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i have a yr old lab webber diagnosed w advanced kidney

Sent to Pet Experts December 19 2005 at 11:48 AM
   

I have a 12 1/2 yr. old lab (webber) diagnosed w/ advanced kidney disease, on top of chronic dermatitis ("idiopathic periadnexal granulonitis", possibly autoimmune in nature. His lesions were not responding to tetracycline, and the vet thought prednisone might help, but when the blood work showed kidney problems, euthanasia was suggested. Not ready for that quick decision, iwas tol it would be OK to start prednisone for comfort. He has had 10 mg. prednisone 2X day for 7 days, today 5mg. His lesions are almost gone, he loves eating again, but is clearly dehydrated and shakes after being outside. Is it worth the effort (for webber) to give him IV fluids, and to perhaps consider some of the meds for kidney failure? I don't want to prolong suffering, but he does seem happy to be around us.

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Age: >12; Male; Breed: lab

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Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $20
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December 19 2005 at 12:02 PM (13 minutes and 20 seconds later)
         
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My feeling is as long as the dog is happy and doing things it likes making it comfortable with care and meds is reasonable.
If the dog becomes withdrawn, is not enjoying anything much, or is in pain all the time etc. then euthanasia is something to consider.
See if your vet will show you how to do subcutaneous fluids at home.
Try the meds but just get small trial amounts inteead of a full prescription - you can always get more if they make him feel better.
Worst case is this won't work for you or Webber and then your decision will be made easier.
I try to err on the side of the dog when making medical decisions for senior pets. If they are happy then I'm willing to spend money to keep them that way.
Hope this helps you!


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NancyH -- Pet Health Care, Rescue,Train,Breed -- 99% Positive Feedback on 7091 Pet Accepts
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December 19 2005 at 12:08 PM (6 minutes and 26 seconds later)
         
thank you, i think you've confirmed what i felt made sense. I've scheduled webber to see another vet tomorrow.
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