Concern Over Barnaby's Health

[Allison]

I just looked up the distance. Seems to be about three hours. Could be worse!

[labblab]

Surely wishing that Barnaby was doing better! I'm sorry you might have to make the long trip to the specialist, but hoping he/she can really get to the bottom of things and point you guys in a better direction. Please keep us updated!

Marianne

[Tina]

Hi Allison,
I'm sorry to read that Barnaby is not feeling well. Where in Nebraska are you, and what kind of specialist is your vet recommending? We have a board certified internal medicine specialist in Omaha now for the past several years, and I believe there is a board certified surgeon at the office part time as well. That may be a lot closer for you than three hours.

Tina

[Allison]

Blood test results show that Barnaby has abnormal liver results. Our vet thinks that this may be due to the gallbladder issues. We will be making an appointment to see a specialist.

Tina, I sent you a message. If you know a vet in Omaha who understands gall bladder issues and perhaps perform surgery, please advise. Thank you.

[Tina]

Just sent you a pm, I was away from my computer and didn't see your post till now.

Tina

[Allison]

Thanks everyone for your supportive thoughts! I've been researching gallbladder disease and treatment options.

Just like so many diseases, it seems like early prognosis is vital. But it also seems like it could be a complicated process to get to the decision to have surgery. And then there's always risks. Plus, the costs are very high. Sigh. I guess here we go again....

PS Tina, thanks for your welcome thoughts!

[Tina]

The specialty clinic and hospital that I referred to in my pm and prior post is the Midwest Veterinary Referral & Emergency Center:

http://www.vcaspecialtyvets.com/midwest

You mentioned that you saw a specialist in Omaha for your other pets. I am guessing you went there, as this is all we have in Nebraska as far as internal medicine and surgery specialists. I don't know if they have experience with gall bladder surgery, but you sure could call and inquire.

Like I said in my pm, I have not actually taken my boy there, but my vet has consulted with them several times. I have also called to talk to the staff there and they have been very nice. Hope this information helps.

Tina

[Joan2517]

Poor Barnaby....I hope you get some answers, Allison. It's so frustrating not knowing for sure, and so stressful for the poor fur babies to have to go through so many tests. And then they worry about us, worrying about them...

[Allison]

Appointment on Thursday. He will get an ultrasound and examination by a specialist.

[Allison]

We're back from our appointment. Barnaby is okay!

The specialist said a lot of older dogs have some sludge. While it's something we should continue to monitor, it's nothing to be overly concerned about yet. If blood work values change, then we should revisit our concerns. She also said that sludge becomes most problematic when combined with other ailments.

We asked about Barnaby's finicky appetite. It could be age. Another thought is intolerance of a certain kind of food or ingredient. We'll talk more with our vet about diet.

Thanks for the encouragement and support! I wish all pet news were as positive.