Dixie – Anemic – Low B-12

[admin]

Hi Roger

I am really sorry to hear that things have continued to be so difficult. As others have said, doxycycline is horrible on the stomach. I could not tolerate it for more than a few days, making the mistake of lying down after taking it once. Do you know why your vet is giving it? I wonder if they could try something else? Metronidazole is quite often used for GI infections, so good to see that in there. It might be possible for the vet to substitute the doxy for a different antibiotic which Dixie is better able to tolerate.

All good wishes to you and Dixie. I do hope you get some good news soon.

Mary and Mable x

[admin]

Sorry Roger, did not see your latest post. I think we posted at the same time. I’m glad to hear she’s still a little brighter. Perhaps this is both stopping the doxy and the probiotics? I know they have really helped my cats in the past when they’ve had GI upsets.

I understand your reluctance to have a feeding tube. I considered this with Molly but she would have hated it. Have you tried syringe feeding at all? It’s not ideal but it can help see them through until they feel up to eating for themselves.

I do hope you get a diagnosis very soon. This must be so very difficult for you and your wife. Please give Dixie some gentle ear rubs from me.

Mary and Mable x

• This reply was modified 9 years, 8 months ago by admin.

[admin]

Hello Roger,
I know that it must be very stressful to see Dixie not eating. Have you tried to feed her somewhere else but in the kitchen?
I would like you to seriously reconsider the Transfer Factor supplement. I am not sure on how much of the immune suppressing drugs Dixie is still on, but I am pretty sure you are still suppressing the immune system that is attacking her red blood cells. The Transfer Factor claims to boost the immune system which is a great thing in a dog that has naturally a low immune system, but Dixie’s is suppressed for a reason and you do NOT want to boost it! I am not sure why Dixie is getting the Doxy and maybe they can give her something else?
Best wishes,
Brigitte

[admin]

Hi Roger. I am so sorry about your Dixie. And sorry I have not been around and just now trying to catch up. You and your family have been through so much with Dixie – I’m glad she has your love and determination to promote her wellness.

I can imagine how Dixie not eating is tugging at you. I agree, maybe the syringe feeding? Also, I have to ask this – the added shots, B-12, Iron – have you considered just stopping these and starting over? Other than the needed immune suppressants she’s still on (you’re weaning and at a low dose, from what I read) and the necessary anti-clotting, tummy protection (if needed).

I too, am concerned about the added supplement (Transfer Factor). As good as many of these supplements are, adding ANYTHING new at this point is scary. Least I add:

Has anyone mentioned PetTinic? The ingredients are: Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Iron and Copper. It does have corn syrup and caramel color (which I don’t like), but the product seems to have helped Sadie. I was just wondering, with the injections Dixie has continues to get, if this has been mentioned by your vet. Sadie has been on PetTinic since day one of AIHA onset by her vet and was additionally glad to learn that Dr. Dodds indorses it. It is one of the few supplements that Sadie remains on to this day. I know I’m contradicting myself – take away and then saying add this, but I had to ask.

You have so much going on with your precious Dixie – I am so sorry for all this. But it is heartwarming to read your perseverance, devotion AND continued spirit. Dixie is a very lucky girl to have you in her court.

I hope the eating improves. Please keep us posted. You, your family and Dixie and in my thoughts and heart.

Love, Linda (and Sadie)

[Roger]

All, I wanted to post an update sooner but just could not sit down to do it. Recently we lost Dixie to her illness. My wife and I are heartbroken but feeling better everyday. Dixie was the once in a lifetime dog that was matched to us in so many ways. We have had many dogs throughout our life from childhood through our 50’s and all have been wonderful, unique and very special however Dixie was the one. I’m sure many can relate if they too have been blessed to have such a relationship. Thank you all for your kind words of support and advice we so much appreciate your time and wisdom. I’m sure we were able to increase Dixie’s time and comfort during this illness.

– Roger

[Patrice]

Roger,
I am so sad to read this. I was thinking about you and Dixie just yesterday and wondered what had happened since we had not heard in so long.

I am glad you were able to have more time with her and that she was a bit more comfortable. To her, these were the most important things.

Yes, your Heart Dog. Chance was my Heart Dog. He changed my life forever. I am positive that Dixie has also changed your lives forever in ways you cannot image. People you meet in life may not ever know about Dixie, but they will notice something very different and special about you because of your friendship with her.

Please accept my deepest condolences.
patrice

[Vally]

Oh Roger, I’m so sorry to hear this. You fought so very hard to make her better. She was a lucky girl to have found you.

Lots of hugs and condolences to you and your wife.
Vally

[admin]

Dear Roger

Very sad news – I’m really sorry to hear this & you must be feeling a huge loss at the moment. My goodness, you tried so hard to get her better. I know Dixie was very special to you – your love for her came across in your messages. My sincere sympathy to you & your family, Roger.

Sheena