Doberman with AIHA

[Sheena]

Don’t they love to scare us to keep us on our toes! I am relieved he’s back to normal now after the throwing up episode – phew.

He is an amazing boy for sure – Louis, we love you & don’t want any more scares, OK?

Good luck & here’s hoping for an even better PCV next time. 25 is fine after a sicky-poo episode though

Love, hugs, every positive thought
Sheena & the sleepy boys xxxx

[Vally]

He obviously thought he needed some special attention. Steady PCV after being sick is good too.

Love Vally & Bingo

PS Bingo says you keep your own supply of duck sausages – it might save you having to rush to the vets to get some.

[jill]

Hi Karyn, so glad to hear Louis has come through that last episode of being sick,it must have been a real worry for you, thankfully he sure is a strong lad,and I think all our dogs love sausages! onwards and upwards, and not a bad pcv considering his been so poorly! please give him a big hug from me , love and hugs Jill & Snoops xxxx

[Vally]

Ohhhh, there is no way you could ever say no to those eyes.

Vally & Bingo
xxx

[Sheena]

Wow! His skin is looking so much better, Karyn. He’s looking really great actually.
Sheena x

[Karxlee]

Hi Everyone, well it looks like normal service has resumed, Louis’s PCV has dropped to 22%, so it looks like removing his spleen hasn’t helped, I know I can hear all the sighs and yes I know you all said you should never remove a spleen, but we felt we didn’t have any other choice.
I’m still trying to get him on thyroxine but I’m still not there yet in convincing Stefano it could work.
The black cloud is now back and I feel desperately sad again, because I really don’t think we are going to beat this horrid disease.
Karyn

[Patrice]

Karxlee,
I’m so sorry to read this. How is the incision? Is it healing nicely?

Did the send the spleen out for testing? Any results I can read for you.

I have a reference paper that explains how supplementing with thyroxine helps stimulate the marrow to produce more red blood cells and platelets. Dr Dodds sent it to me. I’m not at my computer but I’ll dig it up tomorrow.

However this is basic physiology. The thyroid regulates many systems in the body. If it isn’t working to its fullest potential all systems are impacted. So this reference explains that in a bit more scientific way.

Just like humans, dogs’ physiology varies from one dog to the next. And each breed and each dog of that breed will have variable testing results for thyroid function. A young female will have different normal test results than an old female, vs a young male or old male, plus neutered and spayed vs intact , good diet vs bad diet, autoimmune disease vs healthy.

Every 6 months I have Cassie ‘ thyroid testing done by Dr. Dodds. She is on lifetime thyroid supplementation because her gland is not working properly. Those results are compared to an individualized optimal level for an older female Giant Schnauzer. That’s how much data Dr dodds has collected in the past 30 years. She knows exactly what her ideal levels should be and has worked on dosing her properly to make it work for her.

So I personally dont minimize the role the thyroid plays in her health. She’s doing really well for an old girl.

I know from experience with Chance that this thyroid supplementation Dr dodds recommended was extremely helpful getting his bone marrow to function properly.

I’ll get the paper to you.
My best Patrice

[Vally]

Karyn, there are no sighs, I promise. Desperate situations call for desperate measures. I don’t doubt anyone would have gone the same route.

I know Louis writes his own blog, but has he told you what meds he’s starting? Did I read his message right?

Karyn, if it were me, I’d insist on the thyroxine. You have nothing to lose. If Louis starts to act funny with it, it can be stopped.

Big hugs and lots of cuddles to your brave boy.

Vally and Bingo
Xxx