New member here

[specialk708]

Hi, I am Karen. My girl Diamond (8 years old ) has been diagnosed with Pituitary Cushings. She is a rescue dog that I adopted with Lyme disease. I think she is American Bulldog, the shelter had her labeled as Pit bull with plans to euthanize her at age 3 1/2.
I have had her 4 years and she is my girl. She is obese, ravenous over food and water, the worst symptoms is her back end, lethargy and rapid breathing. she is depressed, isolates and does not greet me at the door anymore. This change was gradual, but happened within only 6 months. I am in the process of trusting the vet I brought her to or just going to an internal specialist. I am worried about the side effects of the medication from my research. I will be getting a plan and estimate from the regular vet Friday. I want to treat very conservatively because I am scared to treat her. I will get her numbers when I speak to the vet on Friday. Thank you for this forum. Any advice will be helpful and I am so appreciative there is a forum. Thank you!

[DoxieMama]

Welcome to you and Diamond, Karen. Please do get copies of all tests done on her so far, and share those results here. That will help us provide you with the best support!

How much does Diamond weigh now? Beginning dosage is based on weight.

I look forward to learning more about your girl.

Hugs, Shana

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Karen!
Welcome to you and Diamond!

It can be scary for sure starting out on this journey especially after doing a bit of reading on the web. :D But you and your girl are no longer alone - you are both now part of our little family here at K9C and we will be with you every step of the way. The two drugs used to treat canine Cushing's are powerful, no question about it, BUT they are also lifesavers and give our babies the only true chance they have at a normal life. Handled correctly they are a blessing...and we are here to help make sure that is how things go for your sweet girl.

We will have a ton of questions for a while so get prepared. Some are just pure nosey, too. :p But to start us out can you tell us how much your baby girl weighs? Is the Lyme under control? Is she on any medications or supplements currently and if so, what and at what dose? Does she have any other health issues along with the Lyme?

Some habits you will want to develop starting now are 1) to get copies of all test results, not the invoice but actual results, from now on and keep in a file at home. This will allow you to answer all our questions more easily plus will come in very handy should she ever need to see a different vet. 2) Start keeping a dairy or journal of her days - her sleep patterns, any changes in behaviors, her moods, meds and responses to them especially anything you see that might indicate an over dose or other problem (which we will help you understand once the treatment is chosen and started ;) ), her potty habits (yes, you now get to become a pee and poop expert, too! :p ), eating and drinking patterns, anything you see that is different about her is note-worthy. This will become an invaluable tool not only for you but for your vet(s) as well. 3) Spend some time here every day reading and talking with us; not only will that help you learn it will help us get to know you and Diamond better and we do love our family members! :)

Please take some time to do some reading in our Helpful Resource section - you will find oodles of great info there! Never hesitate to ask any questions you may have - there is no such thing as a dumb question here. ;)

As one who dearly loves the Pibbles, I want to thank you for saving Diamond from sure death due to ignorance alone. She was so very blessed that day you walked into that shelter and laid eyes on her - she had no idea how her life was about to change and how much better it was about to get. Bless you, Karen....we need more people like you who understand it is not the breeds but the people who make the difference.

Let us know what the vet has to say, what tests are run, what treatment is being discussed, and so on when you can and we will go from there. Just remember to breath and keep your chin up for now...the rest will come as you learn more, and you will learn more. ;) And also remember as you sit in that exam room listening to the Greek the vet is speaking that you are not alone - there is a host of angels right behind you and will be from now on.

I am so glad you found us and look forward to learning more about you both as time passes.

Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[Iluvhannah]

I can't add much since I'm still very new but I can speak from my recent experience of being heart broken about my baby Hannah being sick. However, You have found a true gold mind with a wealth of information and loving members that will help you on this journey. Like previously said they can give more direct advice once you are able to give them test results.

Hang in there!
Tiffany

[specialk708]

Welcome to you and Diamond, Karen. Please do get copies of all tests done on her so far, and share those results here. That will help us provide you with the best support!

How much does Diamond weigh now? Beginning dosage is based on weight.

I look forward to learning more about your girl.

Hugs, Shana

Thank you !! Diamond weights 109, she is a large dog, but that is too fat. I have been feeding her grain free, weight management California Natural Lamb and Rice and boiled chicken breast, 2 cups dry a day , 1 cup each feeding and she is just gaining. She is depressed, no energy, very lame back end, fast breathing, and just a mess. These symptom came on kind of suddenly. I though she was arthritic per my old vet. Her Lyme was treated with Doxy when I got her 4 years ago, her annual test results for Lyme come back "low - medium", she has also been vaccinated for Lyme since yearly, recommended by my vet. she does have some arthritis and the new vet just gave me Dasuquin for that. I stopped that in a panic not knowing what was happening to her internally from this Cushing diagnosis. I also have two other Rescue dogs, Jake ( Rottie mix) and Lloyd ( Pit bull Shar-Pei mix). I am in the very beginning stages of this. Just found out last night. I dropped her off for the day 7/8 to get blood work, they did morning draw, medicine, then a reading at 4 hours, then at 8, plus urine. I will get those results and the original blood work also. You guys are too kind, please pardon if I did not respond to everyone correctly. I will get used to the forum and I so appreciate the help and kindness !!!!!

[specialk708]

I can't add much since I'm still very new but I can speak from my recent experience of being heart broken about my baby Hannah being sick. However, You have found a true gold mind with a wealth of information and loving members that will help you on this journey. Like previously said they can give more direct advice once you are able to give them test results.

Hang in there!
Tiffany

Thank you !!

[specialk708]

Hi Karen!
Welcome to you and Diamond!

It can be scary for sure starting out on this journey especially after doing a bit of reading on the web. :D But you and your girl are no longer alone - you are both now part of our little family here at K9C and we will be with you every step of the way. The two drugs used to treat canine Cushing's are powerful, no question about it, BUT they are also lifesavers and give our babies the only true chance they have at a normal life. Handled correctly they are a blessing...and we are here to help make sure that is how things go for your sweet girl.

We will have a ton of questions for a while so get prepared. Some are just pure nosey, too. :p But to start us out can you tell us how much your baby girl weighs? Is the Lyme under control? Is she on any medications or supplements currently and if so, what and at what dose? Does she have any other health issues along with the Lyme?

Some habits you will want to develop starting now are 1) to get copies of all test results, not the invoice but actual results, from now on and keep in a file at home. This will allow you to answer all our questions more easily plus will come in very handy should she ever need to see a different vet. 2) Start keeping a dairy or journal of her days - her sleep patterns, any changes in behaviors, her moods, meds and responses to them especially anything you see that might indicate an over dose or other problem (which we will help you understand once the treatment is chosen and started ;) ), her potty habits (yes, you now get to become a pee and poop expert, too! :p ), eating and drinking patterns, anything you see that is different about her is note-worthy. This will become an invaluable tool not only for you but for your vet(s) as well. 3) Spend some time here every day reading and talking with us; not only will that help you learn it will help us get to know you and Diamond better and we do love our family members! :)

Please take some time to do some reading in our Helpful Resource section - you will find oodles of great info there! Never hesitate to ask any questions you may have - there is no such thing as a dumb question here. ;)

As one who dearly loves the Pibbles, I want to thank you for saving Diamond from sure death due to ignorance alone. She was so very blessed that day you walked into that shelter and laid eyes on her - she had no idea how her life was about to change and how much better it was about to get. Bless you, Karen....we need more people like you who understand it is not the breeds but the people who make the difference.

Let us know what the vet has to say, what tests are run, what treatment is being discussed, and so on when you can and we will go from there. Just remember to breath and keep your chin up for now...the rest will come as you learn more, and you will learn more. ;) And also remember as you sit in that exam room listening to the Greek the vet is speaking that you are not alone - there is a host of angels right behind you and will be from now on.

I am so glad you found us and look forward to learning more about you both as time passes.

Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

Thank you - Hugs needed !!

[specialk708]

Welcome to you and Diamond, Karen. Please do get copies of all tests done on her so far, and share those results here. That will help us provide you with the best support!

How much does Diamond weigh now? Beginning dosage is based on weight.

I look forward to learning more about your girl.

Hugs, Shana

Thank you So much !

[specialk708]

I can't add much since I'm still very new but I can speak from my recent experience of being heart broken about my baby Hannah being sick. However, You have found a true gold mind with a wealth of information and loving members that will help you on this journey. Like previously said they can give more direct advice once you are able to give them test results.

Hang in there!
Tiffany

Thank you so much !

[buffysmom]

Hi Karen...I also can't add a whole lot since I'm fairly new. I am fought to get my little Buffy tested. Changed vets and my present vet didn't believe she had Cushings but at least listened and tested. Problem was...after researching I dug my heels in and refused to give her the medicine. Big mistake for us. I went ahead and gave her some maybe 3 or 4 weeks later. I made sure I received prednisone in case she had a bad reaction. After crying all that time and changing my mind every few minutes...everyone here has been there for me and will be here for you. I'm glad you found this forum...welcome.

[specialk708]

Hi Karen...I also can't add a whole lot since I'm fairly new. I am fought to get my little Buffy tested. Changed vets and my present vet didn't believe she had Cushings but at least listened and tested. Problem was...after researching I dug my heels in and refused to give her the medicine. Big mistake for us. I went ahead and gave her some maybe 3 or 4 weeks later. I made sure I received prednisone in case she had a bad reaction. After crying all that time and changing my mind every few minutes...everyone here has been there for me and will be here for you. I'm glad you found this forum...welcome.

Thank you a lot

[kanga]

Since I'm not specialist on that kind of disease, I know other members can help you and give you some good advice. Hope your doggy will be okay soon.

[specialk708]

I wanted to let everyone know that I have an appointment on 7/22 next Friday at Upstate Veterinary Specialties with an IM. I am getting the Ultrasound and ACTH done. We have to wait another week. So serious , yet we still have to wait longer. I will get the numbers and copies of all testing.

[lulusmom]

Hi Karen and a belated welcome to you and Diamond.

Leslie and Shana have covered everything I would have included had I been the first on the scene so this post is to let you know that I'm happy you found us and that I am even happier to know that you have decided to have Diamond seen by an internal medicine specialist. I will be anxiously waiting to see the results of the upcoming ACTH stim test and ultrasound as well as results of any labs done by your gp vet.

Glynda

[specialk708]

Hi Karen and a belated welcome to you and Diamond.

Leslie and Shana have covered everything I would have included had I been the first on the scene so this post is to let you know that I'm happy you found us and that I am even happier to know that you have decided to have Diamond seen by an internal medicine specialist. I will anxiously waiting to see the results of the upcoming ACTH stim test and ultrasound as well as results of any labs done by your gp vet.

Glynda

Thank you for the help

[Aunt Jana]

Hi Karen:

I'm fairly new here too. My Boxer has had cushings for 10 months. This forum is wonderful-- many kind, supportive and very informative people. My advice: Read! Read all about the current medications. Be conservative with the Vetoryl, if you choose it. And READ, Google anything you are uneasy about, of course, make sure it's a reputable link your clicking.

My sweetie had a total personality change too, that is really hard to deal with.

P.S. Diamond is a sweetie!

Take care, hang in there.

Janet

[molly muffin]

Glad you are getting into see a specialist. I think it's always good to put together a team just like we would do for us, for our dogs.
Let us know what they say!

[specialk708]

Hello friends. I am not sure if I am posting correctly? It looks different than another discussion forum I used to be on. I have other things going on and this Cushing's thing has scattered my mind. Getting it together thanks to a friend who has helped me so much, including introducing me to the forum. I have a complete understanding of what is happening minus the ACTH and ultrasound she will have Friday. Also, not sure if I mentioned she has LYME too! She was treated 4 years ago and she does test medium Lyme when I do bloodwork. Hoping this does not add to her difficulties treating Cushing's. Thanks for the continued support!

So I have her LDDS numbers.
Pre - 12.4
1st 4 hr - 1.4
2nd 8 hr - 2.00

[specialk708]

Glad you are getting into see a specialist. I think it's always good to put together a team just like we would do for us, for our dogs.
Let us know what they say!


I agree. I want her to be cared for correctly. I do not want guessing or a learning experience with my dogs life. She is one of my children. I have had a couple of bad experiences with vets.

[specialk708]

Hi Karen:

I'm fairly new here too. My Boxer has had cushings for 10 months. This forum is wonderful-- many kind, supportive and very informative people. My advice: Read! Read all about the current medications. Be conservative with the Vetoryl, if you choose it. And READ, Google anything you are uneasy about, of course, make sure it's a reputable link your clicking.

My sweetie had a total personality change too, that is really hard to deal with.

P.S. Diamond is a sweetie!

Take care, hang in there.

Janet

Thank you Janet. It is hard, I see her struggling and it bothers me a lot. I am hopeful and very lucky for the support. I wish you luck too!

[specialk708]

Hi Karen and a belated welcome to you and Diamond.

Leslie and Shana have covered everything I would have included had I been the first on the scene so this post is to let you know that I'm happy you found us and that I am even happier to know that you have decided to have Diamond seen by an internal medicine specialist. I will be anxiously waiting to see the results of the upcoming ACTH stim test and ultrasound as well as results of any labs done by your gp vet.

Glynda
Here are my results for one test. more to come Friday

LDDS numbers.
Pre - 12.4
1st 4 hr - 1.4
2nd 8 hr - 2.00

[specialk708]

Hi Karen...I also can't add a whole lot since I'm fairly new. I am fought to get my little Buffy tested. Changed vets and my present vet didn't believe she had Cushings but at least listened and tested. Problem was...after researching I dug my heels in and refused to give her the medicine. Big mistake for us. I went ahead and gave her some maybe 3 or 4 weeks later. I made sure I received prednisone in case she had a bad reaction. After crying all that time and changing my mind every few minutes...everyone here has been there for me and will be here for you. I'm glad you found this forum...welcome.

Thank you ! I hope your baby is okay? Hugs sent your way.

[lulusmom]

Thank you for posting the results of the LDDS. Those results would be interpreted to be consistent with pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH). Please make sure you don't forget to tell the IMS about Diamond previously being diagnosed with lyme disease. Giving oral steroids can cause a relapse so I suspect that the excess cortisol in naturally occurring cushing's, which also compromises the immune system, could cause a relapse as well. Hopefully you aren't seeing any of the symptoms Diamond had when he was diagnosed with lyme disease.

Glynda

[specialk708]

Thank you for posting the results of the LDDS. Those results would be interpreted to be consistent with pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH). Please make sure you don't forget to tell the IMS about Diamond previously being diagnosed with lyme disease. Giving oral steroids can cause a relapse so I suspect that the excess cortisol in naturally occurring cushing's, which also compromises the immune system, could cause a relapse as well. Hopefully you aren't seeing any of the symptoms Diamond had when he was diagnosed with lyme disease.

Glynda

Going today to specialist, the Lyme is just added concern. Her only symptoms of Lyme were lameness, but now I am not sure if the Cushings caused this. Crossing my fingers that her ultrasound is clean.

[lulusmom]

Most vets have inhouse tests that are done to confirm a diagnosis of Lyme Disease. Based on my experience alone with many dogs over the years who turned up lame, I have to believe vets see dogs daily for this and also have to believe your vet did this test before declaring your pup had such a serious disease. You can easily confirm this with the vet who made the diagnosis. In my experience cushdogs don't really go go lame. It is much more likely that weakness caused by muscle wasting due to the catabolic effect of excess cortisol affects their ability to jump on furniture, navigate stairs and any other activities that places demands on the muscles. Neither of my dogs limped on any leg but both were weak in the hindquarters. My second cushdog was so bad, he had constant tremors in his hindquarters because of severe muscle wasting and if he tried to lift his leg to pee, he would fall over.

If a dog has cushing's, it is highly unlikely that an abdominal ultrasound will be clean (normal). If a dog has pituitary dependent cushing's, the adrenal glands can be normal in size but are usually both enlarged. The liver is also usually enlarged so the specialist will be paying close attention to both to validate the results of the LDDS. S/he will also be checking out surrounding internal organs to make sure there is no non-adrenal problem that can be contributing to Diamond's clinical symptoms and lab abnormalities. We'll be looking forward to hearing all about your consult with the specialist and the results of the ultrasound.

Glynda

[specialk708]

Diamond had good ultrasound results. No masses, Adrenals not huge, kidneys a little bright, but not bad. They did not do the ACHT test, she said both that and the low dose can give false positives and it is not needed now. The thing with Cushings is to treat or not to treat she said. The treatment can make her very sick, so she wants to be sure first. Based on all the other good images she wants to get weight off her first, would need to do this with or without treatment. She is doing another urine culture to dial in on the protein in her urine. I had them do chest xray, that came back clear as well, heart not enlarged and lungs clear. She wants her to have no more than 900 calories a day and walks in the morning for 15 minutes when it is cool. recheck in 2 weeks. A litte confused, but happy that her ultrasound was good and we can possibly treat by weight loss at this point. Not sure why she did not want to do the ACHT. I also feed low fat food and boiled chicken, my other dogs are not overweight and NO snacks at all. Makes no sense to me? The other test was positive for Cushing's?

[specialk708]

Most vets have inhouse tests that are done to confirm a diagnosis of Lyme Disease. Based on my experience alone with many dogs over the years who turned up lame, I have to believe vets see dogs daily for this and also have to believe your vet did this test before declaring your pup had such a serious disease. You can easily confirm this with the vet who made the diagnosis. In my experience cushdogs don't really go go lame. It is much more likely that weakness caused by muscle wasting due to the catabolic effect of excess cortisol affects their ability to jump on furniture, navigate stairs and any other activities that places demands on the muscles. Neither of my dogs limped on any leg but both were weak in the hindquarters. My second cushdog was so bad, he had constant tremors in his hindquarters because of severe muscle wasting and if he tried to lift his leg to pee, he would fall over.

If a dog has cushing's, it is highly unlikely that an abdominal ultrasound will be clean (normal). If a dog has pituitary dependent cushing's, the adrenal glands can be normal in size but are usually both enlarged. The liver is also usually enlarged so the specialist will be paying close attention to both to validate the results of the LDDS. S/he will also be checking out surrounding internal organs to make sure there is no non-adrenal problem that can be contributing to Diamond's clinical symptoms and lab abnormalities. We'll be looking forward to hearing all about your consult with the specialist and the results of the ultrasound.

Glynda

Diamond was Lyme positive when I adopted her from the shelter and I brought her for blood work myself the very next day and she does have Lyme, she was treated 4 years ago for Lyme with Doxy for about a month. specialist said the Liver looked fine and the adrenals were not as enlarged as she would have expected. my observation is her back end is lethargic and she does tremble standing to eat and she hesitates to jump on the couch. it is her back end not one leg, but she also is stiff in the front and has arthritis too. she has protein in her urine? they are double checking her urine again. I had them do chest xrays and her lungs are clear and heart looks good. I am puzzled? This vet was not anxious to treat for cushings right away? She also hops both her back legs together going down stairs. I have 3 steps going off the landing to the yard.