Update on my dog
After head x-rays, chest x-rays, a biopsy of Hudson's jaw issue...no one was sure of whether it was cancer or not or something that could be taken out via a partial jaw removal surgery. Went to specialty dental place and they recommended a CT scan. Went for that today, but while it was being scheduled, he developed a cough. More chest X-rays prior to the CT scan to see what was going on. Two radiologists looked at the x-rays and were split on whether it was cancer or not (possibly indicating that the jaw issue is cancer as well, if it is cancer in his lung). If. Could also be a clot or pneumonia.
He's at the dental place now and I'm waiting by the phone. Doctor is going to do a sedated exam to, again, try to see if he can tell that way whether or not he'd be a good candidate for the surgery. Maybe try to get a more definitive biopsy. Doctor trying to avoid the expensive CT because, if it is cancer, the oncologist would need to do another CT to plan the radiation---which would pretty much be the option.
All this not knowing and no great options are making me feel sick. He's older, has joint issues/arthritis, vision & hearing aren't what they used to be. I hate this.
= new reply since forum marked as read
Wishing you the best.
Dogs are such troopers---he was totally happy to get in the car for the trip today--even though they are not feeling well 
is something manageable 
.
He had a bunch of UTIs and was treated for long times with antibiotics, plus he had blood work done during all of this current issue. Not sure if they would have screened for that or not. I will ask the doctor when he calls me back 
Doc should do as you request!
Imizol is drug to treat. There are 2 choices; 1 shot protocol, or 2 shots.
We did 1 shot & stayed in vets office for a while to ensure no allergic reaction.
Most human & animal docs know nothing about infectious diseases, unless vet is at U of C Davis.
Order the tests, they may well save your beloved companion's life!
If your vet wont do test, call lab directly & ask for vet who will!
(When you encounter these diseases, you learn quickly to take control of your own healthcare!) 👍
If you can find pathologist Kakoma trained, that would be best! He was a genius & there is a LOT of interpretation involved.
Suggest testing for lyme, ehrylochiosis & babesiosis. (Silent epidemic - human and veterinary. Deep dark rabbit hole.)
Phone to vet pathology lab at u of i:
217 333 1620
Last edited Thu Jul 30, 2020, 03:22 PM - Edit history (1)
Keep us posted. Always concerned for DUer's families.
My big girl cost us $3K in the last month but is worth it. Taking her back now for a post-op ck.
Hugs to you & your guy & BEST of luck. 🐕 💕
Our big Lab's problems are minor compared to Hudson's. She's good, I think, but the cost was $4k. What we won't do to save our babies.
I posted in your other thread about Hudson, after I read it aloud to my hubby, choking up as I did.
I feel every pet parent's concern & grief over the welfare of their kid(s). I always think "that could be mine" - then I know how you feel. You're a wonderful parent, taking Hudson to visit friends. ❤
