Daisy Mae - our sweet Daisy has crossed The Bridge

[doxiesrock912]

Daisy and I thank you all :)

Today was bittersweet.
Celebrating another year with adorable Daisy Mae and then dad found out that his cancer is back. The doctor will compare the xray taken today with the most recent done at the Smilow Cancer Center a little less than 3 months ago and then we'll know more.

Dad has been coughing more and complaining about a burning sensation in his chest so given those symptoms, we're both afraid that the cancer has returned.

[spdd]

Happy Birthday Daisy Mae !!

My Dad too had cancer that went into remission then came back. If you want to talk about it, feel free to pm me. I've been through it.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I am so sorry you and dad are going thru this. I pray that the cancer has not returned. Do as many things as you can with your dad while he is well. I miss my dad terribly. When they found his cancer it was too late already. It is something you never get over. I have missed out on so much in life with out him. God Bless you both.
Patti

[molly muffin]

Valerie, I'm sorry to hear that the cancer is suspected to have come back. :( It sure can take it's toll on a body.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[doxiesrock912]

Thank you everyone, once his GP compares the xrays from the cancer to those that he took yesterday, we'll know more.

I'm praying that this is in the extreme early stage so that something can be done quickly and that it hasn't spread anywhere.

[Squirt's Mom]

Prayers and healing energies for your dad, Valerie.

[Trish]

HI Valerie

A big Happy Birthday to Daisy from Flynn and me!

So sorry to hear of your Dad's latest results, I am with you that it has not spread anywhere either. Sending best wishes that the Dr's can come up with a plan to manage this for him xxxx

[Harley PoMMom]

Happy Birthday Sweet Daisy Mae!!

[Simba's Mom]

Praying for your Dad, so hard to be parents for your parents but wouldn't have it any other way...glad Daisy Mae can cheer you both up, take care, hugs

[Budsters Mom]

Happy Birthday Sweet DaisySending prayers and healing energy to your dad. I am glad that you both have Daisy to hold during this difficult time. Xxxx

[goldengirl88]

Valerie;
I got a beautiful Rosary sent to me that Father Madigan blessed. I will say a prayer with it tonite for you, your dad and Daisy Mae. I hope what ever they found on your dads xray that it was caught early and can be taken care of easily. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti, thank you!
I am so heartbroken, my father has begun smoking again after abstaining for 12 years. No wonder his cancer is back!!!!

I feel so betrayed. I've been staying with him for more than a year and was so proud that he quit smoking and happy that he wanted to fight the cancer etc.

Now I'm giving up. I don't know how long ago he started, but I suspect at least a few weeks now. All of the time staying here...what for? To watch him slowly kill himself now?

I'm so upset that I can't even be in the same room with him.

[Budsters Mom]

Valerie,
I am so sorry.:o I have two 80 plus year olds at home. They are much harder to handle than children! It is extremely frustrating and downright exasperating at times because they have rights and will do what they dang well please, whether it is good for them or not. :eek:

Your dad is making his choice. I know that it's breaking your heart, but all you can do is love him. Love him in spite of his choices, in spite of his faults, because he is your dad.

Sending you many, many loving hugs,

[doxiesrock912]

I do love him but I don't think that I can mentally survive watching him kill himself.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie;
Years ago I had a relative that did the same thing. All I can say is the addiction is much greater than the will to survive. It is so frustrating, and I know how much you love your dad, and I would feel betrayed too. Has he tried the pill that works well to take the urge to smoke away? I know someone who was a heavy smoker that had success with it. Maybe now that the cat is out of the bag so to speak, he will be to embarrassed to keep it up now that you know. I would not want to watch him kill himself either. I do know that they say this addiction is as strong as someone on heroin. God help you both, I will pray that he stops this. I know how much this has hurt you, but try to keep getting him to stop somehow. The VA will pay for the pills to make him quit I am certain. Maybe he hasn't done that much damage and it can be corrected hopefully. Would he listen to Chris if he talked to him?? Is he on any antidepressant? Maybe that would help too. The effort to live is maybe gone since your mother passed?? It is so hard to help someone who won't help themselves. You'll have to lay the law down to him, and tell him you aren't sticking around if he does not follow your rules. See what he does then. Make him get a patch or a pill is about all you can do at this point. God help you both, and Daisy too. She is sick, and he is smoking around her? That is bad too. Blessings
Patti

[molly muffin]

Oh Valerie. I'm sorry that this such a tough time for you and your dad. Keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

I am so sorry you are so disappointed in your Dad, Valerie.

[doxiesrock912]

My father quit smoking for 12 years. My sister stopped using drugs 5 years ago. I know about addictions and know that where there is a will, there is a way. If you value your life enough, you will do what needs to be done.

I am the only child who stepped up to help him because he wanted to live, but I help those who help themselves. He obviously doesn't want to now for whatever reason and I won't be an enabler. Lord knows there has been enough of that in my family and I've had enough. No more deceit.

I deserve better than to pick up after those who refuse to improve their own lives.

[Simba's Mom]

Yes you do deserve better, sorry you are going through this, hugs and prayers

[doxiesrock912]

Thank you everyone.
I have not seen any sign of dad smoking, but I have been keeping my distance for now. I need a break before I speak with him about all of this because I have never in my life been so angry and hurt. I don't want to say something that I'll regret later.

[spdd]

Just wanted to share this personal experience with you. Maybe it will help, not sure. I was raised in a very strict religious family and smoking was completely taboo. Not for health reasons at the time, didn't know I don't think there was any attached it was so long ago. Anyway, one day as a teenager, both my sister and I found out my Dad actually smoked. We were completely devastated, and I mean devastated. Preaching one thing and doing another, talk about hypocrisy!! :eek: Angry and hurt is all part of it, especially as a teenager still being influenced at home. He died of cancer, went into remission once. It wasn't lung, it was blood, but just the same it was cancer. I chose to NOT say anything at the time. It went without saying the guilt he would have felt, and I wasn't ready for excuses.
As I got older, it's true, the parent becomes the child, and the child becomes the parent if the health situation arises where that new role comes into play. I let him eventually tell me, and when he did I then told him I knew all along. We are talking decades here now after the fact. I actually felt bad for him and the reaction he had when he found out I knew all along. From that day forward he quit. I believe that if I had been confrontational with him when I first found out, it wouldn't have done any good. It is a terrible addiction, there is no doubt about it, but no one is going to quit until they are either incapable of smoking anymore or get that mindset that they are actually going to quit. Don't beat yourself up about it. I completely understand how you feel and every situation is different. Only you know what is best on how to handle it. I had to let the anger and hurt go, re-define my complete way of thinking in regard to religious beliefs which affected me to this day. That's a huge influence on a childs life, all due to smoking, but it did happen, so I know where you are coming from.

Again, don't know if this helps, but thought I'd throw it out there for you.

Hugs

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I have been hoping all along that your dad would feel the guilt and quit, and am hoping he still does. That was a good story from Judi. I pray it all works out for you as you have had your share of grief and don't need any more. Whatever decision you make I stand behind you. You are obviously a strong woman, so this too shall pass. Blessings
Patti

[goldengirl88]

Valerie;
I am hoping all is well in your camp this weekend! What does Chris think of all the stuff you are going thru with your dad? I sure hope you dad somehow see the light before it is too late. How is Daisy doing? Did the other cat go home?? Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Hello,

both cats are still here. I'm fine with that.
Daisy got a much needed bath today and her fur looks SHINY!!!!

I ordered the next round of Trilo from Diamondback and the vet agreed to cut it down to 9mg. Can you imagine that the compounded 9mg cost 1/3 the price of the commercially available 10mg! WTH!

Anyway, thank you for the tip for Daimondback. $31.50 is much better than $105.


Patti, Chris is understandably furious at my father right now. Hoping that passes soon as his parents are coming to visit in the beginning of October for the first time.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I agree you do not need animosity when Chris's parents come. I hope it all works out for your sake. Hopefully the Kitties are behaving themselves. Yes Diamondback is a lot cheaper than brand name Vetoryl. Hope you have a good weekend, it is hot and humid here, where did that come from???? Blessings
Patti

[Trish]

Hi Valerie

Hope you Chris, Daisy and kitties are having a relaxing weekend. Hope your Dad see's the light and quits again, hard times for you all so take care of yourself too :) xxx

[Simba's Mom]

Sending hugs and prayers

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Hope you all had a good weekend. We are doing pretty well here because of the cooler weather. It rained here again yesterday, and it did not bother Tipper. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Omg!!!! I can't believe it!!!!!!!
Dad and I spent all day at Smilow Cancer Hospital today.

There is no evidence of cancer on the CT scans!!!!!! His primary care physician must have seen the scarring from the treatments and radiation pnuemonitis! Better to be safe than sorry, but YEAH!!!!!

I went there preparing to hear the worst. Dad lied to the doctor and said that he wasn't smoking. I ratted him out asap and they told him to do whatever it takes to quit.

I told him that he's been given a second chance so take the hint already.

Today was too long. I drove him from Bristol, CT to New Haven and back. Took Daisy out and fed all 3 critters then back into the car headed for Greenwich to meet the landlord tomorrow. My brain is fried.

Patti, it has cooled off considerably at night but the days are still in the mid 70's and mid 80's.

[Trish]

Hi Valerie

What AWESOME news for your Dad!! That should give him the impetus to give up again!! So pleased to read this, what a weight off your shoulders... sleep well tonight! xx

[Budsters Mom]

Hi Valerie,
What wonderful news! :)I am thrilled for you both. Hopefully this news will be just what your dad needs to get him back on track. Big hugs. Xxxxxx

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I am so elated to hear your news. Now this is what it takes to get you dad back on track. I am glad you told the Dr. the truth that he is smoking. Maybe this will humble him. He is being given many chances, so I hope he chooses the opportunity to quit. He has a lot of support from you and that will help him be strong and fight this horrible addiction. Hopefully he is happy that the cancer has not come back, and it will help him to stay strong against this disease. I am glad you still have your dad, even thru his many trials and tribulations I know you love him. So don't give up on him yet, he may turn this thing around. You must be exhausted. It is 34 here this morning and Tipper has already walked. Loving the cooler temps! Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,
I don't think that I've gotten over the shock of the good news yet! I was SO sure that we we're going to hear that the cancer was back! My mind hasn't processed it fully I guess.

I am exhausted. Much of the drive back to Greenwich is without street lights and then of course, with 3 exits to go - the right lane is closed due to construction but people apparently forgot how to read the two warning signs!
Traffic backed up forever and it took me almost 1/2 hour to go 2 exits. Boo hiss!!!!

Cones galore and then right where the construction actually began, there was a car on the right side of the road trying to get back over! Seriously?????? Hadn't they noticed the cones that were blocking that lane for the past 3 miles?!?!?!?!
At first, I thought that I was hallucinating. That person should have their license revoked.

Anyway, always an adventure it seems. Landlord will be 1 1/2 hours late and I want to go back to bed.

[Trixie]

Hi Val,
Such great news about your father!! :) What a relief in so many ways for both of you. You all must feel so fantastic, especially after thinking things were not good!

Of course I know Cos Cob...my aunt lived in Westport for many years. I also have a good friends all around that area. My daughter is in school further up, in New London at Connecticut College so I am back and forth on I-95 a bit. I usually end up taking the Merritt when I'm on my way back down..too much traffic on 95!
Isn't the difference between Vetoryl and Diamondback's Trilo amazing! Right now Trixie is on both...10mg Vetoryl and 4mg Trilo from Diamondback. I found a good deal on the Vetoryl from Lampert...Patti told me about that one. They were less than half of what I was paying here in the city. For now I'm keeping Trixie on the brand name for her 10mg caps but after awhile I may switch back to Trilo...I'll see how she's doing.
Glad Daisy is doing well and can even come down a bit in her dose!!:D

Barbara

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Just checking in with you and Daisy. Glad things are good for your dad. I am scared to ask, but did he lay off the cigarettes? Hopefully with a good report that gave him reason to stop. How is Daisy doing? The cool weather sure agrees with Tipper, although she is not as active as she was. I think she is progressing further into this disease and it scares me to death. She will be 12 on October 4 and I pray to God I can celebrate her 13th birthday with her here. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Barbara, we should meet in person one of these days when you're in the area!

Patti, Daisy is doing fine. I'll have to schedule and ACTH within the next month as the IMS wants to do one and won't prescribe anymore Vetoryl until we do. Perfcet timing of course because my car insurance is due next month. If you have AAA, check their insurance rates when it's time to renew. They saved me $400+!

Daisy is doing well, her fur is shiny again and it seems that the pot belly is finally subsiding some. Yes, she LOVES being outside now!

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
My insurance man should go to prison for robbery. He wanted to raise my car insurance 400.00 for the person running me off the road last year. I have been with him for 25 years and never had an accident. Isn't that gratitude for you? I went with Geico, they gave me the best rate I could find at the time. A lot cheaper than my old insurance, and no 400.00 on top of that. I saved about 600.00 going with them. My insurance man just got too comfortable behind his big desk, charging big rates. He is still sending me renewals!! Guess the joke is on him. It always happens to me that when Tipper needs something costly, I have some other huge bill to pay too. I know how that feels. It's like I seem to have too much month left for the money I have. I am making it, and she is still with me and that is all that matters to me. I am glad Daisy continues to do well. It is a shame that these tests are so darn expensive, it really ruins your budget. Glad you got a good deal on insurance every little bit helps! Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,

Interesting! I got a quote from Geico once and they were $400 plus more than my insurance at the time.

[Budsters Mom]

Hi Valerie,
I am so glad that Daisy is doing well. :) Pot belly going down and a shiny coat. That is great news! :):p

Are you still dealing with the fighting duo? Are they getting along better now? Did you get your window fixed? Xxxxx

[doxiesrock912]

Kathy,

I still have the naughty kitties. I'm not sure how much is play fighting and what is real. This is the first time that I've lived with more than one cat at a time. Annie makes low growling noises and she'll hiss once, then either she or Gracie will multi-slap the other, then they'll run around the house like maniacs.

I suspect that this is how the window got broken and no, I haven't fixed it yet.

Other times, they'll be sitting within 6 inches from each other calm as can be while one thumps her tail on the ground. Annie has peed on my rug twice though marking her territory. How do I get that to stop? I won't allow her in the bedroom when I'm not home. I cleaned it really well so I don't believe the smell is there anymore.

I would think that if they truly hated each other that one would've been bleeding by now. Right? They don't fight over food. I feed them on different parts of the stairs so that neither is right on top of the other while eating.

Sometimes they'll both lounge on the bed with me but not close to each other.

Funny, both of them were in the back room yesterday with dad's cat. No fighting, in fact, he said that all 3 sat in front of the sliding doors looking out.

Daisy has always had a bit of flakiness to her skin, never seems to itch so I think that it acts up when she's excited or nervous. I brush her lightly and she's fine for awhile. Other than that, she looks good :-)

[doxiesrock912]

Ah crap :-(
Daisy reluctantly got out of bed this morning with a noticeable limp. She went out and did what she had to do and ate most of her breakfast. She seems to be very tired and have a hard time breathing. I think the mucocele on her neck might have to be taken care of soon! Hoping she can withstand that surgery and recovery.

I was going to get her nails done today but I think that I'll wait a few days and see if the limp goes away. .

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Has Daisy ever limped like that before? I hope there is nothing new on the horizon. Did they tell you when they though the mucocele should come off? Is that a tricky operation on the neck? How long has Daisy had that? Has it gotten larger? Hope her limp turns out to be nothing. Blessings
Patti

[Budsters Mom]

Hi Val,
Yes, I think her nails can definitely wait until you figure out what's happening with her limp. If you have to take her in, ask the doc to trim them. I do EVERY time!! My vet trims them for free. I always did Buddy's myself. Rosie's are very thin and black. SHE's such a wiggly little thing that I'm afraid to try it with her. :eek:

Quite often resting a limp for a few days helps it resolve itself. Particularly if she just tweaked it somehow. If it goes longer than that, I'd have it looked at for peace of mind. Xxxxx

[doxiesrock912]

The limp has improved a lot so now we worry about the mucocele. I think that Daisy might have tweeked something while fending off Gracie. Poor Kitty wants to play but Daisy wants none of it.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Hoping that Daisy is up and around today without any limping. maybe she just did tweak it a bit and rest will work it out. Blessings
Patti

[Budsters Mom]

I am so glad that Daisy's limp is better. Whew, what a relief.:p xxxx

[doxiesrock912]

Thanks Kathy, it's not gone yet. I'll take her to get her nails clipped tomorrow and hope that this solves the problem.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I hope the nail trim does the trick. The cush dogs don't walk as much and wear them down. so hopefully this will be the problem. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Daisy asked to go for a walk today and chased a squirrel! It's been months since either of those things have occurred :-)
She'll have her yearly checkup and nail trimming on Thursday. Then ACTH test 2 weeks from then.
Love Daisy Mae "monster ".

[Budsters Mom]

That's great news Valerie.:) Go Daisy!:D xxx

[molly muffin]

Awww, that is great news Valerie. Daisy still has that spark :)
hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trixie]

nothing like a squirrel to pep up a pup!! Sounds like Daisy is doing fine. :p

Barbara

[doxiesrock912]

Patti, I noticed that Daisy is doing the sticking her tongue out thing when laying down now. Hoping it's just related to the mucocele. She has a yearly exam on Thursday.

[spdd]

Hi Valerie, just catching up on how everybody is doing. Sounds like Daisy is doing well.

Hope everything goes well on Thursday for you.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
So Daisy is bring out her old self?? That is wonderful to hear. It could be that the weather is not so hard on them now too. The last 2 days were hot here and Tipper was completely different. WE are praying for another cold front. Blessings
Patti

[Simba's Mom]

Just checking in on you and Daisy Mae

[doxiesrock912]

Hi Letti :-)
Daisy has a yearly physical tomorrow. Hoping that goes well.

How are you?

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Is the physical with the IMS? Are they going to check her mucocele? Praying for good results on sweet Daisy. How is your dad doing? What are the kitties up to? Blessings
Patti

[spdd]

Checking in to see how things went today !

[doxiesrock912]

Hi everyone!

Daisy's mucocele is stable for now so there's no rush on surgery.
He appointment was a general yearly well exam and she's fine. He did suggest that we also do a teeth cleaning when we remove the mucocele.

The appointment with the IMS is on Oct. 17th.

I hope that everyone is doing well!

[molly muffin]

Glad to hear that Daisy is doing well.

:)
hugs,
Sharlene and molly muffin

[doxiesrock912]

Thanks Sharlene,
Even though we see signs of improvement it's aways more comforting to have the vet confirm this too :-)

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Good idea with the teeth, so she only has to go under once. I am glad Daisy sailed thru her exam with ease and got a good report. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

I spoke to soon. Daisy's vet called saying that she tested positive for guardia. I'm pickingupmeds on Monday. Hope everyone is well!

[molly muffin]

Oh goodness! That is a surprise. Glad you are able to get the meds and get started on treatment. Hopefully will clear right up.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Where do you think the source of this is? Drinking water or did she drink and water outside anywhere? Never expected that. It is funny she does not have the diarrhea. Yes, I said the word so I hope it does not spread thru the site again, and start an epidemic! We will all have pooh mail again! Hope she is doing well, as this did not seem to bother her. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Everyone,
I know :-(
Daisy has no symptoms at all so this is a surprise.

I am guessing that another dog in the neighborhood has giardia and that their owner isn't bright enough to vet them properly. Bristol has poop pickup rules but not everyone adheres to them. From what I've read, a dog only has to sniff infected poop to ingest the spores. I'm sure that's how she got it.

There is a man diagonally across the street who's collie roams free on a regular basis. The man is an a-#1 JERK so I wouldn't be surprised if his dog is sick.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
She could also get it if she walks where an infected dog had previously gone. They get the spores on their feet, and you know what happens from there. I am amazed that she showed no symptoms. You don't need to be on the poop wagon again though!
Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

We start meds today for guardian.
I'm glad that she had no symptoms! I've had enough poop patrols to last a lifetime.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Are there any side effects to the medicine? Hope Daisy does well and gets rid of that crap. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti, we start the meds today so it's too soon to know how it will affect her. Her poop was this nasty yellow color and she looks a bit bloated. I hope to see improvements soon.

[Trixie]

Val,
Sorry to hear that Daisy has gotten Giardia. ugh. I hope the medications eradicate it asap! Glad she doesn't seem sick...maybe you caught it early. Was it just a routine part of her annual check up when they found it?

Barbara

[doxiesrock912]

Yes Barbara,

they found it by doing a fecal exam.

[spdd]

I hear you on the poop patrols. Everyday I'm doing an exam.

Really glad to hear she isn't sick though, and hopefully this gets cleared up very quickly.

[doxiesrock912]

Judi, I hope so too since she's scheduled for an ACTH test on the 17th.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Just checking in to see how Daisy is making out on the meds? Hope all is going well and she is ready for her ACTH when it comes time. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

So far so good Patti :-)
I emailed that question to the vet but haven't received a response yet.

Good luck with Tipper's upcoming tests!

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Good to hear Daisy is doing well on the meds. We will say a prayer that she gets her ACTH and all is well from then on. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Thank you Patti.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
You are not getting off that easy girl, you have to find something and fix it too!!!!! Hope you and Daisy are doing well. So far so good on the meds??? How is your dad doing these days? I bet your leaves are turning also, and it is beautiful. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Hi Patti,
I rescheduled Daisy's ACTH test for next week. Just can't afford it.
Dad is still smoking and I am really depressed. Nothing positive is going on with my life.

Dad's new aid keeps locking the cats in the basement or on the front porch. It's getting ridiculo

[Simba's Mom]

Oh Valerie, sorry to hear your having troubles, sending hugs and prayers girl, keep on keeping on....

[molly muffin]

Oh geez, what is that aide thinking locking the cats out. hmmmph that will not do.

When things feel really crud, go through all the positives that you have in your life, dad, chris, daisy, etc and try to focus on those for a bit until the bad feelings pass. It isn't easy, gawd knows some days are Very bad ones, but it can help too.

Sending you hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Sorry you had to reschedule the test. I am hoping some good things start to happen in your life. I feel bad for all that you have been through lately. I am praying for you and your dad, and Daisy. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Thanks Patti,
sometimes it just gets to be too much and with no one else in the family bothering to help.

My sister doesn't work and her two kids are in school for at least 1/2 a day, but she has every excuse not to help.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I know it is hard when everything falls in your lap. I had it that way also, as my brother died when I was 21 and I was all that was left. I think you need some time away from all the stressors in your life. I wish a magical fairy would appear and grant you a paid vacation!! Take some time for yourself, away from all this if you can, and get reenergized. It is a nice feeling to have someone else you can count on, but I don't have that either. I guess we'll just have to tuff it out. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Thanks Patti!

[spdd]

Hi Valerie.... I think I know how you are feeling about things, so for one day I become selfish. Who would have thought :eek: I do NOT answer the phones, I do exactly what I want to do and everybody and everything gets put on hold for that particular day or at the very least for a few hours. That includes family, friends, clients and everything I can think of. It is great for a mental refreshment particularly since Keesh got sick.

I don't do it often, but for my own mental health that is what I decided to do. It works !! I had to work 7 days a week and with really odd hours, including being up all night and it starts to play on you physically, emotionally and mentally after awhile. I started this when my mother was so ill, and just continued it. I call it my "removal" day - I make no excuses for it and most people now know if they can't reach me... I've removed myself - LOL ;)

[doxiesrock912]

Judi,

Thank you. Unfortunately I'm lucky if I can afford gas for my car. Let alone doing somethingfor myself.

It sounds wonderful though!

[Trish]

HI Valerie

Sorry to hear your tough times are continuing. Bills suck!! I am off today to have a picnic in the park with Flynn and a friend and her doggy, chicken rolls, fruit etc... costs peanuts but it is so nice to get out in the fresh air for a bit and sit back and smell the roses! I hope your weekend has brought you something to smile about :) xxx

[doxiesrock912]

Chris, my fiance, came up for the day. That was great :-)

[molly muffin]

That's great Valerie! :) How are your dad and Daisy doing?

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[doxiesrock912]

So far, so good.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie;
Glad to see you had a spark of happy time with Chris. Hoping for some more positive things to come your way. Glad Daisy and your sad are doing well. what are those little kitties up to? Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,
I don't know what changed but the cats were very aggressive toward each other yesterday. It was crazy!

I'm not sure if they're trying to work out hierarchy or what but I was NOT happy with them at all. Much quieter today with sporadic tiffs but jeez. If it's not one thing it's another.

Dad has been coughing more than usual. I think it allergy related. That poor man has so many health issues, I pray that I don't inherit them.

I'm happy that Tipper is enjoying the cooler weather. Daisy is too.

Are you less achy?

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
When the leaves come down people with allergies do suffer a lot, and pets too. Sorry you dad is having so many problems. Those cats sound like a handful. Good thing they don't take it out on any humans. I am not so achy now, but when it gets damp everything on me hurts. It is very cold here this morning. Last nite Tipper got under the covers for the first time in a while. Blessings
Patti

[gatorgirl_bama]

The change in the weather has everything crazy. My allergies included. It was a cold 60° this morning and I nearly froze! Well, that's cold for Alabama!

I was just thinking about you and Daisy and thought I'd stop by to see how her test went.

Donna and Angel Tia

[doxiesrock912]

Donna, Daisy's test is rescheduled for Thursday.
Thank you for thinking of us :-)

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Tipper and I will be thinking of you and Daisy on Thursday. I am hoping for Daisy to have some good numbers. She has been doing very well on her current dose, so maybe she will stay there a while. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,
she might not have the perfect numbers but you only have to look at her to know that things have improved. The balding spots have grown back and her fur feels alive and shiny :)

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
That is a good sign and always nice to see a Cush pup improving instead of going the other way. Thinking of you both on testing day.
Blessings
patti

[doxiesrock912]

Thank you Patti! I can't believe how cold it is today. 53 degrees.

[Simba's Mom]

Thinking of you today, good testing Daisy Mae!

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Thinking of you both. Let's get some good numbers Daisy Mae!
Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Daisy is home sleeping under the blankets at my feet. I stayed awake until 4am to feed her and give the Trilo. Chris brought her to Cornell while I got some sleep.

Every time we go there, they fall in love with her :-)
I settled the bill and the tech came out and apologized for taking so long with Daisy as everyone had to say goodbye. Can you imagine? I laughed and said that they can watch her whenever they want to.

Doc will call tomorrow with the results. Question, do your dogs look a little bloated after an ACTH test? Otherwise, she seems fine.

[molly muffin]

So glad the testing went well. I can just imagine them all falling in love with Daisy. :)

Yea, after the ACTH for a day or two, it can seem like the symptoms of cushings can come back, because they dump all that cortisol into their systems. It goes away though after a couple days, so bloated would be right in line with that probably too.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Glad it all went well. Daisy is a regular celebrity at that place! Blessings
Patti

[gatorgirl_bama]

Glad Daisy is doing good.

Donna

[doxiesrock912]

The IMS vet said that Daisy's post number has decreased by half!!!! She's increasing her dosage from 9mg twice a day to 12mg. Doesn't want to address the Mucocele on her liver or neck until we see more improvement.

We're getting there :-)

[molly muffin]

This is awesome news. That post number is coming down slowly but surely.
Yippeee! Most importantly though you continue to see her doing well. Awesome indeed!

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Trish]

Great news Valerie, it always does the heart good to see numbers we like!! Have a good weekend! :) xx

[doxiesrock912]

Thank you :)

Here are her results:

Here are the results for Daisy Mae's ACTH stimulation test. Thank you, Megan Morgan
IDEXX VetConnect 1-888-433-9987
Client: HOWE
Patient: DAISY MAE
Species: CANINE
Breed: MIXED_BREED_CAN
Gender: FEMALE SPAYED
Age: 10Y
Date: 10/24/2013
Requisition #: 17954
Accession #: 2200006401
Ordered by: MORGAN
MORGAN, MEGAN DVM
880 CANAL ST
STAMFORD, Connecticut 06906


Account #14462

ACTH STIMULATION
Test Result Reference Range
Low Normal High
PRE-ACTH CORTISOL
2.7
ug/dL
POST ACTH CORTISOL
17.1 1
ug/dL
Comments:
1.
ACTH Reference Range:

Canine: Feline
2 - 6 0.5 - 5 Pre-ACTH (resting) cortisol
6 - 18 5 - 15 Post-ACTH cortisol
18 - 22 15 - 19 Equivocal post-ACTH cortisol
>22 >19 Post-ACTH cortisol consistent with
hyperadrenocorticism
<2 <0.5 Post-ACTH cortisol consistent with
hypoadrenocorticism
1 - 5 n/a Desired pre- and post-ACTH cortisol on
lysodren therapy

ACTH response test is only clearly positive (>22) in 30% of
dogs with hyperadrenocorticism (HAC); equivocally positive in
another 30% of dogs with HAC, and normal in 40 % of dogs with HAC.*
If the ACTH response test is normal and HAC is still suspected,
proceed with a low-dose dexamethasone suppression test.

Dogs with iatrogenic Cushing's disease will have flatline response
test results in the low end or below the normal reference range.

Both HAC and hypoadrenocorticism are rare diseases in cats.

*Reference: Feldman and Nelson; Canine and Feline Endocrinology and
Reproduction. 3rd ed. W.B.Saunders Co., 2004.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I think you should send Daisy over here. We had a little stinker outside spraying the air last nite. I have to use a flashlight as I am afraid of getting sprayed. Tipper would go nutso and go after it. I keep stuff here just in case for skunk smell. You could even smell it in the house it was so strong. Glad it was not us that got sprayed. If a skunk ever sprayed Tipper Lordy look out, she would hunt it down and kill it for sure. Badgers are mean little things, so me of the meanest animals in the wild, they can be ferocious if cornered. Go Daisy get em girl!! Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,
Make a perimeter is moth balls. They deter skunks and cats.

Nope, no spraying of Daisy. Dad's neighbors' have a fenced in yard with two black labs. Both of them got sprayed very early one morning a few weeks ago.

[doxiesrock912]

Argh!!!!!!

Daisy Mae's poops were fine before the ACTH test. Now she's had several boughts of very bloody diarrhea. I emailed the IMS vet and gave her pumpkin for dinner. No meds or Trilo until i'm told otherwise.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I cannot believe after all this time of doing well Daisy is on the poop wagon again. I hope this is not something that is going to last and set her back like before. This is the time the skunks come out and search for food before finding a place to stay for the winter so I am sure a lot of dogs will get sprayed. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

I know Patti. We're back on the Tylan powder. Daisy has been ok, normalish poop this morning. That powder is a miracle drug.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Just checking in to see if Daisy is better on the Tylan?? I sure hope so, it is a shame this had to start up again. Is your IMS pleased with Daisy's test results? Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Hi Patti,

Dr. Morgan said that Daisy's numbers have decreased by half. The pre is right where she wants it to be, but the post needs to be a tad lower so she's increasing the Trilostane by 3mg. From 9 - 12mg twice a day.

The Tylan worked wonders and it can be used indefinitely without doing any harm. Many use it to help IBD or IBS.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I know from you using it that if Tipper ever has those problems I will get some for her. It is funny, but on my post I was just remarking about how 2mg can make such a difference in you dog. I am hoping that Tipper will now stay at this dose. Her Vetoryl went from 34.95 to 41.95 and I use two boxes on her a month plus the trilostane cost from Diamondback. That does not even begin to include all the supplements she takes which I am sure add another 100.00 a month onto that, plus the vets etc. I have learned to live with very few things for myself in order to afford this for her. I buy my medicines and that's about it for me. I don't care if I ever get anything as long as she is ok that is all that matters to me,. We are to hit 70 today so we'll see how that goes. I much prefer the colder weather for her sake. So will you have to buy more of a dose and give her two pills or are you gong to get the dosage upped in one pill? I found out that it is just a cheap to go to one pill and not use the others I had left. Up to a certain mg they are all the same price practically. Tipper was getting 5mg and 7mg is the same price. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,
I know! I don't have the money to order the 12mg until at least tomorrow so she's still on the 9mg twice a day which will finish those off. Nothing I can do about it, the tests set me back $349.--.

Not to mention the Tylam powder which really is cheap in comparison. I bought a huge bottle from Amazon.com, just be sure that it is food grade Tylosin powder.
Then she has the Urisidol as well.

It adds up much too quickly.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Where are you purchasing the Ursidiol from? How many mg does she take? I know it is darn expensive and now I have a cat and dog on it. Let me know as I know the cheapest place to get it from. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,

Diamondback just quoted me $47.25 for 30 - 62.5mg capsules and $31.50 for 90 - 12mg capsules of Trilostane. Much cheaper than ordering through the vet.

They're quick with shipping too and if you need overnight, they'll do it. I'm not sure how much that will cost though.

The IMS is familiar with them as she used them when she was in CA.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
How many mg Ursidiol and how much for how many are you paying?

[doxiesrock912]

$47.25 for 30 - 62.5mg capsules of Urisidol.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Tipper's is 60mg and I get 120 for 60.00. Please go to thrivingpets.com and see what you can get that mg. for. They also sell trilostane and many drugs that could possibly help anyone out looking at this post. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

I am so frustrated!
I called Diamondback last Thursday for Daisy's Trilostane.
Called again today because I still don't have it. They told me that they hadn't processed the order until Saturday!!!!!

This means that Daisy has been off the meds for almost a week and she has a huge pot belly. I am furious! The last script was filled and I had it within 2 days.

Has anyone else had a break in meds and if so, how long did it take for your furlet to bounce back and symptoms to subside.

Patti, the pricing works out the same.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
They should bear the cost of over nighting this to you. Tipper had been off her meds for 2 times in the last 13 months. She was off for a week when her cortisol went low. I could tell about the 4th day she needed to get back on something as Tipper is very sensitive and get strong symptoms right away. I have never seen Tipper's pot belly go away as some on here have said, that seems rather odd to me that it would do that. Tipper has had hers and it never goes away no matter what. I hope the Trilostane comes soon for Daisy's sake and for yours, as it does worry you when you know they need these meds. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Daisy's meds came today!!!!

[molly muffin]

YAY!!! You'll be back on track in no time.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[doxiesrock912]

I sure hope so because she looks HUGE and is drinking a lot again. We just started the 12mg of Trilostane tonight.

I noticed a small, smooth, pink bump on her front leg. I touched it and it doesn't seem to hurt her. From what I've seen online, it looks like a Histiocytoma. I'll take a picture of it with my camera and keep an eye on it.

I can't wait until she's regulated correctly. Then we get rid of the salivary mucocele on her neck and apparently the IMS suspects that she also has one on her liver.

Daisy is sleeping with me tonight. I want her close to me.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
There is a connection somehow between all these Cush dogs having mucoceles, and spleen tumors etc. I have read of others having these problems and somehow feel they are connected to this disease. I am glad that Daisy got her meds. so that worry is off your shoulders. How is your dad doing? I hope well. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Me too, thanks Patti.

Dad is doing ok :) I have a cold or something. Poo.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
We have snow on the ground, I am wondering if you have the same? Sorry to hear you have a cold, hope you feel better. Blessings
Patti

[Trixie]

Glad you got Daisy's Trilostane. Usually Diamondback is so quick! I wonder why the processing took so long. I hope her new dose helps get her controlled quickly. :)

Barbara

[doxiesrock912]

Thanks Barbara, seeing improvement already thankfully. I don't know what happened either but if I ordered her meds on Thursday and they didn't process it until Saturday, wouldn't you think that they would overnight it as a courtesy? Or call and give me the option.

Patti, we got hail! I am not ready for winter. I haven't had the chance to clear leaves.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Great to hear that Daisy is improving. I would definitely be checking the next time I order from Diamondback that it has been processed even though that is not your job. I will check Tipper's when I order too after hearing this. They have to understand the fact these dogs cannot go without this drug. Blessings
Patti

[Junior's Mom]

I have been reading up on tylan powder, and just wanted to let you know that it may falsely elevate ALT and AST results.

[doxiesrock912]

That's good to know! Thank you.
It's ironic that you tell me this because Daisy refused her food this morning and she was very picky about dinner last night.

She is eating now as I type this, so maybe she needed to adjust again since she was off of the Trilostane for a full week thanks to Diamondback. She seems to be improving energy wise.

Can you provide the link for the article so that I can share it with Daisy's vet please?

[Squirt's Mom]

Since Tylan is an antibiotic, I've had some concerns about the long-term use of it. ;)

[doxiesrock912]

According to the IMS, Tylan is naturally derived and often used in the food of farm animals to aid in digestive health and it's great for regulating IBD which it does for Daisy.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
just wondering if you have this wind going on? We are getting 60mph gusts, it is bending the trees over. Thank God Tipper is not afraid of wind. This disease has made her afraid of any type of noise. Hope Daisy is doing well back on her meds. Have a good weekend with your baby. Blessings
Patti

[Junior's Mom]

By Wendy C. Brooks, DVM, DipABVP
Educational Director, VeterinaryPartner.com

Tylosin (Tylan®)
(for veterinary information only)

Brand name: Tylan®, Angel Eyes®

Available in oral powder, chewable tablet, or injectable

Background

In simple terms, tylosin is a natural antibiotic made by bacteria. It acts by interfering with the protein manufacturing abilities of other bacteria. It only affects bacterial protein manufacture and thus does not affect protein manufacture by mammals, birds or reptiles. Tylosin is an antibiotic of the macrolide class (same class as erythromycin).

How this Medication is Used

Tylosin is licensed for use in livestock as a broad spectrum antibiotic to treat infection but it has other uses that have little to do with its antibiotic activity. In small animals, tylosin is not used as an antibiotic at all but as an anti-inflammatory. In this situation, it is not used as an antibiotic to treat infection but instead as an anti-inflammatory to soothe the large intestine.

This product is a beef-flavored chewable but the exact amount of tylosin is not specified on the label which means one's pet would be using an unknown amount of drug daily.

While few formal studies have been performed to examine this non-antibacterial property of tylosin, it certainly seems to work in this regard.

Another common use is to reduce tear staining, particularly in white dogs. Small-breed dogs commonly have shallow tear wells that lead to tear overflow down their face, a condition called epiphora. The subsequent red-brown staining of the fur from tear pigments is felt to be unsightly and through an unknown mechanism tylosin seems to alleviate this condition; in fact, the Angel Eyes® product listed above is marketed exactly for this use.

There are two controversies regarding this use of tylosin. The first is with the Angel Eyes® product itself. This product is a beef-flavored chewable but the exact amount of tylosin is not specified on the label, which means your dog would be using an unknown amount of drug every day. Obviously, if you’re going to use a drug, you should at least know how much is being used. As an alternative to Angel Eyes®, a precisely dosed capsule can be provided by a compounding pharmacy.

The second controversy is whether or not it is even appropriate to use an antibiotic daily without a prescription for a cosmetic problem. Casual use of antibiotics is responsible for antibiotic resistance of bacteria in the environment and, in general, bacteria that become resistant to tylosin also become resistant to erythromycin. Since tear-staining is simply a cosmetic issue, perhaps non-antibiotic treatment could be used instead.

Tylosin can also be used in ferrets, rabbits, birds, reptiles, and pocket pets.

Side Effects

While there is definite side effect potential in large animal species, dogs in particular can tolerate very high doses of tylosin with no adverse effects. The biggest problem with small animal use seems to be the especially foul taste of tylosin, which necessitates formulation into capsules; that is usually done by a compounding pharmacy.

Tylosin may falsely elevate certain liver blood tests (ALT and AST).

Interactions with other Drugs

Tylosin can increase digoxin blood levels and should be used cautiously in patients taking digoxin for heart failure.

It is our policy not to give dosing information over the Internet.


Home » Tylosin (Tylan®)

[doxiesrock912]

Thank you so much for the details.
Daisy gets 1/16th of a tablespoon. I have a measuring spoon and measure it out carefully then sprinkle it on her food.

This is the only thing that has worked for her IBD and it's worked well.

Patti, we got a bit of rain and wind too. Daisy could care less :-)
I'm glad that it didn't bother Tipper.

[doxiesrock912]

Patti, we're expecting snow. Daisy and I are driving from Greenwich to Bristol tomorrow. I wish that it would hold off for another day.

Did you get snow? How much?

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Stay safe as we have a lot of ice on our roads this morning. Daisy will enjoy a ride with her mommy so not all bad. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Thank you Patti,

no lasting snow. Yeah :) Our drive home was uneventful. I try to time it to miss morning and evening rush hours and there wasn't any construction for a change.

We had flurries/rain in the morning so Chris' commute to work "sucked" as he puts it. By the time that Daisy and I left the roads were mostly dry.

It is 28 degrees outside and I can feel the dampness in the air. The snow can wait though. I still have leaves to clear.

[Trish]

Your up late Valerie, hope all good in your neck of the woods!! How long was your drive?

[doxiesrock912]

Trish,

I don't sleep well at all and it seems to be getting worse lately. Everything is fine here. The drive can be anywhere from 1 1/2 hours to 3 hours if it's raining.

I'm listening to a very happy kitty purring beside me and I'm going to try to get some sleep :)

Thank you for checking on us. Miss Daisy Mae is sleeping too.

[Trish]

Aww a purring kitty puts me to sleep too, I wish I had one again as I miss my two. I just worry about the road which is quite busy. When I moved here they were already quite elderly and did not roam much but I would worry about a young one getting bowled out there. So I have to get my kitty fix with Mum and Dad's cat for the time being!! Plus Flynn would not like a new puss invading his space :eek:

Maybe you should have some Melatonin! :D Seems to help the doggies sleep!

[doxiesrock912]

They're indoor kitties. They have plenty of window sills and other places to lounge, play etc. Both have medium to long fur that would be a nightmare if they were outside. I also would worry about the traffic and whatever else is outside that would bother them.

Daisy could care less that they're here :-) Although they meet nose to nose with her which is adorable to see.

I have used melatonin in the past. It's hit or miss, either worked too well and I felt like poo the next day or it did nothing.

[Trish]

Well hope you get a few hours now so you don't feel too naff tomorrow, I am about to head off myself. I need at least 7hrs a night to function properly, nice to see you! :D Hugs for wee Daisy xx

[spdd]

Hi Valerie... just scanning over your thread after being away. Sure hope Daisy is levelling out and that the new dose is working ok.

Kitties you say?? That wouldn't go over well in this house. Keesh does NOT like cats, but that might be due to me having him chase one out of my yard all the time that was trying to kill the birds at my bird feeder.

Hope all is well with you.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Just checking in to see how the trip went with Daisy?? Hope the roads were not too bad. It is really cold here today, but starting to warm up. Tipper is bored and letting me know it too! Blessings
Patti

[Simba's Mom]

Just wanted to say hi and praying all is well.....

[doxiesrock912]

Hello everyone :)

Daisy seems to be adjusting well to the new dose finally. No nausea or lethargy. Her appetite is not ravenous anymore and she's leaving water in the bowl at times so I'm hopeful that we have the right dose now, maybe :)

Yes, two kitties that belong to Chris and I and dad also has a cat. Thankfully, all three are quite tolerant of each other for the most part. Gracie is VERY playful and often, Daisy and Annie want nothing to do with playing.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Glad to hear Daisy is doing well. Does she want to walk in the cold weather or not? We are going to have 40's today supposedly. Next week in the teens. Tipper feels so much better in this weather, I am so thankful for winter for her sake. She could not take any more storms. I pray to God she is with me next summer. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,
if the sun is out Daisy will tolerate a walk in the cold. Most of the time she just wants to head back inside. I'm guessing that she feels it no matter what because she's so low to the ground :)

I'm glad for no storms for Tipper's sake. They never bothered Daisy thankfully.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I thought being low to the ground might make her want to stay where it is warm. Will she wear a doggie coat? Tipper is so happy with this weather I cannot tell you the difference it makes. Thank God those storms are gone!! Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Yes, she has several doggy coats. The problem is finding one that covers enough of her stomach since she's to long. I did find a pink, double layer fleece one that covers most of her stomach so we use that the most.

I don't miss the warmth either because Daisy is also much better in this weather.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
funny you should say that because Tipper ahs become so big around that some of her coats won't fit and Toby said he is not wearing pink, or purple. I had to have my neighbor sew an extension on some so they would go around her girth. I t looks so odd to me to see her this heavy looking, as she was nothing but muscle before. When she lays down she looks twice her size as everything underneath just squeezes out. I truly feel that is why she moves around at nite. You might have to sew on an extension of some sorts for Daisy too. Hope she is doing well, and the kitties are behaving themselves. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

The kitties are crazy as always. Daisy seems well except the bald spot on her tail seems to be expanding. She's had it since she was a pup. I'll keep an eye on it.

You could be right, Tipper having a difficult time being comfortable with the extra weight.

[Mel-Tia]

Hey Valerie

Have you spoke to the IMS about the spot?

It is often referred to as a rats tail, mine said it was a symptom of a hormonal condition. After reading at the time it can also be associated with the thyroid. When did Daisy last have those levels checked?

When Tia's coat wouldnt fit her belly, my mum added extra Velcro on each strap to get round her belly.

Hope everything else is ok and that your Dad and Chris are doing well?

Big hug

Mel
Xxxxx

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
That is a good point that Mel brought up, maybe a thyroid check or did the IMS do that the last time you were there? I is pouring here. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

I will email Dr. Morgan about the tail. It's been partially bald since she was little. It could also be from the time off of the Trilostane while we waited so long for the refill in the mail.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Haven't heard a peep on your end. Everything ok? Hope you all are going to have a good Thanksgiving. Is Chris coming for the holiday? Give those Kitty babies some turkey bird as they have been good lately. How is Daisy doing? Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Everything is fine Patti,
I spent the entire week raking and cleaning up the yard. Got it done just in time for rain today and snow tomorrow or Sunday. I was exhausted!

Daisy has been doing exceptionally well, I think that she's adjusted to the new dose.

Chris made reservations for himself, dad, and I at Apricot's in Farmington, CT for Thanksgiving dinner.

[Trish]

Yay a great Daisy report, eek don't envy all that hard yard work though.. sounds like with all that work you can enjoy your thanksgiving dinner out without feeling guilty tasting all the treats!! I often think we should do that at Christmas, it would probably be cheaper with the feasts my family prepares, plus no mess to clean up :D:D Thanks for your support in Flynn's thread lately it really is much appreciated xxxx

[spdd]

Hi Valerie.. just catching up on everyone's posts. Glad to hear Daisy is doing so well.

You make me feel guilty though. I have a huge yard waiting to be raked, but the rain has made it impossible. Guess it will have to wait till spring - :):)

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I am glad you have the energy to rake and clean up the yard. Send some over this way!. Glad Daisy is doing so well on the new dose. Have a good weekend. Blessings
Patti

[molly muffin]

yippeee, happy to hear that Daisy is dong well.

I don't mind the yard work in the summer so much, but not a fan once the weather gets cold. I know you wanted to get rid of all the leaves and do a good clean up before the snows hit though. Just need one of those wave the wand fairy god mothers to take care of it. :)

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[doxiesrock912]

Trish, no thanks necessary. It's what we do and I'm grateful for the knowledge and support that I've found here.

Patti, the yard needed to be done and I was sick of having this hanging over my head. There was a dumpster at the neighbors' house that was foreclosed upon so I took advantage of that by getting rid of a collapsed kiddy pool, the remnants of a wheel barrow, and other non-biodegradable yard junk. I have no idea how long it will be there so I did it. A few years ago, someone helped bag leaves but left them in the yard and driveway where they have since disinigrated and I cleaned that up as well. I think we had almost 25 bags total by the end of the week.

Now I have to get back to completing repairs on the dressers that I bought and painting my room. The broken window can wait as it is double paned and I have to figure out how to remove just the lower half. The room temp is bearable so I can handle it.

The girls are home with grandpa and I'm in Cos Cob for the weekend with my honey. I miss them when I'm here but it's too much to drag all 3 pets with me.

I was on a roll last week, I also washed both cars and cleaned/reorganized the enclosed front porch too. More to do there so that we can put up the Christmas tree without worrying about the cats getting to it.

I hope that all stays quiet for everyone throughout the holidays!

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Good idea using that dumpster! It is in the single digits here this morning so the dogs will not be walking. I have to take Tipper to the eye Dr. in Pittsburgh early in the morning so I am resting today. That is nice that you have your dad to watch the babies so you get a break! Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Good luck with Tipper's eye appointment.
Dress warm and take care of yourself too.

We had gale warnings until midnight tonight. The wind was awful!

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
The wind was bad here too. It was 12 when we left and the car was freezing so I let it warm up for Tipper. Everything went well so I am happy and blessed for that. Our roads here in the country were atrocious this morning, snow and ice covered. WE are both glad to be home. Hope you and Daisy are staying warm. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,

we're doing our best to stay warm and luckily Daisy will do her business rather quickly when it is cold.

Chris and I both have large chips in our car windshields that will have to be watched this winter and possibly taken care of. Both of us! Can you believe it?

Thank you I-95 in Fairfield County where there is more traffic than in the rest of the state.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I know what you mean about those windshields. There is so much debris on the roadways these days it is terrible. My neighbor bought a new car and the next day had the windshield broken the day after she brought it home. I have a gouge out of mine and wondering when it will split all the way. Some of those trucks with no mud flaps, especially the tri axles are bad news as they spray you with stuff the whole time you are behind them. These windshields are not cheap either. Where are you having Thanksgiving? Hope you and your Dad and Chris and Daisy and the kitties have a good day. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,
Here is a hint to help to make sure that the windshield doesn't crack. Most people turn on the window defroster immediately when the car warms up. Don't do that. Heat up the whole inside of the car first and then when it's warm, turn on the defroster.

Chris made reservations for dad, himself, and I at Apricot's restaurant in Farmington for Thanksgiving.

[doxiesrock912]

Everyone has seen those posts about funny autocorrect mishaps.

Well, it finally happened to me tonight.

I was shopping with a friend who texts me to let me know that he's at "register 14". I had my hands full and didn't read the text until I got home but he showed me what the phone displayed at the register (wait for it).

I get home and instead of deleting the text that had finally come through, I push the "sound" button and my phone announces "I'm at vagina 14." OMG!!!!!

Thankfully, I didn't do that in the store. I would've been mortified and probably dropped what I was carrying.

[molly muffin]

Oh that is hilarious!@!!!!

Sharlene and molly muffin

[doxiesrock912]

Sharlene, you have no idea how glad I am that I did not read that text in the store!
I accidentally hit the icon that reads it out loud instead of the delete icon.

I called my friend and told him what I'd done and he roared. :)

[Trixie]

That is so funny Val. Auto correct has a mind of it's own. :D :D

Barbara

[doxiesrock912]

Don't I know it Barbara :)

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
That is too funny, good thing you did not do it in the store. WE got some more snow last nite and more is to come. Tipper is really liking this. She has a snow suit to wear and so does Toby. Hope you enjoy your week. Is Chris going to stay the rest of the week? Hope Daisy continues to do well on this dose. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,

Chris is only staying tonight. Hoping that I can convince him to stay tomorrow too.

The one time that dad went to the heart specialist alone and my day went kaboom! I set up his GPS and off he went while I waited for the oil delivery.
Wouldn't you know it, the doctor is concerned because dad's lymph nodes in his neck are swollen and he sends him to another location for x-rays.

Dad calls me and he's lost! I tried telling him how to enter the address into the GPS but he wasn't getting it. Finally, I asked if he could find the highway and come home. Thank God he was able to! I hopped in the car and drive him myself. He's being treated for a sinus infection and I'm praying that this is what has also caused the swollen glands.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Of course, the oil was delivered while we were out and they called my cell so we stopped at their office on the way home and paid the bill.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
You have luck like me, it always seems to be bad!. I hope you enjoy your day with Chris and your dad. I hope the lymph nodes are just from the infection he has. It is in the teens here this morning and no walking for the doggies today, so Tipper will be naughty not having this energy burned off. Happy Thanksgiving
Patti

[molly muffin]

Happy Thanksgiving Valerie and Daisy and family.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Hi Valerie
Happy thanksgiving, how was your dinner out??

Sounds like a few are coming down with colds etc, hope your Dad's lymph nodes are just due to that!

[doxiesrock912]

Thank you everyone!

Bitterly cold today but I am thankful that the sun was out.
The dinner at Apricots was excellent and the stuffing reminded dad and I of mom's :-)

We sat in the upper level of the restaurant, many windows to let in the sun with a wonderful view of the river.

Dad has leftovers and I brought home Turkey for Daisy, Annabelle, Gracie, and dad's cat Seaghost. Daisy and Seaghost loved it, my two cats didn't.

[spdd]

Hi Valerie.. I don't want to hijack your post but thought I'd tell you the most embarrassing situation I was ever in with a phone.
My young cousin died suddenly in his mid 30's. He comes from a family who's wealth you'd never be able to count so needless to say people at the funeral home were dressed to the nine's. In I walk and go up to the open casket. I had ordered flowers, and I was interested to see what was sent, as being a florist I expected something very nice for the price I paid. The floral arrangement was nothing but a joke, so I decided to take a picture of it, send it to the florist and have it replaced immediately.
Now this floral arrangement was near the head of the open casket in front, so I was being very careful to take the picture without showing the body and trying to be discreet. Much to my dismay and complete embarrassment as I took the picture my phone literally yells out " SAY CHEESE:eek::eek::eek: ." A hundred heads turned my way and at that point I was hoping the floor would literally swallow me up.
All I could do was try to be nonchalant about it all, but to this day my family has never forgotten it. BTW - the flowers got replaced. It's funny now, but it wasn't funny then.

[doxiesrock912]

Ok Judi,
you win! I would've been mortified too! Leave it to family, they remember everything, don't they?

I have not yet slept tonight, or should I say this morning. So, I'm going to feed the furlets and take Daisy out then try to actually get some sleep.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
The place you ate at sounds real swanky, and seems like you had a wonderful time. You need some time away so going out was a good thing. I stayed with the babies and we had a stuffed chicken. I did not give Tipper any, only Toby as Tipper ate her own special chicken with no salt. She thought she was eating the same thing as Toby so it did not matter. I am glad yesterday is over as I miss my dad terribly. I am working on paperwork today. I would like to have one of those Neat Desks, but they are so darn expensive. It would help get rid of lot of paper though, I get inundated with paper. Did Chris go home? I bet is was nice to see him. Blessings
Patti

[molly muffin]

Dinner out sounds lovely Valerie. I like the restaurants with either big windows and a great view, or very private areas where you feel like you are in your own little world. Either of those are great. Dinner does sound pretty yummy too. Turkey and dressing. Yum!

Aye Yi Yi Judi. that would be mortifying.

Hope everyone is recovering from full bellies. :)

hugs,
Sharlene and molly muffin

[spdd]

Did you get some sleep?

[doxiesrock912]

Judi, I was awake until 7:18 this morning so I fed and squeezed (taking Daisy out to do her business) the furlets, went out for breakfast, came back home and fell asleep until noon.

I'm fighting a cold I think. Chris got me Zicam, that is the stuff to take at the beginning of a cold and it really helps!!!!

[addy]

Hopefully it is not a cold, just a bit of a sniffle:)

Feel better soon!

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Hope you are well this morning, and that Daisy is still doing good on this dose. I need to get Tipper's dosage straightened out. Blessings
Patti

[molly muffin]

Rest, rest, and then more rest! :)

Take care of yourself
hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[doxiesrock912]

Hello ladies,
I'm hoping that the 100+ miles that I drove today will help me sleep. I really need to get back onto a normal schedule.

The cold is trying to hang on, but mildly. Chris bought Zicam and I can tell you that it really works! This is the mildest cold that I have ever had :)

I was away overnight as I had some private investigation stuff to do at the other end of the state. Daisy looks a little plump so I'm thinking that grandpa spoiled her while I was gone. Or she got to the cat food.

Not to fear, I'll get her back in shape.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Now you haven't turned into a secret agent or anything have you? That was a long trip so it should have worn you down enough to sleep. Hope all is well and you'll have to put that Miss Daisy on a diet. Blessings
patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,
surprisingly, the trip did not wear me out but it caught up with me today and I slept until 1pm after getting all of the furlets settled this morning.

Yes, Daisy is going on a diet.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Ok then I will be worn out for you cause I am dragging lately. Went to Tipper's appointment this morning and now have to go back out to see about my kidney stone. On Tuesday I go to Pgh. to see my Dr. for the lupus, and I hate the thoughts of that trip in the car as it really does me in anymore. Hope Daisy doesn't feel too deprived on the new diet! Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Oh Patti,
Be safe and I hope that the weather stays calm for your ride. Good luck with your appointment! Daisy will survive the diet. I just cut back a bit on each meal. Barely noticeable but enough to work.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I got my stuff done for this kidney stone yesterday. Would you believe you have to take off all your clothes for the Xray of your kidney??? For the ultra sound no problem though! Glad that is done I hate going places and sitting and waiting. That is why I take the 1st appointment in the morning in Pittsburgh at my Dr.'s. It makes me too nervous that someone else is watching Tipper and I get so much anxiety until I get home. Hope Daisy doesn't miss the food taken off her. My God I cut Tipper's drastically and she still manages to either gain or stay the same and I count the nuggets even. I am beginning to think this is a metabolic thing. We will find out when I start the new diet here soon. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,
How long before you know your results? Hoping that things have improved. Daisy has always eaten quickly and she often looks bloated afterward. This can last for a few days and then she looks normal again. It's weird. They are getting older so metabolism could definitely be a part of it.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I guess they won't tell me until I go to the Dr. in January. Tipper seems bloated on some days too. I think the cushings has a lot to do with the messing around of the metabolism too. Blessings
Patti

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Hope you aren't out on any adventures this weekend as it is supposed to be bad. Stay safe and warm with Daisy and the kitties. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,

no working adventures today. The sun was out, but it was bitterly cold. Still, I drove an hour and met my sweetie. We went to Ikea and then drove to the outlets.

Once I was back at dad's; I moved the grill, moved all 3 vehicles and salted everywhere in preparation for the sleet and snow that we're supposed to get overnight. I already mentioned to dad that we're hibernating tomorrow so if he needed anything at the store - tell me now basically. Thankfully, he didn't and I was glad for that.

I just might decorate inside for Christmas tomorrow.

I'm so glad that you made your trips safely! Ice is nothing to mess with.

Gracie is underneath the blankets with me. Annie is probably sleeping on my mother's chair which the cats have adopted as their own, and Daisy has a bed within eyesight of grandpa since she likes to keep an eye on him.

I have several cases to work on next week so I hope that things are cleared by then.

Hugs for every furbaby and Elvis at your house and you too. Stay inside as much as you can.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I think we are in the single digits and staying in today. I think this is a good time for me to catch up on some things I never get done. Tipper is restless and gets a very dissatisfied look about her when she does not walk. Do your kitties get into the Christmas decorations? Mine do so I limit what I put out. Have a good weekend and stay safe. Blessings
Pati

[doxiesrock912]

Patti,
We have an enclosed front porch and that is where the tree goes. It's heated and off limits
to them. Single digits, yuck!

Our bad weather is delayed so it really messes up my week as tomorrow is the only day that private investigators can get motor vehicle records.

Tipper will walk when it's that cold? Wow! Not princess Daisy..

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I was just kidding when I said are you investigating something? I did not know you are one, and were doing this!!! When did you start? Do you like it? It may be fun at times? You can take Daisy with you in the car for surveillance and no one would suspect you!! Now I know who to call to get things investigated! Blessings
Patti

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
We have you been girl? I hope you and Daisy and the kitties and your dad are safe and warm inside. How much snow do you have? We have about 9inches and counting as it is still going today with lake effect now. It is beautiful but very dangerous out on the roads. take care of yourself and have a good weekend. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti, we have about the same amount. I was up all night shoveling periodically because the snowblower wouldn't start.

Finished today, made dinner and I am so done.

Daisy has an appt on Wednesday for her ACTH.

I have 4 cases that I couldn't do last week so lots of catching up to do. Dad has bronchitis, he's on prescriptions.

[molly muffin]

Oh gee, hope your dad gets better quickly. No fun having bronchitis and coughing your head off. :(

Take care and good luck on Daisy's ACTH.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[doxiesrock912]

Thanks Sharlene!

[spdd]

I'm anxious to see how the ACTH test goes. Hope you didn't tire yourself out too much. You make me tired just reading what you do. Hope your Dad is feeling better real soon.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I am curious how you got into this profession. Do you work for yourself or a company? Anyway I am so happy you have work. I am sorry your dad is under the weather. I hope he gets better soon. My God you must have done a lot of shoveling and scraping off of your car. I was up half the nite again too. I feel like a zombie, but Tipper can't help it. It is snowing again here now. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

We're getting more snow! I hope that I don't have to reschedule Daisy's test tomorrow since the ride is 2 hours from here.

Dad is slowly getting better. I cleaned 3 vehicles, one of them taller than I am. Haven't
looked outside since it began snowing. Ugh. I can't bear it. LOL. I've used almost 60lbs of sidewalk salt already! Put 40 down before the last storm and another 20 last night. It helps to cut down the ice for sure.

Annie hasn't left my side, she likes my down comforter. :-) Gracie has a cardboard box with a blanket that she's been in all day and princess Daisy Mae loves to hang out in either bed with blankets in the kitchen/dining room with grandpa. I'm taking my cue from "the girls" and staying inside. Except for clearing snow. Poo.

My brother owns the firm, it's very part time for now. He's just begun getting jobs in CT. I have a background in police work before my banking days. It feels more like contract work because he emails me the details and I do the assignments as I can then email back reports, my timesheet, and expenses.

Be careful out there and Patti, get some rest ~ that's an order. :-).

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I sure hope she can still get her test as I know you were counting on it. Be careful and stay safe if you go tomorrow.Blessings
Patti

[molly muffin]

Wow, that's a lot of snow and salt. Must be mush half the time. We shoveled twice today. It wasn't enough for the snow blower, but definitely enough to be shoveled. One jeep is still covered, have to change out the battery as it's been so cold it killed it while we were away. Must not have been that good before the cold though. Oh well.
I have to go out in it tomorrow as it is the office christmas party and my director is driving up from London Ontario. (as long as the roads are okay) so I better get my tush over to the office. :) LOL

You be safe driving that far if the roads are nasty. You can always reschedule too.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[doxiesrock912]

Thanks everyone! I'll keep you posted.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Be safe out there today and good luck on Daisy's testing. Blessings
patti

[doxiesrock912]

Thanks Patti, I postponed her testing until tomorrow. Roads were still icy this morning.

[goldengirl88]

Better safe and do it another day, you waited this long a little longer to stay safe is worth it. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

I agree Patti, the sun was out today so much of the ice is gone. Rain expected for the weekend.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Are you done with Christmas stuff? That was a nice story about you and Chris in New York. I have been there in summer and winter but never at Christmas. I am not doing Christmas, I have no family and all I really care about is that I will have Tipper God willing. She has not been real good and I am worried. Hope Daisy and the kitties and you, Chris and you dad have a good holiday. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Patti, I had to reschedule Daisy's test again.
I was preparing to go when i noticed 3 capsules on the kitchen floor.

I know for a fact that the pills were in her mouth but she must have spit them out. So., the Trilosane from last night and this morning and the Urisidol from this morning. I was furious!

Our appointment is now on January 2nd. Grrrr. I still can't believe it!
Little sneak
:-(

Chis' daughter is visiting frm Ohio. We'll all be spending Christmas day with my father.
Stay warm and safe. Hope that Tipper feels better soon!

[molly muffin]

That little sneak! They find the most amazing way to Not take their medicine.

Sorry Valerie, I know this is a disappointment, but Daisy is doing well from the sounds of it, so expect she'll be okay till 2 Jan. Still it's quite the postponement eh.

hugs,
Sharlene and molly muffin

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Oh these dogs can certainly give us fits huh? I hope you all enjoy your Christmas holiday. Give Daisy a hug for me and your dad too. I hope you are together with them for many more holidays. Blessings
Patti

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I am so sorry your dad is doing this stuff. You have been through a lot, with all of this. Now having to smell that in the house yet. I could not handle that. Part of me thinks he is not happy and maybe missing your mom? That is not good for the pets smelling that either. As you get older sometimes the roles are reversed and the parent becomes the child. I just feel bad that none of your siblings help you with anything. I hope Daisy continues to do well, and has good test results. Try not to let all this get you down. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Thanks Patti,

Me too. In fact, I haven't decorated for Christmas which is a first for me. I'm not in the mood. I asked my sister weeks ago if she could help at least with bringing up the decorations from the basement. She didn't give me a direct answer, so it didn't happen.

I think that Daisy senses the stress too. The cats stick to me like glue which I don't mind.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I am so sorry your dad is doing this stuff. You have been through a lot, with all of this. Now having to small that in the house yet. I could not handle that. Part of me thinks he is not happy and maybe missing your mom? That is not good for the pets smelling that either. As you get older sometimes the roles are reversed and the parent becomes the child. I just feel bad that none of your siblings help you with anything. I hope Daisy continues to do well, and has good test results. Try not to let all this get you down. Blessings
Patti

[addy]

Merry Christmas, Valerie, I hope you and Daisy Mae have a nice holiday. I know you were not in the mood but sometimes moods change;):)

[molly muffin]

Merry Christmas to you and Daisy Mae.

I hope it turns out to be a nice holiday for you.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Woodydog]

Merry Christmas to you and daisy May

[doxiesrock912]

Thank you all.
I decorated after all and Home Depot gave us a little tree for free. They were going to give us a full size one but I had no way to get it home and not enough time to go home for dad's van and back.

I'm a little bit in the mood for Christmas now.

Merry Christmas!

[Trish]

Merry Christmas Valerie, glad you found your Christmas mojo and hope you enjoy the day! Hugs for you and Daisy! xx

[doxiesrock912]

Thank you Trish :-) You avatar is so cute!

[Trish]

Thanks... that's him 2012 Christmas, 3 weeks after adrenalectomy. You can still see the shaved line of fur along his tummy. This year he has much the same following the recent surgery.. SO next year I want him fully furry for once!! Have you been to sleep?

[doxiesrock912]

I honestly didn't notice the missing fur :-)

Not yet, it's 5:44am. Going to try to sleep now.

[addy]

I'm so glad you decorated and got a tree:D:D:D

Ho, Ho Ho to you and Daisy

[molly muffin]

Merry Christmas! Love the avatar!
hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[doxiesrock912]

Thanks Sharlene!

Me too Addy, I just couldn't not do it. :)

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
Hope all went well over Christmas at your house. glad you got everything decorated and put the tree up. Hope you all enjoyed each other's company. now it is back to getting in the groove and then New Years. Blessings
patti

[doxiesrock912]

Chris made plans for us to have a night out in Manhattan. Much needed!
Hope the new year brings medical advancements for all of us cushparents.

[molly muffin]

Oh yay! New Years Eve in Manhatten. That should be lovely and just what the doctor ordered for you Valerie. Enjoy!

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I'll toast to any medical advancement with this disease I can get, as there seems to be nothing really going on or being studied concerning this disease and it is long past due for a cure. Hope you have a magical nite you deserve it. Blessings
Patti

[doxiesrock912]

Thank you ladies.
Part of me is looking forward to New Year's Eve, the other part is on the fence. Dreading the cold and long lines. Even with VIP tickets, I expect long lines.

[goldengirl88]

Valerie:
I know what you mean about the long lines and the cold, that part is not sounding fun, but try to make the best of it since Chris wants you to have a special time away from home. You can get away from everything for a while that way. Stay safe and warm. If you have those fleece lined tights that would work well! Blessings
Patti

[addy]

Dont think about that part, focus only on the good part. Sometimes we have to force ourselves to have fun:):):):) I just watched a special about NYC durring the holidays, girl, you run as fast as your can to the city and have the time of your life;););)