Lulu 11 y.o. Pom has gone over the Rainbow Bridge to meet Jojo

Glynda - sending lots of love and positive vibes your way friend. Kim

Okay, so where do I start? :confused:

About a month after moving into our new home, Lulu and Jojo were not eating with their usual vim and vigor and just not acting right so I put them on a Lysodren holiday. They've been off for quite a while now and still not eating like an uncontrolled cushdog. I took them in for a stim test and blood glucose test on Wednesday. Glucose was good and Lulu's stim results were pre 2.2 and post 9.2 and Jojo is 2.4 and 8.4.

I had my rescue vet do the stims because it's half the price of the specialist. Unfortunately and despite the fact he claims to treat cushdogs, he is clueless as to how to monitor treatment. He told me it was not necessary to restart the Lysodren and to have another stim done in six months. I tried to explain that the normal lab reference ranges are irrelevant in monitoring treatment but he didn't get it. :D I gave up but plan on giving him some reading material because if he is treating cushdogs, he needs to get with the program and follow protocol. Actually, I think he needs to take some major continuing education on endocrine disorders.

I'm going to call the IMS and ask for direction because neither dog is eating with enough unbridled passion for me to feel comfortable with doing a mini load or restart maintenance at an increased dose. I'm also not sure that despite having been off of Lysodren for almost two months that Trilostane would be a good idea either. My concern was if I didn't get their post cortisol under control, diabetes could rear its ugly head so was happy to hear that blood glucose was good. I delayed doing senior panels until I got the results of the stim tests because if post stim levels were high enough (in the 20's), the usual blood and urine abnormalities would be evident. I'm thinking that I'll take them to the IMS and have that done in the next week or two.

I took the two Maltese boys on Wednesday too to have senior panels and xrays to check their hearts. Both were worse which I already knew as both have been coughing more. Jasper is the worst and despite adding more and more meds, the heart has gotten larger and the trachea is being compressed (trachea stenosis). There was a marked difference in the size of the heart and the changes in the trachea when comparing imaging done in June to the new xray so I am worried. He's on enalapril, theophyllin, lasix and have just added Pimobendin. Buster's heart condition has worsened and we've put him on full blown heart meds now. Both boys had a UTI with crystals so both are on antibiotics.

That's it for now except that as soon as I got home from the vet's office, I couldn't find Jasper, who had been barking at the neighbors big dog behind us. I've never been inside the maze of foliage on the back fence so I was unaware that there are vines everywhere. I was concerned that he had found a hole in the fence and had gotten out but I found him still on our side of the fence with vines wrapped around his neck strangulating him. Had I found him minutes later, I have no doubt he would have been dead. The adrenalin kicked in and I have no idea how I managed to rip the vines off of his neck but when all was said and done, my knees gave out and I couldn't stop shaking. I had major oral surgery on Monday, was taking some pretty stiff drugs and was told to not do stuff that required that I drop my head down. My head was definitely down and I found out why I should keep my head up. To say I was woozy would be an understatement and the congestion after that was very painful. Jasper was very quiet for about ten minutes and then came back to life. The poor guy has already had problems breathing and I'm hoping the vines didn't do more damage. I thank God that I found my boy in time.

Oh, Glynda! How scary for you and Jasper! :eek: Bless his heart, bet he had no idea what had gotten hold of him and was scared to pieces! I am so glad you got home and found him when you did. Is he showing any increased distress with his breathing since this happened? That couldn't have been good on the trachea!

I had a cat once who got his head stuck in one of the little diamonds formed by chain-link fencing. He must have been running from something and run smack dab into the fence and couldn't get back out. He had spun around and around so much trying to get loose his neck was bleeding. I will never forget seeing the bushes there moving in such an odd manner and then seeing Apple.

Good thing you know more than the vet you saw tho it is sad that is the case. Odd you aren't seeing more signs, tho. Looking forward to seeing what the IMS thinks...I would be lost as a goose!

I hope the new meds help the boys start feeling better and that Lulu and Jojo start eating better. I'm sure you've tried all the stinky tricks so I won't bore you. :D

Hugs and love,
Leslie and the gang

OMG Thank God you found him:eek::eek: Funny how that protective mother instinct just takes over and we react without thinking. Good thing we have it.

I worry about diabetes too. I am glad their blood glucose checked out okay.

Take care of yourself.

love,
addy

Wow... always something heh? No doubt maternal instincts took over and you could have lifted a car if need be. Glad you saved Jasper! Don't blame you for holdling off on lysodren.. surprised the cortisol isn't higher. Weird that they BOTH are experiencing the same issues.

The story about the vines on the fence reminds me of my two little 'chits' when i lived in Florida - chain link fence on both sides with HEAVY foliage that was ten feet high. I found out the two were escaping daily while I was at work (there was a doggie door so they could go out) and hitting up the local construction sites/crew for food... which they got every day. Then the crew brought them home to my yard but I didn't know this was happening!

Anyway... once I figured it out one Friday night my brother and I decided to trick the suckers ... we acted like we were leaving the house.. we each grabbed a beer and one of us stood on each side of the house. Before long the two of them were OUTSIDE so we knew which side the issue was on but not where.

So we took them inside and repeated this , this time watching from the neighbors yard. We were shocked to find out that these mini schnauzers were escaping thru a 4 inch hole that was almost 2 feet off the ground. :D End of lunches with the construction crew.

Give all the babes big hugs from me Glynda. I don't know how you keep up. But I"m glad you do! Hope you are healing up ok. Kim

Glynda that is so scary. I'm so glad you and Jasper are ok. Judi

Glynda,

Lucky you found him so quick. It is a bit scary how much trouble these little ones can get into with things you would think were safe. Sorry you had to find out that the docs were right saying to keep your head elevated.:(

Jenny

Glynda

- thank God Jasper is ok!!! - I feel so bad for you - I hope you will feel better soon!!!! love and big hugs to you and the pups!!! xoxo

Hi Glynda-
I'm so glad to hear Jasper is okay! That is really scary... I hope you're feeling better, as well. I don't have advice for you about your Cush dogs, but it does sound like the vet needs to read up a little!

Take care,
Julie & Hannah

Thank you all for your kind words. Jasper and I are doing okay. He got groomed yesterday and looks fabulous. I did as best I could with my grooming but as of yesterday, people were still staring. I look like something out of a freak show. The right side of my face looks human and the left like a black masked English Mastiff, with the biggest hanging jowl you've ever seen. It's very weird that the surgery was on my upper jaw yet the major bruising and swelling is in the lower jaw. I think that's because my face started falling a number of years ago and the bruising and swelling has taken a week to hit bottom. :D

Quote:

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Originally Posted by frijole

we each grabbed a beer and one of us stood on each side of the house. Before long the two of them were OUTSIDE so we knew which side the issue was on but not where.

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Thank goodness for beer and it's clue enhancing abilities. Without it, you and your brother could have stood out there for days on end without getting a clue. :D:p:D By the way, are the little imps in this story our very own sweet, innocent Annie and Haley?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by lulusmom

Thank you all for your kind words. Jasper and I are doing okay. He got groomed yesterday and looks fabulous. I did as best I could with my grooming but as of yesterday, people were still staring. I look like something out of a freak show. The right side of my face looks human and the left like a black masked English Mastiff, with the biggest hanging jowl you've ever seen. It's very weird that the surgery was on my upper jaw yet the major bruising and swelling is in the lower jaw. I think that's because my face started falling a number of years ago and the bruising and swelling has taken a week to hit bottom. :D



Thank goodness for beer and it's clue enhancing abilities. Without it, you and your brother could have stood out there for days on end without getting a clue. :D:p:D By the way, are the little imps in this story our very own sweet, innocent Annie and Haley?

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Yep. :D

Glynda your jaw sounds so painful. Maybe you need some beer or wine to help medicate? Don't worry how it looks.. people no doubt will assume your husband beats you. :D

Glynda to Jasper's rescue! What a close call, glad the Little guy pulled through that one, and you as well. You are one tough crazy cookie Glynda. I think had it been my jaw, it would have not only dropped, but fallen out of its socket.:D. You still manage to crack me up, even when you're in pain, really!

Take care of you and that jaw...and the babes.

Xo Jeanette

Glynda-
Boy you sure have your hands full. I was wondering today what it would have been like and how Palmer would have felt, if we had two pups. I don't think I could do it.....I have my hands full with Bailey.

Kim-
what a hoot about the dogs and the workmen! I'm not sure of the relevance of the beers.....was that just so you'd be refreshed while you waited? I'm glad they were friendly construction guys.

-Susan

Wow, just saw this Glynda - what a scare. Poor little doggie. I am sure he was very scared too. I am glad he is okay.

Terry

I found this quite by accident but I'm sure glad I did. I swear I felt a flash of terror myself just reading this. Thank god everyone is ok. What a horrible thing to go through on all counts. It's not fair when too many things happen at once. Prayers and hugs. Hang in there.

Wow Glynda... what a nightmare with Jasper! And I'm terribly sorry that your surgery is having so unpleasant side effects!

Maybe you could make up a good story to regale people with involving you taking on a burglar or a dog abuser and coming out the victor and far less beat up than the bad person! Bruises like that should have a story to go with them!

Natalie

checking in on you......and jasper.........everyone doing okay????
you know...reminds me of that movie that Mark Wahlberg was in...folage or something i dont know....silly movie but hey mark wahblerg was in it. take care. (((((hugs))))

Jasper is okay as long as I can keep him from getting excited. When I get home from work, he gets really excited, runs all over the backyard and starts coughing. Everybody should be that happy to see me coming. :D I went to work today and most folks were respectful and didn't stare too much.

Nat, the drugs have dulled my senses and I have not been that fast on my feet. I wish I would have thought about spinning a self serving yarn that would have made me look like a hero rather than a freak with deteriorating jaw bones. :D

Who is Mark Wahlberg? What can I say? I don't get out much.

Thinking of you-

Wishing all of you a Merry Christmas love and hugs xoxo

Thanks, Cindy! Merry Christmas and lots of love and huge hugs to you and yours too.

Been a long time since you posted here. Is everything ok? Is Jasper ok?

Janis, I wish I could say yes to your question but very few things are okay around here. Jasper has gotten so bad that I can no longer rescue dogs and foster them here because we have to keep him very calm. He's still a very happy guy but when he gets the least bit excited, he starts to hack, cough and wheeze. Between the enlarged heart and the collapsing trachea he has a tough time doing more than a leisurely walk around the yard and a few barks to let the neighbor dogs know he's still here. I've shed many tears holding him and wondering how long we have left together.

Lulu and Jojo have been off of Lysodren for about four months. The last stim showed cortisol a bit high and the specialist suggested we wait until the next stim and see where we are before starting treatment again. Jojo is actually perkier because the high cortisol medicates his arthritis. His tail is up and he actually bounces down the driveway to meet me when I come home. I realize that won't last and will have to get him back on treatment but I'm going to wait until I really need to.

Lulu is eating like a pig again and drinking more water so I think it's time she get back on treatment, after I can scrape up the money for a stim test. Otherwise, she's doing good and is the same little trooper she's always been.

I've been convinced for several months now that Buster has cushing's but because he wasn't drinking anymore than usual, I put off testing for it. Sadly, he is now guzzling water, peeing buckets and begging for food all the time. His coat and skin are still okay but we have had a recent UTI and some yeast problems. I hope to get a urine specimen to the vet for a UC:CR in the next week or so.

As for us humans, we ain't doing too good either. Gil hurt his back last Friday lifting boxes in the garage and was moaning and groaning for a few days. My back went out shortly after that and got so bad that Gil had to help me out of bed Wednesday morning. He had to stay home from work to take me to the doctor. I've been hobbling around like a 100 year old woman since then but I did get some really great pain meds that help. The one good thing about being home these few days is I was able to let the plumbers in to fix the plumbing after our kithen sinks backed up. Most people get a $49 rooter job but not us. Our new, old historical home needed the entire waste drainage system replaced. The sinks and our bank account drained perfectly after repairs costing $3000. So much for acth stimulation tests.

Now aren't you glad you asked, Janis? :D:p:D

I am indeed as superizing as that may seem. Gives us a chance to say we care, give you those badly needed hugs and wish for you better days soon.

Closing my eyes and wishing!

(((((((((hugs))))))))) for all of you!

Hi Glynda....have been wondering how you guys are doing so am glad Janis asked....but I'm sorry to hear about how things are going!Will put these things on my prayer list....strength will be near the top.
(((HUGS))) for all of you....
Jo-Ann

Our Dear and Sweet Glynda,

I am so terribly sorry to hear this news. You and Gil are such wonderful and loving people and I do so hope things turn around for you both.

Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Sending huge and loving hugs,
Lori

Glynda

So sorry things with the pups, you and Gil haven't been going well. You are always there for us so I am here for you .... Sending you lots of feel better wishes, support, strength, prayers and big tight hugs....

Xoxoxoxo

Ok, ya'll have had your "comes in threes" now so things are gonna start looking up. ;)

You do so much for others all the time, Glynda, you and Gil both. A new house is always stressful and even tho it is usually a positive stress, it's still stress and takes its toll. So taking a break from the rescue and fostering is a good thing; being able to shower your amazing love on Jasper as well as your other babies during this time will also be healing for you.

There is no doubt in my mind that Jasper, Lulu, Jojo, and Buster know what you have done for them; they know they still walk this beautiful planet solely because of you. They know they will always find love, comfort and safety in yours and Gil's arms and hearts. They know they will never lack for anything. They know they have the best home in the world because of you. And,they return the love ya'll give them ten-fold. These are the things little Jasper is reminding you of when he comes down that drive wagging his tail in joy to see you.

If I could, I'd join Jasper on his daily driveway tail wagging greeting because you have brought so much light and joy into my life on this beautiful planet, too.

Many hugs and much love, dear friend,
Leslie and the gang (Thank you for my gang!)

Hi Glynda,

I am so sorry to hear things are not going very well for you or your fur babies. That certainly sounds like a lot to be going through! You have always been so helpful, concerned, and compassionate whenever I have needed you, and you always respond so quickly, no matter what is going on in your life. You do the same for so many other members, not to mention all you have done for animals! You are a saint!

Please know that we are here for you, even if it's just to be supportive, when you are struggling. I really hope that things will be looking up for you now after all you've been dealing with.

I'm sending positive vibes, prayers, and well-wishes your way...

Julie & Hannah

Hi Glynda-

I am really sorry to hear life is being so rough on you and your family. When it rains, it pours and I think you are way overdue for some sunshine!!:)

I just want you to know I am among the ones that are here for you. I've known you since way back when and cherish your help and care.

Please try to take care of yourself. You are very special to all of us.

-Susan

Thank you my dear friends. Ya'll are wonderful, even if you did make me cry. :) Whenever life gets me down I can always count on my k9c family to lift me up. No wonder members like it here. :D Have I mentioned how much I love you all and how proud I am of each and every one of you? If I haven't, I do and I am.

You are a big part of what makes this place great. How could we not wish you well. Like a well oiled clock the angels work seems to blend so well together. Each filling in every hole that might have been forgotten. It is an amazing place. And I thank you and all the angels from the bottom of my heart for everythjng you have done for me and so many others.

well said Janis, and I second that.

I third that!!! Nice Janis!!:)

love and hugs to you Glynda:)

xoxo

Dearest Glynda,

I have not had much time to post but cannot let time go by without telling you how much you mean to all of us and how sorry I am things are not going in a happier direction for you.

Thinking about you and Gil and the pups and hoping things get better.
Hugs to Jasper and Lulu and JoJo and Buster.

I hope rays of sun shine come your way.


love,
addy

ditto what everyone else has said. You go out of your way to help everyone else so much. You deserve something good. hugs, Judi

And I am here, too, sending healing hugs to you, Gil, and the teenies.

In addition to all the help that you give our members in your forum replies, we staffers also know how much you do behind the scenes that is never known publicly. Your dedication to our home and family here is an enormous gift to all us humans. But most importantly, to the countless dogs whose spirits you have saved, both here and in your own home and heart. They cannot say thank you, but we surely can on their behalf!

With my best wishes, always ~
Marianne

Oh my goodness. I don't remember many times in my life that I've been so touched by so many loving friends. After reading posts up to and including Jenny's post, there were a lot of tears but then came Marianne and BOOM major water works! She does that to me every time. :D I told everybody at home how much you all care and Gil wanted me to let you all know how much he appreciates it. I'm not sure the dogs and cats understood but I gave them all an extra hug from their special Aunties.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Love ya tons,

Glynda, Gil, Jojo, Jasper, Buster, Lulu, and the kitties, Moki, Mimi, Maggie and Izzie

Janis said it perfectly!!!:D
(((HUGS)))
Jo-Ann

Glynda - and Marianne was spot on too. You are a God send. Know we are all with you in your time of pain. Love, Kim

"Glynda, Gil, Jojo, Jasper, Buster, Lulu, and the kitties, Moki, Mimi, Maggie and Izzie"

Some how I get the feeling you are surrounded by love... Lol. Tis quite a list.