excited about that even with the ear wraps...which is very nice of them to do for him.

I would love to know how you are doing as well...you are on my mind often.

Hugs and love!
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Pip has no energy his appetite has increased quite alot over the last week,he is also very restless, I've been in contact and left a message for our normal vet as she wanted an update on Pip as he had no energy when he had his bl;oods to check his electrolytes but they come back .
Pip is due in on monday lunch for his acth stim so we may just leave him on the vtoryl dosage of 1 in the morning one day then the next 1 morning/1 evening .
Julie Pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Well fiddlesticks! Poor Pip can't seem to get a break. :( When I saw you had posted, I hoped to read that he really enjoyed his swim and was chasing you around the garden again.

Please let us know what the vet says and how his ACTH come out this week.

Bug hugs and belly rubs ( - uhh those would be for Pip :p )
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

our vet called back what we are doing is increasing his vivtonin to 1half tablet twice aday this should help with the lethargy i told my vet he restless no energy increased appetitie increased peeing and increased water intake (but his symtoms don't always match with his acth stim) i think they have to catch him at the right time as he was borderline for a while before he was diagnosed if that makes sense .
anyway he's in on monday for his acth stim and i have to update our vet on his progress ,
He did going swimming yesterday we have 2 sessions left but the lady is going to swim him again in 2 weeks
Pip is not sleeping very much at night with me being deaf i don't hear him my poor mum is up with every hour to let him out for the toilet and she also says he's looking for food (so i think he's sleeping throw the night and his not)
Julie Pip

[JHP]

just to update you pip had his acth stim on monday,we getting the results tomorrow afternoon,
He is not sleeping at night for some reason nothing has changed he's not stressed i did put lavendar down near his bed as this has helped before, but this time has not helped.I asked my vet on monday if the is anything i can give him to help him sleep she said to try the DAP collar as there is nothing they can give him.We already have a DAP diffuser .so i get the DAP collar tomorrow when we get his acth stim results.
Ju

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

Pip has definitely had his share of problems and could use a break! I'll be interested in seeing what your vet has to say about Pip's latest stim test.

I surely do hope Pip's vet can get to the bottom of why he's lethargic and restless at the same time (which is a bit confusing to me) and also what is behind his having to get up every hour during the night to urinate. It's no wonder the poor boy can't sleep if he has to go potty every hour. Out of curiosity, does he have to urinate every hour during the day also or is it just at night???

Hope Pip feels better soon.

Louise

[JHP]

Just to let you know pips acth stim came back in the normal range (sorry no figures ) we are keeping him on the doseage of vetoryl 30mg 1 tablet daily then 2 tablets morning and evening on alternate days
Julie

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

Pip's symptoms sure sound like his cortisol is too high so I would be very interested to know the results of the last stim test. I realize that your vet will not give you a copy of Pip's stim tests but could you please ask him or her to give you the pre and post numbers and let us know what they are?

Glynda

[gpgscott]

Hi Julie,

Sorry no stability yet with Pip's treatment, Glynda's comment sounds reasonable, can you post the actual results please.

Many pups do well with a dose of melatonin my mother gives it to her little Abby during thunderstorms it acts quickly for her. I am not sure but I think in the UK you need a script. Have you asked the Dr. about trying it?

Best wishes, Scott

[JHP]

Just to keep you informed how Pip is doing he still has no energy and is not sleeping his last acth stim done last week came back ok. I've contacted my vets for advice regarding helping with the lethargy and him not sleeping they have booked Him in tomorrow morning to discuss with my vet what we can do.
i've bought him a dap collar which hasn't worked and my vet did'nt want to change anything of his medication .she also said there was nothing they could do about him not being able to sleep nothing has changed in his daily life he's not sleeping in the day time either.so we havent a clue why his not sleeping and is so the lethargic
just have to wait and see what happens tomorrow
Julie Pip

[labblab]

Hi Julie,

I'm so sorry that Pip is having problems again. Please do let us know how the vet visit goes, and as Scott has suggested, while you're there perhaps you can ask your vet about prescribing some melatonin to help Pip sleep.

Please give Pip a big pat for me,
Marianne

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

I was wondering what your vet said yesterday about Pip's lack of energy and not being able to sleep. Was she able to determine the cause? Sure hope she can do something to help him...there's got to be something!

Give your boy a hug from me.

Louise

[JHP]

Just to update you on Pip

He is doing ok now we went to the vets and our vet couldn't find any reason for Pip being the lethargic as he is healthy only other reason could be because he's not been sleeping.My vet has prescribe Pip with PHENERGAN 25MG to help him sleep it has a sedative in andis also used to help people with insomnia(this is a human drug)
Well the results is Pip has slept from 9pm right throw the night till 8am and his energy levels seem to have increased and is more playful.
Julie Pip

[labblab]

Julie, I'm so glad that Pip had a good night -- and I'm guessing that means that you ALL had a better night for a change. I hope that he will continue to benefit from this medication, and that he will be able to rest more peacefully.

Marianne

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

I'm glad to hear that Pip got a good night's sleep and was feeling a little more energetic and playful today. Is he still swimming or is his swimming therapy over now?

Keep us updated....and still looking for Pip's swimming pictures! :D

Louise

[JHP]

:DPip is still doing ok he's sleeping throw the night ,he went swimming this morning and thoroughly enjoyed himself sam also gave him a massage this morning as a little treat as she been on a massage course and pip got some of training done on him which he loved Pip doesnt mind what sam does to him as she use to be a vet nurses and looked after him until just over 2yrs ago so he loves sam to bits anyways alls well nothing bad to report hes enjoying his walks and play time also trying to get the local cats:D again so i'm guessing he was lethergic due to him not sleeping .
Julie Pip :D:D:D:D

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Julie,

I'm so glad to hear the great update:p:D!

-Susy

[JHP]

Just to let you know Pip is doing fine he is walking further playing and chasing all the cats in our neighbour hood. his hips are fine to so its really good news nothing bad to report
kind regards
Julie Pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

What good news this morning! Have been keeping up even tho I haven't posted much lately and am so glad to hear that Pip is doing so much better! :D:D:D YIPEE!! :D:D:D

Take care of yourself, too, honey! ;)

Hugs and love,
Leslie and the girls

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie,

I am so happy to hear that Pip is feeling so good these days. I am sure the cats in the neighborhood aren't very happy though. :D

Glynda

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Julie,

It's wonderful to receive continued "good reports" on Pip! Nothing bad to report is sooooooooo good!!!!

Sending hugs to you and some kisses to Pip. :D

Louise

[JHP]

:D:D:D:D:D:D:DPip still coutinues to be very healthy and fit nothing bad to report at all to be quite honest i've not know him this fit since he was diagnosed with cushings he still continue's to lose weight i'm so happy that his cushings in now stable(didnt ever think he would be)
Pip is not due at the vets now till 7th december and hopefully no trips in between we get the results a few days before his bithday in december ,
will thats all good news
love to you all
Julie Pip:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

[lulusmom]

Hi Julie.

I am loving these great reports on Pip and hope they continue for a very long time. You two have been through a lot so you both deserve much needed relief. I am sure you are feeling much more than relief....how about giddy with happiness? Are you dancing on the table yet? :D:D:D:D

We love you too!!!!

Glynda

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Julie,

Whoopie!!!! Another good report for Pip....fantastic! I'm glad he continues to feel well and that his Cushings is finally stable. Whew - I'm breathing a sigh of relief, as I'm sure you are too! :D

Exactly what is the date of Pip's birthday in December? I'd like to make sure it's on the calendar so we can all celebrate and send Pip special greetings.

Take care, Julie, and give Pip some extra special pets from me.

Love to you and Pip,

Louise

[gpgscott]

Hi Julie,

It is very good to hear that Pip is doing well.

I hope the improvment continues and am looing forward to wishing him a Happy Birthday in December.

Please post it as Louise has suggested and let us know if you need help in doing so.

Scott

[JHP]

Thank you for your replies on Pip doing so well, I've posted on the calendar Pips birthday on the 13th december hopefully i've done it right he will be 10 this year
thanks again
Julie

[BestBuddy]

Time goes so quickly that it will be December before we know it so we won't have long to wait to wish Pip 10th Happy Birthday. Stay well Pip so you can enjoy the party.:D

Jenny

[labblab]

Julie, I'm so happy to hear your reports, and can hardly wait until we can celebrate in December. Please tell Pip he's got an awful lot of aunties and uncles who are going to be singing Happy Birthday to him!!!!!!! :D :) :p :D :) :p :D

Auntie Marianne

[JHP]

Just to update you
Pip is still doing well, although he only goes for one walk a day now as he is not interested in his evening walk, but he is still playful and also chases cats .
other than not having his 2nd walk aday he fine

Julie Pip

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Julie,

It has been so good to read your last few posts on our sweet Twinkletoes! :):):) I hope he has all the cats in the neighborhood on their toes, watching out for the Perky Pip! :D I also hope you feel as good, or better, than Pip does.

Love and hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[JHP]

Pip is still doing ok although he has started to slow down now. he only goes for 1 walk in the morning . still barking and trying to get next door cat
julie pip

[Bagel's Mom]

Hi Julie,

Stumbled on your story with Pip and am very touched as I read the ups and downs. My Bagel girl was diagnosed last March- is on Lysodren, and we have had the good and bad days too..Summer was rough on her and there were dayswhen she could barely hobble out the door to go to the bathroom. Fall has hit here in Southeastern US and the cold weather(50s) has helped So much. In July I bought a dog stroller- it was for ME to get exercise and her to be able to go too...I have never had so much fun taking her all over and people look forward to seeing her each time. She practically jumped in it the first day and getting her to come out was a problem! I had blisters and had to get some really good walking shoes! it was a bit pricy but MUCH cheaper than an eliptical or tread mill and her joy hs been worth it...I am sending the link. I have the medium one- Bagel is a beagle/basset and weighs around 40 lbs. The larger one is for dogs Pip's size..
I think we posted pictures in here..I don;t maeuver well sometimes on here but I think we did!!
Best to you both,
Sande and Bagel

http://www.dogbedsandcrates.com/products/houndabout-pet-stroller-travel-product.html?gclid=CI2x4oO0mpsCFQebnAod5yEWgA

[Bagel's Mom]

http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/album.php

the picture of her in her stroller!!

[JHP]

thank you for your reply i've looked for your pictures but i'm unable to find them. i think its a really good idea but i think my Pip wouldn't go in it he's a really soft gentle dog but he very macho its raining here quite badlyand he would'nt even where his dog coat and he got soaked but i will look into this pet stroller thank you again
Julie Pip

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi Julie,

I'm pasting a link to Sande's profile, on there is an adorable picture of Bagel in her stroller.

http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/member.php?u=73

We are very happy to hear that Pip is doing well and trying to chase them cats. Please keep us updated.

Love and hugs.
Lori

[Bagel's Mom]

Thanks Lori!! I think I left some of the link out!!
Sande

[JHP]

thank you i've the looked pictures and she looks so cute and very comfortable in there thank you for the info i've been looking into getting my boy a stroller for when he cant get out.
Pip is sort of ok hips are playimg up but thats because its been very wet and damp here also his appetite is starting to increase and peeing alot, he is not due for his acthy stim test till 7th dec so i don't what to do at present.
he is enjoyin bonfire night he loves the fireworks (he the first dog we had thats not be frighten of fireworks)
Julie Pip