Brando has joined Snuggles at The Bridge; PHEO - Need Info and Advice Please

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Patti, Molly and Trish! I was taking it easy last couple of days and just enjoying the lifting of sick feeling in my stomach by seeing branny back to his self again, wagging tail, eating drinking, not walking with his back arched. Going up and down the pet steps easily. It has been a joyful feeling having both my boys acting good again.

Branny finished his antibiotic last nite for the pancreatitis and today is last day for his other meds forgot what its called starts with an M. In one more week I take him back to the vet for a follow up about the pancreatitis.

Today the storm is over and OMG the weather is cool and breezy I love it! I am not a heat loving person and love colder temps. I am just having my dad over today for a BBQ later and watching Macy's fireworks on TV tonight. I wil also put out the putting green we bought and him and I will have some fun with that. We both love to golf and usually go to the golf course when it is not too hot.

Patti, my boys are fine with firecrackers and any loud noises, I am lucky! I hope Tipper gets through it okay!

Trish so sorry to hear about your back, I suffer from a chronic back condition and for the last 8 months it goes out a few times a day. Something changed in my back condition, where as before I would go months until it went out but it would takes weeks to heal, but the good news is, I keep my walker near me so when it happens I can get to my bed, put on my tens unit and in 15 minutes I can walk again.

Sharlene Welcome Home!

[goldengirl88]

Vicki:
Have a great BBQ and enjoy your father and the boys that are feeling and doing well. Blessings
patti

[Trish]

Good news day from you! Pleased to see that, enjoy your golfing with Dad!! :D xx

[molly muffin]

That sounds like fun! Great to hear Branny is doing so much better!

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

Thanks gals! We had such a nice 4th of July :) Brando seems to be as a good as he can get back wise, as he was before he put it out. and He looks and acts so much better since he finished his pancreatitis meds. His coat is smooth and shiny again, his eyes look clear and alert and he is more active. In 1 week I take him back for a follow up and I supposed they will check his blood for numbers.

Snugs thank God is doing well so far. He has more energy than me, my husband and Brando put together LOL

I think August they are due for a 3 month Ultrasound, I will ask my vet about that when I bring Branny in for his follow up.

[molly muffin]

That's excellent that Branny has improved so well. Glad you had a good holiday!

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Sharlene :) both boys are still doing well, I will take Brando in for his follow up this week or next. I emailed my vet about what happened with the laser therapy payment and he took care of it right away and the 400 plus dollars will be applied to our future visits and or tests. I will be staying home today again its too hot for me and its upsetting my stomach which is causing dizzy spells now and then. Too hot for my boys as well, so we will stay home and enjoy the air conditioning.

I have been remiss in taking Snuggles blood pressure for a 2 or 3 weeks with everything else going on with Brando, but I feel guilty as hell so will try and get a couple of readings today. I pray it is as good as always. I will post his readings.

[molly muffin]

Oh yea, the heat gives me bad headaches sometimes.

Hopefully his BP is just fine, but good idea to check it today. There has just been so much going on.

That is great that your vet got that therapy charge worked out to your benefit. No need in paying for something you might not use and if you do want a treatment, then you can get one, instead of a whole series maybe.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Trish]

Oh no, hope that nasty vertigo is not coming back and it is just due to the hot day. So pleased to hear the boys are on an upward swing and you tell them they can just jolly well stay there for a long, long time!!

Thank goodness your vet sorted out that issue with the $$, it gets sucked up quick enough with all the testing so no point spending all that on something that was not going to be all that useful! Hope the BP was good today! xx

[beaglemom3]

Nope so far no vertigo, my stomach was bad though, feeling better today so far.
Thanks Sharlene and Trish :) I took Snugs BP today he wouldn't let me yesterday :( but his bp is good for a beagle he was moving around a bit but then he stopped.

159/72 HR 69

[molly muffin]

Hey not bad for a guy that won't sit still.

Glad you aren't having any vertigo attacks. Nasty things they are.

We're chilling for the weekend here. Molly had her first melatonin and lignans today. She seems to bef fine with it and even was relaxed and a bit bossy on her first Starbucks run. Yes, momma need an ice frap, what's a dog to do but go along. LOL I wanted to see how she would be after the melatonin, and she was much more chilled out than normal in a car.

hugs to you all
Sharlene and molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

Hiya Sharlene and everyone I got my boys spec cpl back along with other blood work we had done yesterday and Brando' spec cpl is normal :) and Snugs who has chronic pancreaitits I got his numbers down from 488 in March to 297 normal is 0-200

all their results are here:

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/6233450/spec%20cpl_NEW.pdf

I have been busy last few days and out most of the day today, the weather is absolutely gorgeous. We did a ton of stuff including going to NJ for a bit.

I am now planning a big party for my dad on Aug 10 for his 93 rd birthday which is July 31st AND it will be Snuggles birthday same day as the party! My baby boy God willing will be 15 years old on August 10..I pray to God my dad and Snugs and Bran are all well for the party and for many years more!

[molly muffin]

What a great update! So glad that the boys are both doing so well now. That is very good indeed.

That is going to be one fun filled day to have both their celebrations. I'm sure you're going to be busy as a bee getting ready for it.

Hope you had a fun trip to NJ.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Trish]

Hi Vicki

They are good results, so pleased to hear the boys are doing good, those results look good!!

You do sound busy and party planning as well for your Dad, I hope his day is really special and I am sure you shall make it so :) Ohhh and a doggy birthday too, Snugs deserves a big scrummy doggy cake especially for how he has behaved this year with all that has been going on with him! Hope you get some relaxing time over the weekend and that are feeling well now too xxx

[beaglemom3]

Hi Trish and Sharlene and all. I have been awol redoing my home office..omg I am exhausted. Painted the walls, laid new flooring new moulding, hung pics yesterday and now about to hang new blinds and curtains. My boys are doing well thank God, I feel so guilty though I have not been able to pay them too much attention the last week. I will make it up to them though the room should be done today or tomorrow.

I hope everyone and their babies are doing well!

[beaglemom3]

here is a video of my office redone, painted walls, new floor new moulding new window treatment etc etc. Finally finished I just need 1 more picture for the wall in the empty space on the left side of wall.

http://www.forvictoria.com/office.html

[molly muffin]

Oh. Love the office and all the pics of the boys are wonderful. Looks like it would be a very comfy place to get some work done.

Hope you get a chance to rest up a bit after all that work.

Give the boys a scratch from us

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Sharlene, it light and airy which is what I love. I had a good night sleep and feel good.

Will definitely give my boys your gift :)

[Trish]

It does look spic an span, what a great collection of photos and momentos you have! Hope all still going well and you have a good weekend! xx

[molly muffin]

How is the party planning coming along. Soon now!
Sorry if you didn't need that reminder. Hahaha.

How are the boys doing?

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

Thanks! Trish. Hiya Sharlene, I think I have the menu planned out, got all the paper goods and birthday decorations. Cleaning service is coming Thursday, it is the first time I am using this service, so I hope they do a good job.

My boys are acting good but, I am a bit worried about Snuggles urine leaking. They are due for their 3 months US, but I want to wait after the Snugs birthday, if God forbid I get bad news I don't want to hear it before his 15th birthday. I hope Molly, Flynn and all the babies are doing well.

[molly muffin]

hmmm, I see what you mean, can you get Snugs in to be checked out next week after the party?

I'm sure you're swamped this week anyhow.

Has he ever had the leaking previously?

Might want to check for a UTI too.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

we did check for a uti recently and came back negative, he's been leaking for a couple of months, my vet knows about it and we did 2 urine tests and 2 cultures. Taking him and Brando to vet Monday for their 3 month US to check Snugs pheo and kidneys etc and another urine test and culture for Snugs

[molly muffin]

Errr hmmm, did we have a party this weekend? :) How was it? We want details! How did things go at the checkup today for Snugs and Brandy?

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

Hiya Sharlene,

sorry I havent posted today. I am exhausted. The party was wonderful! everyone had a good time including my boys. Snugs got many new toys and we watched him carrying them around trying to find the perfect place to bury them. lol he buried them in the couch, love seat his crate, but then decided its more fun to take the stuffing out of them lol. He is so adorable! Branny was given new toys as well for being the birthday boys brother :)

By the time everyone left and we cleaned up by back was so sore. So I went to bed earlier than usual but work up at 2:30 am for the day :( Left the house at 8 am and took my boys to the vet. they had their US, urine tests and cultures and my vet felt cytology was warranted on Snugs.
Our vet doesn't have the complete written US report or the tests back so hopefully I will have it all tomorrow and I will post results. We got home about 1, I fed them gave them their meds, had lunch and then I fell asleep until 5 PM, I was exhausted. Gave them dinner fed myself and have been relaxing until I go to bed for the night.

Here is a picture I took of them after everyone left yesterday and hd some fun with it in photoshop
https://www.dropbox.com/s/q1qmdmo11pihixh/snugsnbranaug10-2014_edited-3.jpg

[molly muffin]

Oh I love the picture! What merry birthday boy and brother dear. That is so cute that Brandy got toys too, but then of course, he has to doesn't he. It would be so unfair if he didn't. LOL I am sure you had a wonderful time and they did to and your dad. It's hard work putting on a party.

I do hope that everything will be fine on the US and the cytology. I'm sending good vibes your way!

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

Thank you Sharlene :) Still waiting on the vet to get all the reports he said so fat not all are in yet. I am so nervous waiting.

[molly muffin]

Ugh, I know what you mean. I hate waiting on Any kind of medical results.

Hopefully you'll hear soon, maybe tomorrow.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

as of Friday all the results are in but my vet wasn't LOL UGH So will hear it all on Monday. But he gave me his login to get Snugs urine cytology, culture and analysis and I was able to see those results Friday.
Urine analysis, normal
Urine culture normal no growth
Urine cytology:
Microscopic Interpretation (Cytology)
Normal-appearing epithelial cells
Comments:
The epithelial cells are within reference limits and nucleoli are not
observed. If possible, biopsy and histopathology are suggested for
further evaluation.

Not sure what this means looks like normal cells but then why does his comment suggest a biopsy.
My vet will explain tomorrow along with the US results.

[molly muffin]

Sigh. So still waiting. Those results look okay so I wonder what the ultrasound shows.

Hope you are doing okay too and that tomorrow will be alright.

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

I have all the results and will scan them in and link them. But in short.
Snugs tumor measured 3.2cm this time, last time it shrunk to 2.7cm compared to 3 months prior but my vet said not to be overly concerned it could be the same size as 3 months ago the US measurements are not always accurate.
Changes in Snugs liver, spleen and bladder but could be old age or something worse, doc said no biospies he doesn't feel it is warranted.
Branny urine analysis came back normal, no sign of his removed tumor regrowing or metastasis on his US but again they could not get a picture of his right adrenal gland because he was unhappy and moving too much. and I won't have him anesthetized.

Snugs test results:
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/6233450/snugs%20tests%208-11-14.pdf

Brannys
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/6233450/brandos%20test%20results%208-11-14.pdf

[molly muffin]

It sounds like the concern is that the tumor might be growing and since it is already showing vascular invasion, then it could start to cause him problems. Are you still taking BP? Then of course the unknown with his intestines and whether it could cause any kind of blockage.

Glad the urinalysis came back okay for both of them.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

Hi Sharlene, yes I take his bp every Friday and it was good last Friday, his pulse was 60. His BP was 117/ 68 I am concerned about the other issues the sonographer raised but my vet feels no biopsies for now and he says I should go by how Snugs is acting which is same as always like a puppy full of energy and mischief, if and when that changes he said we put out one fire at a time.

I think due to his age this is the route my vet feels is best for him, as much as I want to find out for sure what all those 5 points really mean that she pointed out, to put him through biopsies. mris and more invasive testing/procedures etc just does not feel right to me at this point.
Snugs is giving me all he has and then some, I don't want to interfere with that. I hope I am explaining that well.

[molly muffin]

Good to hear the bp is remaining steady.

I understand. There is a point where you say what do you want to do further and consider the quality of life which is pretty good for Snuggs right now

Still doesn't hurt to chat with vet and get all the info you can. I would do the same probably.

Hugs
Sharlene and Molly muffin.

[beaglemom3]

Thanks for your support Sharlene. Since I reduced his wei qi booster the last 3 months and it appears Snugs tumor grew a bit the IMS suggests I try going back to 2 pills daily to see if his pulse rate is affected again. So today I started doing that and will monitor his bp and pulse over the next few days.

[molly muffin]

I'll have my fingers crossed that the pulse stays good and that the tumor shrinks again.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Trish]

Hi Vicki
Sorry not been around much. I hope that tumour is not growing... sometimes it can just be the pressure on the probe while doing the ultrasound that can squish things around inside and we can see discrepancies so I would not worry too much especially as Snugs still doing so well. That vascular invasion was there previously too.. so I am going to hold on to the minimal changes!! Pleased to hear BP OK :) xx

[beaglemom3]

Thank you Sharlene your prayers are much appreciated!

Thank you Trish, that made me feel a lot better about things!
Keeping Flynn and Molly in my prayers as always.

[beaglemom3]

Ya know what I wish..I wish I had the energy and stamina that Snuggles has LOL OMG! It is 7:30 am I let them both out to potty and poop. I went back upstairs to do some work and within 10 minutes I hear CRASH! I run downstairs to see Snuggles had climbed from the arm of the sofa onto the end table and he decided it is time to get rid of mommy's knick knacks, so he pushed them off the end table with his nose and I said a firm NO! as I am huffing and puffing running down the stairs. He then proceeds to jump off the end table!! and ran up to me giving me the sweetest aroooooooooooo. I can barely function at 7:30 am let alone do half the things my 15 year old puppy does LOL GOD Bless my boys!...I need a nap now lol

[Squirt's Mom]

LOL Go, Snugs, GO! :p:p:p

[beaglemom3]

LOL Leslie, he is some piece of work :) I wouldn't have it any other way!!

[molly muffin]

I don't have that kind of energy either! Goodness, he was in full steam ahead mode this morning. LOL Does the heart good to hear this though. :)

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

hehe yes it does Sharlene I love seeing him like this, he is like this all day just usually not so early in the morning.

The other day I took about 6 of his stuffed plush toys and put them on their couch. He walked over to the couch grabbed one and ran around the house with it then brought it into his crate. Then he came back to the couch and grabbed another one, did same thing. He did this with all 6 of the toys one at a time LOL then when they were all in his crate he stood on top of them, as if to say MINE MINE MINE! LOL Snuggles is definitely my little goofball. I love him so much! as I do Brando ofc, but Snugs makes me laugh every single day with his goofy antics.

Here is a short video and you can hear Snugs arroooing.
http://s1102.photobucket.com/user/Vicki-615/media/snugs.mp4.html?sort=6&o=35

[Squirt's Mom]

LOL You say, "that's mine" and he looks at you like "just who do you think your kidding?!" And when you tell him there's no more, he is DONE! :p:D:p And what a lovely voice he has!

[beaglemom3]

LOL Thanks Leslie, he is a funny boy for sure hehe.

[molly muffin]

Oh so cute. They do each have their own unique personalities, which of course is why we love each one for themselves. Snuggs is quite the chatty one. LOL Love the arrroooooo's.

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Sharlene I love his aroooos too, its like music to my ears.
They are so different, but as bossy and vocal as Snugs is, when Brando had enough of his crap he lets Snuggles know and Snugs backs off lol

Brando is so laid back, sweet as sugar, much less vocal and always willing to please. Snuggles is energetic, funny, mischievous and bossy lol But they are both extremely loving and sweet in their own ways.

[molly muffin]

They are both adorable and know they are well loved!

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Sharlene :)

[Trish]

Watched the video, too cute... love how he throws his head back to let the arroooooo loose!! Lovely beagle boys! x

[beaglemom3]

hehe thanks Trish! I love aroooos especially Snugs his voice is so pretty on the other had OMG Brando has a high pitched shrilly voice that could wake the dead LOL Its funny that sound coming from such a sweet boy as Branny.

[Squirt's Mom]

:D Your comment about Brandon's voice reminded me of an old fellow who liked to deer hunt and had several Beagles he used to run the deer. He had one small female of whom he would say every time he let them out - "pray that ______ don't pick up a deer" because she had such a shrill cry he said it would bust the eardrums of all within hearing range. :D

[beaglemom3]

LOL! Leslie

[Trish]

Hi Vicki!! how are the beagle boys doing? Hope they are both fighting fit and enjoying their summer! x

[beaglemom3]

Hi Trish!!! Hi everyone :) So sorry I have been AWOL. My business busy season fell upon me in Sept and I don't have time to breathe. I am hoping it will help me pay my outsidtanding vet bills that I have accumulated. Halloween is an incredible time for doggies. Costume orders by the 100;s. This is when I make up for all the months being in the red.

I am up at 4 am and work til I cant see straight.

I have missed you all. I hope everyone and their babies are doing well.

My boys are doing okay Thank God so far, but we have had to run to the vet a few times since I posted last.

The latest is Snugs has an infected sebaceous cyst on the under side of his front leg on top above his elbow. So he has been on antibiotics but all week he has been running in circles barking in pain, which has been very disconcerting, so back to vet today and although my vet tried to squeeze as much of the guck inside the cyst out only alittle came out. So he feels the best thing to do it surgically remove it. He didn't want o but when he couldn't get enough out he felt its better then the infection going into his system

I told the vet Snugs is due for his 3 month US in a couple of weeks and I am very scared about it since his tumor showed some growth last time. SO Monday when I bring him in for the surgery we will do an US first to make sure he is okay for it tumor wise and heart wise, they will do 2 cavities, abdomen and echo of heart.
Then he stays there to be given bp drugs just in case and whatever else they do to prepare him. Then in the afternoon they do the surgery.

I am not happy about this but my vet feels its the best thing to do at this point. Plus I am scared to death what the US will show this time.
His bp is still normal though thank goodness.

Branny is doing well, no sign of tumor regrowth so far.
Here is a pic of Branny I took the other day, I came downstairs and found him like this
https://www.dropbox.com/s/a3izyp86ii8168h/2014-10-05%2013.14.24.jpg?dl=0


I will try and catch up on everyone's threads when I can.
Snuggles and Brando give you all a big aroooooooooooooooooo!

[molly muffin]

Awww, Branny looks so sweet like that.

I'm sorry to hear that Snugs is going to need to have surgery, as I know you are probably very worried about it. Hopefully the tumor hasn't grown and he will be at no risk. They just have to monitor him very carefully. Let us know okay!

I'm glad that business is doing really well right now, even though I am sure you are swamped, but that is a good thing when it comes to your own business. LOL

We're here, stay in touch when you can!
hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

Oh I hope the surgery helps sweet Snugs and brings him some much needed relief. Bless his heart...and yours. I can only imagine how it makes you feel to see and hear him like that. Let us know what the US shows. I hope it goes well with no surprises.

Bran is so cute with his baby! That is precious!

[Trish]

Hi Vicki

Doing a bit of a catchup around the forum and popping in to see how you a and the boys are doing. Is that cyst OK, did you get the surgery done? Hopefully if it was needed it would have been nice and quick to nip it off! Has the scan been done on Snugs? Hope all going well for you all and you have managed to get your head above water with your business!! Nice to have the $$ coming in, but not so nice all those long hours so you take care of yourself and get enough rest Missy!! xx

[jas77450]

Hi, just want to say I pray you receive good news re US and Snugs can get his surgery.

[beaglemom3]

Hi everyone, it's been a crazy 2 months working 12 hr days, taking care of my boys and been sick the past 2.5 weeks.

Thanks everyone for their prayers and thoughts.
Theres a lot to tell.
Snugs US gave me a huge scare. To make along story short, my vet came out during his US and told me his tumor grew to 3.9 cm, I was devastated, so due to the tumor growth my vet did not use anesthesia on Snugs but used sedation, Snugs got thru the surgery fine but I fell into a huge depression for a week, but then I got the written report at the end of the week and it had a couple of erros, it had 2 measurements for the right adrenal gland neither being 3.9 cm. So I contacted my vet immediately, it was a Friday, and he was on a plane when I emailed him. So I had to wait until the following week to get the answers I desperately needed.
my vet misheard the Dr who took the ultrasound and it was 2.9 cm!! so it got smaller than 3 months ago which was 3.2 cm, on the report with errors had 2.9 cm and 3.2cm the 3.2 cm was 3 months ago's measurements.
The dark depression turned into elation!

Snugs echo showed stage 2 heart disease which is common for a dog his age (my vet said) so we started him on enalapril.

Today Branny had his US because the last 3 times they could not get a reading on his right adrenal gland which showed a mass back in Feb (if you recall), so he had to be sedated. The mass is a little over 1 cm but when I get the written report I will know for sure.
Brandos heart tho became 25% more enlarged than it was the last time so I started him on the enalapril today and we might be adding Lasix in 2 weeks.

My boys are still acting well thank God and wearing me out as usual ..I would not have it any other way!

It is a little over 1 year since Snugs was diagnosed with a pheo, it was 2.5 cm back then at the first measurement. I am so thrilled to have my boys with me still!!

Here is their Halloween pic (they were Crayola crayons LOL )
https://www.dropbox.com/s/gfqsfomzwo7i9eo/2014-10-31%2014.56.02.jpg?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/s/mrd7vru6no1xm2f/2014-10-30%2016.51.20.jpg?dl=0

[molly muffin]

Oh my gosh, so cute in their costumes!

Wow, that is a heck of a scare and how horrible that you had to wait to get the final word. Holy cow!
I'd have been having some heart failure too.
So, hope things have calmed down a bit for you work wise, but I bet with Christmas coming up, you'll stay pretty busy.
So great that the boys are still acting like themselves and doing okay. Yea, those hearts do tend to get bigger as they get older.
It's wonderful to hear from you and know how you and the boys are doing.
I do hope that you'll get to feeling better soon to if you aren't already that is.

big hugs Vicki!

[beaglemom3]

Thank you Sharlene. Yes it still pretty busy with work but not as bad as Halloween, it was overwhelming.

I am sure the herbal meds are having something to do with Snugs tumor size.

Today I feel almost 100%.

I need to catch up on Molly's thread. I hope she is okay!

Big HUGS to you too!

[judymaggie]

Vicki -- greetings from one beagle mom to another! I haven't had a chance to read your pups' stories but it sounds like you have your hands full. I do love their Halloween costumes -- their facial expressions definitely show how they feel about them. Take care!

[Squirt's Mom]

HA! The boys look cute but I'm not sure they feel cute. :p I am so glad things turned out the way they did for Snugs and pray Brando does well on the new med plus gets a good report on his US. Let us know when you can. I know you are swamped!

Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[Trish]

OMG what a roller coaster, but phew so glad the end report was good. Not nice to go through that stress unnecessarily though! Poor you, feel for you. Great that the lump could come off with just sedation too.

Hope the enalopril for both the pups does the trick!! So cool they are still doing so well the little crayons haha

Good to hear from you Vicki with this update xxx

[beaglemom3]

Thank you all lol and hiya Judy! will catch up on your thread.
yes they do not look thrilled about their costumes lol but Snugs was happier and wagging his tail most of the day with it on.

Brando had his US Tuesday with sedation. I am waiting for the written report but his heart enlarged 25% more than last US :( so I started him on heart meds as well same heart meds as Snugs). and there is that mass in his right adrenal tumor and it has grown a bit, when first found it was .82 cm now it is over 1 cm(report will give me the definite measurements) My boys are so bonded they even have the same medical issues :( how rare is it to have 2 dogs not related both with right adrenal gland tumors *sigh* when I get the written report I will send it to the IMS at the AMC and see about starting the same Chinese herbal meds as Snugs.

On the upside they are acting great, wearing me out with their mischievous antics and filling my life with so much love, laughter and joy!

[molly muffin]

Well dang, heart enlarged and the tumor growing. Yep, I'd get him on the same herbals as Snugs.
They really are a pair aren't they. :) :) :)
Cute pair though I think they take it a bit far with the same medical issues. sheezzz guys, come on, mom needs some down time too you know.

Thanks for the info on the BP machine, Song also gave me the info for it. I just haven't gotten it yet, but I think that is definitely the one to get, not a 1,000 bucks at least. Some of those machines are soooo expensive! yowser

huggers

[beaglemom3]

hehehe I agree about their medical issues.

When I did searching for bp ,monitors they were all crazy expensive, this one works well and the readings have been consistent and I like that it tell me when I have the cuff on too loose.

[beaglemom3]

I got Brando's written report and read so scary. But my vet said most of it he is not too concerned about but his heart did enlarge quite a bit so he wants me to slowly get Brando up to 10 mg on the heart meds. Also the tumor in his right adrenal gland got quite a bit larger than the MRI showed back in March which it measured .82 cm now on the US its 2.40 :( and the sonographer was not aware we did that urine test months ago which said Brando had Cushings, from what she saw on the US she is suggestong the same thing,

"It would be prudent to consider serial blood pressures, a low-dose Dex suppression test,
and perhaps a full adrenal panel to the University of Tennessee given the appearance of
the right adrenal gland. The right adrenal gland was enlarged and heterogenic at the
cranial pole. No overt vascular invasion was noted. This may be consistent with an
adenoma, adenocarcinoma, or pheochromocytoma"

I am sending the US report to the IMS in Manhattan and asking if she agrees that we start Brando on same meds as Snugs plus something for Cushings.

He is not showing any signs of Cushings except for drinking water slightly more than usual, nothing excessive.

comments about my babys heart is:
COMMENTS: Echocardiographic examination revealed vegetative mitral valve and
tricuspid leaflets at this time. The left atrium was moderately enlarged and does appear to
be larger than the last echocardiogram performed in May 2014. A moderate mitral valve
regurgitation was noted along with tricuspid insufficiency. The patient should be started
on Enalapril at 0.5 mg/kg once daily for approximately 1 week. At that time, recheck
blood work should be performed and if the BUN, creatinine, and electrolytes are within
normal limits, the dose of Enalapril should be increased to 0.5 mg/kg twice daily. It
would be prudent to check a blood pressure and an ECG prior to starting Brando on
cardiac therapy. Three-view thoracic radiographs should also be considered.

[molly muffin]

Sounds like the vet wants to get him up quite a bit on the heart meds. Is that the same exact heart situation that Snugs has? How weird for them to both have the exact same issues and not be related. I wonder if it is a breed thing.

Are you considering surgery for Brando or no to remove the tumor on the adrenal gland? I know you have basically decided not to for Snugs due to his age. Would the heart be an issue if you did want to pursue surgery?

Sending big hugs!

[beaglemom3]

Hi Sharlene, yes same meds as Snugs but a higher dose. I know its so weird, and no not a beagle thing I know 100's of beagle owners and no one has ever had or mentioned adrenal gland tumors in the 14 years I know them :( So strange. heart issues are age related.
Brando GOD WILLING will be 15 in March.

no surgery for my baby boy

I heard back from the IMS and I am starting him on Chinese herbal meds

[molly muffin]

I don't know why I was thinking Brando was younger.

I've had beagles too with no adrenal tumors or enlarged hearts that we knew of, but it is soooo weird.

Well, I hope the chinese herbs work as well for Brando, no reason they shouldn't. Do they have anything that goes along with heart via the chinese herbals?

hugs
Sharlene

[beaglemom3]

Yes it is very odd, don't know but she wants to re examine him next year and work up a new protocol for him but right now I am to give him something called 4 marvels which is good for cushings and tumor shrinkage

I posted the link on your thread

and its a different company but same model

http://www.amazon.com/CMS-08A-Professional-Pressure-Trending-Software/dp/B004V4G5IM/ref=sr_1_3?m=A2WWN8XZGXRZ1&s=merchant-items&ie=UTF8&qid=1416258083&sr=1-3
and cheaper! $78.95 & FREE SHIPPING
ships to Canada
__________________

[molly muffin]

Cool Vicki.
I'm still trying to find with the neonatal cuff that ships to canada. I've found a couple now on Amazon but only come with the adult cuff. So I am looking for the additional cuffs to buy separately. Do you have the 08A or 08C?

I'm so sleepy and trying to stay awake to call my sister, who wasn't home earlier. Not sure if I'll make it or konk out

hugs
Sharlene

[hogie7171]

Vicki i have a beagle that is still being diagnosed for either Cushings or PHEO. I am very interested in hearing more about the herbs you are using.

[beaglemom3]

Cool Vicki.
I'm still trying to find with the neonatal cuff that ships to canada. I've found a couple now on Amazon but only come with the adult cuff. So I am looking for the additional cuffs to buy separately. Do you have the 08A or 08C?

I'm so sleepy and trying to stay awake to call my sister, who wasn't home earlier. Not sure if I'll make it or konk out

hugs
Sharlene

isn't the infant cuff same as neo natal? the unit comes with all 3 infant child and adult I use the child on my boys. I will check the model tomorrow I can barely see straight right now..so tired working too many hours.

sorry was so tired, the one I showed is same as mine comes with infant and neonate cuff and mine has an adult cuff too
I use the infant on snugs the neonate is too small for him

[beaglemom3]

Vicki i have a beagle that is still being diagnosed for either Cushings or PHEO. I am very interested in hearing more about the herbs you are using.


Hi Shane, beagles are awesome! but so sorry to hear you are dealing with the same thing as I am. I will tell you a lot more tomorrow, but the herbs seem to be keeping Snugs tumor from growing and even shrank it a bit twice. He was diagnosed with a pheo 1 year ago and my boys is doing great so far Thank God and he is 15 years old.

I am using western herbal meds and Chinese herbal

The Chinese herbal meds are stasis breaker and wei qi booster.

I will paste the western herbal meds tomorrow and give you links to the pharmacy where vets get the Chinese herbal meds. I am just so tired now and will post it all on your thread.

I will also tell you about a very specialized urine test that can tell if its a pheo or cushings, both my boys took it and it was accurate both times.

I need to get all the info before I post and it may take a bit to gather it all.

[hogie7171]

Update on baileys thirst, Last night i gave him plain chicken , eggs and rice for dinner. This morning he DID not beg for water. Also when i did put water in his bowl he did not finish it. I am going to continue feeding him home cooked meal and monitor his input/output.

[hogie7171]

Thanks for the reply Vicki. I am glad to hear they are working for Snugs

I am a big believe in natural/herbal remedies. The two Chinese herbs gives me someplace to start my research.

[beaglemom3]

you're welcome Shane I posted all the info on your thread HUGS to your baby!

[molly muffin]

Merry Christmas Vicki Snugs and Brando!!!!

I hope you are having wonderful holidays. Miss you and hope you are all doing well

Hugs

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Sharlene! Ive been awol :( but with good reason, I stated a few months ago how busy work was I was working 12-14 hours a day but I got myself so run down I have been sick on and off since October then finally got better in Dec and my husband got the flu and being the kind, sharing, person he is, he gave it to me. So I have battling with it until now, which I am almost all better but still have a nasty cough and little stamina, and I am recovering also from an allergic reaction to one of the antibiotics I was given. My tongue still burns and is red and sore :(

But enough about me..
Snugs and Branny are acting as always spunky little beagles God Bless my boys! But I felt so guilty while me and hubby were both so sick, we could not do for them as we usually do and it made me so sad and angry. But they were troopers!
They now both have congestive heart disease Stage 2, and both are on heart meds but Brannys is a bit worse so he is also on Lasix. Brought my boys to vet yesterday and Snugs has a UTI so he'on baytril now we are waiting for culture results and Brannys lungs sounded clear as did Snugs.

We will be doing another US in a week or two, to check their hearts, measure their adrenal gland tumors :( and check everything else in their abdomen.

They had blood work done yesterday too and liver values are still elevated but holding but Branny's kidney values were higher than normal.

I hope all is well with everyone and your babies are doing well.
Business is slow now and hopefully I will not get sick anymore, for a while at least I hope to catch up with everyone and post more.

[judymaggie]

Hugs to all in your household! I am glad you and your husband have made it through the flu and are on the mend. Lots of news reports on how bad a season it is.

I hope that ultrasounds for Snugs and Brando show everything maintaining at current levels. Abbie sends them big a-roos!

[beaglemom3]

Hi Judy and hi to your gorgeous beagle girl (((HUGS))) Thank you for your good wishes for my boys! Yes the flu was a horror and very hard to get rid of :(

Snugs and Branny give big aroooooooooooooos To Abbie!

[Squirt's Mom]

So good to hear from you and especially to know you are feeling better! That reaction sounds awful, honey! And I am so glad the boys are doing as well as they are. You are doing such a great job with them I know they weren't harmed one little bit by that so-called "neglect" while you and hubby were sick. ;) In fact, if I know Beagles, they had almost polished their plan to get the fridge open and clean it out for you when you got well enough to be up again. I'm sure they were disappointed to have missed such a grand opportunity but happy to have Mom to do for them again! :D

[beaglemom3]

Hi Leslie! aww thanks so much you are such a sweetie! I am lucky neither of them figured how to open the fridge door yet LOL

I am getting nervous knowing I need to schedule their US this week or next. I am at the point I almost don't want to know anymore. But ofc I do what is best for my boys and put my fears and anxiety aside.

[Trish]

Hi Vicki!! I agree with getting to the point of "not wanting to know anymore" think I am there sometimes too... :rolleyes: but we do what we must for the boys don't we :) Gawd you have been crook, one thing after another and it sounds nasty! Glad you are coming right now, wondering if you had some thrush in your mouth with all the antibiotics?? Hope it has come right you poor thing. 12-14 hr days not sustainable with something giving.. shame it was your health though! Will check back for the scan results when they come in, so hoping nothing has changed, improvements would be even better!! Hugs for the beagle boys! xxx

[beaglemom3]

Hiya Trish!! Good to hear from you HUGS! True we must do what we need too for our babies :)
Not sure but my gums were bright red and tongue bright red and burning, its almost gone but not completely yet. Toothpaste felt like I poured acid on my tongue :(

I will definitely give them your hugs and PLEASE give some hugs to Flynn from me (((())))

The blizzard set us back a bit so probably next week I will bring them for the US.

[beaglemom3]

My boys Ultrasound is scheduled for this Monday Feb 9th, but the weather is supposed to be bad, we might cancel and so might the doctor who does the ultrasounds. I will keep you all posted.

So far my babies are acting well as they have been, Snugs got into a bag of garbage that was behind a gate by the front door waiting to be thrown out. The little stinker stretched his paws through the gate and grabbed it LOL my neighbor was over at the time and she couldn't believe how far he got through to get the bag. We got most everything away from him but omg what does he think he is a puppy???? ;) I love this about him always into mischief in 5 days he will be 15 and a half years old :)

[judymaggie]

Hopefully, the weather will cooperate and the ultrasounds can proceed. Maybe it's just me but, once something is scheduled, I just want to move forward and know what the next step will be.

Big aroos to your boys from Abbie!

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Judy! Well I am usually like that too but we are going for over a year of this, every 3 month Ultrasound and by now I just want to hide my head in the sand. I am so frightened each time waiting for the other shoe to drop, I almost don't want to know anymore. But yet so grateful we have come this far and they are still acting so well, Thank God. But I couldn't bare to lose them but I know its inevitable at some point. I Love my boys so much I want them with me forever, as I'm sure we all want our furbabies never to leave us.

[beaglemom3]

US was cancelled due to ice conditions *sigh* we rescheduled for next Monday

[judymaggie]

:( I spent some time reading your thread--you and your pups have been through a lot. It is so great that both Snugs and Branny still have lots of puppy moments!

[beaglemom3]

thanks for reading! Yes, God bless them! They are truly amazing and I am so grateful for that.

Beagles in general have a great zest for life :)

[molly muffin]

YUK ice storms. I'd be canceling too. Heck if we get a snow storm, I think everyone knows, I won't be out there with molly trying to get tests and whatnot done.
I know you're on pins and needles, wanting to know, but not wanting to know if there has been a change. However, having said that you have some more days to just enjoy and put that in the drawer as they say. I'm hoping no change or shrinkage! ROFL!

huggers

[beaglemom3]

Its real bad in NYC everything is covered with ice, you couldn't even scrape the ice off the windshield. More stuff coming my way tomorrow snow sleet ice pellets.

LOL@ no shrinkage and welcome home! Sharlene :)

[molly muffin]

Hey Vicki! Okay so did you get the ultrasounds? What did they show? Do we have shrinkage???????

Hope you are staying warm and not getting too bad of weather. It sure has been hitting some areas bad this year!

hugs

[beaglemom3]

Hi Sharlene, sorry I haven't updated but unfortunately nothing to report because we had to cancel 2 or 3 more times due to treacherous weather and had it scheduled again for this Monday, tomorrow and unbelievable we are having an ice and snowstorm right now continuing into tomorrow :(

I tried getting the US Dr to do it last Wed. instead of last Monday but she said do it tomorrow and now we cant go again :( They are 2 months overdue for this test and its upsetting me.

[molly muffin]

Oh I don't blame you. I'd be upset too, but I wouldn't be going out in nasty ice storms either.

I really dislike winters. I told my IMS, look if the weather is bad, we just aren't going to chance it.
Still I know it makes you a nervous wreck. :(

hugs

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Sharlene! You understand so well

[Squirt's Mom]

Goodness, you really have had a time up there this year. :( Hopefully this is the last blast and ya'll will start to see some thawing soon. I can imagine how stressful it is not being able to get this US done and see what's going on. The boys have done so well this far so keep faith they have continued along that same avenue. Sooo many times Squirt needed testing and I simply couldn't do it....and it worried me no end that something horrible was going on and I wouldn't recognize it in time. But she was always fine while I was always a wreck til that testing could be managed. Take a deep breath, you are doing a stupendous job with all that you can control...we just can't control the weather - usually. ;)

[beaglemom3]

exactly! Leslie you understand perfectly as well. My dad's knee is hurting him so he can't take me Monday But somehow, some way I will get my boys there Monday.
(I don't /can'tdrive due to my inner ear disease)

[judymaggie]

Vicki--were you able to get the boys in to have their ultrasounds?

[beaglemom3]

Thanks so much for asking, Ive been too upset to post.
My vet didn't come in today due to a death in his family and when I called last night to confirmed they were booked for the US I was told that and no vet would be in at 8 am to give Brando his IV sedation (he doesn't keep still enough for a good test) So I cancelled again.

Is it me or is something telling me not to get them their ultrasounds, this is the 6th or 7th week in a row something happened that it had to be cancelled.
Im starting to feel superstitious.

[judymaggie]

It really has been one thing after another, hasn't it! Thank goodness you called to confirm or you might have made an unnecessary trip. I'm not superstitious for myself but am always hesitant to say Abbie (and Maggie before her) is doing well because, inevitably, something negative comes up!

[molly muffin]

Oh Vicki. I am so sorry the ultrasound had to be cancelled again. Did they reschedule?
I know you are upset. I would be too. They should have called you as son as they knew to reschedule. Grrrrr

Big hugs

[Squirt's Mom]

A warm jet stream is coming up from the south now and headed your way so all this nasty snow and ice is going to melt very soon and the boys will get their ultrasounds at last. I know it's hard, our minds create all sorts of things when we can't get solid answers to our concerns, but try to take a deep breath and simply enjoy spending time with them....and doing all you do on a daily basis, which is mind-blowing, by the way! ;)

Sending lots of hugs and belly rubs,
Leslie and the gang

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Sharlene and Leslie!
This week is out my husband is working Monday and my dads knee is painful and swollen. So right now it looks like Monday march 23rd. I hate my inner ear disease leaving me always to rely on others to drive me places Makes me so angry and frustrated.

Access a ride will let me with them but in crates, my beagles are not small guys, 16 inches tall and no way could I carry them in 2 crates (30 pounds a piece plus the weight of each crate and they probably both wont fit into the back seat. :(

[beaglemom3]

Here are recent pics of Snugs (2 days ago)not sharing his new toys,:eek:
http://s1102.photobucket.com/user/Vicki-615/slideshow/Snuggles%20Wont%20Share

and Here's a short video of them both taken 2 days ago
http://vid1102.photobucket.com/albums/g459/Vicki-615/Snuggles%20Wont%20Share/2015-03-14%2012.48.33_zpsyxubae9j.mp4

[molly muffin]

Awww they both look good. And Snuggs playing with his toys. Adorable.
Would a taxi let them in without crates? Drat I know how frustrated you must be. Hopefully everything will come together for you soon.

Hugs

[judymaggie]

Loved the pics and video--Brando's eyes are spectacular!

[beaglemom3]

Thanks! Sharlene and Judy Today is Brando's 15th Birthday! I am so excited to be celebrating it with the loves of my life! God willing and I pray so hard Snugs will turn 16 in 5 months.
I am so blessed to have them with me.
Happy Birthday to Brando..my sweet sweet lovable gentle little boy. I love you with all my heart.. and then some.

[Squirt's Mom]

Happy 15th Birthday, Brando!

[beaglemom3]

Thank you! Leslie :)

[judymaggie]

Happy, Happy Birthday, Brando!

From

Your Beagle Friend, Abbie

[beaglemom3]

aww thank you! Judy :)

[molly muffin]

Happy Birthday, Brando.

Party on dude!

[beaglemom3]

Thank you! Sharlene :) Im tickled pink! given what we have been through and still going through.

[molly muffin]

I'm pretty tickled for you to. Pink even! Though don't say that to Brando or Snuggs though, that being a girly color. Can one be tickled green? Why yes you certainly can on St. Patricks day!
Brando is our very own St. Patricks mascot. here here!

Can't wait to celebrate Snuggs birthday in 5 months too. :)

huggers

[beaglemom3]

aww thanks so much! Sharlene, I hope all is going well today!!

[molly muffin]

Yes, today went fine. I'll go update her thread right now!

Thanks Vicki!

[beaglemom3]

I just read your update and posted in your thread.

Finally we had my boys US done. I am waiting for preliminary tumor measurements today but written report will done probably next week.
Our vet told me that Snugs tumor appeared slightly bigger than last time and they saw the invasion of the vena cava clearly. Snugs congestive heart disease did not get worse but his bladder look muttled (I think that's the word he used)so they did a urine test and culture I will get that and his blood work back today. We are checking his kidneys especially due to the enalapril he is on for High BP.

Branny's tumor was not changed in size and his heart is pumping a bit better, but ofc all of this isn't written in stone until we read the written report and she compares them with their last report.

We also had blood work done for Branny due to his elevated kidney levels from the enalapril. Will get those back today as well.

Our vet said from what he saw for both Snugs and Bran was a winning situation since no major differences were seen, but again we will know for sure once the sonographer compares the last US with her readings of yesterday and I get the report.

It took a big toll on my boys and I am going to ask my vet if we do not do anymore US for awhile unless either of my boys show symptoms or signs out of the normal.

Snugs is going on 16 and Branny was just 15 and I think it's causing them too much stress, in fact they refused to clean their ears and cut their nails due to how stressed my boys were, they felt they went through too much already for the day.

Snugs seems to have bounced back okay today but my sweet Brando is still not himself from the ordeal yesterday.

[beaglemom3]

Just got off the phone with our vet.
I wont have the written report for a few days but the tumor measurements are good, Snugs went from 2.9 cm in January to 2.8 cm yesterday but with invasion of the vena cava but no more invasion than before. His kidney and liver values are fine. His congestive heart disease is the same not worse.
His urine tests shows no bacteria.


Brando's tumor measures are the about same 2.40 cm in Jan 2.45 cm yesterday with no invasion of the vena cava. Brando kidney values are good his liver is slightly elevated, but vet feels to do nothing at this point unless he starts vomiting.
Brando's congestive heart disease is about the same with a slight improvement.

All in all 2 good reports considering, unless the written report shows something else.

Our vet agrees every 3 months is too much, we will wait 6 months unless they exhibit symptoms of any kind.

[beaglemom3]

hmm I just got the blood work faxed and Brando's platelets are very low 60 in Jan they were normal range 282, he didn't mention anything about this, I just emailed him about it ...waiting for an answer.

[Squirt's Mom]

Sounds like good reports all in all for both boys! I am so glad! And I am glad they agree to wait a bit longer for the next US, too. Bless their hearts.

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Leslie, I am very concerned about Brando's platelet count although I don't know if I should be, still waiting for a response, but it seems very low to me :(

[beaglemom3]

vet called and said not to worry, since he doesn't have a bleeding problem and the numbers can jump up and down depending when its being taken.

[molly muffin]

That is good to hear Vicki. I'll tell you I started reading, then had to go look up low platelets and sometimes Mr. Google can scare the bejebees out of you. LOL

So, not bad for the ultrasounds. They have a lot going on with them and sounds like they are both stable. Snugs has had invasion of the vena cava for quite awhile right?

Everything seems to effect everything else, treat one thing and you have to watch for something else due to the treatment. Kidneys, liver, etc It's exhausting some days.

Glad the report was good. I think you'll want to have the platelets rechecked though at some point, just to ease your mind. Then if they are normal, you'll feel better.

hugs

[beaglemom3]

lol yeah I refuse to check Mr google on low platelets I have an idea and don't wanna know. But I agree I want them rechecked. Brando is acting fine so that's a good thing and he's coming around more back to himself from yesterdays ordeal. He barked his head off while I prepare his dinner.
HUGS!

[judymaggie]

Vicki -- sounds like, overall, stable ultrasound results. Hugs all around!

[Squirt's Mom]

Good to hear the vet's report! YAY!

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Judy and Leslie!

I did just look up reasons for low platelets and Branny doesn't seem to have any of the symptoms I especially read through about leukemia there was a long list of symptoms and he does not have any of them Thank God. I hope my vet is right.

[Trish]

Hi Vicki

Here to celebrate no growth in those tumours too!! Yay!! :) I agree 6 months would be fine, if anything cropped up that worried you then you could schedule earlier. Hugs for Branny and Snugs xxxxx

[molly muffin]

Yooo hoooo Vicki! How are you doing? Hows Brando and Snuggs? Hope all is well.

huggers

[beaglemom3]

Thanks Trish! I am glad you agree, that helps :)
Hiya Sharlene :) Sorry life has been hectic but my boys so far Thank God doing well. We are all enjoying the beautiful weather and spending a lot of time outdoors. Being scent hounds they get such pleasure sniffing around and I want them to do that as much as possible since the weather is sooo lovely
Here is a pic of my boys in their backyard I took the a couple of days ago, you can see 2 little beagle butts in the pic LOL

https://www.dropbox.com/s/g307gcd14e848kl/2015-05-06%2010.44.40.jpg?dl=0

I started a gofundme site, vet bills have become overwhelming but my boys will get everything they need and then some, but its at the point I am buried in debt but that won't stop me from giving them everything as always.

I hope all is well with everyone and their babies. I will catch up on everyone's thread over the weekend.

[molly muffin]

So great to hear the boys are doing so well. What a great couple guys. I see wiggle butts in that picture. :)

The bills associated with cushings can just be astronomical. I definitely sympathize.

[Trish]

Love the wiggle butt pic too, on our walks I always let the boy stop and sniff they get such joy out of it don't they and is how they catch up on the neighbourhood doggy news :D Hope all well in your neck of the woods Vicki x

[beaglemom3]

Hiya Trish! Things are ok kinda. Snuggles leg got a bad infection right by his elbow called a hygroma. Our vet wanted to run blood work to make sure it wasn't a systemic infection. Which it wasn't thank goodness but his potassium was high so he ran more blood work to check for Addisons Disease, it came back normal, but I brought urine in today and he will be testing his cortisol to creatinine ratio.

Besides this both boys are acting fine God Bless them.

But I also wanted to share with the forums 2 very interesting studies I just came across, on pheo's

If yoyu recall that unqiue urine test we had done on Snugs and Bran to determine if their tumors were pheo's It is now on pubmed Stating its a reliable way to determine phoes and better than plasma testing

It was just published in April
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25818214

Also this is other study quite exciting IMO in the fact no anesthesia required and its ultrasound.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25255177

Use of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography to characterize adrenal gland tumors in dogs.

Pey P1, Rossi F, Vignoli M, Duchateau L, Marescaux L, Saunders JH.



Author information



Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To describe the contrast-enhanced ultrasonographic characteristics and vascular patterns of adrenal gland tumors in dogs and determine whether those features are indicative of malignancy or histologic type of tumor.

ANIMALS:

14 dogs with 16 adrenal gland lesions (10 carcinomas [8 dogs], 3 adenomas [3 dogs], and 3 pheochromocytomas [3 dogs]).

PROCEDURES:

Unsedated dogs with adrenal gland lesions underwent B-mode ultrasonography and contrast-enhanced ultrasonography ≤ 48 hours before adrenalectomy; contrast-enhanced ultrasonographic examinations were video-recorded. Macroscopic evaluation of the adrenal gland lesions and histologic examination of removed adrenal gland tissues were subsequently performed. Surgical and histopathologic findings and the ultrasonographic and contrast-enhanced ultrasonographic characteristics were recorded for the various tumor types. Time-intensity curves were generated from the contrast-enhanced ultrasonographic recordings and used to calculate regional blood volume (value proportional to area under the curve) and mean transit time (time the lesion began to enhance to the half-peak intensity).

RESULTS:

In adrenal gland carcinomas, tortuous feeding vessels were noticeable during the arterial and venous phases of contrast enhancement. Heterogeneity of contrast enhancement was evident only in malignant tumors. Compared with adenomas, adrenal gland carcinomas and pheochromocytomas had significantly less regional blood volume. Mean transit times were significantly shorter in adrenal gland carcinomas and pheochromocytomas than in adenomas.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE:

For dogs, evaluation of the vascular pattern and contrast-enhancement characteristics of adrenal gland tumors by means of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography may be useful in assessment of malignancy and tumor type.

I hope everyone and their babies are doing well
HUGS!

[Squirt's Mom]

I'm so glad that infection wasn't systemic! I know that was a huge relief! Very interesting info on the pheo testing, too! Thanks for sharing!

[beaglemom3]

Thanks! Leslie me too!
I just printed out his urine test results but my vet isn't in today he will go over them with me tomorrow.

But he has given me his login to the lab months ago so I can access any of my boys blood work or urines tests any time I want :)

the ratio was out of normal range..high but I wanna see what he says because it is lower than it was back in 11/13.

[molly muffin]

Geee Snuggs, and infection, tsk tsk. Glad that is clearing up.

That was very interesting article about the pheo testing. There just hadn't bee much in the way of studies and comparisons to be made back when you had the test done. I think Michigan was it? was the only one.

nice about the ultrasound too as ever bit of information helps.

Big hugs to you and scritches to the boys.

[beaglemom3]

Hi Sharlene :) The test was given in WI.

Snugs has Cushing's now as well as that pheo :(

[judymaggie]

Hi, Vicki! Just checking on you and your pups -- hope you are all doing well!

[beaglemom3]

Hi Judy,
Thanks so much for asking. My boys are still doing well considering, they are truly amazing boys.
We had another US done a month ago and tumors did not grow, they are the same size and Snugs heart actually got a bit smaller.

They are eating well, and Snugs is active as always.

My Snuggles turned 16! on Aug 10th.

Here is a video I took on his birthday
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQfW9E1HqKc

I hope you and everyone is good and everyone's babies are doing well

[judymaggie]

A belated happy birthday to Snuggles! :D. Loved his video--my first beagle, Maggie, didn't play with toys but always tried to "bury" her biscuits.

[beaglemom3]

hehe thank you! Snugs was diagnosed with the pheo when he was 14, 2 years later he's still going strong, God Bless him!

[mytil]

Thank you so much for sharing the video!! - He looks very good for 16 - Actually both do! I love that he picked the largest toy and tried to hide it --- very proud of himself :) Happy belated Birthday big boy!!

Terry

[beaglemom3]

Hiya Terri, thank you so much! Snugs is something else! Brando is doing and looking great as well and as sweet as always, he will be 16 March 17th..God willing

[molly muffin]

Awww, love the video. Those are some special boys you got there. :)

Wonderful to hear how good they are both doing.

hugs!!!

[judymaggie]

Vicki -- I haven't seen any updates in a while. Am hoping you and your pups are doing well. Let us know!

[beaglemom3]

Hi Judy, Thanks so much for asking about us. I know I havent posted in a long time but I am thrilled to tell everyone Brando turned 16 in March and God willing in 1 month Snugs will turn 17!

They have their issues as you all know but my boys are doing well under the circumstances.

Their back legs are weaker so I don't use pet steps anymore for them to get on the couch, I bought beds and put them around the house so they can snuggle up wherever and whenever they want. Both need to wear diapers due to dribbling issues but that's okay as long as they are happy and eat, drink, pee, poop, wag their tails and still get into a bit of mischief I am thrilled.

Here is a picture of Brando on hos 16th Birthday on March 17th
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/6233450/branny16bday.jpg
and here are both boys snuggling on the couch taken in January of this year
https://www.dropbox.com/s/p91ypz1f8w7rycy/2016-01-30%2013.28.05.jpg?dl=0

I hope everyone and their babies are doing well! HUGS

[judymaggie]

Vicki -- it is great to hear from you and with a pretty darn good update!

BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO BRANDO!! :D:D:D:D

Hugs and big a-r-o-o-s to both Brando and Snugs from Abbie and I!

[kanga]

Hello welcome to the forum!

Sorry to hear about what happen, hope you find some good information soon. I pray for you and your doggy

[beaglemom3]

Thanks so much Judy! HUGS

Thanks kanga I've been a member for a couple of years but thank you

[molly muffin]

Totally love the picture of the boys laying side by side. That is how I always think of them. :)

HUGS! Vicki

[Allison]

Brando and Snugs look super sweet! I hope they've enjoyed their summer. Good to hear their doing well for their age.

[Squirt's Mom]

With the deepest sadness and his mom's permission, I wanted to let you know that on July 30th Snuggles crossed The Bridge. He had become ill and when she knew that this time he couldn't win, Vicki held Snugs in her arms and set him free from his failing body. Snugs would have been 17 years old on Aug. 10th, a long and wonderful life with his mom and brother, Brando. Vicki is devastated at the loss of her beloved baby boy and simply cannot talk yet but wanted her family here to know.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Brando always, Vicki.
Leslie, Trinket, Sophie, Fox and all our angels



May you know that absence is full

Of tender presence and that

Nothing is ever lost or forgotten.

May the absences in your life be full of eternal echo.

May you sense around you the secret

Elsewhere which holds the presences

That have left your life.

May you be generous in your embrace of loss.

May the sore of your grief turn into a well

Of seamless presence.

May your compassion reach out to the ones

We never hear from and may you have

The courage to speak out for the excluded ones.

May you become the gracious

And passionate subject of your own life.

May you not disrespect your mystery

Through brittle words or false belonging.

May you be embraced by God in whom

Dawn and twilight are one and may

Your longing inhabit its deepest dreams

Within the shelter of the Great Belonging.

From John O’Donohue’s Eternal Echoes-Exploring our Hunger to Belong

[DoxieMama]

I am so sorry for your loss.

[judymaggie]

My heart is sad with Snuggles passing -- he made it through so many wonderful as well as difficult times and Vicki and Brando were by his side all the time. If you speak with Vicki, please tell her that we are right by her side during this difficult time.

[Joan2517]

So sorry to hear of Snuggles passing....

[Tina]

Vicki, I am so sorry to read that Snugs has passed. What a long and happy life he had with you, but I know that is little consolation at this very difficult time. My deepest sympathy, and hugs to you and Brando.

Tina xo

[Allison]

Vicki, hugs. I'm so sorry for your loss of Snugs. He fought hard and had a good life with you. My thoughts are with you.

[molly muffin]

It was totally heartbreaking to read of Snugs passing. Your poor heart I know is broken and I am sure many others are also broken, Brando and the rest of the family and friends who knew him so well.

Big hugs Vicki. :(

[budindian]

So sorry, its never easy to loose the ones we hold so near and dear.

[beaglemom3]

Thank you all so much for your condolences. I am having a very difficult time learning how to live without my precious boy. He was and is my heart dog. He made my life so incredibly wonderful. He filled it with laughter, joy and omg so much love. He was my dog as he made sure everyone knew that. He was so funny, my little clown. He filled the air with electricity, he was such a happy, life loving precious boy. Snuggie was the perpetual puppy. Being almost 17 and dealing with several medical issues never got him down or slowed him down. The day it did, we knew it was time. Our vet ran many tests and ultrasounds and no matter what they did for him those 3 days he wasn't rebounding.

My precious boy never suffered, I would not allow that. He was sleeping for those 3 days and did not appear in any discomfort. His blood count kept going down, they saw fluid in his stoamch and the biopsy came back with lymphoma. We knew there was nothing more we could do. My miracle boy ran out of miracles.

My heart is shattered and will be for a very long time. Snuggles was my everything.

Brando is holding his own. He now has seizures but the Kepra is controlling the grand mals. He does get occualr seizures often but it doesn't seem to have any negative effects once it passes. His third eyelid covers his eyes and he can't see, when it happens so I pick him up and carry him into his crate. He falls asleep and hours later the episode passes.

Branny misses his brother very very much. Brando is the sweetest little boy I have ever met. He is almost 17 years old and I never heard him growl. He is gentle and incredibly lovable. His appetite is good and he goes potty fine, although he does wear doggie diapers.
I am so thankful he is with us and I love him so much!

[molly muffin]

My dearest Vicki. It is so hard to miss them so much. I am sure Brando is feeling sad too poor guy. They where a team for so long.
Sending you tons of love and hugs.

[beaglemom3]

thank you Sharlene. I know you are going through the same agony as I am. I'm so sorry we both have too. Someone said to me, we take the pain so they don't have too, is so very true. And our immense pain is because we love them so incredibly much HUGS Dear Sharlene.

[judymaggie]

Vicki -- my heart goes out to you. I am sure that Cuddles, my Maggie as well as so many other Cush angels have all taken very good care of Snuggles. Please give Brando a gentle hug from me and Abbie.

[beaglemom3]

thank you so much Judy I so appreciate it and will definitely give Branny a hug from you, he such a little sweetheart! HUGS!!

[molly muffin]

Hi Vicki. Just sending you great big hugs!!

[beaglemom3]

aww thank you! sending you comforting hugs right back! (((())))

[Squirt's Mom]

How is Branny this morning? I so hope he was able to rest last nite, and you too, and that he is feeling stronger this morning.

Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[beaglemom3]

thanks for asking Leslie, his back seems to be better than yesterday but he has trouble getting up still but once hes up he walks more or less ok. but he woke up with an ocular seizure and its been lingering on and off all day. so I have kept him in his crate most of the day because he cant see when it happens :(

[molly muffin]

Poor dear Brando. I hope he is doing better now.

[beaglemom3]

Hi Sharlene thanks so much for asking yes he's walking fine now and the ocular seizure passed. He so adorable I made him a hamburger for dinner and he gets so excited and ate it all with such gusto.

I know he gets tired of his kidney support food so once or twice a week I make him a hamburger for dinner. As soon as I take the pot out to boil the patty he knows its for him.

[molly muffin]

Brando continuing to do okay? no more issues of not being able to stand up?

[beaglemom3]

So far no more walking or standing issues thank goodness!
I think it was his back.
Thanks so much for caring Sharlene HUGS!

[molly muffin]

Whew, thanks for the update Vicki. I worry more about Brando now it seems, so always checking out how he is doing.

:) Hugs back atcha!

[Squirt's Mom]

I changed the title and posted in the In Loving Memory thread for Vicki. Our precious Brando passed away on Jan 2, 2017. Vicki has not been able to talk much about her boys since and simply cannot come here to post. But she wanted everyone to know her sweet boys are together again.

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Vicki,

I am so, so sorry for the loss of your beloved Brando and my heart goes out to you. We are here for you whenever you should need us and we always will be. Sending my heartfelt sympathy, love, and consoling hugs, Lori

[molly muffin]

I was so very very sad to hear that Brando had passed. Just broke my heart for you. Those two where certainly the pair. just sending you big hugs Vicki.

[beaglemom3]

Thank you Lori and Sharlene. It's been extremely hard on me losing both boys 5 months apart and found it so incredibly difficult to post about it. I was in a deep dark depression from my grief and everyday was like knives stabbing me in my heart.

An adorable loving affectionate adoring lovable little boy came into my life 3 months ago and is helping healing my heart. I feel Snugs and Bran are with me through Ryder. He is so much like both of them it's amazing in the things he does and acts.
I still cry over my boys and miss them beyond words, but Ryder gives me so much joy and love I know my boys sent him to me.

Ryder became part of my family 3 months ago when he was almost 8 months old. July 5th my baby will be 1 years old.

I am happy to introduce my new baby, my new love, Ryder.
http://s1102.photobucket.com/user/Vicki-615/slideshow/Ryder-2

[DoxieMama]

My condolences for your loss, but so grateful you've found a new love in Ryder.

Speaking of....PUPPY!!! :D:D He is absolutely adorable. Congratulations!

[molly muffin]

Ryder is absolutely adorable! I so love to see how well he is doing with you. Not that there was ever any doubt.
I know how much you miss Brando and Snuggs. There were a team if there ever was one.

Big hugs Vicki!

[beaglemom3]

Thanks so much Sharlene and DoxieMama I appreciate your condolences and well wishes!

[judymaggie]

Vicki -- I am so, so glad that Ryder has come into your life at just the right time. I agree that Snugs and Brando had something to do with that. Ryder is so handsome and has great conformation -- future show dog? Abbie sends Ryder a big A-R-O-O to welcome him.

[beaglemom3]

Thank you Judy :) He is bred by one of the top beagle breeders who breeds show dogs and Ryder was picked from the littler to be the one who would show. But then the breeder fell ill and could not do what was needed and Ryder did not have much of a puppyhood because of that. So although he is a gorgeous pup and as sweet and loving as he is handsome there is no showing in his future. He will just be my baby and my new best friend, which is what Ryder and I need.

Just realize I need to change my signature..this will be heartbreaking.
Ryder sends kisses to Abbie, because so far not 1 arooo but constant wagging tail and I get tons of kisses. I do hope he does start to aroooo that sound is music to my ears.

[Joan2517]

He is so cute! I feel the same about my Sibbles...she can never replace Lena, but I adore her!

[beaglemom3]

Hi Joan, thank you :) You're right. No dog replaces another but it is amazing how much love our hearts can hold. I have fell head over heels in love with all of my boys including Ryder. He is a very special little boy who has stolen my heart from day one which really helps me with my grief over Snuggles and Brando. and Snuggie did the same for me when I lost my precious Cuddles.

[Harley PoMMom]

Congratulations on the new addition to your family! OMG, He absolutely adorable!!!!!.

[Budsters Mom]

Welcome Ryder!! I love the photo with purple bear. :p Puppies can help heal broken hearts.

My next door neighbor has a new Havanese puppy. I have been going over to play/potty him a couple times a day while they are at work. Sooo adorable.

[beaglemom3]

Congratulations on the new addition to your family! OMG, He absolutely adorable!!!!!.

Aww thank you! He is as loving as he is cute :)

[Squirt's Mom]

You know we love this boy at our house! :) So glad you finally got him home and things are going so good!