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Originally Posted by Ellie May  There is an expanded fecal test that looks for more things. TLI to take another look at the pancreas and such. Vitamin B check to r/o small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. etc. I'm definitely not saying he needs all of this. Just that the vet does have options...
Yes, an esophageal scope... Not as diagnostic as opening a pup up, but not very invasive. They can take biopsies if needed. That doesn't mean it is time to do this. It just is needed (either this or surgery) at some point when intestinal issues don't respond to dietary changes and meds.
I'm not sure where you are at with the food thing. If he does okay on I/D canned, that is the only thing I would offer. No treats. No other kibbles. If the vet wanted him on RC kibble, that is the only thing he should get until he is better. Adding anything else or treating him with anything but the one food could throw him off. So I'd say pick one food and stick with it.
Although certainly not a miracle cure, I'd really consider reglan (if obstruction has been ruled out). This can help with esophageal irritation, nausea, and gastric motility issues. Maybe you could avoid the Pepcid this way.
BTW, my vet was saying a dog had recurrent GI issues. Nothing on xray. Then I forget what she did, but finally figured out there was a ring from a gallon of milk floating in its stomach. That wouldn't be the problem here, but not everyting is visible on xray. Have they talked about giving him some barium and looking again just to be sure? |
They haven't mentioned anything else in the way of testing yet but his vets have all said they are pretty sure it is mostly diet related now. I had mentioned giving him the old Iams kibble for treats, when he will take them, and they didn't say to stop that but I am going to stop anything but his Hills I/D for a couple of weeks to see what happens. I offered him 3 tablespoons or so this morning & he ate it all and even played after breakfast! He's gone back to bed now on the couch(not in his enclosed carrier) & he seems himself again so far today. So I think we are just going to stay with 3 small meals of Hills ID with nothing else for 2 weeks and see if my happy little dog will return & stay.
It is good to get an idea of what they could be ordering in the way of future testing should we have to. Thank you for that info, Crystal.