OK! Nevermind….It worked: Here’s what I tried to send you:
Oh my gosh Carol, I cannot thank you enough for your email and wealth of information! And although I wouldn’t want this to happen to anyone, it is so very nice to hear from and share with others who are dealing with this problem. It’s absolutely heartbreaking and frustrating, because as you said, there are so few vets who really seem to know how and what to do.
Since my decision to not do the surgery, I have had some second thoughts, but feel it’s a big gamble, aside from the fact of putting the dog through such an ordeal, and then with such low success rates, not to mention the financial strain it can present. I’ve heard and read a lot more about the negatives and the “unsuccesses” as I have the positives. But as of a couple days ago, I can’t help but question myself. Last August, they removed about 60cc. from Oliver’s chest and since then, he has done rather well; always having his bad and good days. I have kept a pretty routine check on what’s going on through x-rays; usually every 4 – 6 weeks. In late January, it all but disappeared and we thought it had healed up on its own. Short lived; the next visit showed a minimal amount again, but still I had better hope. All the following ones, showed little change, which was good but not total relief…….until last week when he was continually showing signs of difficulty. When I took him in on Saturday, they drained off almost 240cc, and had a hard time doing it. First they couldn’t really locate the pocket, due to his increase in body fat (not much exercise tolerance anymore, especially in this hot and humid weather here) and then they had a tough time reaching it. Finally they found a long enough needle and out it flowed. All the while, he was like a little trooper…..,rarely did he even flinch.
It took a day or so, since then, to notice a real improvement in his breathing, but I definitely can tell now. I’m temporarily relieved and very grateful! And strangely enough, I have thought about this over the last day or two, and wondered why a port wouldn’t be advisable and much better management tool. So again, your email couldn’t have come at a better time. I don’t think I would want my current vet to do it though, as much as I trust them. Again, I think they are just not knowledgeable or capable enough to take on the task. So yesterday, I found online, and reached out to a Veterinary School in Oklahoma that I have heard great things about and sent them an inquiry. Surprisingly, I got a reply; even on a Sunday. However, I had reached someone in the Equine department, but he promised that he would be forwarding my message on to some of the small animal vets, and assured me that one of them at least, would be in contact. So I’m waiting and hoping that there might be someone who can lend some recommendations to this ordeal by way of an actual consultation and review.
Another thing you mentioned, which I NEVER knew or was told about; I just happened to read it on a website this weekend, that not only does this affect the dog’s ability to breathe well, I learned about the affects it has on their entire health. As you have already found, I did not realize that as you drain off substantial amounts of this fluid from the chest, it’s also representative of all the “nutrients” that have not able to circulate and nourish the body. That was absolutely astounding to me! Hence, another important reason to do somethings differently. Up until then, and now with your email, I did not even think or know to keep a check on his overall body functions and blood values. Again, it just shows how little some of these vets know and can relate to you, about the entire scope of this condition. I cannot thank you enough for writing to me which also actually confirmed this today.
Since Oliver was first diagnosed, I had to of course, change his diet. We had to go from a high-grade, more natural diet, down to this Science Diet (Low-Residue I/D) and for me, I absolutely cringe every time I give it to him. But I have to tell myself, maybe it’s a big reason why he’s still alive today, and just let it go. I’ve looked for other food possibilities, but none with low enough fat content. I did not know that Royal Canin makes a similar product. I’ll keep that in mind. As for the Rutin, yes he’s been on about the same dosage as your dog, from the get-go, and again I’m hopeful that it is helping. I have thought to increase it also, but hadn’t been able to research the pros and cons of that yet. Again, your information was helpful.
For now, I will hold on to the thoughts and information you have passed onto me, and continue to consider them in what to do next. I also want to offer you my sincere condolences because I know what you have been through and still doing. One thing I cannot relate to, but can only imagine, is the hardship, the trauma and disappointment you must feel from putting your dog and yourself through the surgery, only to have it not bring resolution. It had to be devastating! I cannot say it enough…….thank you is not enough……I so appreciate you taking the time to share with me. And PLEASE, can we stay in touch? I wish you and your dog all the best, with God’s blessings. Please let me know how you’re both doing, won’t you?
With much gratitude,
Nancy M.
Fayetteville, AR
