Hi there! I'm new here - sweet Bentley has crossed The Bridge

[Renee & the Furkids]

I was searching for information about Cushings, and I came upon this forum, I was so thankful to see this, after reading through many threads this looks to be such a helpful group.

My name is Renee, and I have two dogs, one is a 12 year old white Toy Poodle named Bailey, and the other is a 7 year old blenheim Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Bentley. It is Bentley who I am concerned about, he has pretty much every symptom of Cushings (excessive thirst, pot belly, snoring and somewhat labored/noisy breathing, fatigue, unable to jump onto couch any more, ravenous appetite, etc), as well as the skin troubles that cover his entire back (has been on antibiotics and medicated shampoo and Soother Plus cream for that). Our trip to the vet awhile back was not productive, we got stuck with a vet that was not very good or helpful at all, no tests were done. So we are going back to the vet on Monday (a different vet, our usual vet). I want to at least have a skin scraping done, and hopefully one other test. I'm on a rather limited budget due to recently going on social security disability (as well as recent car repairs this month, what bad timing for the car to pull that on me), so any advice or suggestions about which tests are best to start out with sure is appreciated.

[Budsters Mom]

Hello and Welcome Rene, Bentley and Bailey,:)
I am sorry for the reason that brought you here, but so glad you found us. You have come to the right place! There are many K9Cushing's angels standing by to help and stay with you every step of the way. They love details, test results, any information you can get your hands on. The more the better. We will do all we can to help. Others will be popping in to welcome you also. So again welcome to you and your precious boys.

Hugs,
Kathy

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi and welcome to you and your pups :)

I am pretty sure your vet will recommend a blood panel to get started. Has Bently ever had any blood test in the past, if so, could you get copies and post the abnormal results here.

I would ask the vet to perform 2 additional test. One would be for thyroid T4 test and the other would be a UC/CR , this test is relatively inexpensive and while it cannot confirm cushings, it can rule it out.

Once again welcome to the group, looking forward to hearing more.

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi and welcome to you and Bentley,

Getting a skin scraping done, I believe, is a very good start. Any non-adrenal illness can create a false positive result on all tests for Cushing's, so for now no tests for Cushing's should be done until the skin issue is determined.

Could you tell us more about the skin issue, it may turn out that you are dealing with calcinosis cutis, which is a condition that dog's with Cushing's do get.

How much does Bentley weigh, and is he on any other herbs/supplements/medicines?

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

Love and hugs, Lori

[Simba's Mom]

Hello and welcome to you and Bentley, this is the best place possible for info on cushings, and some encouragement along the way....settle in, read some threads and take care, we are here for you and Bentley too...

[goldengirl88]

Renee:
Welcome to you and Bentley. Finding a vet that is really knowledgeable about Cushings is sometimes hard to do. A lot of them know nothing about the disease. The first step I would suggest you take, otherwise you will waste money dealing with a vet that does not know what to do, is finding an IMS or a vet that has treated Cushings. That way you will be getting the proper tests and diagnosis for your dog. It can be costly in the beginning to get all the testing etc. done so maybe you could find a vet that takes payments, or apply for Care Credit ahead of time and you will have it if you need it. After the testing the cost does come down to mainly your drug cost, and tests every three months to check cortisol level- that is if your dog does have Cushings. The other on here will want to see all the test results in order to help you. Good luck and God Bless you and Bentley.
Patti

[molly muffin]

Hello and welcome from me too. Isn't Bentley a handsome guy. :)
The others have mentioned the items to get you started, posting test results and calling around to find a vet that has treated cushings and calcinosis cutis. I don't know if you are in an area with many choices of vets or if you are limited.
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Renee & the Furkids]

Thanks everyone, so much! So far no tests have been done, so I am hoping to get at least something done next week, even if it's just one test for now.

Bentley weighs about 20 to 24 lbs. He is a larger Cavalier, stands about 12 to 13" tall at the shoulder. He isn't on any meds or herbs or supplements right now. I have wondered about anything that may help with his symptoms, so I sure am open to suggestions on meds or supplements. The first vet had him on Lasix (that vet thought Bentley had CHF, altho Bentley really doesn't have any of the typical signs of heart failure, at least that I am aware of), but I didn't think that it helped him in any way, it made him so incontinent that the poor guy would piddle in his sleep, I found him a few times laying in urine while he slept, so I stopped that med. We have had no more incontinence issues.

Already your replies have been SO helpful, I really do appreciate it. It's been such a rollercoaster, and I'm really worried about my boy. He is such a sweet and gentle dog, so loving. I'm going to call around to the vet clinics and ask whether or not any of the vets have experience in treating dogs with Cushings. I don't have any family left, my pets are my family, so I'm worried sick about this.

Sure... let me see... what can I tell you about his skin issue... Gosh, it came on so suddenly, it was crazy. Started out as irregular reddish raised patches, on his neck and shoulder area, then spread alarmingly quickly all over his back and sides. It was never itchy or painful for him. It then started to get sort of crusty, and some areas had sores that seeped a sort of clear fluid, and occasionally bled, these areas were moist and sort of like open sores for a very long time. After a couple months it dried up to odd raised thickened-type skin. I did take a couple photos, I'll post them here. I got Melaseb shampoo from my vet, and antibiotics (Cephalexin). I'm not sure whether or not it really helped at all or not. And now, just yesterday, my heart sank when I found some new reddish patches of this skin issue forming.... it's coming back in other places (on his neck and tummy).

Hopefully I can get the photos on here OK...

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c91/Remali24/Bentleyskinissue1_zps0de41dfc.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c91/Remali24/Bentleyskinissue2_zpsfff8f55b.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c91/Remali24/P1140011_zps9302103e.jpg

Well dang, the photos did not show up... only the links. I'll keep trying...

[labblab]

Welcome from me, too! Now that you have posted these pictures of Bentley, I do believe that the skin scraping and a general blood panel may be all the tests you need to begin with. Those photos look very much like Calcinosis Cutis to me, and if so, combined with all of Bentley's other classic symptoms, would make Cushing's a virtual certainty. Be sure to mention Calcinosis Cutis when you take him in for the diagnostics. It is a condition that occasionally occurs in conjunction with other issues, but most often with elevated cortisol. Since Bentley seems to have so many other Cushing's symptoms, I think the skin diagnosis will pretty much seal the deal.

The value of the general blood panel will be to see if there are other abnormalities present that also correspond with Cushing's, or that instead would warrant further exploration of their own.

If the skin scraping is "positive" for Calcinosis Cutis, then I think you can safely start directing your money towards treatment rather than a lot more Cushing's testing. But we can talk about that some more when you have those results.

Best regards,
Marianne

[molly muffin]

Oh poor Bentley.
We certainly do understand the scenario that our dogs are our babies and an important part of our lives around here :)

I think Marianne has a good idea with the skin scrapping to confirm cc and blood work.

I was just telling another member that we have two members that are trying ketochlor shampoo, and have had some luck. You get it from your vet. Depending on what the skin scrappings show he is positive for.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Renee & the Furkids]

Thank you, you've sure been helpful. I worry so much, and I feel so badly that I can't afford all the tests right now. I'll let you know what I find out, I have an appointment made for Monday to take Bentley in for a skin scraping.

As for the labored breathing, especially when sleeping... is there anything that can be done to help with that? I feel so awful hearing how loudly he snores now, and his breathing is rather labored, although I'm not sure if "labored" is the correct word, but, he does seem to "move" or work at it a lot when he breathes, his head and body sort of heave a little bit... if that makes any sense. Really concerns me, and bothers me, to see him that way, at times I cannot even sleep at night because I see him doing that (he sleeps on the bed with me).

I'm so glad I found this forum, the information here has been so helpful, and you are all so kind.

[goldengirl88]

Renee:
My Tipper has the same breathing problems so I know it is Cushings related. I video taped it and just sent the VD to the Dr to look at. I will let you know what she says about it. I know that Cushings can cause trachea problems, and can narrow the nasal passages. This needs to be addressed as it puts xtra stress on their hearts. I have no family left either, so I know how much a dog can mean to you. Good luck. Blessings
Patti

[Renee & the Furkids]

Thank you goldengirl. Let me know how your sweet Tipper is doing. It's heart-wrenching to see them breathe like that isn't it?

I wanted to update... the vet visit on Monday.... I was sick on Monday so I had to reschedule our vet visit, so we are going in this afternoon. Bentley has been doing OK, not any worse, but of course not any better either. You might know my car is giving me troubles again, so it is back in the shop again, today's vet visit may be more limited than I wanted to do, but at least we are going in and talking to the vet about possible meds for Bentley. We have a ride there, so at least I don't need to worry about getting there, whew, the car has bad timing.

[Budsters Mom]

I am sorry you are having so much trouble right now. How dare our cars act up! ;) None of us have the time or energy to deal with yet another challenge. Cars always have bad timing.:(I hope you are feeling better now. Please let us know how Bentley appt. goes today.

Hugs,
Kathy

[Renee & the Furkids]

Thanks Budster's Mom!

Well, so we went to the vet today... because of the car repairs (I've had the car in three times now, it has a multitude of issues), I wasn't able to get any tests done like I had hoped. Altho if Bentley gets any worse, or he is having any discomfort at all, the car will definitely have to wait, Bentley will come first, but thankfully he seems to not be in any distress. However, we are still in the dark about Bentley, with his symptoms and etc., it's a pretty good guess it is no doubt Cushings.

The new vet we saw today was very nice, but I do question if she is experienced enough (I hope she is), she put Bentley on cephalexin every 12 hours for the skin issue. She did not think it was calcinosis cutis, altho from the photos I have seen of it online, I do think that is what it is.... but I am not a vet. Altho vets can be wrong too. We're going back in a few weeks and we'll start tests then.

So, I didn't really get any answers today, and was told a skin scraping would only will confirm mites. Is that true? I was prepared to do a skin scraping, but this vet told me a skin scraping would not identify a skin infection. I do wonder about that though, is the vet correct? Doesn't make sense to me. :confused: I thought a skin scraping would at least tell us what kind of skin disorder/infection Bentley has, or let us know if this is truly calcinosis cutis.

So, will wait till next time and do tests.... Hoping the antibiotic helps the skin issue, as he has new outbreaks of it now. :( And, we will start the Melaseb shampoo again.

[Budsters Mom]

Most of us are not wealthy and many of the struggle with the money thing. Cushings is not cheap to treat!:(The money that I usually put away for the summer when I don't work, has all gone to vet bills, including much more. I hate that money has to be an issue when we care for our babies. You are not alone in this!
Yes, vets can definitely be wrong too! That's why you need to continue to do your research and homework! Ask us lots of questions and we'll help you with that. You are Bentleys advocate. The more you learn, the more empowered you will become.

Hugs,
Kathy

[goldengirl88]

Renee:
We are all broke from Cushings! Try to get educated by the people on here and research things. That will save you from letting a vet do any unnecessary things that will cost you money, and may not help your dog. If possible try to apply for Care Credit so you have something to fall back on. I have it and keep it for an emergency, I have not used it yet, but have peace of mind knowing I have some what of a cushion. I am not working now so they only gave me 500.00, but still that could save your dog in an emergency situation. I will let you know as soon as my Dr. gets back to me about Tipper's breathing. Is your baby still having trouble breathing? Blessings
Patti

[addy]

Hi,

When we saw a dermatologist, he aspirated one of Zoe's raised white bumps, it was hard calcium deposits which confirmed calcinosis cutis - that is what the derm vet said but Zoe has a mild case of it so far.

The skin scraping we recently had done showed sebborrah dry and oily with mild bacteria and yeast- it had not yet gone deep into her skin.

In our case our IMS readily admits she is not good diagnosing skin issues so I warn everyone now that not all IMS's are created equal. Mine missed yeast on Zoe's skin even though I specifically asked her about it.:(:(

I know it is expensive- you pick your battles and do the best you can.

hugs

[Renee & the Furkids]

Thanks for all the help and advice! :) For sure it is stressful, and I feel badly about having to wait and do tests as I can afford them. I had a good job (I was a medical coder/abstracter at a hospital) until three years ago when my health and lumbar spine issues cost me my job (I have dealt with my spine and health issues for most of my life and it has cost me a few jobs). After talking to my doctor, and a disability attorney, I went on social security disability, so it has been a real adjustment, but you find out what is most important after you go thru a major life change, my pets are most important to me, they always have been. I have applied for Care Credit, but was turned down as I have so many outstanding medical bills yet. So, I do what I can. My car breaking down on me at this time (well, it has been on-going for a few months now, I have it worked on as I can afford it), and needing repairs, really was very bad timing (thank you Murphy's Law). It's a decent car, and in very good condition, it just has all its original parts (I got it three years ago) and so now they are failing one by one.

Anyway. Bentley's breathing seems to have gotten somewhat better, it's not quite as bad as it had been. This vet did tell me she heard a heart murmur. And since he is a Cavalier, and they are prone to mitral valve issues, I asked what grade murmur she thought it was. She told me grade 3. I don't imagine that is helping Bentley much at this point. I do have Lasix here for him, although I'm not sure I saw any improvement with his breathing when he was on that.

For sure I am reading up all I can on Cushings, and this skin issue. This forum has been very helpful, I've been reading many threads on here and have found so much good information. I am going to call around some more, and ask vet clinics how many Cushings dogs they have treated and whether or not they have a vet that is experienced with skin issues. I doubt we have a dermatologist around here, but I'll ask around. I live about an hour and a half east of Minneapolis, MN. The city I am in is about 66,000, we do have several vet clinics here. Wishing Bentley felt better to travel in the car (I could find a friend to drive us, since my car currently is only maybe reliable for about a 2 to 5 mile drive until more repairs can be done on it), as over to the west, near the Twin Cities, there are so many more experienced vets. We're hanging in there, and learning as we go.

[molly muffin]

How are you and Bentley doing? How's his breathing? did you call around to see about finding another vet? I'd like to at least get one that knows you can do a skin scrapping test for bacteria, yeast, etc.

Anyway, I hope things are going okay and the car is behaving itself.

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[goldengirl88]

Renee:
I forgot to ask you. Is the heart murmur associated with Cushings or old age? How is the breathing? Hope Bentley is doing well. Blessings
Patti

[Renee & the Furkids]

I have a dog that has had Cushings symptoms, and a horrible skin issue. The skin issue looks a lot like calcinosis cutis, it did get better, but has now flared back up and has spread with a vengeance.

When these "lesions" dry up, they sometimes crack open and bleed. This morning I work up to my poor dog sitting in a puddle of blood from an area that has opened up on his bottom-side (he has the skin issue all over though) and is bleeding quite profusely. I have been to the vet twice with no real answer, have not done tests yet (due to my ride not showing up last Friday to take us to the vet, will reschedule and get someone more reliable to drive us to the vet asap).

But, I wondered if calcinosis cutis can break open and bleed?

[mytil]

Yes, from my understanding the lesions can bleed. Maybe while sleeping the lesions were scraped or possibly scratched. And with the skin being thinner than normal surrounding the lesions this may aggravate the situation.

You mentioned profusely - and puddles, now that is quite a lot! Have you been able to stop the bleeding?

I would at least contact the vet and let them know you need some answers at the very least via phone. (it should cost you nothing for a phone conversation). Did your vet do any scrapings the prior flare up? (sorry if you mentioned this in prior posts here).

Also, are you able to post photos of these lesions so we can take a look?

Terry

[Squirt's Mom]

MODERATOR NOTE: I have merged your post about calcinosis cutis into Bentley’s original thread. We normally like to keep all posts about each pup in a single thread as it makes it easier for members to refer back to the pup's history when needed. Thanks!

[Renee & the Furkids]

Thanks! I am not having any luck getting in touch with my vet, apparently they do not have after hour emergency hours. Unbelievable.

I asked for a skin scraping, and was told that would not tell them anything... I am thinking it is time for a new vet!

Bentley seems OK and is asleep now, but the bleeding was frightening and quite a lot. Left a small puddle on the floor, and gushed out pretty good for quite a long time. I will try to get photos and post them here.

Thank you!

[addy]

A skin scraping can tell you if there is bacteria, if the bacteria is topical or deep within the skin, whether there are mites or yeast. In the case of pyoderma, for example, one would want to know if the bacteria was topical or if the infection had traveled deep with the skin so one could pick the appropriate antibiotic or perhaps use a meciated shampoo. I am confused at your vet's response.:o:o

What has your vet diagnosed the skin problems as and what has been the treatment thus far? A pool of blood from bleeding lesions does not sound good and I am alarmed that this has happened.

[Renee & the Furkids]

It was such a shocking thing to wake up to this morning, at 4:00 a.m. I find a puddle of blood on the floor and then I see blood on my bedspread where Bentley had been sleeping, at first I thought he'd had some kind of internal hemorrhage. It bled for a very long time.

The vet didn't say much, the first one sort of ignored me altogether, and told me the pot belly was due to congestive heart failure. The second vet wasn't sure and felt it was not calcinosis cutis, wants me to return for blood tests, which I will do. I asked for a skin scraping and was told that wouldn't tell them anything, I found that odd.

Bentley has been doing OK now, the bleeding seems to have subsided, although it oozes a bit yet. I got a few photos, wish I had gotten better photos. The lesions (as I call them) or patches, start out as reddish irregular-shaped raised areas on the skin, like a red raised rash in a way, first started out along his shoulder blades and his back, now it is everywhere and has a very awful strong odor to it. After awhile it gets dark and crusty and the skin gets crumbly and very thickened, some areas bleed, but none have bled as bad as this one under his tail.... his hair has fallen out in those areas. No scratching or itching at all. I have Malaseb shampoo and the vet had him on Cepahlexin (the first vet wanted us to try furoseminde for the pot belly which I did try and stopped after about a week), but so far nothing has helped and he is not on anything at this time. He is very lethargic, altho wags his tail at me and has a good appetite. His appetite is actually thru the roof and he drinks a ton of water. I am worried sick, and I am also on a terribly tight budget as I am on social security disability.

I hope the pictures come thru OK, wish I could have gotten better ones.

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c91/Remali24/Bentleyssore1_zpsfa639173.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c91/Remali24/Bentleyssoresontummyclose-up_zps50b282e0.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c91/Remali24/Bentleyslegsore_zps27561c47.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c91/Remali24/Bentleyssoresontummy_zpsbac00a00.jpg

[Renee & the Furkids]

Well dang... the photos did not come thru. Not sure why as I've posted photos before without any troubles... :confused:

Will try again...

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c91/Remali24/Bentleyssore1_zpsfa639173.jpg (http://s25.photobucket.com/user/Remali24/media/Bentleyssore1_zpsfa639173.jpg.html)

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c91/Remali24/Bentleyssoresontummyclose-up_zps50b282e0.jpg (http://s25.photobucket.com/user/Remali24/media/Bentleyssoresontummyclose-up_zps50b282e0.jpg.html)

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Renee,

I can see the photos just fine so don't worry about that. We have several here who deal with CC and I'm sure they will be along to comment on the pics.

Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[Renee & the Furkids]

Oh good, glad the pictures came thru.

[addy]

http://veterinarymedicine.dvm360.com/vetmed/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=659278&sk=&date=&pageID=2

Renee- here is an article about cc and it has some descriptions, how it was treated and a few pictures

[Renee & the Furkids]

Thanks Addy! I have the you provided link bookmarked, will be sure to read it.

Back from the vet, and, the vet confirmed my suspicions.... Cushings.
I am unable to afford tests at this time, so I have no idea if it is pituitary or adrenal. For now I have Bentley on cephalexin, and Malaseb shampoo. I'm just so devastated I can't stop crying...

He was so weak that a few times today I had to carry him. The vet also said she couldn't rule out CHF (heart failure) either.

[addy]

Ok deep breath, breathe in then out.

What test was done today to confirm this diagnosis?

[Budsters Mom]

So sorry Renee,
Most of us have been exactly where you are right now. In shock with tears flowing. I remember it oh so we'll.:o Please let us know what tests were done to confirm this diagnosis. There are often false positives with Cushing's testing. Yes, the money thing is daunting. We all do the best we can.

Breathe honey, breathe. You will get through this. We are with you all the way.

[Renee & the Furkids]

No tests done... diagnosis of calcinosis cutis, along with symptoms, hence the Cushings diagnosis today.

Calcinosis cutis has gotten worse, had a terrible weekend, I woke up (at 4:00 in the morning) to puddles of blood from an especially bad area underneath his rectum, it bled for hours.

Other symptoms: extremely lethargic, large pot belly, hair loss, craving food constantly, excessive water consumption, weakness and (at times) not always able to walk very far.

Trying to get the skin problem under control is impossible, not sure what to do any more. It did get better for awhile, but then got worse and spread like crazy.

[Renee & the Furkids]

I haven't been able to find any information on the pot belly dogs get due to Cushings. My question is... does this pot belly stay the same (in size), or is it prone to enlarging over time? Reason I ask, my dog's pot belly does seem to be rather alarmingly large, it appears to be getting worse rather quickly.

We will be going back to the vet. But, in the meantime, what can you tell me about this? Will it keep on getting worse? I'm worried sick, this disease is awful. I have not been able to locate a very knowledgeable vet in my area thus far, but I am still searching. Altho the last vet we saw was better than the first two.

[doxiesrock912]

Hi Renee,

welcome to the forum :)
When Cushings is being treated effectively, the pot belly does decrease, sometimes within a week or two as with my Daisy Mae. Every dog is different, but a fast increase does warrant a trip to the vet because there are other more serious conditions that can cause a rapidly increasing pot belly and become dangerous quickly. You definitely want to know what is causing it and rule those out.

I went through three vets before seeking the help of an IMS (small animal internal medicine specialist) so you are not alone in finding a vet experienced with Cushings. IMS cost a bit more but once proper treatment is determined most are quite willing to work with your general vet and that will save money. You can google based on your location and others on the forum might be able to give recommendations since there are people from all over the globe here.

The first step is to find out why your furkid's belly is growing rapidly, and if he/she starts vomiting then I would go to the nearest emergency vet right away. Please make sure that there isn't something more serious going on and let us know what happens.

[Squirt's Mom]

Cush pups get the pot belly due to redistribution of fat and the fact that the liver is having to work extra hard to process all the cortisol flooding the system, which causes this organ to enlarge just as any muscle that is heavily worked. As the cortisol is brought back to a more normal level, more fat is used instead of stored and the liver can return to a more normal work load, reducing in size as it does. These same factors contribute to the panting that our babies do - the enlarged size of the liver along with the fat in the abdomen press on the lungs making it hard for them to work properly.

[Concernedmom]

Hi Renee
I've read your story about Bentley and wanted to say how sorry I am that you and he are having to go through all these health problems. I too have had Cavaliers King Charles spaniels and one passed away of complications to mitral valve disease. As you know our cavaliers are prone to get the dreaded heart disease and if I remember correctly you said Bentley was diagnosed with a murmur. My cavalier had a cardiologist he saw every 2-3 months. He was on many heart medications, his heart was very enlarged, a couple of times had congestive heart failure but he managed to live a good quality of life for 2 years before it was time to go. My point is he couldn't breath well and couldn't go for walks. We made ramps for him because he no longer could do stairs. His heart was so large that it pressed on other organs which made his belly look really big. He could only lay on cool surfaces and only lay on his side never on his belly. When he breathed you could tell it was labored. He panted when he walked because it took effort on his organs to do anything. He was tired all the time, drank alot of water and peed a lot (this was from some of the meds). My dog was 10 and had started off with one or two symptoms that increased as time went on. My baby did not have any skin issues and I can't imagine the pain Bentley is going through with this. Maybe the heart is an issue for Bentley and not cushings.
I am so sorry. Hugs to you and Bentley

[Simba's Mom]

Hugs and prayers for you and your precious Bentley, looks so sore, poor baby, hope it improves soon!

[addy]

Renee, if you want to PM about where you may be in Wisconsin, I am in Wisconsin too. I am in Milwaukee and my Zoe has seen vets at Lakeshore Veterinary Clinics - they are in Port Washington, Milwaukee and Kenosha, Madison has some decent vets including the UW vet school. Milwaukee has a few as well. Also you could try Wisconsin Veterinary Referral. I will help you try to find a vet.

No pressure though.:)

[Renee & the Furkids]

Thanks addy! I am up in Eau Claire, about an hour east of Minneapolis. I sure wish we had your vets up here, or at least a vet school. Right now my car is also in need of many repairs... just routine maintenance like spark plugs... but it's all sure adding up.

I'll do some research and look into the WI vet referral, thank you!

Any advice or suggestions is very welcome, thank you!

[Renee & the Furkids]

Also want to send out a huge Thank You to everyone else... you are all so kind, thank you so much!

Fortunately, Bentley is not in any pain. He is fatigued though, he does sleep much of the day, and he walks quite slowly now, so I do put puppy piddle pads down for him so he doesn't have to walk outside all the time. Anything to make things easier for him. His breathing is only labored while he sleeps, maybe labored isn't the right word... he doesn't cough and doesn't pant. He does snore a lot, loudly, and his sides seem to heave a bit, so, well, yes, a bit labored, but not coughing or panting or gasping. Only seems to do this while he sleeps.

Anyway, I am going to be taking him in for at least one test the beginning of September.

[Renee & the Furkids]

I've been told (and have also read up on it) that feeding a raw diet, or more natural food, is very helpful for dogs with Cushings. Has anyone had any success/experience with this? I am looking into switching Bentley over to Sojo's dog food (he is currently on Fromm's).

[Squirt's Mom]

MODERATOR NOTE: I have merged your post about feed into Bentley’s original thread. We like to keep all posts about each pup in a single thread as it makes it easier for members to refer back to the pup's history when needed. If it has been a while since you've signed in, you will have to scroll back through the pages to find your original thread. If you would like the title changed to make it easier to notice, just let one of the moderators or Admins know and we will take care of that for you.

Thanks!

[Harley PoMMom]

From my reading Fromm makes a high quality feed so if Bentley is doing well on Fromm, I wouldn't switch...JMO ;)

[Renee & the Furkids]

I can hardly type this. My love of my life, Bentley, got so much worse very rapidly, the Cushings on top of the CHF. I had to make the decision that we all dread. I held him in my arms and kissed him and talked to him during the whole process.

[spdd]

Oh, I am so so sorry to hear this. Thoughts are with you and the others that have lost their babies in the last few days.

[Renee & the Furkids]

Thank you.

A thought occurred to me, and now I am horrified... I asked for him to be privately cremated, but they never asked if I wanted his ashes back, I assumed they just gave you the ashes back. Now I am even more upset... I hope they know I want them back, and I cannot call today as they are closed. He was put to sleep Thursday, I think they maybe did mention releasing his ashes when I come back in to pay my bill (they allowed me to pay later when I get my check), but now I cannot be sure if that is what they said or not...

[spdd]

I believe they assume you want the ashes back. It's a given. Don't worry about it. They wouldn't have asked you if they didn't intend to return them to you.

[Squirt's Mom]

Oh, sweetheart, I am so sorry to hear this. CHF can make them so tired and drain them of all energy. I know you have done all you could for your sweet boy and so does he; Bentley will always be grateful to you for your love and care. His struggle has ended but yours has just begun. Please know we are here for you any time you need to talk.

I am sure the vet will call you when his ashes come in so don't worry about that, honey.

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


An Inseparable Pair
by Anonymous

I miss you so much, my four-legged friend
I ask myself each day, if the pain will ever end
Your loss is so hard, for one person to bear
Because we were a team, an inseparable pair

You were by my side, when I got up each day
Waiting so patiently, to go out to play
You were there each night, when I got home
Waiting to go to the park, where you could roam

You always knew, if I was having a bad day
So you'd snuggle up close, and try to get me to play
If that didn't work, you'd put your head in my lap
Then make yourself comfortable, and take a nap

One way or another, you would brighten my day
Like only you could, you had a special way
You gave me a lifetime, of memories to hold
Through all the years ahead, till I am gray and old

I promise I'll see you, again one day
When we'll be together again, to go run and play
Your loss is a cross, I will just have to bear
Because you and I know, we were an inseparable pair

[frijole]

First off I am so sorry to hear Bentley has passed. The decision you made to end the pain was made purely out of love however hard it might have been. He knew he was greatly loved without a doubt.

Re the cremation - please don't worry because they know you want the ashes. FYI the first time I went thru this I was so beside myself I didn't think to ask for options and the ashes were returned in a cardboard box. they stayed there until my other baby passed but that time I had preordered little wooden boxes with pawprints on them. When I pass the boxes will go with me.

My point is if you want the ashes in an urn you can arrange that prior to picking them up. You also do not need to be rushed into picking them up. I understand that is a tough thing to do.

In the meantime may all the wonderful memories of happier and healthier times sustain you as you heal from this loss. Kim

[apollo6]

I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your beautiful Bentley.
It doesn't get easier. Know he loved you and he knew you loved him.

Remember Our Love - Julie Epp

I was chosen today
I'm learning to fly
the world took me away,
but please don't you cry

And I chose you today
to try and be strong
so please don't you cry
and don't say that I'm gone

When you're feeling alone
just remember our love,
I'm up near the stars
looking down from above.

Remember our love
In a moment you'll see
that I'm still here beside you
when you're thinking of me.
Hugs Sonja and Angel Apollo

[mcdavis]

I'm so very sorry to hear of the loss of your sweet Bentley. Please do not worry about the ashes - as others have said, they will be returned to you.
Thinking of you and your family

[Trixie]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Certainly sweet Bentley knew how very much he was loved.

Barbara

[Concernedmom]

Renee I am so sorry that sweet little Bentley has passed. It sounds like he had a very peaceful passing being held in your arms. That's a wonderful thing.

Deepest sympathies to you and your family.

[mytil]

Oh Renee,

I am so very sorry. I know this decision just rips your heart out, but we also know it is the best and most loving decision we make for our furbabies - it is our promise to them. We are all here for you.

I do agree with the others, but I would certainly contact them to put your mind at ease about his ashes.

healing ((((hugs))))
Terry

[Trish]

Hi Renee
Bentley has such a sweet and kind face, I can see that his passing will leave a huge hole in your heart. I hope you can find some peace and he lets you know he is still looking after you from above, my condolences :)

[molly muffin]

Oh Renee, I missed this yesterday and I am so sorry to hear that Bentley got worse so fast. I know you did what you could for him and he fought everything till the end. Their little bodies just get so tired and exhausted. You gave him the gift of peace and though that leaves a huge hole in your heart and life, you did what was best for Bentley.
I cannot imagine them not returning his ashes to you. Know that we are here for you any time, day or night. Whenever you need us.
Bentley was sweet and beautiful.
My sincerest condolences.
hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Simba's Mom]

So sorry to hear about your precious Bentley, hugs and prayers

[Boriss McCall]

I am so sorry you had to say goodbye to Bentley.

Hugs..

[gatorgirl_bama]

So sorry about Bentley. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Donna & Angel Tia