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old doberman sick

Sent to Pet Experts June 8 2006 at 4:18 AM
   

my doberman is 8 yrs old, he had not eaten or drank anything since tue. He sleeps all the time and shakes when he sleeps. Has a hard time getting up and laying down. He has very bad breath. Not sure if his teeth are going bad. Vet. says hes aniemic, has a hearth murmur and SOUNDS like his liver and kidneys are failing. Should I put him to sleep or is there any hope to fix him? Thank you.

 

Optional Information:
Age: 8; Male; Breed: doberman

Already Tried:
Taken him to the vet./p>

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $9
Answer
June 8 2006 at 4:35 AM (16 minutes and 18 seconds later)
         
REPLIEDCheck Mark
Depending on how far the liver and kidneys have deteriorated he migth responde to medication and diet change etc or he might not.
Bad teeth can lead to problems with kidney, liver and even heart along with digestive issues as the bacteria goes through the body from the mouth area.
I can tell you how I make this awfully difficult decision. I try to look at the vet report on whether or not I can help the dog get better. I add in how the dog's current life is, and if the dog can do anything it likes to, do or has any good points in its day, and then I decide if I am being fair to keep the dog with me or not.
Its not an easy decision but I try to make the decision for the dog's comfort and not allow my sorrow at the loss of the pet to play a role.
Hope this helps you!

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NancyH -- Pet Health Care, Rescue,Train,Breed -- 99% Positive Feedback on 7175 Pet Accepts
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Reply
June 8 2006 at 4:46 AM (11 minutes and 34 seconds later)
         
Reply to Nancy Holmes's Post: Should I continue to get further tests to see what is really wrong with him, or will it not make a difference anyway, is he going to die on me weather or not I try to help him. before this week he was doing fine, still running and barking at other dogs and playing, but this week he wont move. Thank you
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
June 8 2006 at 4:50 AM (3 minutes and 53 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
I usually choose to do testing to determine if medication will help.
Blood work to find out how liver and kidneys etc are doing is one step in that.
An x-ray to see if any tumors show internally are another possible consideration.
Sometimes you can help and sometimes you can't.
The bad breath might be due to teeth or it could be kidney failure.
I think asking your vet about the value of testing would be your best bet.

Please press Accept if you find my answer helpful. Want more info? Just reply on your question!
Bonuses for good work are always appreciated!
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NancyH -- Pet Health Care, Rescue,Train,Breed -- 99% Positive Feedback on 7175 Pet Accepts
30+yrs pet vet care & nursing, rescue, behavior & training, responsible breeding, small animal care
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