I need info on PROTEIN-LOSING ENTEROPATHY - Page 3 - YorkieTalk.com Forums

SophieRose · 04-12-2008, 12:11 PM

PS The problem with Heartguard and vaccines at this time is her fragile condition. Her immune system is not strong and in a weakened state.

Nikeann07 · 04-13-2008, 07:17 AM

I will take your advice to heart.

Today I will make sure the other Yorkies are fed with protein. I gave them some chopped apple and cooked chopped carrots...which they appreciated and happy to get.

Holly is still doing okay...but I suspect she is depressed over the separate feeding issue.

Do you happen to know what the long term of a daily steroid will cause?
My Vet's goal is to get Holly on half a pill every other day.

nikeann

SophieRose · 04-15-2008, 07:10 AM

Steriods are not usually given on a long term basis, but it sounds like your vet is doing the right thing for Holly. She will be weaned off the steriods when he is sure her condition has subsided. The steriods do have side effects and think you are seeing one of them --- she is fiesty about food and probably hungry (steriods increase appetite, water consumption and pee output).

Poor Sophie took so many medications, change of foods and finally on Budesonide (people medication for Crohn's disease). I really believe if you can watch her diet carefully, make sure she does have adequate protein, minerals when the vet gives his okay, her immune system will strengthen.

However, if they begin to lose muscle mass (their tummy sags, bones exposed on her back), then the disease has escalated.

Through it all, Sophie never gave up and I am sorry you are going through this illness with your sweet pup.

Nikeann07 · 04-15-2008, 07:53 AM

I can feel that Holly has lost muscle mass..and she was more boney last week...I have given her more food this week ...in the hope she will gain 2 more oz at the Vet this week.... She now cries at the food bin for the other Yorkies. I have to distract her with play and hugs.

I feed all pups in different rooms now...so they can have fats and proteins.

I stopped giving them Bil Jack food...seems all this started when I introduced this food brand into the family. I have bad feelings about it.

I went to the Pet store to see what they have as no fat snacks..(not much)
However they told me that they are pulling off their shelves all dental chews with green dye in them..these chew companies are not making them anymore....store wanted to know since I buy them a lot for my Yorkies...I might me interested in the stock they had on hand?....NO!! why would I buy something they don't want to make anymore? I politely passed on it.

I did buy instead...liver and chicken freeze dried snacks 97% fast free to try on my other Yorkies instead...THEY LOVE THEM!..but, just once a day...or after grooming.

I realize now my buying habits for my pups have changed...I read labels now
I don't trust the latest food treat samples....etc.

I may even try to dehydrate my own chicken breast strips.

Sophie sounds to me like a little dog with a huge heart and a strong will to be with you as long as she can. I hope Holly has the same heart.

My best to you always..and I will keep you posted.

Nikeann07

Nikeann07 · 05-26-2008, 03:05 PM

Holly's bloodwork came back...her protein level is now 2.3..up a whole point since the last test...normal is 2.5

she is off the B-12 shots now
she is off the flagal
no rabies shot for 3 years ...unless the Vet feels she can handle it.
I renewed her license with a waiver from the Vet on Rabies.
She is back on heartguard once a month...because I take her to the park
She still gets the steroid (one whole pill) every other day.

she is allowed some carrots and plain boiled chicken in a very small amounts

The vet says....she still has the disease ...but it looks like with the right care..it will progress very slowly. She has a sparkle in her eyes now and loving and playful...her coat is very dull...due to no fats in her diet.

she gained 1 lb...so now she is at 8lbs....not boney anymore at all!!
Thank you all for your prayers I know they and your concern helped Holly and myself get through all this...it is maintenance now.

God bless you that are going through this with your Yorkies.
There is some hope for a long life.

Nikeanne07

4doggiemama · 05-26-2008, 05:01 PM

You're a good mommy!

wemple2 · 05-26-2008, 06:02 PM

I just read this entire thread. I am thrilled to hear your Holly is finally stable. I truthfully know nothing of this disease, although it seems like it is something that can be maintained for many years. Bless you for being the best mommy to her and caring enough to do what's right. You have gotten some useful information and advice here from some that have been or are going through the same thing. The encouragement and support from them has been outstanding...Thanks YorkieTalk for providing this forum to help those in need. And thank you members for caring and sharing your thoughts and knowledge. May Holly be one that beats this disease and lives a very long and happy life. As Ever, Kathy

SophieRose · 05-26-2008, 07:20 PM

That is great news about Holly. It sounds like she is recovering and perhaps a fish oil product (I give Charlie Nordic Natural cod liver oil made for dogs & cats) which helps his coat. Perhaps the next visit with your vet you can ask the question about supplementing her diet.

Thank you for posting and Holly gives others hope when their pup becomes ill. Warmly, Deborah

Nikeann07 · 05-26-2008, 08:38 PM

I will ask about the fish oil supplement.

The Vet also said that because her protein level came up to 2.3 the risk of her filling up with water around her heart and belly again won't happen....it is only when the blood level goes down to 1.5 that occurs and could have killed her within hours...she had gone down that far.

I agree...support from Yorkie talk is heaven sent.

I love you people!!

Nikeanne07
and Holly

Nikeann07 · 12-02-2008, 08:54 AM

Hey I haven't forgotten all that helped me and Holly through some rough days.
I hope you are all doing well.

Holly is doing wonderful!!...a very happy and playful girl.The

She is still on the Steroids every other day. Her next check up is soon.

Her blood work last time came back better than normal. She is still very hungry all of the time....She was given a Rabies shot and heartguard...something the Vet did not want to give her until she showed signs of improvement.

Her treats are raw and cooked carrots (not to many) and green beens. I let her chew on raw hide once in a while but she is not to swallow any of it.
It keeps her gums and teeth healthy.

Now the concern is watching her weight..the Vet feels too much gain can trigger other health issues.

I will never forget the support I received on this site
You are all truly wonderful.

Love from
Holly and Nikeann07

wemple2 · 12-02-2008, 07:31 PM

Wonderful news...keep up the good work Holly...be well and stay well, and please do keep in touch. Time for another prayer for Holly!

Lola'sMom · 01-19-2009, 09:42 PM

How is your dog doing? My dog was diagnosed with this disease on Jan 30th this year and we have been battling the albumin level and water in the belly. She is on prescription food (wet & dry) carrots, non fat cottage cheese and boiled chicken breast. She's getting B12 shots and is taking low dose aspirin each night as well as tylisin. We were told today to add the steriod and we referred to a specialist at UC Davis. Apparently there is no one way of dealing with this disease.

KCKD · 01-20-2009, 05:52 AM

I debated quite a bit as to whether to post or not... I do want you to be very optimistic! My experience with this was not good, but then, my girl was small 3 1/2 lbs, and did not show any of the typical symptoms. By the time it was diagnosed, it was too late-- only 4 days.

But, what I did want to tell you is that we were referred to the LSU Vet School, and the experts there told us that when this is caught early, it is very very manageable, and that when managed life expectancy was good. When diagnosed she was in a crisis condition, and that if we could get her through the crisis..... She was 6 years old.

Watch your babies carefully, and manage them well... and I wish the very best for both of you. You are in my prayers.

dcapper · 01-20-2009, 05:18 PM

My Toby lived with a condition somewhat like this most of his life. He developed it when he was around 8 years old. He would blow up like a balloon. He was drained at the vet and it almost killed him The liquid that came out of the syringe was pure protein. Toby was exhausted so they couldn't risk doing it again. What we ended up doing with him is we gave him 1/2 prednisone every other day and a cap full of a body building oil called MCT oil. It kept the protein in his system. Also Toby was on Royal Canin low-fat diet food. I don't know if your furbaby is having the same problem but I thought I could add a little to help out. Just so you know, Toby passed away in November and he lived to 17 years old.

Lola'sMom · 01-21-2009, 12:27 AM

That is good news that Toby had such a long life. My Lola has not had to have belly drained but she balloons in and out. They are more worried about getting her protein level a bit higher. We started predisone yesterday and will be going to a specialist at UC Davis tomorrow. We are using the same food (Royal Canin) and she cannot get enough of it. I will ask about the MCT oil. thank you so much for your post - it is very helpful

04-12-2008, 12:11 PM	#31
SophieRose Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Petaluma Posts: 2,217	PS The problem with Heartguard and vaccines at this time is her fragile condition. Her immune system is not strong and in a weakened state. __________________ Peace and Light, Deborah My Sweet Sophie 1994-2007Welcome, Charlie Barley 4.14.07 & Sofia Bella 9.13.08 http://www.dogster.com/dogs/535291

04-13-2008, 07:17 AM	#32
Nikeann07 Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Ca Posts: 64	Hi Deborah I will take your advice to heart. Today I will make sure the other Yorkies are fed with protein. I gave them some chopped apple and cooked chopped carrots...which they appreciated and happy to get. Holly is still doing okay...but I suspect she is depressed over the separate feeding issue. Do you happen to know what the long term of a daily steroid will cause? My Vet's goal is to get Holly on half a pill every other day. nikeann

04-15-2008, 07:10 AM	#33
SophieRose Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Petaluma Posts: 2,217	Steriods are not usually given on a long term basis, but it sounds like your vet is doing the right thing for Holly. She will be weaned off the steriods when he is sure her condition has subsided. The steriods do have side effects and think you are seeing one of them --- she is fiesty about food and probably hungry (steriods increase appetite, water consumption and pee output). Poor Sophie took so many medications, change of foods and finally on Budesonide (people medication for Crohn's disease). I really believe if you can watch her diet carefully, make sure she does have adequate protein, minerals when the vet gives his okay, her immune system will strengthen. However, if they begin to lose muscle mass (their tummy sags, bones exposed on her back), then the disease has escalated. Through it all, Sophie never gave up and I am sorry you are going through this illness with your sweet pup. __________________ Peace and Light, Deborah My Sweet Sophie 1994-2007Welcome, Charlie Barley 4.14.07 & Sofia Bella 9.13.08 http://www.dogster.com/dogs/535291

04-15-2008, 07:53 AM	#34
Nikeann07 Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Ca Posts: 64	Dear Deborah I can feel that Holly has lost muscle mass..and she was more boney last week...I have given her more food this week ...in the hope she will gain 2 more oz at the Vet this week.... She now cries at the food bin for the other Yorkies. I have to distract her with play and hugs. I feed all pups in different rooms now...so they can have fats and proteins. I stopped giving them Bil Jack food...seems all this started when I introduced this food brand into the family. I have bad feelings about it. I went to the Pet store to see what they have as no fat snacks..(not much) However they told me that they are pulling off their shelves all dental chews with green dye in them..these chew companies are not making them anymore....store wanted to know since I buy them a lot for my Yorkies...I might me interested in the stock they had on hand?....NO!! why would I buy something they don't want to make anymore? I politely passed on it. I did buy instead...liver and chicken freeze dried snacks 97% fast free to try on my other Yorkies instead...THEY LOVE THEM!..but, just once a day...or after grooming. I realize now my buying habits for my pups have changed...I read labels now I don't trust the latest food treat samples....etc. I may even try to dehydrate my own chicken breast strips. Sophie sounds to me like a little dog with a huge heart and a strong will to be with you as long as she can. I hope Holly has the same heart. My best to you always..and I will keep you posted. Nikeann07

05-26-2008, 03:05 PM	#35
Nikeann07 Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Ca Posts: 64	Holly doing better than expected! Holly's bloodwork came back...her protein level is now 2.3..up a whole point since the last test...normal is 2.5 she is off the B-12 shots now she is off the flagal no rabies shot for 3 years ...unless the Vet feels she can handle it. I renewed her license with a waiver from the Vet on Rabies. She is back on heartguard once a month...because I take her to the park She still gets the steroid (one whole pill) every other day. she is allowed some carrots and plain boiled chicken in a very small amounts The vet says....she still has the disease ...but it looks like with the right care..it will progress very slowly. She has a sparkle in her eyes now and loving and playful...her coat is very dull...due to no fats in her diet. she gained 1 lb...so now she is at 8lbs....not boney anymore at all!! Thank you all for your prayers I know they and your concern helped Holly and myself get through all this...it is maintenance now. God bless you that are going through this with your Yorkies. There is some hope for a long life. Nikeanne07

05-26-2008, 05:01 PM	#36
4doggiemama Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: KS Posts: 3,289	You're a good mommy! __________________ Joanne Eli ChipperEva Snowboy Rosie(R.I.P. 1996-July 29, 2013) Cocoa(R.I.P 1998-April 26, 2012):

05-26-2008, 06:02 PM	#37
wemple2 Wee Winston Wiggles Donating Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Kewanee, Illinois Posts: 9,666	I just read this entire thread. I am thrilled to hear your Holly is finally stable. I truthfully know nothing of this disease, although it seems like it is something that can be maintained for many years. Bless you for being the best mommy to her and caring enough to do what's right. You have gotten some useful information and advice here from some that have been or are going through the same thing. The encouragement and support from them has been outstanding...Thanks YorkieTalk for providing this forum to help those in need. And thank you members for caring and sharing your thoughts and knowledge. May Holly be one that beats this disease and lives a very long and happy life. As Ever, Kathy __________________ As Ever, Kathy Intruducing Bentley Winston and Spencer: RIP My Sweet Angels

05-26-2008, 07:20 PM	#38
SophieRose Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Petaluma Posts: 2,217	That is great news about Holly. It sounds like she is recovering and perhaps a fish oil product (I give Charlie Nordic Natural cod liver oil made for dogs & cats) which helps his coat. Perhaps the next visit with your vet you can ask the question about supplementing her diet. Thank you for posting and Holly gives others hope when their pup becomes ill. Warmly, Deborah __________________ Peace and Light, Deborah My Sweet Sophie 1994-2007Welcome, Charlie Barley 4.14.07 & Sofia Bella 9.13.08 http://www.dogster.com/dogs/535291

05-26-2008, 08:38 PM	#39
Nikeann07 Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Ca Posts: 64	thank you so much I will ask about the fish oil supplement. The Vet also said that because her protein level came up to 2.3 the risk of her filling up with water around her heart and belly again won't happen....it is only when the blood level goes down to 1.5 that occurs and could have killed her within hours...she had gone down that far. I agree...support from Yorkie talk is heaven sent. I love you people!! Nikeanne07 and Holly

12-02-2008, 08:54 AM	#40
Nikeann07 Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Ca Posts: 64	Update on Holly Hey I haven't forgotten all that helped me and Holly through some rough days. I hope you are all doing well. Holly is doing wonderful!!...a very happy and playful girl.The She is still on the Steroids every other day. Her next check up is soon. Her blood work last time came back better than normal. She is still very hungry all of the time....She was given a Rabies shot and heartguard...something the Vet did not want to give her until she showed signs of improvement. Her treats are raw and cooked carrots (not to many) and green beens. I let her chew on raw hide once in a while but she is not to swallow any of it. It keeps her gums and teeth healthy. Now the concern is watching her weight..the Vet feels too much gain can trigger other health issues. I will never forget the support I received on this site You are all truly wonderful. Love from Holly and Nikeann07

12-02-2008, 07:31 PM	#41
wemple2 Wee Winston Wiggles Donating Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Kewanee, Illinois Posts: 9,666	Wonderful news...keep up the good work Holly...be well and stay well, and please do keep in touch. Time for another prayer for Holly! __________________ As Ever, Kathy Intruducing Bentley Winston and Spencer: RIP My Sweet Angels

01-19-2009, 09:42 PM	#42
Lola'sMom Yorkie Talker Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: California Posts: 18	How is your dog doing? My dog was diagnosed with this disease on Jan 30th this year and we have been battling the albumin level and water in the belly. She is on prescription food (wet & dry) carrots, non fat cottage cheese and boiled chicken breast. She's getting B12 shots and is taking low dose aspirin each night as well as tylisin. We were told today to add the steriod and we referred to a specialist at UC Davis. Apparently there is no one way of dealing with this disease.

01-20-2009, 05:52 AM	#43
KCKD Yorkie Talker Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Denham Springs. LA Posts: 21	very hesitant to post this I debated quite a bit as to whether to post or not... I do want you to be very optimistic! My experience with this was not good, but then, my girl was small 3 1/2 lbs, and did not show any of the typical symptoms. By the time it was diagnosed, it was too late-- only 4 days. But, what I did want to tell you is that we were referred to the LSU Vet School, and the experts there told us that when this is caught early, it is very very manageable, and that when managed life expectancy was good. When diagnosed she was in a crisis condition, and that if we could get her through the crisis..... She was 6 years old. Watch your babies carefully, and manage them well... and I wish the very best for both of you. You are in my prayers.

01-20-2009, 05:18 PM	#44
dcapper Donating Yorkie Yakker Join Date: May 2007 Location: Winnipeg Posts: 372	My Toby lived with a condition somewhat like this most of his life. He developed it when he was around 8 years old. He would blow up like a balloon. He was drained at the vet and it almost killed him The liquid that came out of the syringe was pure protein. Toby was exhausted so they couldn't risk doing it again. What we ended up doing with him is we gave him 1/2 prednisone every other day and a cap full of a body building oil called MCT oil. It kept the protein in his system. Also Toby was on Royal Canin low-fat diet food. I don't know if your furbaby is having the same problem but I thought I could add a little to help out. Just so you know, Toby passed away in November and he lived to 17 years old. Last edited by dcapper; 01-20-2009 at 05:23 PM. Reason: Forgot to add diet

01-21-2009, 12:27 AM	#45
Lola'sMom Yorkie Talker Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: California Posts: 18	That is good news that Toby had such a long life. My Lola has not had to have belly drained but she balloons in and out. They are more worried about getting her protein level a bit higher. We started predisone yesterday and will be going to a specialist at UC Davis tomorrow. We are using the same food (Royal Canin) and she cannot get enough of it. I will ask about the MCT oil. thank you so much for your post - it is very helpful