My sweet boy Boriss

[Boriss McCall]

He has also gained 2.5 pounds because I have been giving into his hunger/begging for more food. So, now both my dogs, my husband & myself are on a eating better/diet mission. :eek:

[labblab]

9/20/12-20mg Trilostane
Pre ACTH 6.2 normal range Pre 2-6
Post ACTH 5.2 normal range post 6-18

10/2/12- 20mg Trilostane
Pre-ACTH 5.8 UG/DL
Post-ACTH 6.4 ug/dL

10/18/12- 30mg Vetoryl
Pre-ACTH 8.4 UG/dL
Post-ACTH 14.6 UG/dL

He will continue taking the 30mg Vetoryl for 12 more days.. retest & then more than likely bump up to 40mg (probably switch back to Trilo so he will only have 1 pill to take).
Wow, Amy, I agree with you that it seems very strange that Boriss would more than double his post-ACTH result in two weeks' time on an INCREASED dose. :eek:

Remind us, were all these ACTH tests performed at the same vet office and during the same time period after dosing? Also, did Boriss get his dose with food on all three testing days?

If the answers are all "yes," the results are really a puzzle. In answer to your question asked in another reply, there is no reason why a dog should do better on compounded trilo than on Vetoryl since the active ingredient should be identical in both. I will say that the one wildcard with the compounded trilo is whether or not the indicated dosage was really accurate -- in other words, did those 20 mg. pills truly contain 20 mg. of trilostane or were they possibly stronger? If you have been following other threads, that is a concern that has been raised by some researchers and clinicians (excessive variability has been found among some compounded doses).

Given this huge jump in Boriss' post-ACTH result since switching to Vetoryl, if it were me, I think I'd pick one supplier (whether it be brandname Vetoryl or a specific compounder) and try to stick with them consistently rather than going back-and-forth. If I could afford the cost, I'd personally stay with Vetoryl. But I realize that Boriss' dosing needs may make that too expensive or inconvenient for you. And having said all this, I think maybe Addy has had Zoe on brandname Vetoryl all along and still has seen Zoe po-go up and down, too.

One other thought: it may be the case that it will turn out that Boriss is a dog who does better with twice-daily dosing in order to keep his cortisol under more consistent control.

Marianne

[Boriss McCall]

yep.. every test has been the same as far as food & time goes.

It just makes me wonder if that first bottle of Trilo we were on was way higher than 20mg's. I think I will probably end up sticking to Vetoryl this next month to see what happens on the 40mgs.

I have wondered all along if he would be better on 2 times a day. Because before we started the meds it seemed like his symptoms were more extreme in the evening time.

I guess I will just have to be patient. I couldn't believe the numbers doubled.

[Boriss McCall]

I am thinking about having the IMS bump Boriss up to the 40mg before we wait another 2 weeks. He just seems SO miserable. Like he did before we started treatment. He did so good on the Trilo the first month. I am really starting to think he was getting more than 20mgs in that dose. Anything else just doesn't make sense for him to jump up double.
do ya'll think it is a bad idea to up his vetoryl now. I hate to wait 2 weeks & him be miserable. poor guy..:(

[goldengirl88]

Amy:
So sorry to hear poor Boriss is miserable. I hope you can get his dosage straightened out and that he gets better soon.

[labblab]

Amy, given the results of this most recent ACTH, I'd feel comfortable with going ahead and increasing Boriss' dose now.

Marianne

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks for the input! I am waiting on the IMS to call me back. I just don't think I can sit here & wait 2 weeks with him feeling miserable.

[Boriss McCall]

Just talked to IMS. We are going to bump him up to 40mgs vetoryl starting tomorrow. I will be watching him like a hawk.;)

I just can't let him get any more miserable than he is right now. So, we are going to try this out for 12 days & see how he does.

So far his water intake is still decent. But, he is STARVING again. He hasn't left the kitchen all morning. Except for when we went for a walk & he did not have much energy at all. Seems like his back legs are a little more weak this week. That is another reason why I want to up his dose now before that gets worse.

Wish us luck... I will keep you posted with changes. I just can't stand seeing my baby miserable. I hope I am making the right decision here.:o

[addy]

Hi Amy,

Sorry to read about the roller coaster for you and Boriss. I thought Zoe was the brain teaser, looks like she has company.;)

Zoe has pogoed back up on name brand Vetoryl. She has never doubled, however, after a dose increase. That is a stumper.:confused:

I agree with Marianne, about sticking with either Trilostane or Vetoryl. Things get confusing enough without adding that uncertainty in.

Sometimes it takes abit of tweaking so dont get discouraged. I still hold the title for most dose changes, so dont you and Boriss think about tryin' to take that one away from me:rolleyes::p:)

Seriously, I hope 40 is the golden number for you guys and I will keep my fingers crossed. Zoe is trying to cross her paws but she has a sprained toe;)

[molly muffin]

These guys do like to keep us guessing. You know the drill to watch for and have pred on hand, and with the numbers being up, it Shouldn't be a problem. You know how it is though with cushings, the more you know the more confused it can get. :)

Hope the new dosage helps give him some relief poor little guy. I'm sure he is wondering why he doesn't feel so good either.

hugs,
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks Ladies! I sure hope Boriss doesn't take over the most dose changes title. :p I hope Zoe's toe is feeling better. That sounds painful.

I am a little nervous this morning. Just gave him the 40mg dose. I am ready for this day to be over. I just hope he feels better soon.

Sharlene you are right... confusing!!:eek:


Everyone have a great hump day.

[Boriss McCall]

I almost forgot.. Today is Boriss's 9th Birthday!!:D:D

http://www.onetruemedia.com/otm_site/view_shared?p=1198acbd7f8b8b88c53f149&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url

[lulusmom]

:D:D:D:D:D:DHappy Birthday Boriss!:D:D:D:D:D:D

[Squirt's Mom]

Happy 9th Birthday, Boriss!!!

[molly muffin]

Oh My Gosh! Birthday Boy!!!

Happy Birthday Boriss!!!

Party on little man!

Sharlene

[Tina]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BORISS!!!!!

I hope you all are having a good day and that Boriss gets lots of good things to eat and some special birthday belly rubs!! :D :D

Hugs,

Tina and Jasper

[scoora]

Amy, Scoop had his second ACTH yesterday. He started on 20mg Vetoryl and after his first ACTH went to 30mg Vetoryl. His numbers went up from the first test to the second one. I had so much to discuss with the vet I didn't think to ask if she knows why that would happen. Scoop has 17, 30mg pills left so the vet said to finish those before going to 40mg. The vet said she spoke to a specialist and she recommended to split the 40mg, 20mg morning, 20mg evening. I asked her if we would retest after the pills are all and she said, no.
Sure is confusing to me.
Good luck getting Boriss straightened out.
Vicki-Scoop and Raleigh's mom

[scoora]

A big " Happy Birhtday" wish to Boriss!! Hope you had a good day.
Vicki-Scoop and Raleigh's mom

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks for all the birthday love!! We had a great day. So far so good on the 40mgs. No bad side affects. Day one down.. Keeping my fingers crossed for positive change.;)

[Maya]

That's good to hear!:) You know the drill...just keep an eye on him, which I'm sure you are...obsessively! ;-)
Belated birthday wishes to that handsome boy of yours. Did he have a prime rib steak all to himself? :D

Hugs from me and Maya

[Boriss McCall]

:) I sure wish I could have spoiled him rotten with good food yesterday. but, I was a little weak this last month & he gained 3 pounds!!:eek:
I couldn't stand hearing him cry for more food. The vet wants him to loose wait.
Hopefully the 40mgs will help that & I won't have to see him laying in the kitchen like he is starving to death.:rolleyes:

[scoora]

Amy-I wish Boriss could give Scoop his extra 3 pounds. He lost 3 pounds when all this started and he hasn't gained any back. I'm so fraid of Scoop losing more weight.

Hope the new dose is going well for Boriss.
Vicki-Scoop and Raleigh's mom

[Boriss McCall]

I wish I could share some of Boriss's weight with little Scoop. Hopefully they will both be where they are supposed to be soon.

The 40mg's seems to be doing the trick. I am keeping my fingers crossed. We will be getting him tested 11/6/12. That puts him at the 40mgs for 14 days. I hope it is okay to wait 14 days if he appears to be doing well. I usually try to hit the 12 day mark. But, we will be going out of town next weekend.

I sure hope we found the sweet spot.

Everyone enjoy your Sunday!:)

[goldengirl88]

Amy:
Tipper and I are keeping Boriss in our prayers, and we so hope this is the right dosage. Boriss needs a break, so we pray all will be fine.
God Bless You Both,

[Boriss McCall]

Thank you!

He had to take a trip to the vet today.
He scratched his cornea.. luckily a really tiny scratch. Dang those Boston Terrier bug eyes.:eek:

He will be on a pain killer & eye drops for the next 10 days. But, he will be okay. He is a tuff guy!;)

[frijole]

Glad it's a tiny scratch and that you took him in. Word of caution - cush dogs take longer to heal than other dogs. Be vigilent about those drops and do not miss a dosage. Many of us have dealt with them and some dogs healed up fine and others never did. I ended up having to give drops for the rest of my girls' life which was over a year. I learned how serious these tears are. I'm sure you'll be just fine - just wanted to make sure you were vigilant. Good luck and keep us posted. Kim

[Tina]

Oh my gosh Amy, so glad it is a tiny scratch... This will probably sound like a dumb question, but how did you know he did it? Did you see him injure his eye, or notice it watering? I'm glad the little guy is ok.

Hugs from me and Jasper

[addy]

I'll second what Kim said. Zoe's tiny scratch on her cornea turned into a big deal and took forever to heal. I am not trying to scare you but dont miss any drops at all and if it is not better in a few days- see an opthalmalogist.;):)

[Boriss McCall]

not a dumb question at all. He started blinking a lot & keeping it shut last night. We waited until today to make sure it wasn't just something in his eye. I took him this evening cause he was still blinking.
It never swelled or really got that red. It just seemed like it was hurting him.
I am so glad we decided to take him this evening instead of waiting until tomorrow.
Thanks for letting me know Kim. I will definitely be super careful with this. I hope he is lucky & heals good. The scratch is itty bitty. He does the drops & anti-inflammatory for 10 days.

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks Addy..
How many days did you end up giving the drops? we are doing 3 times a day for 10 days.

The vet told me if it doesn't get better or gets worse some dogs have to go to the eye doctor & get a little surgery. I will pray that this doesn't go that far. The scratch is literally the size of a dot. like this -> .

I hope because it is so tiny it won't give him too much of a problem.

[frijole]

:D:D:D:D

As Addy will tell you - it all starts out with a few drops a couple times a day.. but if it doesn't get better you add more drops and more frequently... to the point where you have a full time job! In my case I was giving 5 different drops/ointments five to ten minutes apart, FOUR times a day. Came home every day for lunch.

If it doesn't heal do NOT hesitate to go directly to a specialist. At that point you may or may not have to deal with surgery. Praying for quick healing for Boriss. Kim

[Boriss McCall]

oh geeze...:eek: I sure wish I could get him to calm down when he goes outside & kicks up dirt & runs around like a nut ball. I have a feeling that is when this all happened. Guess I am going to have to remind him he is not 2 years old anymore... :rolleyes::rolleyes:

Stuff like this always happens right before we are supposed to go out of town for a few days. He just might have to come with us. I don't know if I trust anyone else well expect one of ya'll to take care of him. :p

Too bad we all don't live in the same town...

[frijole]

I have said the same thing about the people here. I wish we were all on the same block or in the same town. Life would be so grand. This is the greatest group of people I've never met! :D

[Boriss McCall]

True True!!:)

[Tina]

OMG Kim, 5 different drops 4 times a day??!! That is a full time job! My little pup is constantly rough housing with Jasper, and lots of times she will just jump on his head or face, and I have worried that she will get him in the eye one of these times! I hope Boriss heals right up for you Amy.

Tina and Jasper

[Tina]

I second that, this is a most wonderful group of people here! I will be forever grateful and blessed that I found you all. :D

[frijole]

The hardest part was waiting 5 to 10 minutes and remembering which ones I had given. I had a system that I created so I wouldn't mess it up. And Addy is giving or was dear Zoe more drops than 5!

[Boriss McCall]

yikes.. I sure hope Boriss heals quick. I will need a dog nanny. :p

[frijole]

Boriss looks like a smart boy - judging from his photo behind the computer. Maybe you can train him to treat himself?! LOL

[Boriss McCall]

ha! no wouldn't that be nice. :p

[molly muffin]

Hop little has a fast recovery

Hugs
Sharlene

[Boriss McCall]

I am hoping! :)

If any of you are in the Sandy storm path.. stay safe!!:eek:

Watching the news right now makes suffering thru the Texas heat seem not so bad.

[apollo6]

Hope sweet Boris feels better soon.
Hugs Sonja and Angel Apollo
will praying for your safety back East with this awful storm.

[Boriss McCall]

Boriss is doing really good with his scratched cornea. As I say this I am knocking on wood. I don't want to speak to soon.

He is keeping his eye open now & not squinting as much.

He seems to be more controlled with the 40mgs as well.
He will go to the IMS on Tuesday morning to find out.

Happy Halloween :D

[molly muffin]

Omg, did I really say hop little! That dratted iphone auto correct does me in every time. Nice that you are hoping though, that must thrill Boriss! hahahahahahahahha (cracking myself up here)

Hope for a continued good recovery.

hugs,
Sharlene and molly muffin

[frijole]

Keep up the good work and keep checking in with us. Hugs to Boriss!

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks ladies!

Sharlene.. I read between the lines. When I try to do stuff on the phone it gets me every time too. But, it isn't too far from the truth Boriss DOES keep me hopping around.

Right now both of my dogs are exhausted from barking at trick or treaters all night.

Boriss still isn't fully controlled. He gets hungry every night at 9pm a few hours after his dinner bowl. I am thinking we might need to split him up with an evening dose. But, he isn't having anymore accidents. yay!

[molly muffin]

Hey Amy. :)
How is our boy Boriss doing?

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Boriss McCall]

Hi!
He is doing really good. I think his eye is healed!!:D

He goes to the vet tomorrow for ATCH test. keeping my fingers crossed his numbers are lower. His symptoms seem to be better these last few days. We shall see! ;)

[molly muffin]

Yay!!!! I hope his eye is healed and his numbers are low.
Is that a song? It sure sounds like it Could Be a song.

hugs,
Sharlene

[Boriss McCall]

ha.. Boriss country song. :p

[Bo's Mom]

Good luck tomorrow!!! Let us know how things turn out.

[addy]

I hope you have finally found Boriss's sweet spot. Fingers and paws crossed for today.

[Boriss McCall]

well today was a bust..:rolleyes:
The vet was waiting on a shipment of the medicine needed to run the ATCH test. It never arrived. So, Boriss just got to sit at the vet for 4 hours for no reason. Oh well.. things happen. :cool:

Since he appears to be doing really well on the 40mgs I am going to wait & take him on Monday morning.

[molly muffin]

Some days are just going to be like that. Busting out all over the place. ROFL!

Boriss on ACTH reprieve.

hugs,
Sharlene

[Boriss McCall]

He was probably glad!:D

I think we are going to try again on Friday or Monday.

[molly muffin]

So, test on Monday or did you do it today?

curious minds want to know LOLOL

Sharlene and da Molly Muffin

[Boriss McCall]

I have to wait until WEDNESDAY now. :eek:
She didn't have anytime. I think things are okay & Boriss will be fine until then or I will insist she squeeze us in somewhere on Monday.

He is doing really good. But, he still keeps getting hungry at night after he has had his dinner. He might really need to go to twice a day dosing.

But, no more excessive water drinking or accidents.

His eye still seems to be bugging him just a little bit. Still doing the drops 3 times a day until he sees the vet next week.

He keeps me on my toes! :D

Everyone have a great weekend.. so HAPPY it is Friday!!!

[molly muffin]

Wednesday!!! LOL

hope his eye gets a good report! Eye stuff scares me something awful.

hugs,
Sharlene

[Tina]

Hi Amy,

I am finally getting caught up on some threads and I am so glad to read that Boriss is doing so well! :) I hope his eye continues to heal for you. How frustrating that he sat at the vet for 4 hours for his stim test and didn't have it done! I would have been not too happy with that. It is stressful enough for them having to go in so much, not to mention the difficulty with getting him there on a work day. I hope he is able to get it done Wednesday as planned.

You know, I read on somebody's thread that you wrote about how hard it is to stay up to speed on everyone here, and how sometimes you are scared to go on the forum because you want everyone's pups to be doing well. I feel like that so much, I couldn't possibly have said it better myself. I care about so many here, and it is so hard to read when someone is struggling, I sit here and cry so often.

I hope you all are having a good weekend! Belly rubs to Boriss and your other baby from me and Jasper.

Hugs,

Tina and Jasper

[sunshinehoman]

So Glad Boriss is doing well!! It makes all this worth it!! You are doing a great job mommy!! Keep up the great work!! :D:D:D

Shannon & Sunshine

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks Sharlene, Tina & Shannon for the words of encouragement.
I will be SO happy when we finally get stuck on a dosage for Boriss & he doesn't have to get poked for the ATCH test every couple of weeks.

Maybe we will get a break for the holidays!! We shall see on Wednesday. I think he might need to go to twice a day.

Their is one really weird thing. Boriss gets really hungry around 8pm on some nights. But, then we wake up in the morning & he isn't that hungry. So, if his pill is wearing off & he needs to go to twice a day.
I don't understand why he doesn't wake up starving??

I never give him his pill before he eats breakfast just to make sure he is doing okay.

He has never been one to be seriously hungry in the morning. So, maybe he is still sticking to his old ways cause he is sleepy in the morning & doesn't care much about food. :rolleyes:

[Bo's Mom]

Great news on Boriss....so glad to hear the dosing is working for him.

[molly muffin]

I'm really glad that Boriss is doing so well and I hope that Wednesday will be a good day for you.

I don't know why Boriss is the way he is about when he is hungry and when he is not. That might just be his feeding habits though. Now that things are under control, he wouldn't have that always hungry thing going on and might just go back to when he wants to eat.

Crossing fingers for Wed!! Good news from Sunshine today so lets keep it going!

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Boriss McCall]

Boriss had his test today. :) Hope to have some good results tomorrow. fingers crossed!! I want him & myself to get a holiday break from test.

We are going to keep him on his eye drops for another month just to be on the safe side. Then take a look at the retina again under the black light. I think he is mostly healed. I just want to make double sure..

[Tundra's Mom]

I will keep my fingers crossed for Boriss! Good luck for tomorrow's test results! And good luck plus well-wishings for both of you! :D

-- annie (Tundra's Mom)

[molly muffin]

Happy news week remember!

That is really fabulous that his eye is healing so well. Hope all our little ones on here with eye problems get better as nicely as Boriss has done.

hugs,
Sharlene and the Molly Muffin

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks Ladies!
I am actually really surprised myself at his healing ability. I was so worried about his eye.

He always has healed really quick in the past. Hopefully he will keep that super power even with cushing's. :D

[Boriss McCall]

Just got off the phone with Boriss's Doc.

It was good & okay...
She thinks he looks really good & the symptoms are pretty much under control on most days. She also said out of all her Cush dogs he looks the most like a "normal" healthy dog.

But, his post number is still high. Since he seems controlled & has walked away from his food several times now we aren't going to change the 40mgs he is currently on. YAY.. we get a little break from testing.

His urine concentration was good. 10.30

pre number 2.5
Post number 11.9

I know that is still high.. but, I want to wait & see if it continues to go down over the next 30 days. If he remains high we might drop to a lower dose. but, give it 2 times a day.

He seems really happy & healthy right now. I don't want to change things just yet.
We are going to do a blood panel on him in a month or 2 to see how those numbers are doing.

So all in all it wasn't the best post number. but, still good news!!

[goldengirl88]

Amy:
Wonderful news about Boriss. I am glad he is doing so well. Tipper is at Post 11, and seems to be ok, until a few days ago- see previous post. I know 11 is still high but we are hoping it will come down also. Her only unresolved issue is the hunger. Is Boriss still hungry??? I bet Boriss is feeling like a different dog!! Great news to hear, you both deserve it.

[Boriss McCall]

awe thanks! we ALL deserve a break for the holidays. :)

I too am hoping the post number will drop over time. I think it is best to wait as well.

His hunger is pretty much under control. Maybe once a week he gets hungry again around 8pm. but, for the most part he is good. He even walks away from is food & will come back to it a few hours later to finish. So, to up his dose would be scary..

I hope you are hanging in there.. I am trying to be happier when I am around Boriss. It took me a couple of months to get to this point. I felt like he could sense my sadness & anxiety. I could see it in his behavior. So, now if I need to cry or freak out I try to do it when he isn't around. :eek: It really isn't fair that we & our pups have to go through this. It has gotten easier for me but not easy if that makes any sense at all. Hugs to you & your baby..

[addy]

That is good news! I am glad Boriss is doing well.

Last September I left Zoe at about 11ug/dl. My mother had fallen and I needed to concentrate on her rehab. Zoe dropped down to about 9 when we tested her 3 months later (Nov) but then she went up to over 12 when we tested her 2 months after that.

Keep in mind those numbers can vary a bit even from day to day.

Enjoy your testing break, you both deserve it:D:D:D

Gobble, gobble

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks Addy..
sounds like Boriss is trying to follow in Zoe's paw steps... :D

I am ready for a little break.. It is fun to pretend that they aren't sick & the world is beautiful & kind for a change. ;)

[molly muffin]

Amy that really is good news.
I wonder if some dogs just do not end up with that higher post number and still have control of symptoms. It sure seems like it.

A month break, whoo hooo!

Hugs, Sharlene

[molly muffin]

That is all great news Amy! A month break. whoo hoooo

I wonder if some dogs do just run a higher second number and are able to have symptom control. Interesting.

hugs,
Sharlene

[molly muffin]

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Boriss McCall]

Thank You!
I hope your Thanksgiving is awesome as well filled with lots of love & happy times.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!! xo

[Boriss McCall]

I have been enjoying my little break (fantasy) from worrying over here.
Until last night.. oh Boriss if fine ;) I just have to be sad & vent cause I know ya'll understand. :)
I was talking to another friend of mine who always has boston terriers & has had 2 in the past with the cush.
They were both older dogs than Boriss is. But, their tumors grew & he was telling me a little bit about what they went thru. It just sucked having a reality check. I had to go home & cry. I haven't done that in a while.
My husband was great. He let me cry & brought Boriss to me to remind me that he is HERE NOW & doing good.

anyway... I HATE Cushings.. :rolleyes:

Hope everyone is having a good weekend!

[molly muffin]

Awww Amy, you have a wonderful husband. What a good guy to remind you when you most needed to be reminded of the here and now. It doesn't stop the empathy that we will feel for others who have gone through this, are going through this. I can go back and ready about cushings stories on here from 2 years ago, who are either still doing fine (we hope) or have passed. I still will cry over it. How can one not.

You know, there isn't a darn thing wrong, with enjoying everything going well and Boriss Not being in any crisis and things just going along fine. Enjoy it. I hope it can last for years!

Heck I'm pretty sure that I'm living in fantasy half the time where Molly is okay and I don't have to worry about what is going on inside of her, just because she Acts like herself, all normal and playful. I rather enjoy it even. Little things give you a jolt of reality, so you can't far too deep into the fantasy and you are always aware, but still, it's not a bad place to be!

Hugs,
Sharlene

[Maya]

Awww Amy, I know it is difficult ( because we all do it) but, try not to project yourself into the future like that. Your husband is right, it spoils the here and now. Boris is doing fine and you just need to concentrate on that. Besides, just because that happened to your friend's dogs, it doesn't mean that's going to happen to Boris. Not all dogs get expanding tumours! Try not to worry, Ok?
Oh and by the way...I hate Cushings too!:rolleyes:
Love 'n' hugs to you, Leah

[Boriss McCall]

Ya'll are both so right. I need to enjoy the moment & don't worry unless necessary. ;)
Thanks for the encouraging words!

[Boriss McCall]

Hi Everyone..

Just a quick update & hello from my little Boriss man.:p

He starts his 2nd month of the 40mgs of Vetoryl this week. He is doing really well. It seems like to me his numbers have probably dropped from his last test. His symptoms are pretty much all under control on most days.
He even let me put him on a diet. :D I dropped his food amount down a little bit since the doctor told me he needed to loose a few pounds.
He hasn't even seemed to notice. No more begging in the kitchen.. yay!!

So, we are going to continue on until probably sometime in January & then get another test. I don't know how he is keeping his symptoms so under control when his test results still came back high last time.
But, I am not complaining as long as he feels good.:D

We are taking our dogs camping (cabin style) for New Years Eve weekend. I can't wait to get out in nature with them & have some fun!! I think they are going to love it. Here's to hoping Boriss stays on the good path he is on right now.

Hope everyone is having a great week. It hardly feels like Christmas time in Texas. We are still turning our air conditioners around here & probably could even still go swimming. crazy Texas weather!!

[molly muffin]

Sounds like a fun New Years Even will be had by all. :)

I don't even want to talk about sunny Texas weather when we are suppose to get snow flurries tomorrow. :(

I have this vision where I wake up and it's snow covered for Xmas morning day and then I go to bed, wake up again and that's it no more for the year. hahahaha I am so not a cold weather gal. (probably Canada should not be country of choice based on that identifier!) LOL

So glad Borris is doing well. Keep it up little man!

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Go Boriss, he sounds like he is doing good Amy.

It is the first few days of summer here in New Zealand, but weather is still very changeable, quite warm outside, but blowing a gale and looks like rain about to roll in. But definitely not hot enough for a/c yet! Your New Years sounds like it will be great fun! Doggies will love it xx

[Bo's Mom]

Alright,
You people from up North please send some cooler temps down here to Texas. Right now we are expecting a front that will drop the temps down into the 70's. Boy, the chills are just running through my body thinking about it. :p:p:p But, I don't need to worry because we are going to be back up into the 80's by Thursday afternoon. My A/C doesn't stop running and we are thinking of doing an XMAS out at the beach.

[molly muffin]

*sending Belinda and Amy "THE LOOK"

You did Not just say that Belinda Rose!!!! You know...I lived in Texas for awhile, down by Austin. Other than the ice storms that weren't nearly as bad for us as for up near Dallas and the errant tornado that might come through the area, it wasn't All that bad. LOL

I'll think of you both while I'm pulling out my heavy coat tomorrow.

love ya guys!
Sharlene and Molly Muffing (she hates her coat!)

[goldengirl88]

Amy:
So glad to hear Boriss is doing well at the 40 mg. Sounds like the babies are in for a fun weekend. Tipper is doing much better on the 30mg. She is not following me around scratching at my legs and begging for food, and the water consumption is down also. Dechra told me that once you get the dogs lymphatic system cleared of all the excess cortisol then when they get the dosage raised the numbers do not drop as much, but the symptoms are better. So maybe that is what is going on with Boriss. Hope everyone enjoys a great weekend, and is stress free for a while. Keep up the good work Boriss!!

[Boriss McCall]

Good to know about the lymphatic system. Thanks for the info! Glad things are going good for Tipper this week.

Ha Sharlene.. I am not sure which one I would hate more 110 degree summers or freezing cold winters. I do like cold weather. But, like you only for about a day or so. :p I kinda of like the unpredictable Texas weather. One day I wear a coat & the next day I am wearing a bathing suit. :rolleyes:

Belinda Christmas at the beach sounds fun! We did that when we lived in Los Angeles.

My only complaint right now about the weather is I am ready to turn the air conditioner off for a few months.

[Boriss McCall]

Trish I hope you & your baby have an amazing summer!! :)

[Boriss McCall]

I know longer feel left out from the winter. We got our first snow dusting here this morning in Texas!! Of course it was all gone as soon as the sun came up. But, it is still cold.. burr... I added a picture of Boriss in his new coat. :D

I love my IMS. She sent me a letter today to send to the county that Boriss no longer will have to have the rabies vaccine. The county pet license office accepted & all went smooth. yay!!

Hope everyone has a great week with your pups.

[molly muffin]

We had a bit yesterday and today it warmed up and went away. I'm so good with that! LOL
I just had a great time going through your album. What great pictures.

Sharlene

[Boriss McCall]

Thank you!:)

I am glad you aren't freezing your buns off today. :D:D It's 45 degrees here & you would think we were in a blizzard. ha ha! Texas don't do winter.

[molly muffin]

I might be freezing them off tomorrow, it's not suppose to be above freezing. I better get use to it though, we're heading for British Columbia later this week and it's been snowing consistently there and suppose to snow every day this week. Some days quite a bit of snow in fact. Maybe yucky. I'm packing boots, and heavy coat!
We're not taking molly with us since she does not do planes, barely will do a car ride even. She doesn't travel. Last time, she had to stay with the girls constantly as she couldn't stand to be crated. (she's never liked a crate. Yet when I took hers away you'd have thought I was torturing her, she wanted to be in it, as long as the door was open) In fact, she liked the one I had for my golden much better than her own. I think she made a nest in there, had toys, chews, the whole kaboodle and at night you'd hear her digging around in her blankets. She's a hoot!

Sharlene

Anyway, snow, cold weather here I come. (hope we can get back home, looks like a snow storm is suppose to hit the day before we fly back) :(

[Boriss McCall]

Yikes!! That sounds cold & kinda fun at the same time. Hope you don't get stuck there. Molly would NOT be happy about that.

That is too funny about her crate. She is a sassy girl!! My dogs don't like the crate thing. I used to have a bulldog that LOVED his. He would go in there to hangout all the time. Boriss thinks he is being punished if he has to go in his. Which if he is in there it means he probably HAS been a bad boy. :rolleyes:

Have a safe fun trip!!

[Trish]

Hmmm I am reconsidering crate training. I never did it for Flynn and I think that is one of the reasons he hates the vet so much as he had never been in a cage in his life!

Hope all good with you Amy and Boriss too!

Trish xx

[Boriss McCall]

That might be a good idea. That way he won't feel so much anxiety if he is used to it. So, once Flynn is all healed up he doesn't have to take any of the cush meds right? That is so awesome. At least he won't have to go to the vet for these long test every few weeks or months to check the numbers. I know Boriss is wiped out after he has that day. But, Boriss is such an attention seeker he likes seeing all the people at the vet. He gets super excited to see the IMS. Even if it means pain. lol :p

Boriss is doing good. I can tell his numbers might be creeping back up. He keeps getting extra hungry at night. Probably have to raise his meds in January. But, other than that his life is moving along as normal.:)

[Trish]

HI Amy

Glad to hear your boy Boriss is doing OK! You can relax and enjoy yourselves over the holidays :)

No, Flynn does not have to take cush meds. He has never been on them.

Over this year he has also had UC:Cr and two LDDS tests trying to get to the bottom of his problems. Urine test was very slightly high but they think stress as he had been at the hospital for a while and they did it via a bladder stab :eek: LDDS were both normal. They had always been presuming Cushings based on his ultrasounds x3 over past year which had shown enlarged adrenals, but only last scan finally showed the pheo adrenal tumour. He also had other symptoms consistent with cushings such as: high ALP/ALT, hungry but not super hungry like some of the dogs on here, trembling alot, panting, weakness in back legs. But he has never had the more common cush symptoms of hair loss, excessive drinking or peeing, pot belly. He also has enlarged liver, but vet had a good look during surgery keeping in mind he had a large liver tumour removed a year ago but apart from being enlarged (he has two benign nodules in there also) there was no sign of recurrence visually or on scanning.

So the pheochromocytoma does not affect cortisol production and the ACTH this week has confirmed the single adrenal is working ok, so he does not need any meds. Hopefully all of his symptoms will settle now the tumour is gone including his high BP which we will check next week.

So there we are, we are here on a cushings message board without Flynny having cushings... :D:D But I am staying as you are all so lovely and I haven't found a pheochromocytoma support group!! :D:D xx

[Boriss McCall]

oh yes! Once you come to the forum you are never allowed to leave.:D
I am so happy for you & Flynn. Your pup is definitely a fighter!!:)
So, good that everything will be okay once Flynn fully recovers from surgery. yay!!!!! Since I haven't been on the board too terribly long I believe Flynn is the first dog I went thru the surgery with. so stressful & so amazing at how well things have gone. :):):)

[addy]

I believe Flynn is the first dog I went thru the surgery with.

Amy, you are so dang cute. I dont know why, but I got such a kick out of this sentence:D:D:D:D:D

[Boriss McCall]

:p
I never knew I would be so involved & care so deeply for everyone & their dogs on here. I would be lost without everyone!;)

[milosmom]

i have to say amy that i feel the same way...

[Trish]

Aww that is so cute! OK we are staying :D:D:D

[Boriss McCall]

:D:D:D:D yay!;)

[molly muffin]

:) Happy times on the Boriss thread I see! LOL

Love it!
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Boriss McCall]

Waiting on the IMO to call me back. Boriss barfed 4 piles of food yesterday during the day. I don't think he is being overdosed.. but, I guess you can't be too careful.

He isn't showing any other symptoms. In fact he was hungry again last night & ate dinner. He is still having the occasional accident & his hunger is slightly increasing. So, if anything I would say I need to work on getting his numbers lower.

Maybe he was just having an off day. Wish they could talk!

[Boriss McCall]

Talked to doc. We both agreed after talking it out that he just had an off day yesterday. Since no other symptoms are going on we are just going to watch him. He seems fine today.

Probably to a stim test here in the next couple weeks to see where he is at unless he has another puking spell.

Yay.. it's FRIDAY!!

[molly muffin]

Yep, always better to be on the safe side. Not lethargic I take it? and he isn't barfing up any of his food today?

So, maybe an off day, maybe got hold of something that upset the tummy.

Yay FRIDAY indeed. I'm dying! Everyone else in my department is on holiday and I'm holding down a number of jobs by myself, so makes for very long hours and days. I'm even working 9-5 on Xmas Eve!!
We've been working so many hours in fact since the quickee trip away, that we haven't even got a tree up and hubs is sick as can be too. :( Arggghhh, starting to panic, when my stepdaughter says today, but where will be put the prezzies. :( And I just found my MIL's Xmas card in a stack of mail, as yet unsigned by the sick hubs and Not mailed! Kick that panic into overdrive!!!!!!!

okay, breathing.
hugs, Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Boriss McCall]

Yep.. no other symptoms & he is fine today. Must have just had an icky stomach yesterday. I was just worried with the holiday coming. But, the IMO said there would be a vet around all weekend.

Don't you just love the holidays.:eek::eek: It is always rush rush rush..

I don't have a tree up either. I guess I am kind of dismissing the holidays this year. It has been such a crappy year I just want to put it to rest & start over in 2013. At least the Mayan's were wrong. :rolleyes:

I will however be celebrating on New Years Eve.. end of 2012 crap year.. :D

At least Boriss is still a moving & a shaking. :) I guess I couldn't ask for more at this point.;)

[Trish]

Hi Amy
So glad to hear Boriss' upset tum was just a one day thing, poor boy. Wonder if he got his paws on something he shouldn't!! I hate seeing them get that funny look when about to be sick. Be a good boy Boriss and don't scare your Mom!
Trish and Flynn xx

[addy]

Glad to hear Boriss's tummy settled down. I think you should force yourself to put up the tree even if you only put lights on it. You will feel better. It has been a crappy year, I totally agree, but I still think you should do the tree;);););)

I'm in charge of rallying everyone;);););)

[Trish]

I put an angel on top of the cactus tonight, does that count Addy? :D:D:D

[molly muffin]

I Hope to go get a tree today. I'd like it to fall out so I can decorate it tonight. That is my latest effort. LOL
Usually I go so overboard at Christmas time but with Hubby having this virus, he hasn't felt like doing anything at all, except work that he Has to do, so we're not as organized as usual. I went Christmas shopping the other night after work so I plan to get motivated and tomorrow is Wrapping Day.

One way or another got to get that Christmas spirit going. We have to walk into the New Year as we plan to continue (that is just a cool motto, that I think works well) I want to go in happy and joyful and hopeful for good things to come. I hope the same for each one of you.

Addy our cheerleader!!! You go gf! I know, we can play Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, really, really loud!

Hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Boriss McCall]

;);););)
Thanks for the holiday cheer!
I am going to my mom's tomorrow. I plan on soaking in all her Christmas decorations & hoping that will change my ho hum attitude about this year.

It has been a really hard one.. But, I am confident that 2013 WILL BE BETTER.:D

Yesterday we took our pups to the dog park & it was so good to get them out of the house & watch them having a good time. They played so hard that both of them are still tired today.

Also we might get some snow here on Christmas night!!! that will be fun.

Boriss hasn't thrown up again. So, it was probably just something upsetting his tummy.

I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!! :D

[Bailey's Mom]

Merry Christmas and the happiest of New Years!!!!!!!
May all of your Christmas wishes come true...
May we all stay away from any and all cliffs,
Peace and Joy to all!
-Susan

[Boriss McCall]

;) merry christmas!!

[molly muffin]

Merry Christmas Amy and Boris and family!!!!

Hope you are having a swinging good time this evening. Playing and laughing, eating and playing some more.

(gonna get you in the holiday spirit yet gf!)

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Tina]

Merry Christmas Amy to you and Boriss and your whole family! I hope you have a wonderful day.

Love and hugs,

Tina, Jasper and Shelby

[Trish]

Merry Christmas Amy and Boriss and to the rest of your family! Hope the day is full of treats, happiness and fun! Have a good one :D
Trish and Flynn xx

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks everyone! :)

I am back at work today. boo.. :D
Boriss & my other baby Pearl were so confused this morning. Alarm Clock..:eek::eek::eek: Why are we getting up so early mom?!?! lol

One more day of work & then we have a few more days of break. Can't wait to go camping (cabin style) for new years eve.

Hope everyone has a safe & happy holiday.

[Trish]

Yes, big boo to going back to work and the alarm! Everyone here has time off at the moment and I am the one of only a few going in to work. Still, only had to work Mon, Thurs, Fri with the public holidays off and same again next week. Work itself is very quiet with mostly everyone away so I am managing to get some paperwork done that always gets put on the back burner when everything is in full swing, so some positives to working this time of year!

Boriss sounds good, long may it continue!
Trish xx

[Boriss McCall]

I ended up getting food poisoning.. :eek: So, I didn't work for 2 days after all. lol
I have never had that before.. It was not fun. :rolleyes:

But, I am all good now. Can't wait to take my dogs to the cabin for the holiday. fun fun!! I will post some pictures next week when we get back. Boriss & Pearl have their jackets all packed & ready to go.

Boriss is doing great!! :D

Happy New Year Friends... Cheers!!

[molly muffin]

Gawd Amy!! Food poisoning! Horrid. Glad you are feeling better finally. You all deserve some good cabin time and a Happy New Year! Rock on Borris!

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Boriss McCall]

It was pretty crazy.. I have never projectile vomited before.:eek:
At least it helped me get rid of a few Christmas calories. lol

[NoonelovesmelikeNorman]

Hello Amy...sorry you were so I'll...I'll do anything not to vomit, quite tricky when I was going through chemo 4 years ago...but still feel awful when I even hear anyone vomits.... hope you are on the mend.

Good news that Boriss is doing better...I hope you enjoyed the time with Boriss and Pearl.

Wishing you and your entire family the best in the New Year!

Sharon and Norman = )

[Boriss McCall]

I am MUCH better.. just a little food shy now. :eek:

I can't even imagine going thru something as awful as chemo. Just one night of throwing up & my throat was on fire. Cancer is such a terrible thing. I am so glad you are doing better now.

[Trish]

Happy New Year Amy, Boriss and Pearl! Have fun camping and romping about!! xx

[molly muffin]

Happy New Year!!

Have a wonderful camping trip! I bet the babies are out there having a blast! Hope you have
good weather!

Health and Happiness to all,
Cheers,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Tina]

Oh my gosh Amy, I am just reading that you had food poisoning over Christmas! That is awful. Glad you were feeling better before your camping trip. Hope you and the pups are enjoying themselves! So happy to read that Boriss is feeling so well. Happy New Year to you, Boriss, Pearl, and hubby. Wishing you many blessings in the coming year.

Hugs,

Tina and Jasper

[Boriss McCall]

HI Everyone! Happy New Year.. :D

We are back from the camping trip. It was a blast! We were all really sad to come home. Tomorrow I have to go back to work.. boo :(:(:(
It just never seems like enough time off.

I added some pictures of Pearl & Boriss. They are pretty stinking cute if I do say so myself. :p
They ran thru the woods around the cabin so much on the first day they were exhausted. Right now we are laying on the sofa & they are STILL tired.

Tomorrow I am picking up another 30 day supply of Boriss's meds & then we do a test in Feb to see how things are going. He still seems to be trucking along.

Cheers to 2013!!

[molly muffin]

Oh they are incredibly cute Amy. Glad you had a good time. Nothing like some tuckered out puppies to say "this was a good vacation mom". hahahaha

Yea, going back to work can suck. Sorry! LOL I'm there a day ahead of you. It was wicked hard getting up this morning.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[milosmom]

so happy camping was a successful, relaxing,fun filled time.always nice to create memories....happy to read all ok there...patty (milo)meka xoxox:)

[Trish]

Hi Amy
Love the pics! So peaceful sitting by a roaring fire with your baby in your arms :) Happy to see you had such a good time :D
Trish and Fynn xx

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks! We had a great time.. Now I am just ready for 2013 to run smooth & easy.

[Boriss McCall]

Poor little Boriss.. sometimes it is hard to keep a Boston Terrier calm. He was tugging with Pearl today on a toy & wrung his neck. :(

He absolutely HATES loosing so he will not let go even though Pearl is much stronger than he is.
We try to never let them tug on toys..

Now he had to take a pain/swelling pill & go to bed. Sure hope he feels better tomorrow.
Silly boy forgets that he is not a spring chicken anymore..

[mcdavis]

Poor Boriss - hope the pill helps and he's feeling much better tomorrow.

[addy]

They dont like to give up, my Zoe forgets her limitations, well let me rephrase that- they dont know they have limitations:):):):)

I hope Boriss rebounds quickly. Never a dull moment, Amy;)

[Tina]

Oh Amy, that little guy! Sounds a bit familiar though, Jasper has been known to overdo it at times, and suffer the consequences. I think the part about being a terrier has something to do with it, don't you?! I sure hope he feels better tomorrow after the pain pill and a good nights sleep!

Hugs from me and Jasper

[Boriss McCall]

He is definitely more determined to win than any other breed of dog I have had. :p

He is finally comfortable & snoring away.

Thanks for the kind words & caring about my boy. ;) Ya'll are a great team/family to have on our side.

[molly muffin]

Oh my gosh. Boriss!!! LOL I hope the pill helps and he wakes up feeling his normal spunky self.
Nothing like a snoring dog though . That sound puts me to sleep every night. Love it!
Boriss is like that little train that could, he's not giving up no matter how much stronger Pearl is.

Hugs!
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[milosmom]

ok boriss no more rough housing for you,your gonna send your mom over the top...if he still appears a llittle achy in the am maybe a cold compress several times a day.after tomorrow you can do some heat for a few days(then some light massage)....this is what i do for my people... patty(milo)meka...xoxox

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks for the suggestions.. I massaged his neck today. It seemed to help.

He had a bit of a restless night & has sleep most of the day. I can tell his neck is still bothering him. Hopefully one more night of painkillers & he will be all better.

He & I must be connected somehow.. cause now my freaking neck is killing me.

I think I was trying so hard not to hurt him in bed last night that I slept in some kind of a weird position. lol.. I think he needs to massage my neck now. :p

[molly muffin]

ROFL! Seems fair to me. Tiny paws on your neck. Tickle factor might kick in though. :) :)

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[SoggyDoggy]

Lol, sounds like you need the hot and cold packs too!

Massage really does work, my other little one Oscar who is a Cairn terrier x Maltese gets muscle spasms in his back sometimes, the only thing that really helps his is massage and rest.

Why is it that the smaller the dog the bigger the attitude? I think Oscar has Small Man Syndrome (aka SMS or Napoleon Syndrome)! They just don't know when to quit!:eek:

Anyway, hope your neck starts to feel a bit better soon.

Naomi and Fraser.

[milosmom]

yes i agree some hot packs (rice sewn up in a towel=moist heat,microwave for 3 minutes)i am a massage therapist for some 15 years and this would be most comforting to our pups as well as their parents...wishing you all some comfort soon :) ps..please be careful these items can be soooo hot when first removed from the microwave so i would suggest to put a hand towel around it before application to area...

[Trish]

Lucky he is not constipated then :D:D! Hope he is feeling better tomorrow!

[Boriss McCall]

Ha Trish.. Yes, I would not want those sympathy symptoms. lol

His neck is all better..

But, now he is acting a little weird. I decided to take him for a stim test on Monday to see how he is doing. I have a feeling the cortisol is rising. He has cried for more food the last 2 nights & has been laying in the other room while we are watching TV. His water intake is still good.

Today I went home for lunch break & he didn't want to sit with me on the sofa & was being weird. Which is not normal for him. Usually he is sitting right on top of me or under my feet always.

So, I am going to do my best to keep him occupied this weekend with walks & car rides & I am going to do my best not to spend my weekend worrying.

I will let you know how it goes on Monday. His numbers weren't all that low on his last stim test. So, I am not really surprised.

Everyone have a good weekend.. I know this has been a really hard week on a lot of you. I am sending out lots of big warm hugs.

[Trish]

Glad his neck is better, it is weird when we notice the littlest of things and get worried like where they sit etc. Flynn is the same as Boriss and goes into the other room when he is feeling a bit off too... he is doing it right now lol. But it is very hot again today and I think he goes where it is coolest. I just rang the vet and will pick up the losec today so hopefully that perks him up, otherwise we will just stay in the air con today and keep cool!! Good luck for super stim test result next week!
Trish xx

[molly muffin]

Hi Amy,

I'm glad Borris's neck is better (and I'm assuming yours is too? :) ) but poor guy, he does sound "off". It could be that the cortisol is starting to go back up a bit. You'll feel better once the ACTH is done probably. It's so hard during the "not know" stages.

Hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Amy-
I just caught up on the tug of war neck boo boo. How old is Borris? Bailey too will go into the bedroom to get away from what annoys her or if she's feeling punk. With the surgery and her recovery she is most happy either right beside me on the bed or curled up in my lap. Works for me Too!!:D
Air conditioning????????:eek::eek::eek:
-Susan

[addy]

Hoping you have a good weekend and Boriss comes out of the bedroom. Zoe used to do that but since her cortisol is lower or for another reason unknown, she always wants to be in the same room with me now. Sometimes Koko will go in the bedroom alone because he likes to sleep on the down chaise;);););)



Im sorry Boriss hurt his neck but I am sure happy he was playing tug:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

[infoviewer]

Hope Boriss feels better this weekend and you too. My CoCo will go in another room if we are talking. I guess it makes him nervous. We are going for a stim also Monday. That makes 3 of us that will be on edge until we get the results. CoCo is on 20 mg of Vetoryl and does seem to be begging for food more lately. I really think it is habit. He does seem to be stronger on the 20 mg which he will only be on two weeks tomorrow. His hair still looks bad, but that is probably the last thing to come back and it may never. It could be the hypothyroidism, who knows. I just take it a day at the time and try to keep him as healthy as I can. Good luck with Boriss. I will be thinking of you and Addy also since Zoe will also be going for the stim tomorrow. Love, JoAnne

[addy]

We are having a three for tomorrow.:):):):)

Good luck, crossing everything!!!!!!

[Boriss McCall]

Good luck ladies.. Lets all try NOT to bite our nails off tomorrow. I hope all the tests come back good for our babies.
Boriss has not had a test in a couple of months. So, I am really curious to see how things are going. I have a feeling the doc will want to raise his milligrams. I keep telling myself if that is the case I will be okay with it. Last time we raised his to 40 it helped so much. I just hope he doesn't keep on the path of having to increase every few months.

His neck is all good now. Susan.. Boriss just turned 9 in October. I always know something strange is up when he wants to be away from me.

It is so weird.. but, I can totally tell when his cortisol is too high. Not only does he beg for food... but, he just starts acting like a little recluse. Which normally he even has to be in the bathroom with me when. :rolleyes: What gets me most about him is this doesn't happen every day. It just seems like on some days he has a spike in cortisol. Which I don't even know if that is possible. So, maybe she will just want to move him to twice a day dosing.

Since tomorrow is Monday we are going to get as much cuddle time in today before we head back into the rat race.. I am ready for more holiday vacation time. :rolleyes::D

[molly muffin]

Oh well, you know, any excuse for good cuddle time works for me. I'll cuddle molly (who is not a particularly Good cuddler) in empathy with the 3 of you. :)

vacation time, always need more of that!

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[milosmom]

i will be looking for your stories tomorrow about your babies...good luck with everything ladies !!! xoxox patty(milo)meka ;)

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks Patty!

JoAnne I am crossing my fingers that the 20mgs is doing the trick for CoCo. ;)

[Tina]

Hi Amy, thanks for your kind words and post of support on Jasper's thread, I appreciate it so much. You are so right, we are all here to support each other no matter what. I posted on our thread that Jasper isn't getting a stim test tomorrow, but is seeing the vet and getting an injection as a show of solidarity for Boriss, Zoe and Coco's stim tests. :D We are hoping for good results for all!

So glad to read that Boriss' neck is all better. Good luck tomorrow!

Hugs from me and Jasper

[Boriss McCall]

They can all hold paws together across the miles is they walk into the vets office tomorrow. ;)

[addy]

Happy stim day Amy and Boriss. Wishing you success

[Boriss McCall]

:D:D:D Thanks!

So far so good. I just took Boriss back home on my lunch break. He has lost 1 pound since his last test. yay!!! That is good news. Now he only has 2 pounds to go.
For the first time since being diagnosed his urine concentration is PERFECT. It is around 10.47 I think she said. That is a good sign.
Also his belly hair has grown back.

The rest of the labs will be back tomorrow.

[molly muffin]

Wow, awesome vet visit! Way to go Borris!
You are doing good Amy!

Hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Yay Boriss, what a good boy you are!!! Paw's up for good results tomorrow xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Tina]

Oh Amy, what good news at your vet visit, so happy to read that!! Especially the urine concentration, that is so good to hear. That would be cause for celebration in my house, I am always praying that Jasper's urine will be more normal in concentration. Fingers crossed for good stim test results. Go Boriss, go Boriss!! :D Ok, back to bed we go.

[Boriss McCall]

DRUM ROLL PLEASE.....................

For the first time since his treatment started Boriss has low numbers!!!

1/14/13 - 40 mg Vetoryl
Pre-ACTH 1.5
Post-ACTH 1.7

10/18/12- 30mg Vetoryl
Pre-ACTH 8.4 UG/dL
Post-ACTH 14.6 UG/dL

10/2/12- 20mg Trilostane
Pre-ACTH 5.8 UG/DL
Post-ACTH 6.4 ug/dL

9/20/12-20mg Trilostane
Pre ACTH 6.2 normal range Pre 2-6
Post ACTH 5.2 normal range post 6-18

I do realize now I have to really start watching him to make sure he doesn't drop too low. but, it has been a very slow go. It took him from Oct to Jan to drop numbers on 40mgs.

If he continues to beg for food at night we might change him to twice a day pills. But, for now Boriss doesn't need another stim test for 3 months unless something changes. :D:D

Next month we are going to do a blood panel to see where his liver levels are.

Yay!!! I am a happy mama..
It snowed here today. Boriss is not thrilled about that. He hates being cold. Pearl loves it.. she ran in & out all morning long.

[molly muffin]

Yay Borris! HUGS Amy, what great news.

Now just Stay there. LOL
Snow...wow! The good thing is it won't stick around there. :)
Always like that about Texas. You might get some but it won't be there all
winter.

hugs and congratulations,
job well done
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks Sharlene.. I am happy!!

You are right about the snow. It is already gone for the most part. :p

[infoviewer]

Yay that is great Amy. I thought CoCo's were great at pre 5.4 and post 5.8 on 20 mg of Vetoryl for fourteen days, but Boriss is so much lower. My vet was pretty pleased with CoCo since he does not have that many symptoms, but now I am wondering if he is still too high. Oh well, I am so proud of both furbabies numbers. I hope Boriss is doing ok. I am just glad they both came out ok. Now we have to wait for Zoe. I know you are a happy puppy Mama, I know I am. Love, JoAnne

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks JoAnne! This is the first time I have dare I say felt relief since July.

I think CoCo's numbers are great!! I was told as long as symptoms are controlled the number can be I think somewhere around 8 on the post.
I think your numbers are really good after only 14 DAYS. That is awesome.

It took us a while time to get Boriss's urine concentration under control & his numbers this low. Now I just have to be careful that his numbers don't get any lower. See it never ends for us mama's.. :p:rolleyes:

[Boriss McCall]

YOu are right we need Zoe's numbers to be good to make this day even better! ;)

[milosmom]

so happy to read this amy !!! woohoo boriss baby !!! :) patty (milo)meka xoxox

[SoggyDoggy]

WOOT! :D:D:D A great month for Stims on the forum! :D:D:D Way to go Boriss! It is such a relief and a good feeling isn't it? (And a feeling that only another cushing's parent understands.)

[addy]

OMG the vet tech just called and I talked her into peaking at Zoe's stim.

7.3 post!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'll take it so happily, I thought she would be much higher as she was just over ten October 4th but I did not trust that stim. Just need the rest of the labs now.

Wahoooo, we had a good day on the forum!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:D:D:D:D:D:D

Seriously, though JoAnne, Coco could still drop some so I really think his numbers are good and Amy you know to watch Boriss, we dont want him going any lower.

WAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

[molly muffin]

What great news Addy!!! No wonder Zoe is having all sorts of adventures these days. She's feeling pretty good I bet!

Great day!!

huggers,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Yay Amy, so happy to hear Boriss's (thats a lot of s's!) results are so stellar!! So great to breathe that sigh of relief isn't it :D:D:D Long may it continue, so pleased for you both xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks everyone!! we are feeling all :D:D:D:D at my house this week.

Addy that is GREAT news!! yay Zoe!!! I am so relieved to know that all our pups are doing good & had great stim results.

So far the new year is not too shabby. ;)

[Skye]

we are all spinning around dancing and happy here.......so happy to hear this news!!!! isnt it amazing how light the air feels, and the sun even shines on cloudy days. Makes everything in life seem great when you know your baby is okay. I guess we should settle our dancing as Shysies cone is bumping into everything and it is becoming more like bumper cars than dance. LOL but we have been shakin the booties for you all!!!!!

[Jenny & Judi in MN]

great news!

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks for joining in on the dance.. cone & all.. :D

[infoviewer]

We are all happy campers today, Amy and Addy. Everyything else will be great on Zoe's test Addy. Love, JoAnne

[molly muffin]

We'll do the happy dance wiggle with you too!

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks guys!!

This might sound really strange.. I have been working so hard to reach this low number..

1/14/13 - 40 mg Vetoryl
Pre-ACTH 1.5
Post-ACTH 1.7

We FINALLY did it & to be honest Boriss doesn't seem as happy. Is that weird? He isn't lethargic, he is still eating & drinking & no more accidents.. In fact at night he still tends to beg for food.

He just seems a little off. I can't put my finger on it.. but, he seemed better with a higher number. I am wondering if I should talk to the IMO about splitting his pills up. Give the 30mg in the AM & the 10mg in the PM. It is really frustrating to think you finally got to were he is "supposed" to be. but, he seems unhappy.

Sorry to be upset about something that should be so GREAT & I am EXTREMELY grateful. I am just thrown off by his behavior. I am not worried that he is being over dosed. He isn't showing any sign of that.

I guess next month when I do his blood work maybe that will tell me more.
I am trying not to read too much into since Boston Terriers can be moody anyway.. :p

Has anyone else every gotten to that desired number & then their dog seems unhappy? I don't think he has arthritis. He has never seemed to have those problems. But, I guess that could be something to check.

One other thing I did notice though is he seems a little less unsteady on his legs. When we first found out he had cushings he sometimes wouldn't want to jump on the bed & he would sometimes loose his back legs from under him when running & jumping. Seems like he is doing that again every now & then this week.

Everyone have a good weekend. We are heading to Austin for the weekend. I will be leaving my babies at home with a friend. Hope they don't hassle her too much for food.

We had to start Pearl on a diet yesterday & she is NOT happy about us cutting her portions back. She was ticked last night.:rolleyes:

[labblab]

Amy, I think it's entirely possible that Boriss may feel better with a cortisol level that is somewhat higher. In fact, noted endocrinologist Dr. Mark Peterson doesn't agree with Dechra's lower threshold of 1.45 ug/dl. Lori just posted a reply earlier today in which she quotes Dr. Peterson as wanting the post-ACTH to be no lower than 2.0.

http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?p=91330#post91330

If I were you, I would indeed discuss your observations about Boriss with you vet. I understand why you'd feel reluctant to decrease his Vetoryl after you've worked so hard to gain control. But you may want to back down on the dosing again for a while in order to see whether Boriss starts perking up again (or perhaps try the split dosing as you're suggesting).

Marianne

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks for the advice Marianne.. It is nice to know I am not crazy & there is documents supporting this.

I will definitely talk to the IMO about this.

[molly muffin]

Not all dogs feel that great on that low of a dose, so maybe he would rather be around 2.5 or 3 even for his post number.
It's not only about numbers, it's also about the dog and how he feels. So I think you are probably spot on with your observation. (like a good mom! :) ) and Marianne has supported it completely with Dr. Petersons observation and recommendations.

Have a blast in Austin. Use to love to go hangout on 6th street with friends on a weekend. LOL

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[molly muffin]

Marianne mentioned this but here on Lulu's dad's thread is where Lori posted the info from Dr. Peterson.

http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3346&page=21

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[sunshinehoman]

Sunshine had the same reaction when her levels dropped! But now she is doing very well (other than the hind leg weakness) I seemed to take her a little bit to get used to the lower levels she is at 1.3 pre 2.0 post.

Hope this helps :)

Shannon & Sunshine

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks for the links.
Shannon thank your for letting me know about Sunshine's reactions to the lower levels. Boriss seems to be better. But, we have been out of town the last 3 days. I am going to see how he is for the next few weeks before we decide if he needs changes to the meds.
Happy MLK day everyone!

[Trish]

Hi Amy and Boriss
Checking in to see how you all are, sounds like he is doing ok! What is MLK day, I feel like I am missing out on a holiday and that would be a terrible thing :D:D:D Hope you had a nice few days away, holiday i hope!
Trish and Flynny xx

[Boriss McCall]

MLK is Martin Luther King day. The schools are usually out in most places, banks are closed & some businesses close. I just happen to have the day off yesterday for vacation. :)

Boriss seems to be doing good! :) Guess he just needs to get adjusted to the low numbers. I still might have to split the pills up so he doesn't get hungry at night.

[addy]

Hey Amy,

Glad to hear Boriss is feeling a bit more chipper:D:D;) Ya know, if the endocrinologists and Dechra could just agree on something, it would make our lives a whole less confusing and paranoid;););):D:D

Love ya!!!!!

[Trish]

How is Boriss doing Amy? Adjusting to his lower level? Hope all going good with you guys.
Trish xxxxxx

[Boriss McCall]

Morning Trish! All is well. :) Thanks for asking..

He is still hungry at night. Once we get past this box of meds I am thinking of requesting twice a day dosing. I spend my evening trying to keep him sidetracked from begging & searching for food. :rolleyes:

Hope everyone has a lovely weekend. I know I am looking forward to it. I work in advertising & January is so crazy.. new campaigns & such for the clients. I already need a vacation. :p

[goldengirl88]

Amy:
Since Tipper started on 30mg in the morning I noticed every once and a while she is hungry and gets crazy at snack time. I am wondering if any of this could be behavorial, as they are used to getting food at certain times and have grown to expect it??? Tipper is not doing it too often, but I know what you mean it is very nerve racking to have to put up with it. When Tipper is hungry, nothing, and I do mean nothing stops her from acting out until she is fed. Hope you get it resolved as it is one of the most awful things for us to deal with.

[addy]

Enjoy your weekend!!! If Zoe ever stops doing hop, hop, bark for food I'm taking her to emergency;):D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

[Boriss McCall]

ha.. these poor little starving cush babies.:rolleyes:

Honestly.. before cushings I used to have to force Boriss to eat. He was never big on eating. I am thinking his pill is wearing off somewhere around 8pm every night. I am just glad he doesn't wake up in the middle of the night needing food. Usually we go to bed & he forgets he is hungry. He has always enjoyed sleeping & cuddling in bed more than food.

[addy]

I know, Cush pups and food:rolleyes:


For Zoe, some of it is habit because Koko is right beside her hoping for something as well. If I dont give in she goes off to sleep or to pout. She was the original Hoover vacum from day one. My fault, clicker training, free shaping= lots of treats;);) And she is so cute:p

Have a geat weekend !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Trish]

Hi Amy

Just had to go looking for you... down on page 2! Now how was your trip away and how is wee Boriss doing? Behaving himself I hope, do you think he is settling at his lower cortisol level? How's the week going? Good you can distract him from eating with a big of a snuggle. Flynn is the opposite of Boriss, never been a big cuddler and I am pretty sure he would rather have food than a cuddle with me haha little rotter!

Trish xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Boriss McCall]

I have been so busy at work.. :eek::rolleyes:

Boriss is doing good. I think he is used to the lower numbers now. He doesn't seem to be acting strange like he was. He is still getting hungry at night. I will probably give that another month & then try the twice a day dose if he is still hungry at night.

His snoring has really increased. I guess I will talk to the IMS about that to make sure he is still all good. It is hard to tell since he is a smooshy face.. they snore anyway.

He is definitely a cuddling mamas boy. ;)
All is well.. I am just ready for things to slow down at work.

[goldengirl88]

Amy:
I am curious about the snoring with Boriss. Please let me know what they say, as in my thread I have talked extensively about Tipper doing all this snoring etc. I was told Cushings narrows the nasal passages. See if they think this also, I am trying to pinpoint why this is happening. Glad Boriss is feeling better on his lower numbers. God Bless you and Boriss.

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks! I did see you talking about this on Tippers thread. Unfortunately, it will be harder to tell with Boriss since he has a short mug & they usually snore anyway. I am sure that will be the response I get. but, I will ask next time he goes in & let you know what she says. :)
Luckily it does not seem to bother Boriss & he doesn't appear to be short on air.

[SoggyDoggy]

It's funny to thing of a little bit like Borris or Tipper snoring and making that much of a racket :eek:

Good luck with the IMS Amy, would be nice if they could give you a substantive reason as to why his snoring has increased. Fraser was just the opposite, he stopped snoring for the first time in 10 years with Trilo. Go figure :rolleyes: Guess they do all react differently. (then again, he's got a pretty big honker in comparison :D

[Boriss McCall]

ha.. yep! he can rock the house with his snoring sometimes. I am so used to it. If I don't hear him snoring in the night I will have to reach out & touch him to make sure he is breathing. :p

[molly muffin]

:D Borris rocks the house :D:D

Thats too funny. I get it though. I've done the touch thing if molly isn't snoring too. Sort of freaky when they are that quiet.

huggers,
sharlene and molly muffin

[addy]

I cant sleep unless Zoe is snoring.:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

LOL, we are all so alike, are we not?????;););)

[NoonelovesmelikeNorman]

Hi there!
After reading over the past couple posts I am wondering if there is a link with the heavy breathing, snorting/snoring and Trilostane? I noticed Normans breathing is different. I was thinking it is because they lowered and then took him off his evening dose of heart meds (water pill)furisotmite sp??
I know what you mean about checking on him if you dont hear anything....lol They finally sleep and then we are checking on them.
Also, is it common for pupps on Trilostane to have more of an appetite. I started Norman on 12 hour dosing..still /always has been a glutton withhis food and the other pupps too. lol
I hope everyong is staying warm, we are in single digits and neg temps with wind chill...Winter in WI. I do enjoy the four seasons, my body with the CRPS/RSD prefers the hotter weather though.

Have a great night!

Sharon and Norman

[molly muffin]

uh oh Amy is going to come on here and say something about it being 67F in Dallas now. *sending her The Look

Gads, I hope Molly never ends up on Trilostane if it makes snoring worse. She doesn't need any particular help in that area, thank you very much. Funny how she can snore her self silly, but does the complaint grump sound if hubs wakes her up with his snoring. Bossy little thing.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Simba's Mom]

I think Simba has been snoring worse since on trilostane, the other nite I was in bed and couldn't tell if it was Sim or my husband lol.

[NoonelovesmelikeNorman]

I think Simba has been snoring worse since on trilostane, the other nite I was in bed and couldn't tell if it was Sim or my husband lol.

Thanks for the laughter of the day/week/maybe even month...

if it is just snoring to worry about I can handle that.

I have sleep apnea so i am sure the pupps are sick of hearing me, even though i have a mouth piece...i couldnt use the machine as a I am allergic to latex and silicone...$375.00 machine pluc attachments - waste of money used at most a total of 12 hours..But the mouth piece has been a God send, and if I was ever to travel again, much easier although my CPAP machine came with a really nice traveling case as well

Thanks Sims Mom...hearing myself laugh out loud was jsut what the dr ordered.:D Now if Norman would sleep 3- 4 hours at a crack at night without needing to go out..This mom is ordering that - along with sound sleep.;)

Sharon

[addy]

Me too, Lettie, I'm rolling on the floor laughing:D:D:D:D:D

Amy's gonna come home from work and think we had a party on her thread without her:D:D:D:D:D

Hi Amy, miss you!!!!!:):):):):):)

[Simba's Mom]

Yes, we need to laugh it helps us cope with this crazy stuff. Today I was thinking to myself, why do dogs get sick, they didn't sin, Adam and Eve did! My sim doesn't even like fruit:p

[addy]

Dont tell my Koko that, he is a fruitaholic.:rolleyes: especially apples, blueberries, any fruit actually, even watermelon. Zoe loves it too only poor babe cant eat it anymore becuause of her IBD.:):):):)

Geez Lettie, I still have tears in my eyes I laughed so hard:D:D:D:D

[NoonelovesmelikeNorman]

Just another way this site is so good for all of us :D

Norman had apple earlier in between waiting for his supper. I should had to bed ...he is sleeping..just like having a baby i have to nap when he does..hoping he get 3-6 hours straight..can't hurt to think positively.:)

Nite all!

Snoring Norman and Sharon

[Simba's Mom]

Well maybe I should try fruit for Sim, didn't realize so many pups like it. See I learn something new every day. Ladies we have to laugh, cause the tears flow way too much somedays, so we have to cherish the good days and make the most of them.......take care and glad I could make you smile!

[molly muffin]

I am totally cracking up at the adam and eve thing!!! Yep, Amy is going to be like, what do these people do while I'm at work anyway!
Molly loves bananas. We'll share a banana together, which my husband just thinks is strange. My tasha loved apples and asian pears. ohhh..I have pears in the fridge! I should try with molly.

Sharlene

[Simba's Mom]

Ok, who is Amy? And seriously bananas, I am so going to try that with Simba!

[molly muffin]

Amy is Boriss's mama :) And this is the "My Sweet boy Boriss" thread Boriss is adorable too.

Wow we really did hijack her thread. Sorry Amy!!!

going to go back and behave myself now.

Sharlene and Molly Muffin <--I'm going to blame it all on molly, she gets away with everything anyhow

[Simba's Mom]

Me too, sorry Amy, hopefully get to know you better and your cute boy Boriss....

[SoggyDoggy]

So I read the last page and thought "I've missed something here" :confused: Had to go back and read what was going on. Now I laughed so loud at that apple comment I woke both dogs up!

And I do SO understand the reaching over to check in the absence of snoring. The first few weeks when Fraser stopped I was awake most of the night checking on him, bow I'm used to it again, but I need to turn a fan on or something to compensate for that lack of background noise. They do train us don't they.

So how'd you like them Apples then? :D:D:D

Hi Amy? How was work??? :D:D:D

[Boriss McCall]

ha! you guys.. Thanks for the morning laugh. while all this was going on I was playing dress up with a 9 week old baby Boxer named Bella. If you are ever down just go play with someone's puppy. Nothing sweeter...
My friend's old guy Mr. Merle the boxer died a couple months ago. She just got a new puppy for a little puppy therapy. It truly helps. It was nice to see her smiling with her new little baby.
The dog is also deaf. So, I am so glad this little girl got lucky enough to have a mama like my friend. ;)
I posted a picture of the baby in my album just to cheer you guys up. My bulldog Pearl gets to meet her on Sunday. That should be a good time!
Do you guys know how long pups are contagious when they have kennel cough? The puppy is antibiotics for it & is not coughing anymore. But, the last thing I want to do is bring that home to Boriss with his immune system not so great anymore.

yay... Friday!! I can't say that enough. Work is a monster right now.:eek:

[Boriss McCall]

oh & yes.. not too cold here. I swear we have already had spring days or at least it feels like it. But, next week could be winter again.. You just never know around here. I kind of like the unpredictable weather.:D

[addy]

Gosh you guys, I peeked here durring break time and was laughing so hard I had to clamp my hand over my mouth-I think my face turned purple from trying to hold it in:D:D:D:p


http://www.askavetquestion.com/kennelcough.php

all things kennel cough link por vou:D:D:D

[Boriss McCall]

Thanks Addy! gotta keep my babies safe. :)

[Trish]

Hi Amy
Wow your thread is the place to be!! We missed the party though ;)

Aww that puppy is too cute in her wee kimono :D:D! I have thought about getting a new puppy, company for Flynn. Not that he is ever on his own. He goes to parents while I work, they are around their 80's and have said it would be a bit much for them to look after a puppy as well. They are so settled in their ways with Flynn, he is no trouble for them! I think he would like doggy company though, he likes it when he meets up with other smallish dogs on our walks, not so keen on the big ones after the pitbull incident! My two cats Simba and Nala have both died over the last year of renal failure, they were 17 so a good age. Flynn did not seem to miss them, I showed them to him after they died and he was like... hmmmm interesting, then happily helped dig the hole for the burial, he thought that was great fun :eek::eek: Not very funeral like behaviour :eek::eek:

So his only little companion now is Elle, my parents Siamese who thinks she is a dog anyway. I have taught her to come to me when she gets a treat, sit and take it out my hand. She also fetches her toys and brings them back, but if Flynn see's this game in progress he barges in steals her toy, and crunches it up, much to her disgust! :D Flynn does not like her :D:D

Hope your having a good day Amy, Boriss and Pearl xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[molly muffin]

Oh my gosh, the baby is sooo cute. Puppies just do adorable so well.

sharlene and molly muffin

[Boriss McCall]

ha.. sorry about your kitties Trish. but, you made me laugh. We had two elderly cats that have gone off to heaven in the last few years. Both around 17... I sure wish my dogs would live that long. We have never been that lucky. I guess it is true that cats have 9 lives.

I get to see the puppy again tonight! My guys are gonna get jealous.

Oh & I picked up Boriss's meds today for the new month. He is currently 40mgs in them morning.
We are going to try 30mg am & 10mg pm for a few weeks & see if his night hunger symptoms go away. Cross your fingers!

The IMS is a little worried about the next stim test being accurate with the twice a day dosing. So, we will be basing his results on numbers & mainly symptoms.

Yay we made it to another Friday!!:D:D

[molly muffin]

Well, quite a few people do the twice a day dosing and don't seem to have any issues on the stim results. Maybe one of them can tell you about it. Addy does it.

oh, more puppy time. Do you get in trouble when you come home smelling of puppy? Molly knows if we've been anywhere near another dog. LOL

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[molly muffin]

Hey Amy, Have you checked your PM's lately?

Sharlene

[Boriss McCall]

Yes! I asked Terry if I could join in on the fun in June. :D:D:D

Right now work has taken over my life. I am afraid I would not be able to keep up with new people. I want to be able to hold up my end of the job. :)

[molly muffin]

Awesome :)

I hear ya. We're all going through that right now I think.
It must be that we all get hit in January after the holidays.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[addy]

Amy, you do the stim in the morning after the am dose as always. I dont know why it would be a problem getting an accurate stim. I am not sure why your vet thinks it may not be accurate. :confused::confused:

[Boriss McCall]

Hi Addy,

I guess she treats all her other patients with once a day dosing. She was thinking since he is no longer on the 40mgs in the morning with one dose that his stim might come back a little higher than what it really is. Since the dose is smaller in the morning (30mgs) for the test would that not affect the out come?

So far everything is good really good. He even comes running when he hears me opening his pill up at in the evening. Guess he thinks it is some exciting new night time treat. :D

This has been a crazy week for me. It makes me so sad logging on the board for the first time in 7 days & see that we lost more of our dog family. :(

I am just so glad the weekend is here to decompress.

[molly muffin]

I know Amy, today was a hard day for all of us. Some are like that I guess. I know it felt like a ton of bricks today. Maybe just too much work and we all need to decompress this week and regroup

I don't think it would change the stim that much. many use twice a day dosing and what it does is even out the cortisol. There shouldn't be a huge rise over night with a night time dose, so when you give the morning dose and then the test shows an accurate reading of where the cortisol is all day long. Does that make sense?

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Boriss McCall]

yes! that makes perfect sense. Thank you for taking the time to explain that. So, far things are moving along fine. :)

[addy]

Zoe takes 30mgs in the am and 20 in the pm. What we hope is that the 20mgs at night will stop the cortisol from rising as high as it did without the pm dose so that the lower morning dose is enough to bring it down again as did the 40 mgs did once a day.

Does that make sense?

[Boriss McCall]

yes. That makes total sense. Surprised my IMO doesn't know that. To me it makes more sense to give all cush dogs twice a day dosing so they never have higher cortisol. I think mainly she was trying to make it more simple for me with once a day dosing & it is sometimes cheaper. The only thing I have to do now is remember to give him that 2nd dose every night & make sure I don't do it twice. :eek: Like tonight I couldn't remember if I had done it yet or not. :p

[kaibosmom]

Just creeping in on here...I too was sad when reading about more pups passing away. I am new here but I have been getting to know the stories of a few pups and their journey. The support here is overwhelming and so comforting at all stages of journey. I'm glad I found my way here.

As for remembering the pills....perhaps a Monday to Friday pill case thingy. You know what I mean? That might help ;) I have Kaibo's med times in my phone so I get alerted when his dose is due. That's another idea for you. Good luck.

[labblab]

As for remembering the pills....perhaps a Monday to Friday pill case thingy. You know what I mean? That might help ;) I have Kaibo's med times in my phone so I get alerted when his dose is due. That's another idea for you. Good luck.
Those are both great ideas. The pillbox works really well for me with Peg's phenobarb. She has to get that at 12-hour intervals, too, and I definitely want to avoid overdosing or underdosing her. Originally, I thought I'd never forget whether I'd given her a dose or not -- but then, sometimes I did :eek:. So I got a pillbox and now at least I can't ever overdose her cuz I can see whether there are pills left in there or not. But I hadn't thought about the phone alert to make sure I don't forget a dose altogether. So thank you from me, too!

[molly muffin]

Both of those ideas are really good ones. Pillbox and phone alert. Thanks!

Not all dogs seem to need the twice a day dosing though, some of them their symptoms just seem to decrease with the once a day and then not come back once they have found that golden dosage. It all goes back to that every dog is different thing that we say all the time.

Hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[SoggyDoggy]

I've been thinking about a pill box too, just cause one day runs in to another when you have a routine and you can end up second guessing yourself as to whether you gave the meds or not. As for remembering though, I don't have to worry about a timer. As soon as the boys finish their meal they come and hassle me for their "treat". I can never forget this way, cause they both have pestering down to a fine art! :D (it's just when they think they can get away with it again that I have to think if I've already given them or not :p)

As for 2x a day dose, working well here too! 10mg bd and constant energy levels, no night restlessness (except for a short play time after dinner) and sleeps like a baby :D

[Boriss McCall]

Oh YES! Thanks for the tip. I will most definitely get Boriss a pill box. I love that idea.

[Trish]

Awww I just went looking for Boriss and he was on page 3!! That won't do at all :D How's he going Amy, you got the pills all sorted out? Hope your week is going well! :D:D

Trish xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Boriss McCall]

:D morning.. I guess no news is good news here. :)
Boriss seems to be doing good. I got his pills all sorted out & haven't forgotten any yet. :p

If he continues on the good path he doesn't have to go get tested again for another month or so I believe. My IMS is good about reminding me when it is time.

We have a day off from work today for Presidents day. I LOVE not going to work on Mondays. This is the way life is meant to be.:D

Thanks for checking on us. Today my dogs are going to have another play date with the 10 week old boxer. She is so much fun. I had her over her for a few hours last night. I really want to get a puppy for my bulldog Pearl. She just loves to play & now that Boriss is older & cushy he just doesn't want to play with her much anymore.

We might get another baby this summer. I definitely don't want to try to potty train in the cooler rainy weather.

[molly muffin]

We like the no news is good news sort of post. LOL Just a nice little reassuring all is well will do just fine.

Oh funny how tempting those sweet little puppies can be isn't it. So bet that puppy will be coming soon. Pearl nnnnneeeeedssss one! Please mummy, please! LOL

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Boriss McCall]

Have ya'll seen this video?

so so so beautiful..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=YJkZXh9v_i4

[molly muffin]

Oh my gosh Amy I am just bawling! That is such a beautiful story and with a happy ending. Little Fiona is just adorable.
Thanks for sharing.
Sharlene and Molly Muffin *sniff *sniff
(time to buy more stock in kleenex) :)

[Simba's Mom]

Yes, thanku for sharing the video, I need kleenex, that is such a cool story!

[goldengirl88]

Amy:
Thanks for the wonderful story of Fiona. I cried and cried and was so happy she found love, and part of her vision was restored. How sweet was she!!!!

[Boriss McCall]

I know.. I was crying at my desk yesterday at work. such a sweet story..

[Bailey's Mom]

What a WONDERFUL story! It is so nice to see there still are folks who go above and beyond to help. That little pup looks so happy now.
Thanks.

Susan

[NoonelovesmelikeNorman]

Thanks for posting Amy...very heart warming.

The puppy looks like Millie (today, going to the groomer tomorrow) and again at the end of the video...Millie will look just like a Fiona....I Thank the Lord for those who help any animal's quality of life improve in some way. May they be blessed with an abundance of blessings. ♥

Sharon, Norman and Millie