I can't thank you all enough for all your support and advice as I navigate thru the diagnosis process. It really means a lot to me to hear from people who have gone thru this and understand the process, as I am continually asked to make decisions about tests I know nothing about.
One of the frustrating things about living in Maui is the limited medical resourses here (for pets AND humans). I don't even know if scintography is done here, but I'll be asking as soon as the vet clinic opens this morning. I was surprised to find that the person who does ultrasound is on another island and only flies over here when she has 6 or more waiting; and we are only #3 on the list. She usually comes once every 4-6 weeks. If it was important, I'd fly Tiki over to Big Island to get it sooner. My vet would normally be sending us to a Vet internist, but there isn't one in Hawaii, so we are doing the best we can.
The more I learn, the harder it is. Hearing that elevated ALT indicates liver cell death, and smallish liver on xray, has my tears flowing all over again. I need to focus on "don't panic, liver disease isn't a death sentance". We are going to figure this out and fix it, whatever it is.
As I'm sitting here struggling, Tiki and Meika have the zoomies, chasing each other in and out of every room and up and down stairs. I need to learn from them..... live for the moment!
Today's challenge, search for pet food. Tiki (liver challenged at 7 months old, 7#) needs low protien, Meika (5 months but stocky 6# Morkie) can switch to adult food now, and Niko (13 yr. old, 20# Schnauzer) probably needs a senior food cause he's gained a bit from getting into puppies food.
Sorry this got so long, it's an emotional day for me. Thanks for listening and continuing to give me input.
Warmest Aloha,
Sandy |