New diagnosis (12 y/o Jack Russell Terrier)

[adamalsmom]

Hi, My name is Cathy and I live in WV. My son's 12 yr old Jack Russell Terrier was diagnosed today with cushings. Contemplating our next move which will probably be medication. Changed vets. I have been telling another vet that something was wrong with her and all tests were normal. I asked this vet this am if she could have cushings and the test was positive. Glad for some answers. Worried about affording the meds. Also put her on some liver meds. One I believe is a vitamin and I found it way cheaper on line and the other is a gall bladder med. Not started the cushing's meds yet. So very new to this.

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi Cathy,

Welcome to you and to your son's sweet girl. So sorry for the reasons that brought you to us but so glad you found your way here.

Could you get copies of all tests that were done and post any abnormalities that are listed along with the reference ranges and units of measurements...e.g ALT 150U/L (5-100) that would help us a lot. Also could you tell us more about your son's dog such as her weight, if she has any other health issues, and her symptoms.

The two most rx'd drugs for Cushing's are Lysodren/Mitotane and Trilostane/Vetoryl. Both of these medicines can be compounded, which is a cost savings.

Please know we will help in any way we can so do not hesitate to ask any and all questions.

Love and hugs,
Lori

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[Simba's Mom]

Welcome to the family, you have come to the right place. Make yourself at home and expect lots of tlc......

[mytil]

Hi and welcome to you both.

I agree with Lori, let us know the results of all testing performed to come to this diagnosis.

Here is a link (to other links) that are great reads in understanding Cushing's, diagnosis, treatments and monitoring. http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=180

Good for you in changing vets - one of the most important things is having a vet that actually understands the testing and treatment protocols and has experience in treating Cushing's successfully.

Terry

[molly muffin]

Hello and welcome to the forum. :)
Check out the resource section that Terry linked to and yes, post results of tests, anything abnormal.
Which test did they do that said "yes" to cushings? I'm so glad you found a vet that you feel comfortable with. It is very important to have a vet that has treated cushings successfully and knows the protocols for testing and administering the meds appropriately. Each is different.

Do write more when you have the time.

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[goldengirl88]

Hi:
Just wanted to welcome you. My beloved Jack Russell Tipper has Cushings also. Hope all goes well for your baby.

[MBK]

Hi, I just wanted to welcome you, as well. I have two Jack Russells. Alivia has cushing's and just turned 15 last Monday. Maxwell is almost 13 and, fortunately, very healthy. Tons of knowledge here, so this is a great place for you to be.

[adamalsmom]

Thanks, I just had a chance to get back on here. I will get her tests results this week. Not sure the test they did. She had to stay all day. Said may have to repeat test more than once but they said they knew with the first test. I was given the option to test for which one it was. But $200 is a lot when he said they would treat her the same. I am just relieved to know there really is a reason for her change in behavior. They started her on 2 liver meds because her levels were high. But not sure I can afford all this medication. Her weight fluctuates. Averages about 20lbs. but gain as much as 7 lbs from day to day. I try to watch her and make sure she doesnt eat the other dogs food. We put pee pads out for her since I know she can't help it. She is otherwise healthy. the first vet said she was remarkable for her age. What suggested cushings to me was her ravenous appetite and drinking water. She started peeing in the house and it was a large amt and clear. She would about take your hand off for food. The last thing that made me research was I watched her lick the floor for 30 min. She hasn't lost any hair but does have some skin tumors. I read something about black skin but all JRT's have black skin so I don't know about that one.

[molly muffin]

Hi, could you also post the results of the liver tests that were so high? What meds did they put her on? Do they suspect liver problems outside of cushings?

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[NoonelovesmelikeNorman]

Hello and welcome to the forum. You're in good hands, I am a newbie myself, but many have years of experience in working with cushings.

Wishing your Jack Russell Terrier the very best as he continues his journey with cushings.

Peace,

Sharon, Norman (cushings doxie) and Millie - mini yorkie-pooh