Spencer - Ready to start trilo, now three seizures in an hour (Spencer has passed)

[Trish]

Yay, good news for Spencer! Pleased to hear he is seizure free, long may it continue! x

[Squirt's Mom]

Hang in there! You are a great mom and Spencer is lucky to have you by his side!

[Spencersmom]

Thank you for the encouragement! One good thing about upping his meds is that I can now give it to him in pill form! He soooooo hates the liquid!

A whole week with no seizure! Woot!

[Harley PoMMom]

A whole week with no seizure! Woot!

That's great news!!! YYYAAAAA!!!!!!

[molly muffin]

Yipppeeeeee!!!! Okay, lets shoot for week two! Come on Spencer little buddy, you can do it, no seizures!

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Best post I've been able to make in a while! Picked Spencers Keppra up today in pill form.....liquid at Sams Club = $60......30 days of pills from Cosco = $28........ Best part is we no longer have to squirt that nasty tasting, chooking, awefull yuck down his throat! No more trying to hide his sweet little face from the syringe, instead he will now get a wonderful cheesy treat!

He is so happy tonight!;)

[addy]

That is a wonderful post. I'm sure you are BOTH happy tonight!!!:):):)

[molly muffin]

Happy dancing all around the house. :)

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Yes, we are happy and dancing too!!! Anything we can do to treat his seizures without making the process so miserable for him is reason to celebrate!

Hopefully we are at a point of good maintenance! He is stronger, alert, very vocal and enjoys aspects of his little life! This is a good thing!

Cushings under control?.....i don't think so, but that was forced to take a back seat! Day at a time.....right? :D

[molly muffin]

Absolutely we'll take it! :) So glad he seems happier. When he is happy, you are happy too.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Robert]

Happy for you and happy for spencer.

[Squirt's Mom]

I hope the change is exactly what this sweet boy has been needing and the seizures will take a back seat now so he can enjoy more and more of his life with his wonderful mom.

[Spencersmom]

Y'all....i know this is off topic, and if it needs to be moved, i understand......but I am sooooooo very upset right now! There's a very long sordid story here.....but to summerize....my hubs has a very "challenging" brother who lives next door.....again, long story there and it's not a pretty one! I can't stand him for many reasons i won't go into!

Last year he "allowed" his daughter to move in, she has alot of issues! Drug addictions and stints in jail & mental hospitals. The reason he let her move in are for his financial benefit only! She's 38 yrs old and has been deemed disabled because of her problems.

What has me so distraught is the way he treats her! He torments her mentally....telling her that she is a nut job that belongs in a mental hospital, and that she is no kid of his because he would never have a nut case for a kid like her...her Mom was a nut case just like her! He throws up in her face the mistakes she's made...etc!

I'm sitting outside next door listening to this tortured soul crying and her sorry excuse of a sperm depositer telling her everything he can to deliberately destroy her very being!!

I don't know if I'll be able to sleep tonight!

[molly muffin]

Oh Terry. :( I'm so sorry that you are hearing that kind of thing and it is family carrying on. I know it must be very upsetting for you.

I have no advice as I don't know if there is somewhere else she could go, I assume maybe not with her problems, but couldn't she get her own place under a section 8, with her disability? Get into some treatment, counseling programs maybe. It can't be good for her to be constantly put down no matter what the problems are or the reason for them.

I'll just send you great big virtual hugs, go inside and give Spencer a belly rub, find your inner calm, that says life is okay for you and hubby and Spencer.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Sharlene....from what we heard, she's been in a mental hospital before! Her Dad kept telling her that she is a looser and needs to go back because she is a nut case and is a threat to society! (She isn't) he just kept drilling everything negative, insulting, character slaughtering and demeaning into her! He even told her " you're no daughter of mine! I would never have a nut case kid like you! I disown you....you are nothing to me"

How cruel can anyone be to their child who is already in pain because of the rejection they had all their life!

[molly muffin]

That is just sad. Unfortunately not everyone in this world is nurturing.

I don't know what one can do in a situation like that. :(.

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[molly muffin]

Hi Terry, how things going with you? Is Spencer still seizure free? I hope so.

Thinking of you
hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Sharlene, unfortunately Spencer didn't have a very good night!!! He had two seizures, after the second one I gave him a half of a valium. He continued having focal seizures until I got him up at 3:30 for hubby to take over. Hubs fed him a little chicken and then let him finish the night out in his crate. This morning he was pretty wiped out....probably from both the seizures and additional meds!

With all the increases in meds, and everything else considered I just don't know if I want to add anything else! I hope this was just a fluke situation and not any indication that seizures will continue or worsen!

[molly muffin]

Oh no! I'm sorry Terry! How did he do today?

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Came home from work yesterday and his right eye was crusted shut and very painful! Somehow he injured it! Thankfully I had some antibiotic ointment to put in it! It's still red, but at least he can open it today!

He had seizures again last night!

[Spencersmom]

Taking him in at 5:00 this afternoon for a check, and to discuss where to go from here!

[Squirt's Mom]

Please let us know what you learn, Terry!

Hugs and gentle belly rubs,
Leslie and the gang

[molly muffin]

Well dang terry. Sorry to hear he had another seizure. Was it just one or a series like last time. What does the vet say is going on with his eye?
Sending hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Well, not sure what all is going on unless this is all related to increased cranial pressure! There was no abbrasion on his eye, but we are continuing with the ointment. We also have drops to put in his nose for the sneezing, to see if it is allergy related or not. If there is any nasal bleeding, then that is a bad sign!!!

We are to continue with the valium for the seizures, since the major concern is the brain lesions!

My vet commended me & hubs for how well we are taking care of our little man, which made me feel good! She admitted that she didn't think he would still be with us!! He is a fighter!

[molly muffin]

You are a fighting family. :).
Is the eye better today, the swelling?

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Spencers' eye is better....still red but not hurting him like it was! He's not rubbing it anymore or squinting! Poor little guy.....it's just one thing after another!

[molly muffin]

awww, poor baby. Well I'm glad it isn't hurting him. That is important and hopefully it will clear up.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Another seizure this morning at 5:52am!! We're back to daily episodes again, in spite of the dose increases in his meds!:(

I feel like we are loosing this battle!

[Robert]

Praying that SPencer can overcome the latest bout of seizures.

[molly muffin]

Oh no. Sorry to hear they seem to be all the time again. How does he seem otherwise? Did he have one last night too?

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

No seizure last night. Hubs got up with him at 12:30am and took him out of the bedroom so I could get some rest. After peeing & pooping in the kitchen...not normal middle of the night behaviour.....he eventually settled in his crate. Hubs slept on the couch to stay near in case Spencer had any problems!

He continues to have more intense focal point seizures too, which robs him of the rest he needs! One good thing....with all his sneezing, we started him on antibiotic drops for his nose, and yesterday he sneezed out a blob of green goo! Looks like the drops are helping him be able to clear out some of the junk that's been bothering him!

[Spencersmom]

Seizure last night at 9:44pm! Wasn't grande mal, but was almost as intense! I really thought he was going to loose his bladder control!

I'm sorry if i'm being redundant posting these events, but it really helps me keep track of when and how many he has!

Since he is no longer holding with just the keppra, should we think of adding more meds or just try to keep him compfortable ? His regular vet suspects increased cranial pressure is going on and could be behind the increased seizures and other symptoms he is exibiting!

For all practicle purposes, the veteroyl is doing nothing for the cushings that we can tell, unless that is why he's not as weak in his hind legs. His pot belly continues to grow, he weighs over 11 1/2 lbs now and his skin is so thin it looks like just touching it will tear it.

[Robert]

I can't help with advice but just want to say I am praying for the brave little tyke!!!

[Spencersmom]

Robert, I appreciate it! Sometimes just knowing someone understands and is being supportive gets you thru the trials! I would not have handled this as well had it not been for the ppl here and the advice /encouragement / prayers so many have provided!

[Spencersmom]

I won't post anymore of Spencers episodes, as they are becoming more and more a regular occurance, which I realize gets boring!

If there is a change or update to report, I will share! For now, we are in survivor mode!

For now, no sleep....trying to manage his care, while working full time and dealing with the other stressors of life! Thank you all for the support, links to info, prayers and encouragement!

[molly muffin]

Oh Terry! Don't think that at all. I check every day to see how Spencer is doing, just praying for that one day when nothing happened, things were good, no seizures and he played a bit.

That you and your hubby, had a smile for some reason today and less worry. That is all we want. You would likely be surprised how many check in on your thread for the same reason. We care and there is no boring. Heck molly's thread has been boring as nothing changes at all in months sometimes, so I post about this and that, funny things she does, a bit of this and that. What I'm doing and a number of other things that probably bore many and amuse a few. :)

Sending you huge hugs. Post when you want and don't when you don't want, but just know, We are always here for you!!

Sharlene and molly muffin

[Harley PoMMom]

I absolutely agree with Sharlene. Please do not ever feel that way, we would worry endlessly if we did not hear from you, we love you and Spencer very much. ;)

Keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers.

Hugs, Lori

[Robert]

Please keep us up to date- care about both you and SPencer so please keep sharing if you want to.

[Squirt's Mom]

Ditto - I may not reply every day but I DO read every day and want to know how our sweet boy is doing. If you wish to post and feel better posting by all means POST! If posting is getting harder and harder for you, then we will understand and anxiously await your updates. But don't stop posting because you think you are boring us! ;)

[Spencersmom]

I'm sorry everyone! I was afraid that it was becoming rather redundant posting his nightly seizures, since they are becoming rather consistent! Seems like we are having fewer nights with no activity. When I refer to his seizures, it's usually petit ones, where he cries out. He also has focal points that cause him to raise completely up, gasping for air and sometimes choking! I usually don't comment much about those, since they occur day and night.

Last night was a no seizure night, (the crying out ones) but he still woke me up at 4:30 because he had to take a massive poop!

Not sure why he is needing to potty during the night now!

[molly muffin]

Awww Terry. :) We love ya and hubby and Spencer. Your part of the family here.

Now see, no seizure over night is Good and we love that he didn't have any last night. Poop, well, is that all he needs to do or does he need to get up and go pee too? I know sometimes when they get older, you have to just give them enough to settle their tummies before bed, but not too much or it seems to go right through them. At least that is what happened with a friends dog that got older. No cushings involved or anything to do with it.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

{{{hugs}}} Sharlene, thank you...and everyone else too!

He is needing to get up more often to poop and pee whereas he didn't do that. Mind you, most afternoons we are outside so he has plenty chances to get any business done. To me, just seems to be another behaviour change....or am I just being over sensitive!

What i try to do is observe....watch, make mental notes and when I take him for a vet check, i wait to see if anything I've been watching catches the eye of his Dr. So far, we have noticed the same things! When he is really stressed or having a really bad day, his tongue is a very noticible blue His eyes are appearing to protrude more than before. These are things I thought I saw, his Dr also commented without me saying anything.

I've experienced so much with my babies....each has taught me so much! I know this journey is to give me more understanding and knowledge. I hope what I learn, I can share with others. For now, i am still trying to understand the path I am on!

[Spencersmom]

Latest developement! We've come to realize that Spencer is having incontenince issues! Not a matter of going often, instead he is peeing on himself, wherever he is laying! We've been finding out he's urinating on his bedding, the couch, blankets and this morning I got up with him at 2:30 because he was restless and I put him down ion the bathroom rug so I could potty before taking him out. He plopped down on the rug, didn't make any effort to stand up and proceeded to pee!!!! He was just laying in it, and made no effort to move!

He's not drinking excessively, so I don't believe that is the cause! Is this common for cushpups, or is this another neurological developement?

[Squirt's Mom]

It is very common for untreated cush pups or cush pups whose treatment is not yet optimal, but with successful treatment, most cush pups regain that control. There are those who never do, however. It is also common with neurological issues AND that was one of the very first signs of dementia in Squirt that I didn't recognize as such until much later. In addition, it is common in older basically healthy pups - things just wear out over time.

Is it possible some of the meds are behind this, or a combination of the meds? Maybe having an adverse affect on the kidneys?

[Spencersmom]

Not sure the cause, as this is a recent development! He had problems when we first found out he had cushings, but it was different! He would loose control when he had to really go, such as peeing when hubs went to pick him up to take him outside or having accidents if we waited too long. At that time, he never wet on himself, so this is unusual for him!

My gut feeling is that this is neurologically related, but wanted some feedback from y'all so I would know what to do!

[Trish]

Hi Terry

Don't you even think of curtailing your posting, we would all go mad with worry then!!

Is Spencer's bowel OK, I know in humans often when neuro things are going on then bowel and urinary problems go hand in hand. Have you tried regular toileting schedule? It is so saddening when something else goes wrong, not fair. Hugs for you and Spencer xx

[Spencersmom]

Trish, thank you for being so thoughtful!

We have Spencer on a more relaxed schedule, since we no longer crate him during the day. His stool is normal, but he does seem to poop at weird hours...such as the middle of the night.

His peeing while laying down is a new occurrence. It's like he doesn't even attempt to get up, during deification or afterwards! At least that's what happened this morning, and the evidence we're finding suggests he's been having other accidents recently.

[Trish]

Deification eh!?! I knew Spencer was a saint! :D:D:D

Maybe if you take him out regularly it might help encourage him to empty properly?

[Spencersmom]

Lol, Trish.....you got me!

Ok, we do give him every chance to potty! We've even been very forgiving about in house accidents, having had a Min Pin who went thru dementia at almost 18 years of age! She literally destroyed our kitchen floor, because of her failing mind! My hubs was so patient, understanding and willing to deal with coming home from work every day to face cleaning and mopping up the kitchen floor! We can and will accommodate our furbabies as any parent would a human child!

At this point, i'm trying to understand why Spencer is peeing on himself when I've always understood that this is behavior they would never do! I don't think it's dementia, so my bigger question is if cushings can cause this kind of issues? Do they lay down & pee on theirselves?

[molly muffin]

I know they leak sometimes with cushings and won't even seem to realize they have peed on themselves.

The problem though for Spencer, is that you are treating cushings, which is likely not controlled, a macro tumor, are you using prednisone for that? which would directly contradict the cushing meds, but is a preferred treatment to try, and the medication for seizures. Any one of combination of the drugs, not to mention the condition could be the culprit in this case. It is almost impossible to say and because you can't risk taking him off any of them in case of something else getting worse, well, it makes for a complex situation.

That was a mingling of words if I ever saw a paragraph.

Hang in there Terry!
hugs
sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

In a way i think he doesn't realize he's peeing on himself, or if he does he feels incapable of doing anything about it!

One clarification....Spencer is not on steroids! He's on the original dosage of vetoryl, which i agree is not controlling the cushings but i'm reluctant to stop giving it to him with the mindset that at least something is better than nothing. His only other regular meds is Keppra for his seizures and valium as needed if he does seize!

If this latest developement is med related, it would have to be the Keppra, which is supposed to have no side effects other than some initial drowsiness that he's well adjusted to.

He is just a constant puzzle to me!!! But i love him no matter!:D

[molly muffin]

Then it could be that the vetroyl isn't controlling the cushings enough and if it is a macro tumor it might now. steroid is given if they think it is a macro to reduce inflammation, along with the vetroyl. I know that sounds contradictory but some of the experts do this.

What dose of vetroyl is he on? Have they thought about increasing it at all? Although I don't know if that would be risky or not.

So, hard figuring these things out. :(

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

His neurologist does think it's macro tumer as well as additional right temporal lesion, so he is reluctant to increase the vetoryl. We tried giving him prilosec (which acts as an anti-inflamitory) but he had diarhea from it. And because the cushings is not controlled, he doesn't want to add even more steroids, so we're basically in a catch 22!

My sweet boy!

[molly muffin]

I really dislike catch 22's :(

So, really, all you can do is whatever helps him the most in any little way and just deal with the rest of it from the sounds of what the neurologist is saying. There aren't any real good options. So, what about diapering him or belly band, something like that? You'd have to change it often, but might help?

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Yeah, Sharlene unfortunately there aren't a lot of options other than dealing with issues as they come up and focusing on his comfort and happiness!

We have a belly band that we've used in the past but the skin on his stomach is so paper thin from the cushings, i'm afraid the band will irritate or tear it!

Man, i never thought this little guy would go thru so much! He just keeps fighting tho!

[molly muffin]

It is amazing how much Spencer has been through and continues to go through and still he fights on. He's a tough little guy that is for sure. We all think he is totally adorable.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Trish]

I think a lot of the times we have to pick our battles, I know a lot times I have had to prioritise the most urgent and deal with things systematically. It is just shite when a few things seem to strike at once. But quality of life seems to be at the top of your list, as it should be :) Spencer sure is a little fighter, I so admire his spirit and yours too! xx

[Spencersmom]

Two grande mal seizures this week....latest this morning at 6:10am! :(:(:(

Not the kind of alarm clock I was dreaming about!

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Terry, I am so so sorry :(:(:(

[molly muffin]

Oh no. Not grand mals. How is he doing? That must have been exhausting for him and scary for you.

Hugs terry
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

Bless you both.

[Robert]

Praying for you both. Both are very brave. I know how scary seizures can be - Tammy use to have them when she was here. Luckily hers were controlled with pheno and only had em every few months but even in that situation it was scary so really feel for you and spencer. God bless both of you

[Trish]

Awwww Spencer.. c'mon boy!! Hope last couple of days have been better xxx

[molly muffin]

Did they ever try phenobarb with Spencer? I wonder if it would help at all.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[labblab]

You know, I was wondering the same thing. I understand why phenobarb was not the first choice in Spencer's situation, but it seems like gaining control over the seizures really trumps all the other issues at the moment. I know not all dogs tolerate phenobarb well, but my own Peg has done so beautifully on it that it gives me reason to recommend it to others to try when the newer drugs don't seem to be working. I know you have concerns about the liver and interaction with trilostane. But in terms of quality of life for all of you, it seems as though a respite from the seizures might be worth the possible trade-offs. Just a thought...

Marianne

[Spencersmom]

I've been considering pheno, but wanted to try something else first. We have valium to give him when he has a grande mal, but we're using it proactively.....giving it to him when he starts with the focal seizures to see if it will keep them from progressing to the more serious petit or grandes. So far he's not had either since the last ones reported. If this doesn't control them, then we'll be forced to go a more agressive route!

Please continue to hold my sweet boy in your thoughts & prayers! He's fought longer and harder than we expected, so we are fighting right along with him for every bit of quality of life he deserves!

By the way, he is laying on a pillow next to me in our 5th wheel, camping where it is peaceful, tranquil and quiet!

[Robert]

Your sweet boy and you are always in my prayers.

I know it is two completely situations but Tammy was on pheno for 10 years and as far as I know no bad effects. She however only ever went on steroids for an autoimmune illness and then heart meds the last few months of her life

I must admit I feel sad and happy with many people on here and their friends but your spencer sounds so much like Tammy - the fits and a fighter who will decide when their time is here. II hope that time is a long long way ahead .

[Spencersmom]

Thanks everyone! We had a good camping weekend with our little man! So far, giving him valium when he seems to become restless has given him a few good night's sleep.......no grande mal or petite mal seizures!

[Spencersmom]

Good night last night!! No valium required and lil man slept soundly!:D

[Squirt's Mom]

WOOHOO!!! Way to go Spencer!

[Spencersmom]

I am beyond angry!!! I called the neurologist requesting a callback....nothing! So, ok.....i'll call his regular vet...again, nothing!

So, is my dog no longer worth their time because I'm not willing to invest thousands of $$$ in tests and radiation just to pad their pockets? I am disapointed that his primary care Dr didn't call me back! The neurologist....i'm totally done with! I need refills on meds and a new plan in place for his seizures.....so now what!

I'm dissapointed, insulted, angry beyond measure and just want to hit something....HARD!

[molly muffin]

I was very happy to hear he had a good night.

This though is not good. If you have to march up there and plant yourself in the office till someone talks to you then that is what you will need to do. In lauding talking to them about why they aren't returning your phone calls.

I'm do sorry they are making a difficult situation even harder.

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Well, two nights in a row with no valium, and this morning he woke me at 5:58am with a mild petite mal. Seems like the valium does make a difference!

[Squirt's Mom]

Yeah, you need to get in someone's face, Terry. That is inexcusable in my book. They know how hard Spencer is trying; how dare they just blow him off! :o Let us know if you make any headway with the vets.

[My sweet Ginger]

Terry, I'd make a recheck appt with the neurologist and discuss all the matters you'd like to discuss with him including him not returning your calls and also get a refill. Fortunately my neurologist always returns my calls although it's always after business hours and I understand how busy he is and appreciate it. Still I prefer talking to him in person if I want to discuss a new plan and get all refills at the same time since we live 30mins away and Ginger is not an easy rider anymore. Obviously him not charging me the recheck fee helps but I don't expect that going in each time.
We saw him yesterday and again he didn't charge us not only the recheck fee but also checking her BP either.:cool: Bless him.

[Spencersmom]

Finally talked with his primary Dr! She agrees with my idea of giving Spencer the valium during the night to help with seizure control....especially since it's also helping with the focal points! So, she is going to recalculate his dosage to allow for future increases and call it in so I can pick it up along with his Keppra.

She admits that she's never had a dog present with the kind of symptoms he has, and he's been quite the case study for her. I guess if there is any good to come of everything he's fought thru, it's the knowledge she will gain that can be applied for someone else's pet!!!:o

[Trish]

Oh gosh, finally!! Makes my blood boil just reading it, so I can imagine how you felt. Glad you got to speak to a person and not just leave a message. Hope the Valium helps Spencer have more restful nights. xxx

[Spencersmom]

Little guy has certainly been a challenge! I honestly don't know how we could have gotten this far without everyone here! It's mostly been uphill, so i've really appreciated the rope you've thrown me to assist in this climb!

One day and night at a time!!!

[molly muffin]

Hope that valium at night really helps him! It has been quite the battle and the journey continues.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Last two nights he's gotten the valium and has slept well, only having a couple mild focal points where he just raised his head up for a minute or so then went back to sleep!

We can do this!!!

[Squirt's Mom]

WOOHOO!! Way to go Spencer and Mom!

[Robert]

Last two nights he's gotten the valium and has slept well, only having a couple mild focal points where he just raised his head up for a minute or so then went back to sleep!

We can do this!!!

Great news.

[molly muffin]

That is very good to hear. Stress for him is a definite indicator, and while I'm not sure of any stress he'd have at night, valium seems to be helping with the seizures. So that is good and we'll take it!! :)

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

You know, sometimes you wonder why you are on a particuler journey, and then your paths cross those of a stranger and you understand!!

This afternoon, hubs & I went for a drive to visit some of our favorite fall veggie stands and cider mills. At our first stop, a woman came up asking about Spencer and if it was ok for her to pet him. We proceeded to tell her that he had Cushings, and we limit his stress exposure. She asked me..."what is Cushings?" So i started telling her about the symptoms, and her eyes got huge! She said her dog had those signs and she had a vet appt next week because she was worried about him! I told her to have him checked for it! She immediately RAN to her hubby to tell him about our conversation!

I felt really happy at that moment, feeling like we might have helped a pet and it's owner hopefully go in a direction they might not have considered for diagnosis.

I pray they find the answers they desire and receive the treatment their pet deserves!

[molly muffin]

Oh Terry, hugs! It is an amazing feeling to be able to help someone with knowledge about this disease. Most really do not know about it until it is diagnosed and then it's like being knocked over the head with a baseball bat to the heart. It's a scramble to learn as much as you can, as fast as you can. Even if and when you are told it is a slowly progressing disease, it feels like you need to know everything right now.

She will have a head start in finding out information.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Trish]

Hi Terry

You are awesome!! Helping people like that... paying it forward :D:D Hope you, Spencer and hubs had a nice relaxed weekend xx

[Spencersmom]

You know, hubs & I really did nothing special...just did what was natural! If and when you have the chance to share your experience and enlighten someone to persue tests for their babies, isn't that what this is all about?

[molly muffin]

Absolutely Terry! Paying it forward is what we all do and information is key in this disease.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

So very true! And our encounter saturday just highlights everything! At the first of this year, we were clueless to Cushings and it boggles my mind to think how quickly we have fast forwarded to this point, and now because of this journey we had the opportunity to share our experience with a chance encounter! You just never know where your path leads and whoes path you are meant to cross, and what impact a fleating moment will have on someone in need!

Be open to those around you! They may need you.....you may need them!

[Squirt's Mom]

Well, see, the difference is they came up to you. When Squirt was first diagnosed, I saw Cushing's in just about every pup I saw and was prone to chase after their parents to inform them. Not everyone was appreciative of the crazed old broad telling them their pup looked sick. :o:p

[Spencersmom]

Lol...Sharlene....I can totally relate!

You have this new found experience and understanding for a disease you never knew existed! It's just second nature to want to share with others, hoping what you've learned will save someone else wasted time and funds trying to figure out what is wrong with their pup!

[molly muffin]

I might have this vision in my head for a long time of Leslie running down the street trying to explain cushings in a calm matter while keeping up with the people trying to escape the crazy lady.
ROFL!

Rock on Leslie!

Isn't she great Terry. I can so see her doing that. I made up flyers about cushings and put them in local pet food stores, etc. I need to get some more out actually as one of the owners said she had run out. She hands them out to people who come in and mentioned cushings or certain symptoms. LOL

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Leslie is truly awesome! It takes a very caring and dedicated person to approach people to warn and educate! I love that dedication!

Spencer update is we have added valium to his medical parodical! It seems to be helping for the time! He will still have some focal point moments, but no petite or grande mal seizures! For me that is HUGE!

Nights are still not perfect, but greatly improved over what we had been dealing with! Whatever it takes to keep him happy and as seizure free as possible.....that is my objective! He's doing much better....and for now, that is a good thing!

[molly muffin]

Hey Terry, so glad that the vallium is helping Spencer. Even a little bit of improvement is good and he is doing better. That means that I am sure you and your husband are doing better too.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Boy, i sure wish I knew why some nights are just "off" for my lil guy! Last night he was having focal points in spite of his meds and was very restless!!

[molly muffin]

Oh fooey. Any stress for him yesterday or anything otherwise off? I wish you knew too as I know how frustrating it is to not be able to stop them.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Sharlene.....I went out after work for dinner with a friend of mine. Now that you mention stressors, I wonder if he was upset I wasn't home at my normal time! He seemed just fine when I got home....but now I wonder!!! Hubs even sent me a pic letting me know they were outside and he was calmly sleeping, just to reassure me that all was well!

Thanks for bringing that to mind! Maybe we need to stay on a regular schedule with no changes like that again! During the week, no more doing anything after work unless he is included!

[Trish]

Phooey is right, I guess occasionally (hopefully VERY occasionally) these things are going to happen. You gotta be able to go out and have a bit of fun with your mates and blow off some steam! Sounds like Spencer was good when you got home so I hope that keeps up for long time!! x

[Spencersmom]

After spending the weekend with my sweet boy, he had a better night last night and hopefully another one tonight! He is sure is keeping us on our toes trying to figure out what works and what doesn't for him!

How our lives change for these little guys!

[Spencersmom]

So far.....so good!:D

Valium seems to be doing the trick at keeping the seizures at a level we can live with......for now! So thankful he is sleeping better, as are we! He is happier, even a bit playful when we get home from work! That's what i'm really enjoying!

My sweet precious lil man!

[Harley PoMMom]

So happy to read that the valium is working and will be praying that it continues to do so.

Hugs to you and Spencer, Lori

[Trish]

Yay, fantastic news... fingers and paws crossed it continues for a long time!!! x

[Spencersmom]

Thank you Lori & Trish! For anyone dealing with a similar situation, I hope they might learn something! Be pro-active and if you think something might work....even tho your vet doesn't come up with the treatment plan....try it and see if it works! As always, do discuss with your furbaby's primary Vet, but don't be afraid to think outside the box!

So far, we are able to keep all seizure activity to a manageble level, which is HUGE compared to where we've been and what Spencer has been thru!!! I feel we have found a balance for now in Cushings care and seizure control so that our boy continues to find reasons to fight each day and enjoy remaining aspects of his sweet little life!

I do appreciate this forum and everyone who participates and contributes......and prays!!!!😃

[Spencersmom]

Rough night last night!! :(

[labblab]

Awwww Terry, I'm so sorry. When you can, please let us know what happened.

Marianne

[molly muffin]

Oh no. Catching up a bit this morning on the forum. Was hoping there wouldn't be any rough nights for quite a long while.
Hope it wasn't a grand mal.

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[jas77450]

Hi, I am just reading about Spencer, rooting for him!

[Spencersmom]

Well, last two nights were filled with focal point seizures, but last night at 10:58, I managed to witness the full seizure!

He raised his head up like he was having a focal and just as I went to cradle his face to tell him it was ok, he started crying out! He then had a really strong spell, tho he didn't loose his bladder. He had the classic head jerking and front legs thrust out stiffly. It had him dazed for several minutes. Prior to that, his focals were also very intense, to the point that he was unresponsive even when I picked him up. Throughout the night, he was difficult to rouse!

It just made for a long and stressful night! Now I know he is actually seizing well before he cries!!!

[Spencersmom]

I feel guilty and could just cry because I feel like we pushed him too hard saturday! We met with friends at one of our favorite campgrounds, just for the day, and took Spencer with us. He's used to camping so we trusted he would be ok. Turned out that was a halloween weekend, so there were lots of children out and about....trick or treating, etc.! It was just too much stimulation! He was exhausted when we left to go home after potluck dinner!

We should not have put him thru that! I can't stand seeing him go thru what he endured the last two nights!

[Squirt's Mom]

aw honey, don't blame yourself. It is perfectly normal to think our babies will enjoy the things they always used to and we don't know until that time comes when they no longer can, that they can't. (Now THERE'S a convoluted sentence! :D) I'm sure Spencer was happy to be with you and enjoyed himself...and he doesn't blame you for a bad night. ;)

[Spencersmom]

You know, when you have a fur baby you know is totally dependant on you to care for them, and they suffer because of decisions you made, it's hard to not feel guilty and responsible!!!

I am so sorry for what my sweet lil man went thru!

[jas77450]

Sorry to hear about his rough night...It's so hard alone at night. Hope things are better...prayers for you both.

[molly muffin]

Sending you big hugs Terry! You've done a terrific job, considering how complex of a case Spencer is and the many factors that have to be considered. Sometimes, most of the time, we don't know what going to be a trigger or affect them the most until it happens. I wish there was a way to know all this before hand, but that is seldom the case.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Thank you! I really appreciate the encouragement.....needed the reassurance, more than you know!

This has been such a hard battle, so very stressful that my emotions are just raw! I cry at the drop of the hat .... Sometimes over nothing and often times very inappropriately, but I just can't reign it in right now!!!

I see my sweet boy fight every day to walk and move around, yet he is so free with his kisses and follows me everywhere I go....as hard as that is for him!!! It is very humbling to have such devoted love!

[molly muffin]

They are little miracles. (and some pretty big ones too) Just determined to keep on going and to be with the ones they love, no matter what.

Oh sweetie. We know how it is. We've all been there. I've had a few good melt downs myself. :) We just follow their example and pick up and carry on though. There is no choice really.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

Squirt would just amaze me. One minute I'm telling myself she has had enough and the next, I look down to find her nipping at my toes as I walk down the hall. But it was the very best rollercoaster ride I ever took. ;) And I'd do it all again right this minute. Cherish every second, the good and the "bad", and don't worry about anything else. Those kisses say your sweet boy is happy to be with you and that he is so proud of all the hard work you do for him.

[Spencersmom]

{{{tears}}} y'all are so sweet! Every word shared is so true!

I truly would have given up long time ago, thinking my sweet boy was not going to make it to the next day! You guys are so wonderful for the support you give....not just to me but everyone here!

I read so many newbie posts on this forum, and y'all are so consistent with your questions, links and advice! I am in awe!

You are all Angels, here for us who struggle on a daily basis to comprehend the cards we've been dealt, and to assist and encourage as we all try to care for our babies! You all have a special place in Heaven!

[molly muffin]

You have a pretty special place in heaven too Terry! You and your hubs have really been through the ringer. You are stronger than you know when you need to be.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Really struggling to get his focul seizures back in control! We were doing so well.....just one day makes such a dramatic difference! Not so much for the good either! No major seizure, but after witnessing the whole progression I now know those focals lead to the petit or grande mal ones! All of it causes damage and weakens his strength, wearing him out daily!

Haven't had a decent night's sleep since sunday!

Other family stresses in place are making our life just unbearable! We are ready to dump our house, deal with the credit baseball strike to the head just to get away from everything! Hate to look at 7+ years penalty especially at our age, but living like we are is going to send us to an early grave! Sorry for the rant....again, but hubs & I are just getting weary!

Sorry to go on in such a way! If y'all find it inappropriate, just say so and I'll keep my comments topic focused!

Ok...think i'll go take a shower and have a good cry!

[molly muffin]

Hugs Terry. Don't worry we share more than just our fur anise issues on here. You know though when one thing is so major in our lives and you aren't getting your rest and worrying all the time, well that makes it harder to deal with other things that ce up. Normally you are able to step back a bit and put things into perspective but it is hard to do that when things are already overwhelming. I wish I could make it all better and lord knows some days are harder than others but I hope that you get some rear and things look better in the morning.

Big hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

Aw Terry, it is perfectly normal to feel that way. It seems when something is wrong with one we love so dearly, every other thing that comes along is magnified. Things that we once tackled with ease we now look at with dread. Everything becomes overwhelming. I am so sorry you and hubby are feeling this stressed. :( I know the feeling and wish I had a solution but all you can do is hang in there, keep doing what you are doing (because it's working!), keep loving that sweet boy with all your heart, and know it is all worth it.

Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[Trish]

Hi Terry - sorry everything seems so overwhelming right now, that sucks. Enough to worry about with Spencer without other stresses sneaking there way in, wishing Spencer restful nights and for you all to get a good nights sleep as that sure does help, deprived sleep magnifies everything. Big hugs for you hopefully a better report today xxxx

[Spencersmom]

Last couple of nights have been better, with only mild focal spells.

Question for everyone! Does the cushpup's skin continue to get progressively looser? It seems like even the skin on Spencer face is loosing it's elasticity. When he looks to the side, it creates folds around his eyes! Even his pot belly has gotten quite large. Will it continue or does the skin just stretch so far and that's it?

[Spencersmom]

Oh, also.....got an apology from one of our negative forces!! Hoping that situation settles down so we can enjoy our few remaining days left to sit outside after work! Winter is closing in quickly, so these next several weeks......hubs & I pray we can have peace and quiet, instead of fighting and cursing next door!!!

All of your caring comments and concern have helped so much! Good energy and prayers mean the world!! :)

[molly muffin]

Oh that is good to hear. At least they realize that they are having a negative impact on you guys, so hopefully will tone it down.

How is the little guy doing?

hugs
sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Sharlene, he is doing pretty good for the most part! He continues to gain weight and his skin just seems to have no limit to it's expansion!! With all the meds and valium, he is having break thru focals every morning between 3:00am and 4:00am! Not sure just yet how to adjust the valium for control. I know we are loosing ground, but hubs is in denial....he keeps thinking the focul seizures are just sleep apnea.

His little spirit is just fighting so hard! He always has this look of determination, demanding our focus on his needs at times.....then other times he just gives up! It's such a roller coaster ride with him! The other night, I got ready for bed....had him with me when I went to the bathroom. Set him down on the rug, and he just layed there and peed all over himself!!! These are the things that upset me, knowing in his normal state he would NEVER do that!

In his prime, mark everything...yes he would! Pee on my shoes in protest, he has done....often! But to lay and go on himself....he was embarrased!

[Spencersmom]

Tried to upload a new pic of my man, but kept getting out!:confused:

[molly muffin]

Oh that is weird. There isn't any reason I can see. You should be able to add more pics.

Well yes of course I am sure that is stressful for both of you. Poor little guy.

What about splitting the Valium dose. Low before bed and then don't you let him out in the middle of the night? Maybe a low dose then?

Just throwing ideas out. No idea if it would work or if you might have already tried.

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

We give him just a quarter tab of valium in the evening....whole tab is only 5 mgs, so initial evening dose is about as low as you can go. Midnight, he gets a half tab. Thinking of upping to half in the evening and another half with the midnight keppra dose. Just need to fine tune the meds.....ongoing task....to attempt to keep seizures in check!

He sleeps with me all night, so I am constantly aware of what he is going thru. If he sleeps....well, so do I but once his sleep pattern changes, I wake up and can't go back to sleep for hours just because I don't know if he will seize! Countless hours are spent watching him as he sleeps, stroking his face or cradling his head when he startles up in his focal seizures. He is unaware of it all...I've picked him up to find him totally dazed, tried to call his name or snap my finger next to his ear....again....nothing.

I wish I knew what laid ahead for us, so I could prepare or at least know what to do for him!

[Squirt's Mom]

Terry, you are an exceptional mom. Spencer is so very, very lucky to have YOU as his mom. I got tears in my eyes reading your words of stroking him even tho he is unaware of your actions. But ya know, I think he is aware on some level of every single touch from his mom and dad no matter what his state may be at that time. Your sweet little boy knows he is being held and stroked and softly spoken to by the ones he loves most in this world. He knows.

[Spencersmom]

Spencer has had two pretty good nights! This weekend we will go camping, so he's going to have lots of mommy time! It'll be quiet there with friends he's known all his life!

Hope his good nights continue! My love for him certainly will!;)

[molly muffin]

Crossing fingers for a good weekend! Enjoy the time away

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[doxiesrock912]

Camping is so much fun! The fresh air will be good for Spencer.

[Spencersmom]

Well, not sure if camping was a good idea! Spencer seems to be tired today!

[labblab]

Awww Terry, I'm sorry the little guy seems "off" again today. One thing I've wanted to mention is, I wonder whether he may be building up a tolerance to the Valium such that it is no longer working as well for him. Glynda posted this great article on our "Everything Else" forum, and I noticed this specific comment about diazepam (Valium):



Nonemergency use of oral diazepam is for cats only and is not recommended for dogs, as they can develop tolerance to the oral formulation.

http://www.plumbstherapeuticsbrief.com/article/which-drugs-control-seizures-dogs-cats?utm_medium=email&utm_source=Clinician%27s+Brief+Newsletter&utm_campaign=PTB+ENL+100114

I know you are stuck between a rock and a hard place right now as far as finding acceptable med options for him, but since I think you are dosing him daily with the Valium on a nonemergency preventative basis, I just wanted you to see this info in the event that Spencer starts breaking through more frequently with seizure activity.

Marianne

[Spencersmom]

Marianne, thank you for the link! Is it possible that the valium could loose it's effectiveness so soon after beginning dosing?

Could that be the reason already that he's already having seizures again? Thursday morning, he had a grande mal an hour after getting the valium, but I thought maybe it was from being too tired or stressed somehow due to us going out of town on a camping trip! Every night he has been having focal ones for about two hours in spite of his meds.

Being awake during this time has afforded me the chance to see fully what happens. At the onset, he stops breathing...then be bolts upright, with his snout point toward the ceiling. He will either hold that position for the focal, or will progress to a full seizure, crying out then the jerking and finally peeing if a grande. He has a lot of the focals!!!!

[Squirt's Mom]

Squirt took Valium for storm phobia and it stopped helping her after a short while. In fact, it started working opposite on her and causing her to become hyped instead of sedated. She did not take it on a regular basis, only when it stormed. I think it took about 6-8 doses for the drug to stop working and reverse on her. We got 10 pills at a time and before the first script was finished, she could no longer take it. Just sharing our experience as this is my only one with Valium.

I hope it isn't this with Spencer and it will continue to help him. You are doing a great job, Mom! I can't help but admire you.

[Trish]

I am tired after camping too!! Hope he has bounced back, I bet he liked it and enjoyed the fresh air with his two favourite humans!! xxxx

[Spencersmom]

We are still camping, decided to forego any activities today, so lil man could just relax and not be stressed in any way!!! The only time we were not with him was during dinner. When we finished eating, we went back to the RV to find him laying by the door waiting for us! His separation anxiety is really intense now!!

It's 11:30, and I am sitting up with him waiting for time to give him his midnight meds.....hoping he will sleep tonight with no focal seizures or more!!

I haven't given him any valium yet. Just don't know what to do about that now!!!

[Squirt's Mom]

How did the night go? Hope all got some good rest!

[Spencersmom]

I stayed up with lil man till after 1:00 am, just letting him sleep on the couch next to me. When i did go to bed, he slept very well and was more than ready for his breakfast when hubs woke up!

One thing we've noticed is that running the furnace in our 5th wheel is sure making him thirsty!! I guess the air is a lot drier in here than what he's been used to with it running.

[molly muffin]

Oh Terry, just checking in now. What a time you have had with the little guy.

Is there anything else that they can try for the seizures? I don't know if the neuro vet can come up with a different med or different combination that might help or not. Interesting though, he didn't have a seizure and didn't have valium?

hugs
sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Yesterday I thought I would see how Spencer does if I don't give him any valium. BIG MISTAKE!!!! He had two grande mal seizures and a third petite mal!

First one was at 11:30. Gave him valium with his keppra at midnight. He had the second grande mal at 1:15. Then at 3:30 he had the petite so I gave him another valium. After that he had some strong focul seizures before finally settling down.

[doxiesrock912]

Awwwww :-(
That stinks!

I'm sorry Terry.

[molly muffin]

Okay, not giving valium doesn't seem like it works at all. Even if he is becoming use to it, it is still working better than none at all.

How is he doing today after that rough night?

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

What can I say.....today, he was HUNGRY!! I did do some research and found out that sometimes seizure activity makes them hungrier than normal. He is also drinking more than normal and peeing alot! That is not like him. I figured it might have been because we had the furnace and electric heater running in the RV, making the air dryer than he's used to.

He was tired, sleeping all the way on our trip home. It's after 10:00 pm and he's sleeping next to me on the couch! We are home now, so his normal routine will be in place once again! Hopefully that will help!

Boy, last night was not something I want to go thru again! I gave him his valium this evening and will give the next dose with his midnight Keppra. Keeping fingers crossed that he sleeps with no seizures!!!!!

[doxiesrock912]

I'll bet! I've never seen a dog have a seizure and I don't want to.
Much too frightening for me.

[Spencersmom]

Valerie, the worst part is when he cries out like he's in the worst pain ever and then he just looses control of his bladder! His expression is blank and you just know that all you can do is stroke his face and body, telling him it's ok....even if you aren't so sure it is!

Three times in one night is really hard to endure!!

[molly muffin]

Yes, 3 times is too much for him and you and hubby to go through. It takes a real toll on all of you.

Fingers crossed for tonight to be a calm, quiet night for all of you.

Molly had one instance, she just fell over, lost bladder control and non-responsive. This was years ago. We were on a walk outside and I had stopped and chatted with friends. I ran home with her in my arms, yelling for my husband as soon as I opened the door. I massaged her while hubby called the vet ER. She came back, but no hind leg control at that point, so we jumped in the truck and drove the ER where by the time we arrived she was back to her normal self. Got down and went for a walk, went potty and she was checked out by the ER vet, who theorized that the collar had pinched a nerve, causing her to lose consciousness. She never used a collar from that day forward and no more problems. You just never know what will cause what reaction, but what I do know is we were terrified for her. Magnify that by a 100 times and it might be close to what you go through almost every night. I can't even begin to imagine how that would feel and how horrible it would be.

Hang in there, you are doing great
hugs
sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

It's almost 11:00 pm, and even tho I know I must get up tomorrow to go to work, I am so reluctant to go to bed....dreading what might happen!!

UGH!!

[molly muffin]

You need to grab the z'ssss while you can!!! You're no good to Spencer or work, if you are too exhausted!
Now, get in there, grab some sleep, give him his midnight meds and then hope to sleep till morning!

Now all sing together to Terry
:Soft puppy, warm puppy
Little ball of fur

Happy puppy, sleepy puppy
snore, snore, snore:

Hugs,
Sharlene and molly muffin

[doxiesrock912]

Sharlene, you are adorable.

I can only imagine Terry. Get some sleep and hopefully Spencer will too.
I believe that no matter what, he knows you're there. Their connection with us is more profound than we can ever guess.

[Spencersmom]

Well, Spencer slept fine all night........BUT......my hubs woke me up this morning, asking me to take him to the ER after we give lil man his meds. He has an esophageal blockage he's been dealing with since last night! Ate a bite of meat and it got stuck! I asked him why he waited till morning and he said he didn't want to upset Spencer, and that we needed to be home to give him his meds!!

They'll probably have to put hubs under so they can run a scope down to remove the blockage and hopefully this time expand the esophagus!

Sharlene, i loved your song!! That was just what I needed! 😊

[Spencersmom]

Good news! The blockage finally went down on it's own! Hubs layed down on the couch, and I guess the position he layed in was just right! He said all of a sudden he felt the pain stop, waited a few minutes then drank some water.

Soooooooo glad he's ok!

[Squirt's Mom]

My goodness, Terry! I can't imagine having something stuck all that time. What an angel he is to suffer that so ya'll could be home for Spencer.

And I'll be roaming around all day singing "Soft Kitty"....errrrrr "Soft PUPPY!" :D

[doxiesrock912]

Yikes! My father has COPD and food gets stuck because of the mucus buildup. Glad hubs was able to clear it without having them poke around.

[molly muffin]

So glad to hear that your hubby was able to get that clear.
He should never put himself at risk though. My goodness!

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Thanks all....hubs took a half day off from work to rest and get a nap in. For dinner, i cooked him breakfast!! Can't go wrong with that, right!! Made him bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs and monkey bread! He ate a little of each and is snoozing comfortably!

Hopefully my sweet boy will sleep well tonight too! He's been crashed on the floor where he is cool and comfy!

Let me think.....oh yeah...there's a sweet song for me to dwell on as I go to sleep!

Night y'all!

[molly muffin]

That dinner sounds really good actually. I think I'd be open to having that myself. :) :) :)

I do love that little tune too. It seems so perfect for us. :) Hoping for another good night!

Tell hubby to CHEW!
hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Hahaha...Sharlene...been telling hubs to chew for a long time!!!!

I'm wondering something and I don't know if this is where to ask or not! It seems to me that once Spencer has a big time seizure spell, for the next period of time he is better. Is it possible that the major seizure event releases something that somehow settles down the out of control brain activity?

He has slept really well the last couple of nights....waking up VERY early wanting to go out so he can have breakfast! I've told him to lay down and go back to sleep hoping to keep him on our established schedule! He of course gives me little whimpers in protest!!

Good thing he is so darned cute and sweet as a bug!!!:D

[molly muffin]

Hmm that is an interesting observation. I wonder if instead of a macro tumor he just has seizures. Epileptic oe something even. Have you spoken to the neurologist about it? Maybe they would have some ideas or even a different medication.

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Sharlene, this is just a new observation I'm pondering! I give up on the neurologist! Made calls to him with no call back! Even went so far as to take him Seafood Gumbo and still NOTHING!!! Guess since we didn't want to spend major $$$ on MRI's and radiation therapy, we are just a waste of time!

[molly muffin]

No response to seafood gumbo even!!! That is not natural.
What about talking to regular vet. And document everything. When they occur. What type. See f you see a pattern anywhere. Take it in and compare thoughts.

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

If Spencer didn't have other symptoms suggesting tumor, i'd really second guess......but, he has signs that are becoming more obvious! His pupils are uneven, right eye is larger than the left. We believe cranial pressure is causing his eyes to bulge a litte more than normal. I've also noticed that when I rub his face, he really leans his head into my hands closing his eyes as if it feels good!

All of these things i've observed, and his vet also noticed on his last exam....without my prompting. We've also noticed that sometimes his tongue has a blueish hue to it!

He sneezes alot, really hard too....but as long as there is no bleeding, that's a good sign!

[molly muffin]

You're right those things do point to a tumor. I guess I was grasping at clouds :) :)
Well, one day or night at a time. :)

hugs
sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Oh Sharlene....I grasped at everything I could! At some point I have to observe the obvious and just accept what I am dealing with! I really just want to do what I can to give my sweet boy the best time he has left. After talking things over with hubs, we really think because he is getting more fragile, we just can't push him physically anymore! We have one more camping obligation at the end of the month, which we will make completely stress free and keep him with us at all times! After that, it's going to be hunkering down for winter so no changes in his schedule!

Thinking back today about his recent seizures, I think they are related to our trips and his getting too tired and over stimulated. We will have to adjust accordingly and make sure he is ok! Keeping fingers crossed that this last excursion will not cause issues!

[jas77450]

Terry,
My heart goes out to you...you are so brave and courageous. Spencer is blessed to have such dedicated parents. I know how scary those seizures are. You are handling it much better than I did.
Interesting you mentioned the blue hue to tongue. My Cosmo did this also but then it would go away. Thought I was seeing things. Is he eating ok ?
We recently bought a pop up camper...plan was to go out on quiet camp out and spend time fully focused on him, away from it all. He loved out doors. Never got that chance. In my opinion, go spend time with him camping...let him enjoy fresh air and smells...it will be a nice break from daily routine and time together you will always remember. Hope you have a nice seizure free time together.

[Spencersmom]

Cosmo's Mom....the blue tongue comes & goes too! I don't always handle his condition very well! I do cry alot over everything he has gone thru this year! It's hard to believe this has been just since the end of Feb, beginning of March!!

[Spencersmom]

New observation....may just be just a quirky thing the last few days, but will monitor.....Spencer is eating less! He still loves his homemade chicken jerky and will scarf that down, but he no longer will eat kibble and two afternoons in a row he did not eat all of his dinner of fresh boiled rice, green beans, carrots, peas and pumpkin!!! He did pick out the boiled chicken, but left the rest.

Granted, he has gained so much weight this year that he could use some calorie reduction big time....but to go from ravenous hunger, eating everything offered to being selective tells me something is changing! Just waiting to see how this presents itself!

[molly muffin]

Maybe try just spreading the meal out during the day. A little bit here and a little bit there.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spencersmom]

Sharlene, we leave kibble out for him but I think during the day while we are at work, he just sleeps the whole time. Usually he is very hungry when we get home, he eats all of his dinner and still barks for more....then at bedtime he used to eat some of his kibble. He is no longer interested in the kibble and just doesn't seem to want as much to eat!

Lol....I won't get too concerned until he looses interest in his jerky! Now, that is something he never refuses!!:D

[jas77450]

as long as he's still eating your ok, hang in there!

[Spencersmom]

Boy.......it's amazing what a good night of sleep does for a person!!! I don't think Spencer nor I moved one bit the whole night! He was still in the same spot and position as when he dozed off!;)

[doxiesrock912]

YAY!!!!!! That's great news for both of you.

[molly muffin]

Yay! Happy for good nights!!

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[jas77450]

Good to hear!!!smiles....

[Spencersmom]

OMG!!! Woke up at 3:15 am this morning in a panic!! I thought Spencer didn't get his midnight dose of meds!! :eek:

Woke hubs up to find out he gave it to lil man at 12:05.....I was so sound asleep I didn't wake up!

Needless to say, my adrenalin was pumping, so I didn't go back to sleep till about 5:30, which was 45 mins before I had to get up. {{{{yawn}}}

[molly muffin]

Holy Cow!! LOL Well at least you got some good sleep right up till the panic attack. :)

hugs

[Spencersmom]

Lol...Sharlene, obviously I was sleeping really good!!!

On a different note......my lil man is having a really, really off day!! Can't quite put my finger on anything specific, just seems like he's really not himself today! He just seems really tired! Doesn't want to walk and seems to want to sleep more than usual. I worry that he had a bad day while we were at work!

I've noticed that when he is sleeping, there's a lot of involuntary body movement. He didn't do that before, so don't know if this should be a concern. Also, when he has to potty.....he will just go wherever even laying down going on himself! He did this early this morning and couldn't get off the towel he was on. When I picked him up, I realized he had urinated and was trying to get away from it, but couldn't!

It's just so hard watching my vibrant, handsome little stud muffin become this little old man, just struggling every day....begging us with his sad eyes and pleading barks to help him with his daily needs and wants!

As much as I've loved having my babies....this is just so heart breaking!

[molly muffin]

Oh Terry :( :(

I'm so sorry. You know when he is having an off day and something isn't right. This doesn't sound right that he can't get up at all and move to get away from his own urine.

Terry has he walked at all today? Do you think that something has happened, pressure somewhere?
Worried for the little guy and yes, it is heart breaking to those of us who follow your and Spencer's journey, I cannot even imagine how much it breaks your heart to see him this way, with your memories of him as the Spencer you have known and loved for so many years.

Big hugs sweetie

[Spencersmom]

Sharlene...if he has to walk he will, but he's really struggling! Moving is becoming so much more difficult for him! I try to encourage him to get up and move around, but he is giving me more and more sad eyes and barking if I go into another room! Getting ready for work, he lays on one of the rugs in the kitchen and barks....I can't figure out what he wants! He's gained so much weight, and I think his Cushings is progressing. He just seems weaker!!!

I know this roller coaster ride with him is full of up moments and really down ones that will become more and more prevalent, but prepared as I try to be....it doesn't make the experience any easier!!!

I tried again to post a current pic of him, but when I hit the upload botton, I get kicked completely out of the forum! And I mean completely out...back to my icons for all my apps! :confused: i wish I could share with y'all a pic of how he's doing!!!

Bless his sweet precious heart, he loves his momma and just wants to stay close. As I've been typing this, he's had a couple focal episodes tonight! Hasn't done this in a week or so! My poor baby!! I don't know what to do but cusp his little face in my hand an offer comfort! This is just breaking my heart!

Sorry ...... didn't mean to be a downer tonight!

[molly muffin]

Oh Terry. Don't think of it as being a downer. It's a down day, and we all know that some days will be better than others. Some will be downright scary and horrid, but we get through it all together.

I can't find any reason that you'd get kicked out when uploading a picture. Are you trying to upload from a tablet or phone? Maybe if you put them on a computer and then tried to upload from there?

It could be his weight is making it hard for him to walk, but it sounds like a bad day all around for him with the focal seizures too. Of course if he is having a bad day, then so are you. It's the nature of things is all.

What we'll hope for is a good night tonight and a better day tomorrow.

hugs

[doxiesrock912]

Awwwww. He was doing so well. Hoping that tomorrow is better!

[jas77450]

Terry,
Catching up on you and Spencer. I'm soo sorry he isn't doing well. It takes it's toll on us for sure. You are doing what he needs most...being there to comfort him. It can be such a roller coaster with all the ups and downs. We are all here with you.
Prayers and hugs.

[Spencersmom]

He has been sleeping better at night with the valium being given to him around 7:30 and again at midnight, so that is a big plus! He's having a really hard time walking in our wood floors! We've put down rugs where he travels so he doesn't fall and get stuck! His legs go splayed out from under and he has a really hard time getting back on his feet. He's relying more and more on us picking him up to move from room to room!

He's still got his stubborn streak, so that is always a positive!

When he's having a really bad day, it really gets me down and upset! I don't want him to suffer, and I can't tell if he is or not! Hubs thinks sometimes I worry too much...lol...and I don't think he worries enuf!!

We go on our last scheduled campout this weekend! Keeping fingers crossed he handles it well. We have no plans to go anywhere so we'll be hunkered down with him every day!

One day at a time, right?

[molly muffin]

Of course one day at a time. :) It is impossible not to be upset when you are having the roller-coaster ride up and down with him. You just do the best you can and that is what you have always done. That Spencer is still here is a testament to how well you have succeeded in keeping him as happy and healthy as possible. You've done good. Don't doubt it for a moment gf!!

hugs

[Spencersmom]

Thank you! I try...it's hard as anyone here can attest to, and the support is incredible! Yes, I cry....I get on here and whine....and y'all are all so great! It's a wonderful, loving, supportive family I'm so grateful to be part of!

[jas77450]

Hope Spencer has a better day, you too! Sending hugs and strength your way.

[Spencersmom]

Went camping this weekend and Spencer handled everything well. But will see if tonight goes well too...keeping fingers crossed he has no issues!

Our friends who have known him for many years commented on his current status and remarked that we may need to prepare ourselves! They observed him and his mobility as well as his general joy of life and just let me know that they are here for us and to keep his needs first, not ours.

They don't see him daily, and were really surprised at his current state, compared to this past summer! Are we keeping him alive for us.....or for him? What benefit is the battle if it only serves the selfish, not the suffering.....or is he suffering? That we don't know!

[jas77450]

praying for a good night for you and Spencer!!!

[molly muffin]

Popping in to wish you a good sleep and peaceful night.

I think when we see them every day that we don't notice the minute changes that occur. When someone hasn't seen them in awhile thoseinute changes add up to a huge change over all.

As we have all said many times, you just so the best you can every single day and only you are there to see how spencer is every day.

Hugs

[doxiesrock912]

Terry,

make a long, wide loop of fabric and use it as a sling to support Spencer when he wants to walk.

It's super easy to do. You can even just tie a knot at the ends and hold onto that portion. Make it long enough so that it's at a comfortable height for you and so that Spencer's feet are firmly on the ground.

[labblab]

Hi Terry,

I am so glad you three had a peaceful final weekend of camping. I'm betting that meant a lot to you. But I can imagine that your friends' comments have placed a cloud over your heads now that you're home again. As upsetting as they may have been, they may be of value, though. As Sharlene says, you are the only ones who truly know what each day holds for Spencer. But sometimes it can be helpful to get feedback from "fresh eyes," too. In truth, they are not saying anything that you don't already know -- that Spencer has been declining significantly during these past few months. The big question is whether Spencer still enjoys enough quality of life to balance the losses that have been mounting.

If it would be a help to you, sometime you may wish to take a look at some of the websites on this thread on our "In Loving Memory" forum. Some contain links that help owners decide on some objective measures of quality of life. Since our dogs cannot directly tell us whether they are hurting or suffering, it can help to be reminded of behaviors that may signal how well or how poorly they are actually doing.

http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=171

Personally, I think the decision becomes so very hard because things are seldom so clear-cut that they are 100% bad or 100% good. So you have to balance the good moments against the bad and be mindful of the scales tipping further and further. For your friends, they are probably noticing a big drop now since they have not witnessed the tiny daily changes. But for me, I guess the basic question would be, how much time of each day and night is Spencer now just "existing" rather than taking pleasure in his life. How much time is he actually uncomfortable from the seizures, or incontinence, or lack of mobility. On the other side of the coin, how often does he seem bright or happy or playful? How does the time of each day and night balance out and what types of behavioral changes may signal to you that the balance has shifted too far?

Loving and knowing Spencer as you do, you and your husband are the best judges of the quality of his daily life. But sometimes it can be good to try to take a step back and view things from a new perspective. As I say, some of those websites may help give you some objective ways to try to assess Spencer's ongoing quality of life at this time.

Marianne

[Spencersmom]

Thank you all! Alot is going on right now....really need prayers!

[jas77450]

Terry prayers coming your way for you and Spencer!

[Robert]

I pray for you and spencer on a regular basis- I will say an extra one.
And when the time comes you will know - for what it's worth and everyone is different the only ones I listened to when that time was her for tommy and Tammy were them my heart and the vets .

[labblab]

Many prayers being sent across the miles! We will anxiously await your update, Terry.

[molly muffin]

Oh Terry. You know you have all of us right with you. Anxiously awaiting your update.

Hugs

[Squirt's Mom]

Right by your side, Terry.

[Dixie'sMom]

Prayers coming your way for your family and your sweet Spencer.

[Spencersmom]

You all are so wonderful!!! Prayers are such a blessing!! We have pulled about every bathroom rug we have....and I have many, depending on my decorating mood....and we have placed them all over the kitchen floor so Spencer doesn't have to walk on the wood floor to get from one point to the next! He is so happy!!! Having foot traction has given him a new lease on his mobility! We knew he struggled, but didn't realize just how much of the floor he was dreading having to cross! His confidence is so obvious!!

I feel guilty for not doing this sooner, but so relieved that the little voice inside said to give it a try! Lol....colors matching ain't happening right now!

The valium continues to keep seizures under control....i pray that doesn't change any time soon!

I really thank all of you for your prayers! I so totally believe that is why we received the insight to try more rugs! He was struggling so much trying to walk! He is getting weaker, but this has helped so much!

Thank you, thank you.....THANK YOU!!!

[Dixie'sMom]

Good news! Hopefully if he is able to move around better, he will get stronger instead of weaker. Prayers are awesome but a smart Mom is priceless! :)

[molly muffin]

Brilliant putting down the rugs. I know a lot of cushings parents that do that too. I do it in some areas too. They just slide on those slick floors.

Mobility will make him happier and make him as Suzie said, stronger because he is using his muscles. That old saying is true for dogs too, don't use it you lose it.

I couldn't have said it any better than what Suzie did, "a smart mom is priceless".

hugs

[jas77450]

Just checking in to see how you are doing?

[Trish]

Hey, I love mats, the more the merrier!! Shabby Chic can be your new style :) I hope Spencer has had a better couple of days, little monkey scaring you like this. Hope the weekend goes well :) x

[Spencersmom]

The rugs have really helped his mobility! Lol.....now if we can just get him adjusted to the time change!! Yawn......he thinks it's time to wake up between 3:30 and 4:30!!!! Hubs could here him barking inside the house this afternoon as he was coming up the sidewalk after work.....like...hey, I'm hungry...FEED ME!!!

Don't know if y'all remember me posting about my niece next door and that whole horrid situation.....well, we finally got things worked out with her and helping her now get on the right track and stay there! Neighbor offered her a place to live and I was able to score some free furniture and bedding to get her started!! I am happiest when I can set aside my worries and do something to help others in need!

You know.....it goes to show that when you listen to gossip and false comments, it may rob you of blessings!! Thankfully she was a big enough person to apologize and that opened the door for us both to realize what was going on and do something about it!

[molly muffin]

Awww Terry, So glad to hear that things are working out better with the niece. Great news that. It will improve your life 100% to have some peace of heart.

I having a dickens of a time with molly and the time change too. She is not on board with it at all and I'm sure had written letters to the editor in her spare time to protest it. Little brat.

hugs

[Spencersmom]

Sure would be nice if their clock was as easy to adjust as the microwave!! Haha..... But we all know that's not gonna happen!

I think we're back on an upswing with my sweet lil man and his current status. While I know it's borrowed time.....i hope and pray that time is lengthy and seizure free and he is able to be happy, enjoying as much of his little life as possible!!!

He just never ceases to amaze me with his fighting spirit and his stubborness and his will to live!!!

Every day my sweet boy teaches me more about life....the will to live...and love!!! He kisses me every day when I come home from work. Unconditional love!

[Squirt's Mom]

They do inspire awe, don't they? Just amazing how much they can take and still way their tail and be so happy just to be with us. You are an amazing mom, Terry, and I have no doubt Spencer knows he has a one-in-a-million mom.

Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[molly muffin]

They sure are amazing. Lovely little beings with hearts of gold.

hugs

[Spencersmom]

You know..... I had to laugh with the memory of my kids telling me that if anything ever happened to them, they wanted to come back as one of my dogs!!! And, I have truely amazing kids....but they give me a hard time about how I take care of my furbabies...lovingly of course!!! I do love my kids and my furbies too!

[Dixie'sMom]

Terry you are a great Mom and I've done shabby chic all my life so I have a healthy respect for it! haha! Spencer is very lucky to have you and I understand your awe at just how strong he is. You gave him a little help and he latched on to that and is progressing beyond your expectations.
Attaboy Spencer!

[Spencersmom]

We really had a wonderful day today!! My hubs niece, whom was living next door with Bruce's abusive brother has a new lease on life! Long story, but the house two doors over, owned by our neighbor was offered as a place for her to stay until they list it next year. I posted a request at work for any furniture that might be donated, and we were able to provide her with living room furniture and a queen bed with all bedding totally free!!! My heart is so overwhelmed with joy at the goodness of strangers!!

To see the total overwhelming happiness on her face is priceless! All she could say for the past few days is " omg..omg..omg...ty..ty..ty..ty"!!

[Dixie'sMom]

Awww! Thats awesome! I'm glad to hear that yall had a wonderful day and the niece is getting her own place with her own things. Sometimes they are hard to find, but there are good people left in this world. I'm so glad you ran in to some of them! :)

[labblab]

Wow, what a great way to start my day, too! :)

So glad that things are working out for your niece and that sweet Spencer is rebounding with some special days, also!

Marianne

[Squirt's Mom]

Great news, Terry! I am so happy for your niece and hope she finds her way full of joy from here on.

[molly muffin]

That is a wonderful way to start the day. Great news about your niece.
It's good to hear that Spencer is doing well too. Good Monday!

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[jas77450]

Happy for your niece and Spencer, hang in there Buddy.

[Spencersmom]

Just checking in to let y'all know that lil man is still loving his rugs and the mobility he has!

He is stable, able to gripe very vocally when he thinks he's being starved to death....by his cruel momma and daddy...because aH-hem...we just don't get the goods to him quickly enuf!

I really can't believe we have his seizures in control!!! Last night I was sooooooo sound asleep, hubs gave him his midnight meds and I slept thru it.....I didn't even realize when sweet hubs also got lil man up to potty and have his breakfast this morning!

Right now, we are on cruise control and it feels really, really good!!

[Trish]

Just awesome, cruise control feels great!! I am so glad Spencer is stable again, wow you must have really needed that great nights sleep, makes you feel so much better getting an uninterrupted night!! Fingers crossed for many, many more! xx

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Terry, I am so happy to read that the valium is continuing to control those seizures...YAAAAA!!!!

[jas77450]

great, glad for no seizures and rest.

[Spencersmom]

Boy......what next! Hubs suffered a fracture to the radial shaft in his left forearm this morning trying to drill thru metal with a high powered drill! Arm splinted till we get him to an orthopedist, who will most likely cast!:(

Drill hung up and twisted his arm....he heard it pop! Poor hubby!!

[Squirt's Mom]

OOOOOWWWEEE!!! Hope is is able to get comfortable til they can get it set right. Bless his heart. Spencer will help take care of him now. ;)

[judymaggie]

Ouch! That really does sound so painful. Hopefully, fracture is a clean one and a cast will do the trick. Tell your hubby that we are sending him healing thoughts!

[Spencersmom]

Fracture is closed and clean.....but still painful! He is having a hard time just taking it easy! Very hyper, used to constantly doing stuff!

[molly muffin]

Oh no, dang Terry. :( Poor hubby. I feel for you, as it's not easy when the guys are down for the count and not suppose to do anything. They don't take it that well.

Yep, Spencer is on daddy duty now. Nothing like having a pup in your lap to make you stay put!

Big hugs to you,

[Spencersmom]

Oh man.......one of the hardest things about being on this forum is reading about the loss of one of our little cush pups!!! I'm in tears right now finding out about a new member who lost her baby so suddenly!!

[molly muffin]

{{{Terry}}}

We all know how hard it is, it is the most bittersweet part of being a member of a forum like this.
We give out knowledge, we support and we shed tears. It might be a new member that we are just getting to know, it might be one who has been here for years and anyone in between, even some who have lost their furbaby before they find us. It is all hard because we care so much, we have either been there or know that one day we will be. Believe me when I say that we all understand what you mean and how you feel. I have shed so many tears on this forum that I swear we should all be invested in Kleenex. I know I keep them in good business.
What we do though and the very most important thing to remember is that through the good times and the bad times, we get through it together. None of us are on this journey alone, not even in the final moments.

hugs and love

[Budsters Mom]

Every loss tears me up and I often feel like I can't go on, yet I'm still here. :o Sharlene did a brillant job describing who were are and what we do. Our angels have held me together more times than I can count. My family has moved on and rarely talk about Buddy anymore. He is still very much in my heart and in every waking thought. This family understands and supports those who are still grieving. All of our precious babies will always be loved, cherished and honored here.

[doxiesrock912]

Poor hubby!
A fracture is better than a full break though.

[Spencersmom]

Might have to hurt that man! Sooooo stubborn, he totally over did it today and was miserable tonight! Sent him to bed at 7:30 pm!!!

[molly muffin]

I assume you mean hubby and not Spencer???!!! :) :) :)

Hugs,

[Spencersmom]

Lol....yes!!! Would NEVER hurt Spencer and he's been plenty stubborn in his day!! Hahaha....hubs on the other hand.....

[doxiesrock912]

It's a man thing....stubbornness.

[molly muffin]

yep, two of a kind that hubby of yours and Spencer. You have your hands full with the both of them I bet.

Did he see the ortho today?

hugs

[Spencersmom]

Sharlene, he goes on wednesday! I'm pretty sure he will get a full cast.....lol....he's got really long arms so they're in for fun getting it done! Took two ppl just to form the splint and wrap it, and they had a hard time doing it!

Well, I think he learned his lesson. He went to work today with his arm in the sling they gave him, and promised me he would take it easy! Fingers crossed he gets to do that!

[Spencersmom]

Hubs update! Got a cast from just above the elbow to his hand. The total immobilation of his arm feels much better for him...and bonus is he can now use his fingers!!!

The Dr has never had a patient come in with his type fracture as a result from the arm being twisted so severly! He thought it was from blunt trauma, but was really surprised how it actually happened! And this Dr has been in practice a long time! Told him hubs had a killer grip on a powerful tool, they arm wrestled and hubs lost!! Lol

Spencer....my sweet boy....continues to have good nights and days! Being home with him with no travels other than little rides here and there have allowed him to be stress free! The other day was off, resulting in focals for about 2 hours during the night....but that has been the worst he's had since last report! He's such a strong lil man!!

[doxiesrock912]

Doctor's love freak accidents. I think that it breaks up the monotony. Did he call in other people to take a look?

My father drove a 4 inch nail into his finger. It bent as soon as it hit the bone and traveled horizontally next to the bone. No permanent damage done.

Yay Spencer! I'm so glad that he's doing much better!

[Spencersmom]

Yipppeeeeeee!!!! New Grandson coming in April!!! Stay tuned!:D

[molly muffin]

Oh how exciting Terry!!!

Glad Spencer is having more good days than bad ones. What a relief!

Hubby is just going to have to behave himself and get that armed healed and ready for baby holding duties!!!

hugs

[Spencersmom]

Hmmmmmm.....not sure what to think. Spencer seemed tired the last few days, and today was having quite a few of his focals when he tried to sleep.....then tonight I fixed his dinner with home cooked rice, green beans, peas, boiled chicken mixed with a little low fat/calorie canned food.....which he normally gobbles up. Yet tonight he barely ate any of it and is sound asleep next to me on the couch? Wups.....another focul point!

Mind you......he loves food and will eat his breakfast & dinner....always!

Just hope this isn't a sign that he's going to have problems!

[Spencersmom]

Well....he finally ate at 9:00, when he normally demands dinner by 5:00pm! Picked him up and layed him on a pillow next to me on the couch. He immediately layed on his side and has his eyes closed!

[Squirt's Mom]

How is he this morning, Terry? I hope you all had a restful night.

[Spencersmom]

He woke me up this morning at 3:30 am panting. This is the second time he's done that. He seems to be panting more often now, which he's never done before, so I'm wondering if his cortsol levels are increasing.

[doxiesrock912]

That might be Terry.
Hugs

[Spencersmom]

If that is the case, what might happen if we keep his Vetoryl at the same dose, 10mgs 1x per day?

We can't put him thru testing....it has too severe of an effect on him neurologically!

Hubs still says lets just keep him happy as long as we can, he will let us know what his needs are!

[doxiesrock912]

Terry, will he tolerate a blood test just to make sure that nothing else is going on?
To rule out any infections that cushpups are prone to.

Then if nothing else shows up; I wonder if the lignans etc. that others on the forum use in conjunction with the Vetoryl is worth exploring. Maybe they'll help enough to be able to lower the Vetoryl at some point?

I am not familiar with the lignans but I know that they work for some. Maybe your vet knows of a holistic vet in the area who can work with both of you?


Here is the general search that I used. Read through, and see what you think. https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&es_th=1&ie=UTF-8#q=lignans%20treatment%20for%20canine%20cushings

Those of you who use them, please advise.

[Squirt's Mom]

Lignans work in conjunction with melatonin to treat Atypical - the form in which the cortisol is normal but one or more of the intermediates is elevated. Melatonin is cautioned in dogs with seizures.

[doxiesrock912]

Ok, thank you :)

As I said, I am not familiar with them. So that is not something to discuss with the vet Terry. My apologies.

I know how scary this is and there is so much to learn. It seems like the learning is ongoing. Add that to each dog requiring an individual treatment plan and it does get complex.

Praying for you and Spencer. Hugs