I've just had a chance to read this thread in full. It makes me very sad to see how both Brandi and Dawn must be suffering.
Just to clarify, a specialist is totally different than a general vet. They see these difficult presentations all the time and know how to deal with them. Seeing a specialist for this problem is no different than a human seeing an oncologist for cancer rather than their family practictioner. The OP could take Brandi to a specialist while on the present antibiotics and steroids and the specialist, most probably, from Dawn's oral history and her vet's records, along with his/her findings, could formulate a better organized plan for this pup than to just "guess and see" which medications and dosages might work. If the present medications are correct and the dosages are what Brandi needs, then Dawn can rest assured that she is doing the right thing. If not, then take the specialists, expert opinion and try that. This certainly seems like a win-win scenario for everyone to me. I don't understand why this would cause anyone added stress. If it were me, this would be the way to alleviate stress.
In light of the fact that AID is a lifetime disease, my thoughts would be that the sooner one figures out the best way to deal with it and it's flare ups, the better off one would be. I know you love your baby - my prayers are with you and Brandi.... |