Like Ellie, Lady's genetic health issues didn't show up until she was much older. She is thirteen now.
She was diagnosed with epilepsy age age 4.5.
She was diagnosed with diabetes at age 6.
She was diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis at age 7. Her vet said her joints looked like those of an elderly dog.
She was diagnosed with allergies at age 7.
She was diagnosed with hypothyroidism at age 10.
Lady also has constant infections because of her weak immune system from the diabetes. Her pancreas no longer produces the enzymes necessary to digest her food properly. She has liver disease from years of phenobarbital for seizures.
My advice for anyone with a poorly bred dog is to set up a separate account for veterinary bills. Actually, that's my advice for anyone with pets, but it is especially important if your dog came from pet store or backyard breeder. Lady's diabetic supplies and medications plus routine vet visits to monitor her conditions run about $5,000 a year now. That doesn't include an illness or emergency which usually runs another $5,000-$1,000. |