adrenal tumor--starting Trilostane--darling Chey passed away

[molly muffin]

Yay, happy to read that Chey seems to be doing okay on this dosage. Hope you are dong well too. :)

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Miss Chey, what are you doing down on page 2?? Back up to the top where you belong young lady :D:D Hope you had a good day! xx

[cheydogger]

We are hanging in there. I had two Christmas parties, Thursday evening and Friday night, then we went to the Indiana University vs. Butler basketball game on Saturday. My husband and I are IU fans and we went with Butler fans. Ugh!!!! It was a good game, but IU lost.

Chey has been doing alright except she hasn't been having many bowel movements. I don't know if the Vetoryl slows down the digestive tract or what. Water consumption is still in half or almost half...from 10 cups/day to about 5-6 cups/day. I could very well be imagining this, but it seems like she ate a tiny bit slower last night. I definitely think the Vetoryl is working, but we shall see if she is where she needs to be when she gets her first ACTH test on Friday. Hoping for the best;)

[cheydogger]

Also, did I read somewhere about flakey skin while on Vetoryl?

[Trish]

Sorry no help with the drugs from me Ro... sounds like she is doing well though! Hope the stim test gives good results.

Glad to hear you have been out and about for the Christmas parties, good for the soul! I like sports too, but different ones to you in the USA.. I am a rugby and netball girl :D Nothing worse than going with the other teams fans to a game and you lose grrrrrrrrrrrrr :mad:

xx

[Tina]

Hi Ro, just up letting Jasper out and thought I would check in to see how Chey is doing. It sounds like she is responding well based on the decreased water intake. I sure wish Jasper would show some of that! :D. Thanks for checking in on us.

Hugs,

Tina and Jasper

[addy]

If they had skin/coat issues prior to the Trilostane, it can get worse before getting better. Zoe's skin flaked quite a bit in the beginning.
That was when she had more hair:rolleyes::rolleyes::D:D:D:D

Have a Happy Wednesday!

[cheydogger]

Well, I came home for lunch today and Chey seemed lethargic to me. Actually, she didn't greet me at the door nor did she come when I called for her several times. My heart sunk and I walked into the bedroom and she was laying on the floor with her back legs under the bed. She was awake when I walked in, but she didn't budge. I could hear her tail wagging, but she wasn't moving. I grabbed her and she was limp. I sat her up to which she sat on her own and I coaxed her into the kitchen for a treat. She was moving slow. I took her to a friends so she could watch her while I finished my work day. I stopped by her regular vets office to pick up a script for the blood pressure med and told her about Chey. I asked if we could do the ACTH one day early. So, Chey is going in tomorrow for the ACTH, BP check, and electrolytes. My question is..... Do I feed her half of her normal feeding or a normal feeding prior to an ACTH?

[milosmom]

just read this and my heart just sank,hoping your baby will have a quiet evening and a better day tomorrow.know that we are all keeping our eyes on you ...patty (milo)and meka xoxox

[molly muffin]

Oh My Gosh that must have been terrifying for you. I don't think you fast for an ACTH test, just normal food, but I wouldn't give Chey her morning dose until you know where her cortisol is at. It could just be a she wasn't feeling good day but you never know till that test comes back. If any doubt, the reccomendation is to not give.

Others should be able to pop in with a Real answer about the food. I think it is ACTH feed, LDDS fast.

Hugs, Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[labblab]

Hi Ro,

Sharlene is right that you should go ahead and give Chey her breakfast along with the trilostane in advance of an ACTH so that the medication will be metabolized properly. I am really sorry that she is feeling so poorly, so am very glad that you are proceeding with the testing. Sharlene is also right that our general recommendation is to "hold" medication if dogs are unwell, and Chey's behavior is certainly worrisome. But on the flip side, in order to truly have an accurate picture as to what this dosage of trilo is doing in terms of lowering her cortisol, she should have a morning dose 4-6 hours prior to the testing. So if she seems OK this morning, I'd go ahead and dose her one more time. You can then discontinue any more trilo until the results are in if she responds poorly again later today

Marianne

[cheydogger]

I normally would have withheld the Vetoryl, but they wanted to see what her levels are with the med so she took it this morning. She is at the vet now.

Maybe I overreacted yesterday....I don't know......maybe I didn't give her enough time to wake up before I panicked. She just seemed a little too slow to me. Everything thing else seems normal (water consumption, urinating, bowels, no vomiting). It is just tricky with the high blood pressure issue too.

I will let everyone know her results as soon as I find out. Thank you all for the support;)

[molly muffin]

Hey Ro, hope the vet has good news and maybe she was just in sleepy mode yesterday. I think around here we all go for the more cautious route if given a choice. We just know too much about the "what can happens" to do anything else. :)

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[cheydogger]

The blood work will be back tomorrow, but we did find out her BP is low now, 100. I had a feeling this was going to happen....the cortisol would come down and naturally so would the BP. Unfortunately, her regular vet wasn't in today, so we saw another vet. She would not authorize any change in the BP med. We will wait for the cortisol level and electrolytes tomorrow, then they will send everything to the IMS. Here's the bad thing.....the IMS is not in tomorrow and also she takes her sweet time getting back to my regular vet. I am taking it upon myself to cut the Amlodipine in half tomorrow. BP started at 244, then 180 a week after starting BP med, now 100 after 9 full days on Vetoryl 60 mg plus BP med. Any suggestions???

[frijole]

:D I'm not a vet and wouldn't feel right telling you what to do. That said... I probably would have done exactly what you did with the pill. Kim

[cheydogger]

I did cut the Amlodipine in half today. I read a normal BP for a dog is ~133. I wonder if her BP has been low and that caused her to kind of trip over her paws as I have mentioned in earlier posts? I noticed she was much slower on her walks during the day versus in the evening around dinner time. I hope they let me know what to do today. I also hope I didn't do wrong by cutting the BP pill in half this morning. It will be interesting to see where her cortisol levels are and her electrolytes.

[cheydogger]

Great news, or at least I was told this is good news

ACTH:

Pre: 1.7 range: 1-5
Post: 9.3 range: 8-17

Blood panel was good except Alk Phos: 1495. It was 2400 when she had her first blood panel about 2 months ago.

A call has been put into the IMS to see what we should do about the BP meds.

[cheydogger]

No more Amlodipine for now per IMS.....another BP check is scheduled for next Friday. Yay!!!!! Hope, these good things keep happening!!!!

[labblab]

Great news, or at least I was told this is good news

ACTH:

Pre: 1.7 range: 1-5
Post: 9.3 range: 8-17


YAY, I do think this is great news given the relatively short length of time that Chey has been on the trilostane so far, and also given the fact that you've seen improvement in her symptoms. I'll bet her lethargy was indeed a result of the low blood pressure and not the trilo.

Just one note, though, and that is to tell you that the ACTH reference range that you've given above is the normal range for a dog without Cushing's, and it is what is relied upon when initially making the diagnosis. When monitoring dogs on trilostane treatment, the desired therapeutic range is much lower. Dechra references a post-ACTH range between 1.45 - 9.1 ug/dl as long as symptoms have resolved. If not, they recommend lowering the cortisol level to below 5.4 ug/dl.

This therapeutic range is what you will be looking at more closely after Chey has been treated for around one month. Cortisol levels frequently continue to drift downard during the first weeks of treatment. So at this early stage, her result of 9.3 is indeed good especially since you are also seeing improvement in her symptoms. But I just wanted to alert you that a few weeks down the road, you'll probably be hoping to see her at even a bit lower cortisol level.

Marianne

[cheydogger]

Yes, Marianne!!! All vets including Dechra think we are heading in the right direction....for now. We have room for a continued decrease. She will have a BP check next Friday and another ACTH in two weeks (right?)

[Trish]

Hi Ro
Sounds like everything is going good for you and Chey! So good to hear that :) Have a good weekend, hope your having a break over the holidays :D
Trish xx

[addy]

Congrats on the numbers!!!!:D:D:D:D

Great news!!!!!!

[Skye]

whootwhoot!!!!

[Trish]

Merry Christmas Ro... I hope you are cooking Chey a lovely feast :D:D I am glad to have met you to, it has been such a blessing to have you and everyone alongside as we travel this path for our babies. Hopefully 2013 brings some respite for our doggies and they get to enjoy life again! I hope you and your hubby and babies have an awesome Christmas! Ho HO HO!

Love Trish and Flynn xx

[molly muffin]

Merry Christmas Ro to you and Chey!

Have a wonderful and safe holiday

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Tina]

Merry Christmas Ro to you and Chey. I hope she is doing well and that you have a wonderful holiday with your family. I hope you all are staying warm, it looks like the snow has headed your way!

Love and hugs,

Tina, Jasper and Shelby

[Trish]

Wonder if you got a white Christmas, if so I am jealous. Too hot here for us! Have a great day Ro and Chey xx

[Trish]

Calling Ro!!!!!!!!!!!!!! What's up, how is Chey doing? Hoping all going well in your neck of the woods! I am presuming your just enjoying your holidays, not buried in snow or anything awful like that :D
Trish and Flynn xx

[Trish]

OK, I just checked back on your thread and you have not posted for 6 days!! Last post was BP check due Friday, which is tomorrow so will be waiting for the good result!! Don't make me come looking for you :D:D:D:D

[milosmom]

hey ro !!!hope we hear from you tomorrow...peace,love and light patty(milo)meka xoxox

[molly muffin]

Hi Ro, I hope you are having a fabulous Christmas and everything is going great. :)

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

OK, I am now officially worried :(:( Hopefully all is going good for you guys.
xx

[labblab]

OK, I am now officially worried :(:( Hopefully all is going good for you guys.
xx
Me, too. :o

Marianne

[molly muffin]

Hi Ro,

Did Chey have her BP checked on Friday? Hope it was good results. Are you doing the ACTH this coming week then or the following week?
I guess you guys have a bunch of this snow stuff on the ground too. Hope you guys are all warm and safe. Just a tad bit worried here too.

hugs,
Sharlene

[Trish]

Happy New Year Ro and Chey, where ever you are!!! xx

[molly muffin]

Happy New Year Ro and Chey!

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[cheydogger]

Hi Everyone! Happy New Year!!! We are doing ok. Sorry to have been gone, but the holidays, birthdays, appointments, etc kept us busy. Chey had another BP check last Friday and it still remains low. The regular vet had me go back to 10 mg of Enalapril. She will have another BP check this Friday. I will talk to the vet to see when we should do another ACTH. I think it will be soon. Water consumption still remains good, but it has been hard to monitor 100% since Chey loves to eat snow and there is plenty of it. Lol. She still has a strong appetite and BM's have been consistent. It was so nice to have her with me another holiday season.

I hope everyone had good holidays and sorry to worry everyone.

Hugs,

Ro and Chey

[cheydogger]

P.S. I made corned beef, cabbage, and red potatoes for good luck in 2013;). I hope everyone has a wonderful 2013!

[Squirt's Mom]

See? You disappear and we will start to worry....then we come hunt you down! :D

[molly muffin]

Yay Ro! So glad to hear from you and that you are Chey are doing okay. I'd hoped Chey's BP would be normal by now, but at least everything else seems to be alright, and I'm sure that the BP can be brought under control too.

Happy New Year,
Cheers,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Tina]

Hi Ro, and Happy New Year to you and Chey! Great to hear from you and that Chey is hanging in there. Corned beef and cabbage sounds great, yum! Wishing you blessings in the new year.

Hugs,

Tina and Jasper

[Trish]

Hurray!! Your back!!! Rather Chey's BP is a little on low side which can be easily fixed with reduction in meds. Less worrying than when it was so high before! Everything else soundss good with the meds YAY. :D:D You keep treating yourself well and relaxing with your girl over the holidays!! But pop in every few days Missy!!

Trish and Flynn xx

ps My mother makes corned beef, cabbage and carrots.. I always found it yucky :o, I am sure yours is very tasty though... is it a Scottish thing, as her Mum was from there??

[milosmom]

phew...now that all the worry warts have heard from you we can all take a nice inhalation.... sending you peace,love,light and prayers for your bp test....patty(milo)meka xoxox

[Trish]

Hi Chey and Ro
I am here early for the BP result haha! Will check in later. Hope you had a good day!
Trish and Flynn xx
ps I do love a good corned beef sandwich with mustard, so does Flynn (minus the mustard!) but he does not get much as too salty anyway!

[cheydogger]

Blood pressure was a little better today. Ranges were 112-130. The regular vet doesn't even think an ACTH is necessary since symptoms are pretty well controlled at the moment without any signs of levels being too low. I will probably do one anyway middle to end of the month. Chey has also lost a few pounds. Her skin is really flakey since starting the Vetoryl though. I don't really know what to do about it. She has never had flakey skin. The vet asked if I gave her a fatty oil supplement and I do.

Even with the BP a little better, she is still tripping on her front paws. The vet flipped all of her paws over and she responded well, so who knows.

Have a great weekend everyone.

Ro and Chey

[milosmom]

happy to read this ro...i remember with milo i would brush him with a horsehaired brush,then give him an oatmeal bath and let him soak and do the same brushing in the bath,and again after while also giving him massages...it helped a little as well as added fish oil to his food....my milo sure did love his massages...;)

[molly muffin]

So good to hear that the BP is better. I've read that vetoryl can cause some skin issues before getting better. That could be what is going on, or it could be that the cortisol has finally caught up with her skin and caused a change. Hopefully that won't get too bad though once the levels have been controlled for awhile.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Hi Ro
Hope your all having a good week and Chey has caught a squirrel!

Trish xx

[addy]

Hi Ro and Chey,

You know, I just realized you are in Indianapolis. I used to visit my cousins in that city when I was a wee one. I wont tell you how many years ago that was.;);) They lived in an old sprawling bungalow not far from the racetrack. I remember we went to the race track one day and the noise from the cars sounded like mosquitos on steriods:D:D:D:D


Aww those were the days.

Hope you are all okay

[Skye]

cant remember if i mentioned to you one that helped shysies coat and skin...is Nordic Naturals Omega -3 Pet
interesting as shysie has tripped on her front feet couple of times in play and i admit i get nervous about these things....i know right? ME nervous??? lol.......no way.
what i will do and maybe it will help you (?) is i will keep journal of when where and what was different that day if something happens. whether it be a rug change, carpet snagged, branch what ever.......trying to know why what and reasons. Helps me with keeping track of changes and record of observations to provide better clinical findings if any

[cheydogger]

Skye-

It makes me very nervous when she is tripping on her paws. I can't think of any changes that has made Chey do this. She passed a very basic neurological test, so who knows.

All-

I just wanted to check in with everyone, so no one worries. We are doing ok. Chey's water consumption is increasing little by little. She isn't drinking as much as she did before starting meds, but is more than what she was drinking when her cortisol was first getting controlled. I actually quit measuring for a little bit because I could pretty much guess how much was consumed in a day. I am now back to measuring water. We will probably get an ACTH done soon.

I hope everyone is doing well.

Hugs,

Ro and Chey

[milosmom]

keeping my eye on you guys....xoxox

[molly muffin]

So great to hear from you Ro.

Oh drat the water increase. I guess it is at that point, where it could be that it's not as controlled as it started out to be. Hope not though, would be good to stay controlled at 60.

Stay warm and safe!
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[LabDad]

Hi Ro, just saw your thread, sounds like your dog and my Lulu are about the same age. Will have to read your thread, I think your dog has different diagnosis than mine, but take a look at my log if you want to see the progress that Lulu has made.

[Trish]

Hi Ro and Chey!

Just popping in to see how you are doing, pretty good by the sound of it.. apart from thirsty dog. Does Macy share Chey's bowl of water? I guess you could have a high one for Chey and a low bowl for Macy??? You probably have that all sorted out I expect :D:D Hope the results come back good, let us know when you are going in for them :)

Have a good week!
Trish xx

[Squirt's Mom]

Good to hear from you, Ro! It is entirely possible that the dose needs to be increased a little bit; not uncommon with Trilostane / Vetoryl. ;) I am assuming no signs of a UTI or other urinary issues?

Not sure you are aware of this spreadsheet here, but one of our members built one to chart water intake. Here is the link -

http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3583&highlight=water+spreadsheet

Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[cheydogger]

Trish-

Macy and Chey drink from the same bowl and have since my husband and I started living together. Macy doesn't drink very much at all. I just kind of deduct what a 20 pound dog would drink.

Leslie-

Yes, I am afraid her dose may need increased just a tad. Her water consumption is not as much as it was before starting the Vetoryl. We were about 10 cups a day pre Vetoryl, down to 5 cups a day when blood pressure was too low and first starting Trilostane, now we are averaging 7 1/2-9 with blood pressure stabilizing and a month into Vetoryl 60 mg. Her back legs are still weak. I guess this doesn't always improve though.

I will keep everyone posted;)

Hugs,

Ro

[Trish]

Well it will be interesting to see what her next stim result is. I will be keeping a close eye out for Flynn's twin's results ;) x

[Skye]

i am wondering if blood pressure can affect how coordinated they are....causing the paw stumble. So response was good on basic nerve response test, and if you fold paw under it is righted quickly. Perhaps moving mentally faster than her body can....(i do this thinking i am just ms flash and i am soooooo not....then stumble as i mentally think i can move faster than my body will allow)
does collar and or harness fit correctly? not pinching or applying pressure on nerves?
i understand how this makes you nervous.....lol.......goodness anything less than everything normal with Shysie and I am already shaking......
if this continues....after trying to debunk all reasons.....trust your gut and push a little harder to see what can be checked. Any current x-ray that could reveal additional information to that location, including chest shoulder area, vision, condition of inner ears, etc. even cracked nail, change in floor.....
will be thinking of you Ro and Chey.....this can be figured out. One thing at time to stay focused and not become overwhelmed. You got this....i know you do!!!!! you listen to your baby so well...and keeping journal of what when where helps too.
love and hugs to both

[cheydogger]

Skye-

The basic test the vet did was flipping the paw under to which Chey responded and corrected it. She stumbles at home, on walks, etc. I thought it was blood pressure, but that seems to be stabilizing and she still does it;(.

I am having an ACTH test and blood pressure check done tomorrow. I will let everyone know the results next week.

Take care,

Ro

[addy]

Zoe's right front paw has issues too where sometimes it gives out and she falls and bumps her little chin but she had that prior to Trilostane. It comes and goes. The last time I rushed her to the vet and of course she did not limp or stumble there; he said she sprained a toe. She has arthritis in that paw.

We are hoping for a good stim. Crossing all paws:):)

[molly muffin]

Crossing fingers and paws here too! Hope for good numbers tomorrow!

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[cheydogger]

Thanks everyone!! We could use some good news. 2013 has started off better than the last half of last year;)

Ro

[Trish]

And the rest of this year is going to be even better :D

[Skye]

thinking of you both!!!!!!!!

[cheydogger]

Well, her levels are good. We will continue on the 60 mg Vetoryl. Post was 4.5 and blood pressure was about 120. So, this doesn't explain the increased water consumption. I took a free catch urine sample in today to check for UTI. The water consumption has been much higher the last couple of days. Boy, is this an expensive disease for a dog to have;(.

I have heard others mention the excessive shedding while on Vetoryl. Wow, she isn't going to have any hair left if she continues to lose hair at this rate. It is the worst case of shedding I have ever seen.

I hope everyone is doing well.

Ro

[molly muffin]

Yay! Glad her numbers are good. :)

You betcha it's expensive disease. We all are working for our dogs these days. LOL
Hopefully no UTI! Crossing fingers for that.

congratulations on a Good ACTH.

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[addy]

The hair can get worse before it gets better and can take 6-9 months or more to improve. I have also read bad skin/coat can be a side effect of the drug for some dogs. However, we are not going there yet;););) Sounds like a good stim to me. The water drinking can take some time. Zoe never drank buckets full but hers did not improve until we finally switched to twice day dosing.

[Trish]

Hi Ro and Chey
YAY good numbers, especially liking the BP. Flynn is booked in for his BP check tomorrow so fingers crossed his is as good as Chey's. Wonder why she is so thirsty with such a good stim result. They have checked her glucose to rule out diabetes? Oh gawd, not that we need any more problems :eek::eek: but it was just a passing thought.

Trish and Flynny xx

[cheydogger]

Thanks everyone;). I was very pleased to hear her results cortisol levels were good;). The water consumption was under control for a little while. I saw Chey licking her genital area last night. I would be surprised if she didn't have a UTI.

Addy- I have noticed her coat being a little different since starting the Vetoryl, then came the excessive shedding. I told my husband about it, so he experienced it first hand over the weekend when he brushed her. Lol. It was like a dog hair storm....hair just a flying every where. Lol

Trish- I forgot to tell them to check electrolytes on this blood draw, but her glucose was good back around Christmas. She still has a ravenous appetite too.

I hope the urine sample I took in is usable. The vet was worried that it wouldn't be sterile enough to detect a UTI. I wanted to try that first before I let them stab her bladder.

Maybe I will hear something today.

[Trish]

Did she have a UTI? Enquiring minds want to know!! Hope all going good for you all! Hugs to Chey xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[cheydogger]

No bacteria was found on urinalysis. The regular vet talked to the IMS and they suggested doing a urine culture and recheck blood work. Lastly, they said perhaps Chey is getting close to becoming Addisonian. It is always one more test, etc. If no bacteria were found from a non sterile free urine catch, then I hardly doubt a sterile sample will show bacteria. It seems like a waste of money and stress on Chey. How can her cortisol levels be within treatment range, yet she may be heading towards Addisonian? I feel like we are back to square one. Is it possible to have cortisol levels under control yet not the symptoms? She is still eating really well. Poop was soft this morning, but not diarrhea. The regular vet will be back in today, so I will talk to her at some point today. She left me a message Wednesday evening with this information. I have to say I am very frustrated at this point. Maybe I will just live with a thirsty dog.

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Ro,

Sorry Chey is having some issues but I doubt it is the cortisol being too low. I doubt she is headed to Addison's based on the signs you mention. If her appetite were off, she had diarrhea, and was lethargic, then yes we might want to look again. But with none of those things presenting and the cortisol level good just this week, it is unlikely.

There is the possibility of DI - Diabetes Insipidus. This is not the same as the typical diabetes we hear about which is DM - Diabetes Mellitus. DM is an imbalance in the blood sugars. DI is an inability to regulate water in the body and one of the hallmark signs is heavy drinking. DI is rare but we have seen cases here. There really isn't a good test for DI that isn't risky so many vets will simply start treatment. If it helps, DI is diagnosed. If treatment doesn't help, they keep looking. I am not saying that is what is going on but it might be worth looking into and talking to the vet about if this continues in the face of normal cortisol levels. Here are some links on DI -

• Polyuria, Polydipsia and Diabetes Insipidus
http://www.vin.com/proceedings/Proceedings.plx?CID=WSAVA2002&PID=2556

• Diabetes Insipidus
http://www.petplace.com/article-printer-friendly.aspx?id=3258

• Diabetes insipidus
http://www.provet.co.uk/health/diseases/diabetesinsipidus.htm

• Diabetes Insipidus
http://www.merckvetmanual.com/mvm/index.jsp?cfile=htm/bc/40507.htm

• Desmopressin acetate (brand name DDAVP®)
A synthetic antidiuretic hormone that is used to treat Central DI
http://www.petplace.com/drug-library/desmopressin-ddavp/page1.aspx

And then there are those pups who's drinking and peeing never resolves even with perfect numbers and no other signs and no other causes found. Just pissy puppies! :D

Keep up the good work, Mom!
Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[cheydogger]

Thanks for the information Leslie. I spoke to Dechra this morning running things by them. They don't think she is heading towards Addison's either. They recommended a urine culture and blood chemistry too. I also asked about the excessive shedding after starting Vetoryl to which they said that is not a side effect of Vetoryl. I have a hard time believing this. I will mention the DI if urine and blood don't show anything. I guess I am going to have to bite the bullet and do the culture and blood chemistry. Ugh!!!! I almost hope it is a UTI as that seems like the simplest thing to treat.

[molly muffin]

If her urine is still dilute, then the only way to know for sure about a UTI is with a culture.
Yep, it's always something, just one more test, or two, or three. argghh

hugs,
sharlene

[Trish]

Hello Ro, pats for Chey and Macy

How's it all going, is she still drinking heaps? Hope all going well in your neck of the woods :)

Trish xxxxxx

[cheydogger]

Yes, still drinking alot. Her urine was dilute on the first urinalysis. My husband took her Saturday for a blood draw and bladder stab. Hopefully, I will hear something early this week.

[SoggyDoggy]

Wooh that sounds harsh doesn't it?, a "bladder stab" :eek::eek: and yet that's what it is :(. Well I hope you get some answers quickly and that its something easy to deal with for once. good luck and keep us posted.

[molly muffin]

Crossing fingers for a yippee kai yai result for Chey!

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Yes, I do not like the bladder stabs either! Flynn less so :eek: I was especially mad when they did it once to check his cortisol. So much for a stress free test :mad::mad: Paw's up Chey.... fingers crossed for good results Ro!
Trish xxxxxx

[cheydogger]

Well, Chey does not have a UTI. Her blood work was pretty good except her potassium level has changed from the last draw. The regular vet is getting more concerned about getting close to Addison's:eek: There is nothing else to point to for the excessive drinking. Water consumption was pretty controlled when her cortisol levels were around 9, but the lower they have gotten the more water she started drinking. The IMS isn't in until Monday, so hopefully she will talk to the regular vet and come up with something. For now, we have taken Chey off of the Vetoryl to see if water consumption decreases. We are just worried about a blood pressure spike;(. Everyone is at a loss. I don't really know what else to do.

I hope everyone is doing well.

Ro

[Trish]

HI Ro

She is still on the Enalopril so hopefully her BP won't be affected. It will be good to get the feedback from the IMS. Are her only symptoms the water increase, I cannot remember if she was doing that before the Vetoryl. I guess we don't don't about the ADdisons without another acth and the last one was only couple of weeks back and 4.5? Oh, she's a worry that girl, sending lots of love and kisses to her and you from Flynny and me xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[cheydogger]

Well, the only thing the vets could come up with is Chey was either being overdosed or underdosed. We have been off the Vetoryl for 5 days now and I think the water consumption is a little less. I am going to continue to monitor the water, then we may have our answer.

Leslie-

I asked about DI and the vet said no. Who knows:rolleyes:

[labblab]

Hi Ro, just wanted to double-check as to which blood pressure med Chey is taking -- is it enalapril or amlodipine? There are cautionary notes in the Dechra Product Insert that warn against the combination of trilostane and ace inhibitors such as enalapril. Trilostane already lowers aldosterone somewhat in addition to lowering cortisol, and aldosterone is the adrenal steroid that controls the normal balance of potassium and salt in the body. Ace inhibitors also lower aldosterone, so you can end up with a cumulative effect that creates problems.

Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker and Dechra does not include that class of drug in their aldosterone-lowering warning. But I don't know whether there could be some other drug interaction that is affecting Chey's electrolytes. Did the Dechra rep know Chey was taking a blood pressure med when you talked to them?

Since Chey's potassium level was worrisome on her recent labs, it sounds as though it may be her aldosterone level that is the problem and not her cortisol. I do believe I've read somewhere that trilostane can affect aldosterone production in some dogs to a greater degree than is typically expected (I'll look today to see if I can document that). Such a puzzle, but I'll agree with you that the fact she's improving now while off the trilo points to some sort of trilo-induced abnormality.

Marianne

[cheydogger]

Marianne--

She is taking 10mg of Enalapril daily. She was taken off the Amlodipine when her BP started getting too low. I asked Dechra about taking the Vetoryl and Enalapril, but I forget what they said:eek: It was a while ago that I asked.

Her Potassium level was not too low on the last blood work-up, but it had changed from the previous work-up. It was like 26 and they start getting worried if it is around 23 or lower.

I would say the water consumption has slightly decreased, but it is still around 9.5-10 Cups/day which is more than normal dogs should drink. My vet said between my two dogs, they should only consume around 7 Cups/day.

It is just so baffling that she was controlled when her level was 9.3, but the lower it got, the more water she started drinking.

Maybe I will call Dechra tomorrow and ask about the Enalapril and Trilostane being given together. I can't for the life of me remember what they said. I can't believe it was horrible or we would have made adjustments then. Hmmmm, I just can't remember. Chey has been off of the Vetoryl for a couple of weeks now or close to two weeks. She doesn't really seem any different. One thing we know is adrenal tumors are harder to treat than pituitary tumors. All in all, we feel Chey is doing fairly well considering the size of the tumor. I felt like I was going to lose her when all of this came about. I am really lucky she has made it this far, but I will never want to let her go.

Thanks for dropping by, Marianne. I will check on this.

Hugs,

Ro

[molly muffin]

Hi Ro,

I think Chey has done quite well too considering what turned up. I think you are doing really well too. It's not easy going through all of this and you've had quite a few issues come up that are outside of what one see's with Pituitary tumors.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Hi Ro

How is she doing apart from the drinking, hopefully pretty good! Is the stumbling still happening? I was hoping that might settle with BP in good control. Hope the New Year is still treating you well :D

Trish xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Trish]

Still waiting patiently for my Chey update!! Hope she is doing OK Ro, and that you are too! :)

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[cheydogger]

I am starting Chey back on the Vetoryl as soon as I get it in the mail. The vet only wants her taking 30 mg/daily to start. My husband said Chey struggled on her walk yesterday. He was actually worried about her lack of energy and irregular breathing;(. She is still drinking a lot and has a good appetite. I haven't noticed the tripping over the front paws much lately though. I haven't had her BP checked for about 3-4 weeks. It's harder getting her to the vet now since I can't lift her anymore. I have to work around my husbands schedule and my finances. Honestly, I have pretty much given up. I am trying this last effort with the lower dose of Vetoryl. Other than that, I feel like I am out of options;(

I hope everyone is doing well! I know I am ready for spring;)

Hugs,

Ro

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Ro,

Good to hear from you again but am saddened by the tone of your voice. It sounds as if you are losing hope and I don't want that for you or for Cheyenne. At some level we knew the moment these babies came into our lives that the odds were we would outlive them even if they stayed healthy all their lives. This is the hard side of this beautiful love - loving someone so deeply knowing all along they will likely leave before we do. So we learn to treasure each day, each moment, storing up memories to sustain us.

For those of us who fight so hard for our sick babies, those moments become even more precious, more cherished. We do everything in our power to make their days the best they can be, we devote our all to their well-being. And while we remain aware of that hard beauty, we strive to hold onto the joy. We must for their sake as well as ours.

I wish you and Chey many more moments of intense joy and comfort in each others presence. I wish you peace in the knowledge that you are a wonderful mom, Ro.

Many hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[LabDad]

Hi Ro,

Hoping & praying all goes okay with Cheyenne. I don't know much about the adrenal tumors that cause Cushing's Disease. Give her a big hug from my wife Moo & myself.

[molly muffin]

Hi Ro,

I'm so sorry that it doesn't seem to be getting better for Chey. Poor baby. You do what you can, it's all any of us can do. Adrenal tumors are rough. I hope the lower dose of vetroly helps her to feel a bit better.

Spring has to be right around the corner don't you think?!

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[addy]

I'm so sorry too, Ro that you feel out of options. I hope the lower dose helps Chey.

[Trish]

Hi Ro

I miss you on here, but glad you are popping in with updates on gorgeous Chey. Don't give up sweet, not yet. She will let you know when she has had enough. Eating, drinking, not stumbling are all good things, sure she is tired on her walks and puffed... so am I!! I am praying she picks up again on the Vetoryl, you have tried so hard for her.

PAWS UP CHEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Trish and Flynn xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[cheydogger]

Thanks all!!! Let me clarify....when I mention giving up, I don't mean euthanasia....I just mean I feel out of options to medically manage her and it's frustrating. I look at her and tell her how sorry I am she has this tumor and disease and that i just don't know what else to do for her. She's still hanging in there;). My husband says she is a happy dog as long as she has her Momma and foodies. I just got the 30mg in the mail today, so I will start her on it Friday while I am home with her. Who knows what to expect. I will keep you all posted.

[LabDad]

My wife Linda (Moo) and I are praying for you and Chey!

[NoonelovesmelikeNorman]

Hi Ro...Sending prayers your way...hoping the 30 mg changes things around for the better for your pup.

(((HUGS)))

Sharon, Norman and Millie

[molly muffin]

Hugs Ro and belly rubs to Chey. Hope the 30mg helps.

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

HI Ro and Chey,
How she going on the meds? So wishing it helps her perk up... sending love to you all and miss you on here! xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Skye]

Hey Ro and Chey...............how are YOU doing? my eyes teared when i read when you look at her and say your sorry..........(holding my arms open hugging you) you are such a beautiful mom to her......dont you see that when she looks at you! she knows your giving your all, and she is too. Of course its frustrating, oh goodness, is it. So today you will start the meds right? okay...positive thoughts that this bring needed results. Your heart is true and adoring for her, she knows that, as is hers for you. And you know your hubby is right..........having her momma and nom nom yummie foodies makes life pretty sweet. So hopefully today will be mommie and nom nom yummie foodies times with Chey! camp out all day on couch.....you both need it. hugs to both. thinking of you both.

[Trish]

Hi Ro and Chey!!

Time for an update Ro!!!! Hint hint! Hope you have some good news or at least to tell us she is comfortable. Sending big big hugs your way
Trish and Flynn xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[molly muffin]

Hey Ro, how are you and Chey doing?
Hope is all is well.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

OMG you were way down on page 5!!! Had to go hunting, be great to hear how Chey is doing!! Hoping for good news about her and that Macy is behaving and not nipping anymore! xx

[Skye]

stopping by to check on you..........so hope to hear from you soon.

[cheydogger]

Hi All-

Do you remember Chey and me??? Well, I thought I would check in and give an update. Firstly, Chey has been hanging in there. I thought her time was up last year when I learned of her health issues. I am blessed to still have her and she is about the same. She is still taking Enalapril and 30mg Vetoryl daily. She really seems to do much better with the low dose of Vetoryl. She still goes on frequent walks, but she can be really slow.

Lastly, we are hoping Chey is healthy enough to make it to meet her human brother or sister that is due around September 25;))). She would be such a good big sister. She really is such a good dog. Unfortunately, we have a rat terrier that will probably need a new home. Macy, the Rat Terrier, has bitten humans and attacked Chey about a month ago. Chey's lower eyelid was ripped during the altracation:(( Macy is not 100% trustworthy with other dogs and I can't trust her around this baby. Does anyone know of a good Rat Terrier rescue??

I hope everyone is doing well.

Ro

[molly muffin]

Ro,
Of course we remember you. :) Congratulations on the new baby.
I'm so happy to hear that Chey is hanging in there and holding her own. Still doing walks, even if they are slow ones.
I looked online for rat terrier rescue Indiana and found this one http://ratterrier.rescueme.org/Indiana
Maybe the others would know of something personally.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[frijole]

I have thought of you often lately and was wondering how your boy was. And now we have a baby coming too. How cool is that? Great news. Congrats and don't be a stranger! Kim

[cheydogger]

I also meant to say thank you to those that have checked on us over the last couple of months;)).

Sharlene- I have seen the Rat Terrier websites online. I was more hoping someone knew of one personally;). Thanks for looking into it for me;)))

[Trish]

YAYAYAYAY!! A K9 baby is on it's way and it could not have happened to a nicer person!!! I am soooooo excited for you and your husband, that is going to be one super loved baby! Flynny has his tail wagging at being an Uncle Woofy to little RoJo!!! :D:D:D

Ro, can you believe it is 6 months since we arrived here in a panic with our doggies with adrenal tumours and we are still here and so are they, we really are the lucky ones :)

So pleased to hear that Chey is hanging in there, she is one tough girl! CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN!! So, so pleased and we can sure do with some good news on here xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi, Ro!

Good to hear from you again and especially to hear how well Chey is doing AND about the baby! Congratulations to you and hubby! I wish I knew someone with a Rat rescue but I don't. Hopefully you will be able to find one or a good home for Macy.

Don't be a stranger! We want to hear all about this baby adventure, ya know! ;)
Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[cheydogger]

Thanks for the well wishes everyone!! Hubby and I are super excited. I am 18 weeks today and getting a little bowling ball belly. I still have a lot of fears;((. We will find out if Chey is having a brother or sister in two weeks.

Chey is such a happy dog. She always has her tail wagging. My husband and I just shake our head and smile at Chey because she is just so happy.

Yes, Trish, I can't believe it was 6 months ago that we joined this great site. Time flies. I am so happy we still have our pups;) I still think Flynn has Rat Terrier in him. He and Macy look so much alike.

I will keep you guys posted.

Hugs,

Ro

[Trish]

Ha Ro, he must be a Mouse Terrier because he caught another yesterday, that's two in a week! Eek hope it's not a plague! None inside thank god!

Now no worrying allowed, RoJo needs good and happy vibes, wowee you nearly half way already!! How Exciting, hope you feeling well! Xx

[Boriss McCall]

Congrats on the new baby coming your way. how exciting!!

[cheydogger]

Hello Everyone!! I hope all the ladies had a wonderful Mother's Day. Dog moms celebrate Mother's Day too:) I thought I would give a quick update on Cheyenne....her water consumption is high again, plus she peed on the carpet over the weekend. She has a vet appointment tomorrow morning....they are going to check for a UTI and do a blood pressure check. Poor Chey...she hasn't peed in our house since the first day I brought her home from the Humane Society. We'll see what shows, if anything, and go from there.

[doxiesrock912]

Ro,

I'm learning that UTIs are common for cushdogs. Oh how I wish that Cushings remained a lonely disease without all of the other complications.

Congratulations on your soon to be new family member!

[cheydogger]

Thanks Valerie!! I am with you....so many health issues are common in Cush pups. It stinks:(. I have a feeling it's the cortisol levels being too high instead of UTI. Blood pressure was 160, but Chey was shaking and panting, so we consider it within range. We will probably increase the Vetoryl dosage if nothing shows up in urine.

[Skye]

awesome!!! congrats!!!

[Trish]

Jeepers that brings back memories of when we were in a panic when they were first diagnosed with their adrenal tumours and we were both doing the BP thing!! We would have been delighted with a 160 back then!! So I think it is pretty good :)

Chey keeps doing so well, wouldn't it be nice if it was a UTI you can treat with ABs! Fingers crossed that is what it is, but she has tolerated the meds pretty well hasn't she, so a little tweak might be in order.

Chey has got someone very important to meet in a few months so she needs to keep on behaving, you hear that Miss Chey!!!

Be watching out for the results Ro, hope all going well and you are blooming!!! xxxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

RO! Good to hear from you and Chey again! ~~~waves madly~~~ :D

Let us know what the vet has to say. I hope our girl is feeling better very soon.
Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[cheydogger]

No UTI, so it's probably the cortisol level being high again. We are going back to 60 mg of Vetoryl. I will start that on Saturday when I can be home with her. The vet gave me Prednisone this time in case she drops too low. Trish- she did alright for a little bit on the 60 mg,but she started drinking a lot agin, but her cortisol levels were within range. The vets were almost fearing she doesn't do well with lower levels. Chey is an oddball. Other than lots of water and a couple of accidents, she really has surprised all of us. I just don't know if she will ever be one that gets regulated:((

Yes, she does have someone special to meet in 4.5 months:)))

[Trish]

HI Ro, I hope the increased dose helps her feel better, has she had any more accidents? The look on their face when they do that just breaks my heart, like they try and hold on but it just gets the better of them :(. I hope you both have a good weekend, glad you have the Prednisone on hand, you are a pro so will know what to do but we are all hear to lend an ear if you need it! Paw's up Miss Chey, you are going to be feeling better soon!!!! xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Skye]

hello!
just popping in checking in on ya. how are things going? we go back in for our rechecks first part of June...will be blood and urine and exam of course. not sure if they will redo scan or not at this time or wait.
but wanted to let you know i had been wondering how things are and hope to hear from you soon.

[cheydogger]

Trish- today (Tuesday) is day three of 60 mg and there hasn't really been any improvement in her water consumption just yet. She has had four large accidents in a week:(. All of her accidents have been overnight. I just wish she would wake me up to let her out. We are letting her out a lot more now. The poor dog pees a river every time. It has literally been 13 years since she has had a urine accident in our house:(. Poor pup.

Skye- Thanks for checking in on us. I sure hope your baby has good results at her check up. You guys went through heck. Is she symptom free at the moment?

I will be 22 weeks tomorrow (Wednesday), 18 weeks until Chey meets her human sister. Praying they both stay healthy.

[milosmom]

it has been a while roe and i am still in the back woods keeping an eye on you guys i just wanted you to know this...sending our love and healing energy ..patty(milo)meka xoxox

[Trish]

Hi Ro

Has Chey settled on that dosage?? I sure hope so and the accidents have settled right down, she is such a sweet girl and I bet feels so awful when she messes. With your growing tummy I bet it is not quite so easy leaping up in the middle of the night!

Hope little RoJo is behaving herself and growing fine and not making her Mom feel to yuck... oh my you are well over half way now, it seems to be going so fast... I bet for you not so much and you cannot wait to finally hold your little baby in your arms!!

Are you still working? Lots of hugs for you and for Chey too!! xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

ps... what has happened with Macy, is she still with you?

[Trish]

Bumping up Miss Chey, hope you guys had a good day and she is hearing a little more! Hmmm if she was a boy I might think she had selective hearing which Flynn demonstrates most days :D:D Hope your feeling well Ro xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Trish]

Hi Ro!! I think I am takling to myself on your thread :D:eek::D How is Chey doing this week? Any change in her hearing? How are you doing?? Hope baby RoJo is not giving you too much grief :D Love to hear from you xxxx

[Budsters Mom]

Sending you tons of hugs and healing energy.:)
Kathy

[Trish]

Hi Ro

I MISS YOU!!!! Crikey, you must be nearly due now... we have not had a K9C baby, at least since I have been here so you better come back and let us know how things are going with you and Chey!! xxxxxxxx

[Trish]

I have sad news from Ro and she has asked me to post if for her. Her darling Chey passed away this morning. She so did it in her own way too, Chey was acting fine and went outside then after she came inside she could not get up. Ro rushed her to the vet but they made the decision that it was her time to pass so they released her. They think maybe the tumour had invaded somewhere, maybe vena cava but hard really to know.

I am so sad for you Ro, here I am at work in my office and thank goodness my office mate is out today so I can sneak on here and keep the tissues handy.

You have been such an amazing Mom to Chey and you are so lucky to have found each other in life and to have shared all you have together. What a huge hole she is going to leave. One wish Ro had was for Chey to live long enough to meet her new sister. Ro now has a new baby in her life :), born a touch early but doing so well I will leave it for Ro to fill in the details but Chey has indeed met her and their family was complete for a while!! What big smiles that gives me to know that, even on this day of sadness!

Big hugs for you and your family Ro, I loved Chey, she was such a cool dog. We have walked this path together as we both joined around the same time with our adrenal tumour pups and it just makes me so sad to know what you are going through today

FLY HIGH MISS CHEY, WE MISS YOU XXXXXXXXX

[Harley PoMMom]

Thank you Trish for letting us know. Dear Ro, I am so sorry for your loss of sweet Chey, and am keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

With Heartfelt Sympathy,
Lori

[Squirt's Mom]

Dear Ro,

I am so sorry to hear about your sweet Cheyenne. You were the perfect mom for her and I know she is watching over you with all the love in her heart.

Our deepest sympathies,
Leslie, Squirt, Trinket, Brick, Sophie, Grace and our Angels, Ruby, Crystal, Tasha and Josie


I ONLY WANTED YOU

They say memories are golden
well maybe that is true
I never wanted memories,
I only wanted you.

A million times I needed you,
a million times I cried.
If love alone could have saved you
you never would have died.

In life I loved you dearly,
In death I love you still.
In my heart you hold a place
no one could ever fill.

If tears could build a stairway
and heartache make a lane,
I'd walk the path to heaven
and bring you back again.

Our family chain is broken,
and nothing seems the same.
But as God calls us one by one,
the chain will link again.

--- Anonymous ---

[LabDad]

Ro, so sorry about Chey. I just heard that she passed away. She was about the same age as our Lulu who passed away nine months ago. I hope you are hanging in there, and I think Leslie's poem says it very eloquently. I truly believe that their is an afterlife having read the recent books of life after death, and one lady even mentioned that she saw dogs, so that convinces me. I don't know how this all works, but I truly believe it.

We have had a bull-mix dog the last four months, Stanley and he has brought joy to us, though we always fondly remember the ones that have gone upwards before us.

[goldengirl88]

So sorry to hear your sweet baby has passed. May God Bless You Both.
Patti

[Budsters Mom]

So sorry to hear of sweet Chey's passing.:( She has been greeted by our other fur angels at the rainbow bridge. Run free sweet Chey, run free! Xxxxx

[Mel-Tia]

Ro, so sorry to hear of sweet Chey's passing.

Roam free precious girl

Mel and my Angel Miss Tia
Xxxx

[frijole]

Ro, So sorry to hear the news about dear Chey. Do let us know how you are doing when you are up to it. With love, Kim

[molly muffin]

Oh Ro!! super big hugs! I am so glad that Chey got to meet the new baby. I am sure that she loved having a baby around. Maybe she hung in there just so she could, they are so smart and seem to just know things.
Chey was a darling and will be missed by many. I'd often think of the two of you and those wonderful pictures.
I know it breaks your heart that she is gone. Our hearts mourn with yours.
Super big hugs to you and a kiss to the baby.
Sharlene and Molly muffin (Trish pass the tissues, it's a river over here)

[doxiesrock912]

Ro, my sincere condolences on your loss of Chey. I am glad that she met your newest family member though. She'll be watching from above no doubt. Congratulations mom.

[Trish]

More big hugs for you tonight Ro, hope your getting some rest sweet xxxxx

[scoora]

Ro, I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of you sweet girl Chey.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Hugs

[addy]

Ro, I am so sorry to read about Chey. I am so glad Chey was able to meet your new baby and I am so happy about that news.

I dearly hope your new little one helps ease the pain of losing Chey.

[Trixie]

So sorry for the loss of your Chey. Such a hard experience to lose your beloved pet...glad your new baby is there to help you through this sad time.

Barbara

[Roxee's Dad]

I am so very sorry for the loss of your sweet girl. Rest in peace Sweet Chey, you are our newest and brightest star in the night sky.....

[Bo's Mom]

I am so sorry to hear about Chey. My heart breaks for you but please know we are hear for you anytime you need. RIP Angel Chey. You will always be remembered here by all those who were lucky enough to have got to know you.

[Tina]

Dear Ro,

I am so sad to hear about your precious Chey. I too am glad she got to meet your new baby. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Big hugs,
Tina and Jasper xo

[Trish]

More big hugs coming your way Ro, and a wee kiss on the top of that precious wee baby's head!! xxxxxxxx

[cheydogger]

Thank you all for your messages and support over the last year. Trish pretty much summed up what happened. Chey got excited to go out and would jump around. I opened the baby gate to the kitchen and she slipped on the vinyl floor which wasn't unusual. She slipped and tripped here and there. She went out, came in, her back legs started shaking, a few more steps and she layed down. I thought she was having another vestibular attack ( she had one about 4 months ago). I got my husband out of bed and I noticed her eyes were not darting. I immediately went into panic mode because I then noticed labored breathing. I was bawling and telling my husband she was dying. I layed on the floor with her while my husband got Ella dressed and in her car seat. We made it to the vet right before they opened. They let me in and immediately started analyzing her condition. The vet tech pulled her jowls back and her gums were white. I gasped and knew I was facing saying good bye. The vet came in, accessed her, and told me it was time. She believed the adrenal tumor finally invaded the vena cava causing her to bleed internally or the tumor grew large enough that it compressed the vena cava. I was holding my daughter as I sat on the floor with Chey when Chey lifted her head to sniff Ella then layed her head back down. I believe it was Chey telling Ella, " she's your mommy now, take care of her, I have to go." I told Chey I loved her and she was a good dog. I layed my head on her side and I could feel her quit breathing. I couldn't look at her face and I had to get out of there immediately. I chose to have her cremated. My husband picked up her ashes on Saturday, but I have yet to look at or hold them. I'm not ready. I have been very lost without her. A piece of me died with her. She was the last family member I had. Today, I only had one quick breakdown. Thankfully, I have a new baby that keeps me busy. I prayed all along for Chey to make it until Ella arrived and she did just that. I miss her dearly.... I am thankful to have had 13.5 years with her. I don't feel like I ever want another dog as this last year has been emotionally, physically, and financially draining. I think Ella has helped me through this last week. I have to keep going for her:). Hugs to all and your furry babies.

[cheydogger]

On a happier note, I had a baby girl, Ella Reese, on September 1st. She was delivered prematurely and weighed 3 lbs 15.6 ozs, 18.25 inches. Although she was small, she was healthy, never spent a minute in the NICU, and came home with me. She is 11.5 weeks old now and over 9 lbs. We are so in love with her and she is a good baby. I wish Chey was back in her younger years because she would have enjoyed being a big sister. A soul for a soul...

[Squirt's Mom]

Ah, Ro, you are such a good mom, to both your girls. I am so glad Chey got to stay and know Ella, and I am sure she left carrying a deep love for that baby in her heart. Ella may never be able to recall Chey but somewhere in her Soul she will know her always. Chey imprinted her just as she did you. They will always be sisters.

You have been through a lot this last year and need to rest not only your body but your Heart and Soul as well. I can only imagine the fear that consumed you when Ella came early and that on top of worrying about Chey for so long. I am so very glad Ella was strong and healthy and able to come home in her mom's arms. What a blessing!

Please know we are always here for you, Ro. Any time you want to talk about anything we are here and we would love to hear about Ella from time to time. Please take care of yourself.
Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[molly muffin]

Hi Ro, so good to hear from you. I love that name Ella. So pretty. I'm glad she has turned into a strong baby and gaining weight just fine. Perfect! I bet Chey loved her too and I'm really glad that got to meet each other. Some day you will tell Ella about the first dog she ever met and what a special girl she was in your life.
It's very heartbreaking to lose her, but I'm so glad you have Ella to keep you busy and focus on now.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

It is a gorgeous name, l love it too :). My Mum is Eleanor and gets El, and her puss is Elle too (she came with that name, Mum did not name her after herself :)). That tears me up Chey passing the mantle to Ella, how precious was that at such a sad moment. She was such a darling special dog and I can just imagine how big of a hole she has left in your lives. Your emotions must be all over the show with the delight of Ella and the sadness of Chey. Big hugs to you Ro xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[spdd]

On a happier note, I had a baby girl, Ella Reese, on September 1st. She was delivered prematurely and weighed 3 lbs 15.6 ozs, 18.25 inches. Although she was small, she was healthy, never spent a minute in the NICU, and came home with me. She is 11.5 weeks old now and over 9 lbs. We are so in love with her and she is a good baby. I wish Chey was back in her younger years because she would have enjoyed being a big sister. A soul for a soul...

Huge congratulations on your baby girl. I was sorry to read about Chey, but so happy to read that Ella is doing well.

Many times you'll think of Chey, but I echo Sharlene's comment about the baby giving you something else to focus on.

Our pups will forever leave a hole in our hearts.

[Trish]

Hi Ro

Wanted to send a big hug to you, a wee kiss for Elle and even a pat for Macy! Hope all is going well for you guys and the storms have missed you. Keep warm and thanks for popping in to check up on Flynny, that means a lot when I know how sad you with Miss Chey's passing. xxxxxxxxxx

[Trish]

HI Ro!! Merry Christmas!! Hope Ella is enjoying herself today, I bet she looks just darling today... pic please!! I am sure Chey is up there watching over you all with a big smile on her face... I know how much you miss her so I join you in thinking of her today she was such a special girl and I am always thankful we joined this forum about the same time to share our journey's. BIG HUGS TODAY! xx