We've decided to go ahead and do surgery on Monday. It's going to a big day for him.
We're going to scale his teeth to get some of the plaque and tartar off, neuter him, microchip him, and of course, xray his hips to ensure it's not just atrophy (lack of muscle) that can cause his funny gait.
We're also going to give him another skin scrap to compare the number of demodex mites, as well as checking again for sarcoptic mites. He's also due for another sarcoptic treatment on Monday, and we'll do it even though we may not find any mites. He's to get a demodex treatment tomorrow.
We're going to go ahead and dive in with this. There's so many things we want to do while he's out, and we're kind of thinking that doing it now will be better than waiting until he's 100% healed.
The reasoning? If we do it now, his immune system lowers and he may or may not have a flare up of the demodex. We're giving him a demodex treatment a few days before surgery to hopefully help curb some of those mites that may come out. If we wait until he is 100%, and gets all of his hair and looks amazing and then do surgery...he may have a flare up and get bald patches again.
I don't want him to go through that again. I want him to gradually get better, even if he has a flare up now. I'd rather now than later...and having to start over from the beginning.
EDIT - I also wanted to add that Tad weighs 48lbs today!
4/20/11
4/19/11
Sedate or Wait?
Twenty eleven is really, honestly, truly a horrible year for Charles and I. Our bad luck is getting so ridiculous that it's almost funny now. Things have just been one bad issue after another...and, then there's Tad.
His personality and the way that he looks at me...it just seems to make everything else go to the back of my mind, and I remember all of you and your support and care and for that moment I feel better.
I want you all to know first and foremost how grateful I am that so many were able to donate money for Tad's care. Charles texted me this morning and said he just got laid off. Two weeks ago they had him start filling out all the necessary paperwork to start the hiring process (he was a contract worker for a big corporation). So, things are about to get even tighter than they were...but, I know that Tad is taken care of...thanks to you guys. I would have most certainly given Tad the absolute same care that I am able to with y'all's help, it just would have taken a lot longer...and now with recent events...it would have taken even longer.
I am by no means asking for your sympathy or anything of that nature; I am simply trying to explain just how grateful I am for all of you. There really are no words.
I have been so backed up with things lately that my videos, pictures, and blog updates are seriously lacking. We have a few more concerns about Tad.
We may neuter him sooner than expected. He has a serious issue with humping any time he gets excited, he will hump the air. Now, I know that neutering may not do anything, but I have hopes it will help some. We have a few other reasons to go ahead and do this early as well.
We need to recheck his bloodwork, which would be a good idea before anesthesia anyway. We're going to also scale his teeth to get the chunky plaque and tartar of of them while he's out.
But, the biggest reason for going ahead with this is that we're worried about his hips. In his videos and pictures, you may or may not noticed his back legs. He does not have a normal stance. When he runs, it's really, really awkward. Both legs move at the same time, but in a weird sort of fashion. He has trouble sitting down and getting up from sitting down.
We're wanting to xray his hips, and the only way to get good hip xrays is to completely sedate the animal. Well, we don't want to sedate him every other week or so, so we want to knock all of this out at one time.
The concern with anesthesia/surgery is that it lowers the immune system. Well, one of his types of mange (Demodex) thrives off a weak immune system.
Often times we avoid surgery/vaccines when they have this type of mange because it gives the Demodex Mites a nice opportunity to flourish. However, with neutering, the hormones are removed for the body allowing the metabolism to slow down, which may help Tad gain weight at a quicker rate.
There are pros and cons on either side of this, and the doctor and I are still undecided on which route to take. You guys know that I will definitely keep you all updated.
His personality and the way that he looks at me...it just seems to make everything else go to the back of my mind, and I remember all of you and your support and care and for that moment I feel better.
I want you all to know first and foremost how grateful I am that so many were able to donate money for Tad's care. Charles texted me this morning and said he just got laid off. Two weeks ago they had him start filling out all the necessary paperwork to start the hiring process (he was a contract worker for a big corporation). So, things are about to get even tighter than they were...but, I know that Tad is taken care of...thanks to you guys. I would have most certainly given Tad the absolute same care that I am able to with y'all's help, it just would have taken a lot longer...and now with recent events...it would have taken even longer.
I am by no means asking for your sympathy or anything of that nature; I am simply trying to explain just how grateful I am for all of you. There really are no words.
I have been so backed up with things lately that my videos, pictures, and blog updates are seriously lacking. We have a few more concerns about Tad.
We may neuter him sooner than expected. He has a serious issue with humping any time he gets excited, he will hump the air. Now, I know that neutering may not do anything, but I have hopes it will help some. We have a few other reasons to go ahead and do this early as well.
We need to recheck his bloodwork, which would be a good idea before anesthesia anyway. We're going to also scale his teeth to get the chunky plaque and tartar of of them while he's out.
But, the biggest reason for going ahead with this is that we're worried about his hips. In his videos and pictures, you may or may not noticed his back legs. He does not have a normal stance. When he runs, it's really, really awkward. Both legs move at the same time, but in a weird sort of fashion. He has trouble sitting down and getting up from sitting down.
We're wanting to xray his hips, and the only way to get good hip xrays is to completely sedate the animal. Well, we don't want to sedate him every other week or so, so we want to knock all of this out at one time.
The concern with anesthesia/surgery is that it lowers the immune system. Well, one of his types of mange (Demodex) thrives off a weak immune system.
Often times we avoid surgery/vaccines when they have this type of mange because it gives the Demodex Mites a nice opportunity to flourish. However, with neutering, the hormones are removed for the body allowing the metabolism to slow down, which may help Tad gain weight at a quicker rate.
There are pros and cons on either side of this, and the doctor and I are still undecided on which route to take. You guys know that I will definitely keep you all updated.
4/16/11
Tad's New Orthopedic Bed
I am super duper behind on videos and photos, and I'm trying to catch up. Here's video from April 8th, the day Tad's new bed came in the mail (donated by the Weaver Family).
4/15/11
Tag-A-Print
This is so awesome! Check these out from Tag-A-Print!
I've selected for 50% of the profits made from these tags to go to animals in shelters that are on death row, and 50% of the profits made to go to Coldspring Stars, a local rescue that I volunteer my photography for.
Spread the word around, and let's help show our support for homeless dogs and cats everywhere!
http://www.tagaprint.com/products/totally-awesome-dog
I've selected for 50% of the profits made from these tags to go to animals in shelters that are on death row, and 50% of the profits made to go to Coldspring Stars, a local rescue that I volunteer my photography for.
Spread the word around, and let's help show our support for homeless dogs and cats everywhere!
http://www.tagaprint.com/products/totally-awesome-dog
Quick Update
We checked Tad's urine yesterday, and it was at a normal concentration. So, that is GREAT. However, we'll continue to check his concentration at least once a week to be sure, and potentially catch something before it gets out of hand.
Tad is just doing AWESOME. I don't even think that's the appropriate word. We're still having an issue getting in the Tahoe to come to work in the mornings and go home at night, and getting out is a battle, as well. If I disappear, and leave the door open, and he can't see me...he'll fly out of the Tahoe. But, getting him in it is a bit trickier. I want to say that my Tahoe is too high (it's lifted almost 6 inches more than normal Tahoes). My dogs run and jump in and out with no problems, but this is all new to Tad. I know there's a learning curve there.
His wounds are almost completely non-existant since the second Convenia injection, so that makes me super happy. He's less itchy today and yesterday, but still has some. It's to be expected. He got some shampoo in the mail from Pamela Madden, and we're going to use that today for his bath.
Also, more happy news...now, when he shakes his head, he does not rupture the wounds on the underside causing them to bleed...that is AWESOME. He still bleeds easily, so we get mega excited when things heal to the point they won't easily bleed.
He still stinks to high heaven, and my Tahoe smells like there's something dead inside...it's kind of embarassing. lol ...but, oh well. Occupational hazards, again.
He's starting to play...sort of. He'll chew on the toys, and he wants to play with Walker and Chica, but they're both old farts and uninterested. He knows his name, and is EXTREMELY obedient. We're still working on 'sit', but he knows 'stay' and 'come'. I'd like to think he's smart, but...othertimes, I am not so sure. lol
We've gone to mostly dry food now, he gets 1/2 can in the mornings and 1/2 can at night. When we first started this, he didn't want the dry food, only canned. But, I'm sorry, Tad-o...you're going to have to be like everyone else in the house. :)
This update is kind of rushed, and I apologize. I am so largely overwhelmed I can't even think straight.
I know we're lacking in videos and pictures, but the computer guy took my computer back today because it's wonky... :/
Tad is just doing AWESOME. I don't even think that's the appropriate word. We're still having an issue getting in the Tahoe to come to work in the mornings and go home at night, and getting out is a battle, as well. If I disappear, and leave the door open, and he can't see me...he'll fly out of the Tahoe. But, getting him in it is a bit trickier. I want to say that my Tahoe is too high (it's lifted almost 6 inches more than normal Tahoes). My dogs run and jump in and out with no problems, but this is all new to Tad. I know there's a learning curve there.
His wounds are almost completely non-existant since the second Convenia injection, so that makes me super happy. He's less itchy today and yesterday, but still has some. It's to be expected. He got some shampoo in the mail from Pamela Madden, and we're going to use that today for his bath.
Also, more happy news...now, when he shakes his head, he does not rupture the wounds on the underside causing them to bleed...that is AWESOME. He still bleeds easily, so we get mega excited when things heal to the point they won't easily bleed.
He still stinks to high heaven, and my Tahoe smells like there's something dead inside...it's kind of embarassing. lol ...but, oh well. Occupational hazards, again.
He's starting to play...sort of. He'll chew on the toys, and he wants to play with Walker and Chica, but they're both old farts and uninterested. He knows his name, and is EXTREMELY obedient. We're still working on 'sit', but he knows 'stay' and 'come'. I'd like to think he's smart, but...othertimes, I am not so sure. lol
We've gone to mostly dry food now, he gets 1/2 can in the mornings and 1/2 can at night. When we first started this, he didn't want the dry food, only canned. But, I'm sorry, Tad-o...you're going to have to be like everyone else in the house. :)
This update is kind of rushed, and I apologize. I am so largely overwhelmed I can't even think straight.
I know we're lacking in videos and pictures, but the computer guy took my computer back today because it's wonky... :/
4/13/11
Some Concerns
If you follow us on Facebook, you probably noticed my update about how Tad has just about lost all of his hair. He is definitely just about hairless on his sides now. There's only a 1/2 heart left on his forhead, and his butt, thighs, and hips are pretty much naked. The mange will get worse before it gets better, and it definitely has. We're on the mend now, and he does have some peach fuzz coming back. So hopefully, all the bad hair is falling out to make room for luscious locks.
We do, however, have a concern...and I've not spoken about it because we're not entirely sure what could be causing this. Tad pees...a lot...all the time. It's always clear and has no smell.
First thought? He's drinking a lot of water. Nope. He doesn't drink nearly as much as Walker or Chica, and I'd say he drinks a fair amount...but not excessive.
So, next up...kidney failure? We ran his bloodwork a week ago, and his kidney values were acceptable. The problem with kidney malfunction is that in order for it to show up on bloodwork, about 75% of the kidneys have to be dead. But, Tad's numbers aren't even high normal, they're middle range normal.
There are a few other more serious concerns, like diabetes and such, but we checked his urine tonight and there's no glucose in it (typical for diabetics) and really no infection like a UTI. However, he does have Oxalate Crystals, which these are a rare urinary crystal and a little harder to treat. They can be common/normal in some dogs, but when the urine is dilute it's more of a concern...well, Tad's urine is definitely dilute.
So, the next step? We're not doing a true water deprivation test as those can be dangerous, especially with Tad's condition, but I am pulling the water up right now. No one will get water all night, but after Tad pee's tomorrow morning, they can have water.
Why are we doing this? We want Tad to concentrate his urine...and first urine of the morning is the best urine for urinalysis. Let's hope that tomorrow morning, Tad's urine is concentrated...if not, we'll have to dig a bit deeper...
We do, however, have a concern...and I've not spoken about it because we're not entirely sure what could be causing this. Tad pees...a lot...all the time. It's always clear and has no smell.
First thought? He's drinking a lot of water. Nope. He doesn't drink nearly as much as Walker or Chica, and I'd say he drinks a fair amount...but not excessive.
So, next up...kidney failure? We ran his bloodwork a week ago, and his kidney values were acceptable. The problem with kidney malfunction is that in order for it to show up on bloodwork, about 75% of the kidneys have to be dead. But, Tad's numbers aren't even high normal, they're middle range normal.
There are a few other more serious concerns, like diabetes and such, but we checked his urine tonight and there's no glucose in it (typical for diabetics) and really no infection like a UTI. However, he does have Oxalate Crystals, which these are a rare urinary crystal and a little harder to treat. They can be common/normal in some dogs, but when the urine is dilute it's more of a concern...well, Tad's urine is definitely dilute.
So, the next step? We're not doing a true water deprivation test as those can be dangerous, especially with Tad's condition, but I am pulling the water up right now. No one will get water all night, but after Tad pee's tomorrow morning, they can have water.
Why are we doing this? We want Tad to concentrate his urine...and first urine of the morning is the best urine for urinalysis. Let's hope that tomorrow morning, Tad's urine is concentrated...if not, we'll have to dig a bit deeper...
4/12/11
Rechecks and Reports
Yesterday was quite a big day for Tad. It was his two week recheck. So, let's go down the list...
Eyes
Ears
Skin
Wounds
Diet/Weight
Okay, first up...eyes. I ran out of the eye ointment, Terramycin, I believe on Wednesday or Thursday. So, before wasting money on another tube...we wanted to see how his eyes were doing. He is producing his own tears, and keeping them lubricated. He does get a bit of goop now and again, but they are, as a whole, 100% better.
His ears...oh, his ears. He still has a raging infection...there's been some improvement, but they are DEFINITELY better. We're going to continue the same medication, Micazole, for the next two weeks and if they're not completely healed by then...we may need to switch the medicine so the yeast don't start creating resistance to it.
Skin : As you can see in the pictures, it's 100x's better. Amazingly better, in fact. The large wound on the outside of his leg is getting smaller each and every day. The long laceration on the inside of the same leg is now two seperate wounds, seperated by a healthy amount of scar tissue. They look awesome. He still smells...well, he literally smells like a dead animal. His stench makes Charles gag and need to vomit...and I kid you not, it is a mighty powerful odor. We're no longer doing the hydrotherapy, but he does get a bath once a week. His skin is pretty dry now, and I want to say that the tea tree oil was not helping that. Sure, it stopped the itching, but I feel it may have been what's drying him out. So, we were donated a bottle of emu oils with other natural oils and lotioning him up twice a day and wow! Not only does he love it...but, it's so much easier to pet him when he doesn't leave large pieces of dead skin behind. ;) We've given him another shot of Convenia. Convenia is a two week antibiotic injection that is perfect for skin. It made a huge difference overnight the first time, and hopefully it'll take the last little bit of infection away this time. We also rescraped his skin. I didn't see ANY sarcoptic mange mites (contagious) and a significantly less number of demodex mites...and those I did see were all dead.
We're going to start getting him back on adult canned food and incorporating more dry food into his diet. He is steadily putting on weight, he's at 43 pounds now...and we're both super excited about that.
All in all, he's doing wonderfully...and he makes me a proud girl every day. Look at what he is becoming...
Eyes
Ears
Skin
Wounds
Diet/Weight
Okay, first up...eyes. I ran out of the eye ointment, Terramycin, I believe on Wednesday or Thursday. So, before wasting money on another tube...we wanted to see how his eyes were doing. He is producing his own tears, and keeping them lubricated. He does get a bit of goop now and again, but they are, as a whole, 100% better.
His ears...oh, his ears. He still has a raging infection...there's been some improvement, but they are DEFINITELY better. We're going to continue the same medication, Micazole, for the next two weeks and if they're not completely healed by then...we may need to switch the medicine so the yeast don't start creating resistance to it.
Skin : As you can see in the pictures, it's 100x's better. Amazingly better, in fact. The large wound on the outside of his leg is getting smaller each and every day. The long laceration on the inside of the same leg is now two seperate wounds, seperated by a healthy amount of scar tissue. They look awesome. He still smells...well, he literally smells like a dead animal. His stench makes Charles gag and need to vomit...and I kid you not, it is a mighty powerful odor. We're no longer doing the hydrotherapy, but he does get a bath once a week. His skin is pretty dry now, and I want to say that the tea tree oil was not helping that. Sure, it stopped the itching, but I feel it may have been what's drying him out. So, we were donated a bottle of emu oils with other natural oils and lotioning him up twice a day and wow! Not only does he love it...but, it's so much easier to pet him when he doesn't leave large pieces of dead skin behind. ;) We've given him another shot of Convenia. Convenia is a two week antibiotic injection that is perfect for skin. It made a huge difference overnight the first time, and hopefully it'll take the last little bit of infection away this time. We also rescraped his skin. I didn't see ANY sarcoptic mange mites (contagious) and a significantly less number of demodex mites...and those I did see were all dead.
We're going to start getting him back on adult canned food and incorporating more dry food into his diet. He is steadily putting on weight, he's at 43 pounds now...and we're both super excited about that.
All in all, he's doing wonderfully...and he makes me a proud girl every day. Look at what he is becoming...
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