Reese my pup and I are new here (Reese has crossed the Bridge)

[Tam]

Hi, My name is Tam . My Boston , Reese, has diagnosed with cushings and I am at a loss. I lost two loves Kobie my laso and Max my collie (cancer) a couple of years ago and am really not happy to be in this position so soon with Reese:( Anyway I pretty much figured out what was going on my researching. Reese was getting bubbles on the skin, drinking alot and begin to get pot belly appearance. The one vet at our clinic never put it together. When it finally got obvious to me,we went to the other vet at our clinic. She knew right away and we decided to test. It was confirmed. Reese is eleven. She was very healthy up until this. We are not sure about the side effects and the cost of the testing. Started her on non grain food, and adrenal harmony. Can anyone give me advice on what to expect if we treat , the med cost at 111. a month isnt a concern but the cost of the testing at 180.00 each pop is out of budget . My biggest worry is the side affects . Any advice would be great. She is a trooper, so happy to see us every day and is doing as best she can with the troubles she is facing. Currently on antibiotics for an infection on her back from the hair loss. Thanks for listening, I am having flash backs of our Kobie on meds and it has me heartbroken.
Any info on the best course of action or what to look for
is appreciated! Thanks Again!

[Tammysmom]

Hello Tam, welcome to you and Reese. She is adorable. I`m sorry no one has had a chance to respond to your questions. With the Mother`s Day weekend it has been really quiet at the site. Just want to let you know that soon some very knowledgeable members will be along to answer your questions and offer suggestions. Again, welcome. Brianna

[labblab]

Hello Tam, and welcome to you and sweet Reese! I am so glad Brianna posted her note, and I do apologize for having only a minute to add a few words right now, myself. But your questions are very good ones, and deserve more complete answers than I am able to write this afternoon. But you've come to the right place, and I'm so glad you've joined us.

More to follow...!
Marianne

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi Tam!

Welcome to you and Reese! Forgive me but I'm gonna be lazy and paste a response from me to another new member regarding some money saving tips:


The test used to monitor treatment in dogs with Cushing's is the ACTH stimulation, and it's the stimulating agent that drives that cost up. Now, depending on how much Kelso weighs there is a cost savings tip for those tests. Most vets use Cortrosyn as the stimulating agent. The vial of Cortrosyn is 250 μg and instructions say to use entire vial but not all dogs need the entire vial. There have been studies done that show using just 5 μg per kg is all that's needed. As an example: if Kelso weighs 25 lbs - the lbs need to be converted to kg which is 25/2.2 = 11.36 kg. Now we take that 11.36 kg and multiply that by the 5 μg of Cortrosyn needed for each stim test = 56.8. Dividing that 250 μg (entire vial of Cortrosyn) by 56.8 = 4.4 so that means the vet could get 4 stim tests out of 1 vial which is a huge cost savings. Some vets are not aware of this so we always provide the url to Dr. Mark Peterson's blog which instructs vets on how to dilute and store Cortrosyn for future use: http://www.endocrinevet.info/2012/03/how-to-dilute-and-store-cortrosyn-for.html

You could find an online pharmacy that may be cheaper that what your vet wants for the Trilostane or you can get the dose compounded. A lot of our members use Diamondback drugs to get their dog's medication compounded : http://www.diamondbackdrugs.com/?gclid=COu81vuny8wCFYk9gQodOI8Fsg However they can not compound a dosage that Dechra (makers of Vetoryl) already manufactures so that 30 mg would have to compounded to either 29 mg or 31 mg.

You may want to look at these: to help you find the best price for prescriptions (http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showpost.php?p=183349&postcount=1)

Vetoryl - Best Site for Purchase (http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4592&highlight=Vetoryl)

Where to get Vetoryl? (http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6355&highlight=compounding+pharmacies)

I am sorry for the reasons that brought you here but so glad you found us and we will help in any way we can. ;)

Hugs, Lori

Now, we love details so if you would share more information about your girl that will help us in providing you meaningful feedback, and we get that info from asking a ton of questions, so here are some of mine :eek:;)

Could you get copies of all tests that were done on Reese and post any abnormalities that are listed? With respect to the blood chemistry and complete blood count (CBC), you need only post the highs and lows and please include the normal reference ranges. Would you post the results of the diagnostic tests that were performed on Reese that diagnosed the Cushing's? Does Reese have any underlying illness that she is taking medication for? And if so, what is it and what is the medication? Is Reese's urine diluted and does she have a low urine specific gravity? Is she taking any supplements or herbs? And, finally, how much does she weigh?

The majority of the time adverse effects are only seen when a dog is started out at a too high of a dose of Trilstane. Now, the recommended starting dose of Vetoryl/Trilostane for a dog with Cushing's is 1 mg per pound of a dog's weight. So if Reese weighs 30 lbs than she should only be prescribed a Trilostane dose of no more than 30 mg. Vetoryl/Trilostane is a strong drug and it does have some pretty scary side effects, however, adverse effects are minimized when the proper treatment protocols are followed. We have many members that are treating their cushdog with Vetoryl/Trilostane and are experiencing success.

The key to facilitating safe and effective treatment is an experienced vet and an educated pet owner, so the best advice I can give you is to do your research on Cushing's, the treatment protocols, and how it is diagnosed. With treatment dogs with Cushing's can have a good quality of life and there is every reason to believe that they can live out their normal life span.

We realize that you may have some apprehensions in starting treatment but you are not alone and we will walk this journey with you. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask them.

I am providing a link to our Resource forum which has a wealth of information regarding Cushing's and also includes articles written by some of the most renown veterinarians that specialize in endocrinology http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=10

Hugs, Lori

[Tam]

Thank you very much for the welcome!

[Tam]

Thank you!

[Tam]

Hi , Reese is on antibiotics for a skin infection at the moment. Has optimune for a dry eye but other than that has been very healthy. We have her on Adrenal Harmony Gold for Dog Cushings until we decide to treat. The vet said it wont hurt her if we want to try it. She is 26 pounds, I dont have test results but can get those sometime. The vet only has one other cush dog she is treating, so thats a little worrisome. You have already given me more info than I had alone so thank you so much already! Have a good rest of mothers day!

[molly muffin]

I just want to say and hello and welcome as Lori has gotten you to a good start.

Dogs with cushings can live out normal lives with cushings on medication. The main thing is finding a dose that is good for Reese and then you don't have to do as many follow up tests as you do at the beginning when you are making sure how how she reacts to the medication.

[Tam]

ok I have been unable to post on here or deal with much since forst posting. My grandmother , almost 95, got sick and has since past away. Things are finally just settling down. When I last posted I had went to get results from my vet but she was out sick, the tech printed me some things off and then the flood gated opened with my grandma. I am leaving for vacation and will be back next Tuesday. Reese is looking pretty bad with hair loss and her legs are weak but she is still maintaining her "smile" I am real nervous about the meds just making her miserable, but am also torn as I do not think I can just sit and watch her get weaker. She is still on the natural supplement. Not sure if it is helping , urination and drinking are not as bad...at least its not hurting.
She weighs 26.5 pounds is 11 years 8 months old
type of cushing was inconclusive
Cort01 = 9.0ug/dl
Cort02 = 5.7ug/dl
Cort03 = 7.2 ug/dl

does that mean anything to you all? thanks for any support or info...this is such a helpless feeling, bless you all!

[molly muffin]

Does the paperwork say is that was a low dex test where she was kept for 8 ours. So a draw at the beginning and then at 4 hour and 8 hour?

If that is the ldds rest then yes it does appear to be Cushing's.
Was any other blood work done? Like a CBC?

I am very sorry for the loss of your grandma. My condolences. This makes it especially difficult time for you and your family I am sure.

[Tam]

Thank you very much. It has been very tough and I hate to see this sweetie suffer too. The test was an 8 hour. I dont have cbc on these test but I think I remember them doing one. They did test to see whether adrenal or pit. and that was inconclusive. I know she was tested three times throughout the day.

[DoxieMama]

Hi Tam, welcome to you and Reese. I am so sorry for the loss of your grandmother.

I agree with Sharlene, if that is an LDDS test then those results are positive for Cushing's but as you said, the type is inconclusive. Are you planning on getting an ultrasound to determine what type? My dog's was also inconclusive but I did not have the ultrasound done, as we would have not done surgery given his age (13+). Others have had it done just to be certain, as well as to have the additional information it can provide.

Have you looked into Care Credit? That can help you pay for the cost of the testing and meds. You may also be able to save some money on the medication itself by getting compounded Trilostane. There are a number of pharmacies that do the compounding; I get mine from Diamondback in Arizona.

I don't think the meds make my dog miserable; in fact, the opposite. He was not happy because he was so hungry and thirsty, waking up in the middle of the night to drink water and go outside to pee. He had numerous accidents in the house before we started treatment. We're still working on getting just the right dose, but even so, I know he already feels loads better. Starting at the lowest recommended dose from the manufacturer (1mg per pound) reduces the possibilities of adverse side effects, which were my main concern.

Please keep us informed on how Reese is doing. We'll support you as best we can.

Hugs!
Shana

[Tam]

Thank you Shana . I wont get an ultrasound as I do not think that we would do any surgery either. I have not heard of care credit, how do I w check into that? You have made me certainly think we can give the meds a shot , I feel Reese is pretty advanced in her cushings but I want her to feel as best as she can. Hopefully with some prayers we can hit pretty close to the needed dose. My husband and I honestly go back and forth on what is best for her . I truly appreciate your input and perspective so much! Please keep me updated on your pup as well. Thanks, Tam

[DoxieMama]

Tam,

You can apply for Care Credit on their website: http://www.carecredit.com/.

I totally understand the hesitance to treat... it's a bit of work to get started, and costly, with lots of testing and the daily meds with their potential side effects. Whatever you decide, we'll be here.

Hugs!
Shana

[Tam]

Thanks for the support!

[Harley PoMMom]

This sounds great where can we try to find it??

I'm providing a link with information about Atypical Cushing's: http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=198


And here is where you can find information regarding the melatonin and lignans: http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showpost.php?p=1270&postcount=1

Hugs, Lori

[Tam]

Hi, I have been reading a lot about using wet v dry food and high protein or maybe even real chicken . Can someone give me specifically what they have tried that works to help . My Reese is currently 11.5 non treated ( using adrenal harmony) Also specifically has anyone tried any supplements to help the coat or any cushing symptoms. Still on the fence for treatment....I guess my vet has only treated one for cushings and I wasn't fond of her treatment of my last pup ( who eventually passed at 11 with a brain tumor) so I am so leery on treatment as I have stated before....I suffer from moms guilt big time. But in the meantime am looking for a better diet for Reese. We have her on non grain beef dry food at the moment.

[judymaggie]

Hi! You will see that I have merged both your threads about Reese. This allows the members to see what has already been written as well as keep Reese's history in one spot.

For a dog with cushings, what matters most is that the food contains a good quality protein and has moderate to low levels of fat. it matters more that the food has a good quality protein and is moderate to low in fat. Whether it is wet or dry food is a personal preference. Many Cushing's dogs have other conditions alongside the Cushing's which dictates food additives. For example, my Abbie is prone to diarrhea so I add in pumpkin to every meal. Because she has high blood pressure and proteinuria, I also add in omega-3 fish oil. Thus, it is very difficult to advise what food combination is best for Reese.

[molly muffin]

I also give a joint supplement, like dasaquin and I've added in vitamin e to the omega 3's. Right now I am using Pet naturals skin + coat.

[Tam]

checking those now thank you!

[Tam]

Thank you Sharlene, Ill look into these right now. Reese is a trooper , I want to do the best by her.

[Tam]

Thanks Judy I appreciate the info. You all are very knowledgeable and helpful. I feel the love of your pups from al of you and it helps to know we are not alone....if I hear one more time "its just a dog" I may break ;)Thanks again!

[Tam]

Sorry to say that I am heart broken as Reese crossed over the bridge this afternoon. She developed heart disease as well as her cushings. She was a trooper and hung in there fighting every infection or curve ball cushings threw at her. I love her for being so strong. However her back legs ,then front began weakening and I believe it broke her spirit. The legs got worse this week and I believe she decided enough was enough. She decided to refuse her meds and ateven and drank very little.We took her today thinking she would get a shot or something but with her reflexes not responding the vet said she was close, we told her she fought long enough. I can't tell you how much I will miss my puppy reese,she was only 12. 12 was a long time to have my friend but not long enough. thanks for this forum.

[Truman's Mom]

I just read your (and Reese's) story and I am so very sorry. It doesn't matter how old they are, it's always too soon! Nothing anyone can say will take your pain away, I have been there. She will ALWAYS be with you in your heart.

Hugs,
Annie

[DoxieMama]

Oh Tam I'm so sorry to hear about Reese. Thank you for returning to let us know, so we can honor your dear girl. Many hugs and comforting thoughts sent to you this day.

[DeafSheltieMom]

I'm new here, but I just read your story with Reese, and my heart breaks for you and your hubby. She gave you her heart, and you gave her care and love. It is never easy to lose our furkids... know that we are here with you and understand your grief. Peace and love.
-dayle

[labblab]

Tam, I too am so sad to read your news this morning, but I thank you so much for taking the time to return to us. This way, we are able to join you in honoring your sweetie Reese. She is now joining our other beloved angels here on our special memorial thread:

http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=8383

So she will always remain a special part of our family, as will you. Please do come back at any time -- to talk, to remember, to reflect. Whatever you want to say, we are here for you.

Sending many hugs to you, always in loving memory of your precious girl.
Marianne

[Grants mom]

im so sorry for your loss of Reese!

[Joan2517]

I'm so sorry for your loss of Reese, Tam....

[Harley PoMMom]

I'm so sorry for the loss of your beloved Reese and my heart goes out to you and your family. Please know we are here for you and always will be.

With Heartfelt Sympathy, Lori

[judymaggie]

Tam -- I am so sorry for your loss. Reese definitely fought very hard but it sounds as though she had just too much against her in the end. Hopefully, before long, the good memories will come to the forefront. Take care of yourself!

[molly muffin]

Oh no Tam! I am so very sorry to read this news. :(
It is seldom the cushings that gets our furbabies, usually something else. For me it was kidneys and yea, it just sucks and it hurts. They fight and fight, sometimes for years and then something else comes up and it's just too much for their bodies to handle.

My sincerest condolences.

[Whiskey's Mom]

I'm so sorry too. You did such a great job caring for your sweet Reese. Wishing you peace and comfort in the sad days ahead.