His red cell count is down... his white cell count is up.. same old sad never ending story for this poor guy.
Dr. Fish said that a bout with anemia following such a strong reaction is common in dogs. However, it's very uncommon for it to become a chronic condition like it is in Skeletor.
Skelly was given steroid and B-12 shots. He has been prescribed Cephalexin to prevent infection. He's back on 20mg of predizone twice a day to prevent auto-immune incidents. Dr. Fish also suggested giving him a zantac 75 with his prednizone to help prevent (limit) damage to his stomach.
Dr. Fish said that he was going to speak with his colleagues about Skeletor's unusual condition. If you or somebody you know is a vet, please take a look at this chart.
Skeletor's Bloodwork
This is a big set-back in getting Skelly ready for heartworm treatment. His red cell count is down to 28% from about 37% in June. In order to be ready for the treatment, he'll need to stabilize at around 40% for a good 3 months.
Poor guy can't catch a break! Still, he's lucky to have so many people who care to see him though this.
Thanks for reading.
Well, my vet is good but my guess is you need someone more specialized or something like that. My aunt and uncle had problems with their dog a few years back - they got some consultation with a vet who I believe was in Florida. I sent them an email to see if they could send me the name (not sure they will but it can't hurt to try - they are nice but kinda flaky, and it has been a few years). I know that their dog has some weird stuff going on that he was able to figure out - if I get the name I will come back and post it for you. I am going to check through my emails too because there is a chance they sent it to me and I may have it (again, will let you know)but I have a lot of email so it may take a little while to find.
ReplyDeleteOther than that we can send lots of purrs and prayers for Skelly!
Hey - we are near Blacksburg and Virginia Tech which has a great Vet School. I know a girl there and have sent your blog link to her to check out. Ill let you know if I get something back.
ReplyDeleteBig purrs to Skelly - sure hope he gets better soon.
I looked at his chart even though I don't know anything about vet medicine. Skelly is 2 years old already?
ReplyDeleteI wish I had some advice to give you but I really don't. I'd say if this vet isn't able to do anything for him, Amy and The House of Cats has a good suggestion - maybe look for another vet who might be more specialized. I know that'll probably be a lot more money though.
I'll continue to keep him in my prayers.
Oh gosh. Skelly - you really are a very special doggie!! I hope your vet does all he can to get to the bottom of why Skelly's blood cell count is going awry! Poor woofie sweetheart! There must be answers to why Skelly is reacting to whatever!! Good luck guys!! Please please keep us posted!
ReplyDeleteTake care and hugs to Skelly!! Go Skelly!!!
x
My sisters and I are sending you purrs big guy, get well soon please!
ReplyDeleteWe are sending positive healing energy and gentle woofs of comfort.We hope Skelly is feeling better soon and that the Vets get to the bottom of the problem.
ReplyDeleteI feel so bad that I didn't see your earlier posts. I'm so sad that Skelly is having issues and not feeling well. Skelly needs the power of the paw! xoxo for Mr. Skells.
ReplyDeleteWe came over from Amy's blog to let you know that we're sending Skelly all our good thoughts. We hope the vet is able to figure something out soon. Thanks so much for all you have done to help him!
ReplyDeleteHey guys - my uncle only remembered that his name is Dr Bob so he is going to call his friend in Tampa to find out but he is working weird hours (got home at 10 pm last night and had to be back at 5:30 this morning) so as soon as I hear anything I will let you know. It looks on a map like Tampa is not too close to you but he helped their dog just by researching and the dogs are in Illinois, so he did it by phone. Hopefully I can have a name for you soon!
ReplyDeleteJust remember Skelly does not know he is sick.
ReplyDeleteHe does know that he is loved and safe and fed every day.
As far as he's concerned he's the luckiest dog in the world.
Just take it one day at a time and focus on being positive.
Struggles are what make a journey so much more meaningful.
Poor guy :(
ReplyDeleteHe'll get better, it'll just be a roller coaster for a while. <3
poor skelly! :(
ReplyDeletei wish i could help, but i've no expertise with this. i will, however, keep thinking good thoughts for him!!
the booker man and asa's mama