Sick, 1.1 pound puppy is lethargic, not eating/drinking. Please help!!! - Page 2 - YorkieTalk.com Forums

Bella dolce · 01-17-2012, 10:23 AM

The Vet called and Baby Bella has Coccidia (sp?). They're keeping her until 7pm tonight. IV fluids are in and she is a bit more active. I'm still very scared and depressed about our baby's health. Anyone have any experience or knowledge treating puppies this young with CoccidIa? I will get goats milk today and finger feed her the paste. They've prescribed a high calorie soft food by Royal Canin. I just don't know how to keep her hydrated and fed when she comes home. Help?

carmen in nj · 01-17-2012, 10:29 AM

here you go.. to keep her hydrated, follow your Vets instructions very carefully here is some info on Coccidia..

Coccidiosis in dogs... by Dr. Foster and Smith..

Coccidia are small protozoans (one-celled organisms) that live in the intestinal tracts of dogs and cats. They cause disease most commonly in puppies and kittens less than six months of age, in adult animals whose immune system is suppressed, or in animals who are stressed in other ways (e.g.; change in ownership, other disease present).
In dogs and cats, most coccidia are of the genus called Isospora. Isospora canis and I. ohioensis are the species most often encountered in dogs. Regardless of which species is present, we generally refer to the disease as coccidiosis. As a puppy ages, he tends to develop a natural immunity to the effects of coccidia. As an adult, he may carry coccidia in his intestines, and shed the cyst in the feces, but experience no ill effects.

How are coccidia transmitted? A puppy is not born with the coccidia organisms in his intestine. However, once born, the puppy is frequently exposed to his mother's feces, and if the mother is shedding the infective cysts in her feces, then the young animals will likely ingest them and coccidia will develop within the young animal's intestines. Since young puppies, usually those less than six months of age, have no immunity to coccidia, the organisms reproduce in great numbers and parasitize the young animal's intestines. Oftentimes, this has severe effects.
From exposure to the coccidia in feces to the onset of the illness is about 13 days. Most puppies who are ill from coccidia are, therefore, two weeks of age and older. Although most infections are the result of spread from the mother, this is not always the case. Any infected puppy or kitten is contagious to other puppies or kittens. In breeding facilities, shelters, animal hospitals, etc., it is wise to isolate those infected from those that are not.

What are the symptoms of coccidiosis? The primary sign of an animal suffering with coccidiosis is diarrhea. The diarrhea may be mild to severe depending on the level of infection. Blood and mucous may be present, especially in advanced cases. Severely affected animals may also vomit, lose their appetite, become dehydrated, and in some instances, die from the disease.
Most infected puppies encountered by the authors are in the four to twelve week age group. The possibility of coccidiosis should always be considered when a loose stool or diarrhea is encountered in this age group. A microscopic fecal exam by a veterinarian will detect the cysts confirming a diagnosis.
It should be mentioned that stress plays a role in the development of coccidiosis. It is not uncommon for a seemingly healthy puppy to arrive at his new home and develop diarrhea several days later leading to a diagnosis of coccidia. If the puppy has been at the new home for less than thirteen days, then he had coccidia before he arrived. Remember, the incubation period (from exposure to illness) is about thirteen days. If the puppy has been with his new owner several weeks, then the exposure to coccidia most likely occurred after the animal arrived at the new home.

What are the risks? Although many cases are mild, it is not uncommon to see severe, bloody diarrhea result in dehydration and even death. This is most common in animals who are ill or infected with other parasites, bacteria, or viruses. Coccidiosis is very contagious, especially among young puppies. Entire kennels may become contaminated, with puppies of many age groups simultaneously affected.

What is the treatment of coccidiosis? Fortunately, coccidiosis is treatable. Drugs such as sulfadimethoxine (Albon®) and trimethoprim-sulfadiazine (Tribrissen®) have been effective in the treatment and prevention of coccidia. Because these drugs do not kill the organisms, but rather inhibit their reproduction capabilities, elimination of coccidia from the intestine is not rapid. By stopping the ability of the protozoa to reproduce, time is allowed for the puppy's own immunity to develop and remove the organisms. Drug treatments of one to three weeks are usually required.
How is coccidiosis prevented or controlled? Because coccidia is spread by the feces of carrier animals, it is very important to practice strict sanitation. All fecal material should be removed. Housing needs to be such that food and water cannot become contaminated with feces. Clean water should be provided at all times. Most disinfectants do not work well against coccidia; incineration of the feces, and steam cleaning, immersion in boiling water, or a 10% ammonia solution are the best methods to kill coccidia. Coccidia can withstand freezing.
Cockroaches and flies can mechanically carry coccidia from one place to another. Mice and other animals can ingest the coccidia and when killed and eaten by a dog, for instance, can infect the dog. Therefore, insect and rodent control is very important in preventing coccidiosis.
The coccidia species of dogs and cats do not infect humans.

Taryn0405 · 01-17-2012, 10:37 AM

Companion Animal Parasite Council—Coccidia in Dogs

There's some more information about coccidia the parasite. Basically I would advise not letting your baby outside or near any other dog. If you have another dog at your house, he or she is going to be need to be testing and treated for this as well.
In order to get this baby to eat you're going to have to feed her many tiems a day and theser would be questions I'd be asking your vet. How many times, how much, and methods in order to help you feed your baby. Ask teh vet is her or she can even show you how to do it.

Also, I would have nutrical and your local E.R vet number and driving directions in your possession.
Poor little baby is going to need constant care right now. Also try to keep the little one warm as well. Lots of blankets and cuddles will be needed. Alot of members here make snuggle sacks, and I would advise either a heating pad on the lowest setting, or a warm water bottle for your little one.

Good luck, keep us updated.

MY OSCAR · 01-17-2012, 11:45 AM

Oh i am so sorry your baby is sick.
I am saying a special prayer for her.

bella_bell · 01-17-2012, 11:52 AM

So sorry to hear you have to go through this. I have a little Bella too. Our prayers and thoughts are going out to her! Think positively. She's in good hands now and has a lot of wonderful people thinking of her.

Buster Brown · 01-17-2012, 12:08 PM

Bella is such a tiny baby girl. I would also recommend if you are having to feed her the food if she is not swallowing gently stroke her throat after you feed her a small mouthful in order to get her to swallow. Also to keep her warm you can get a snuggle puppy. It has heat packs that you can place inside and a battery run heart which simulates the sound of Mom heartbeat to comfort the puppy. Amazon.com: snuggle puppy Also I would also recommend adding a probiotic to her diet as the antibiotics used to kill the coccidia also kills off the good bacteria in her stomach as well. I use Pet Dophilus Buster also had coccidia when I first got him and had many of the same symptom's a Bella. Sending prayers for her continued improvement and best wishes and hugs to her Mom. I know how scary it is when they are sick.

lynzy420 · 01-17-2012, 12:32 PM

You are awesome, great job! I am so glad that you are doing all the right things!

Right now, the most important thing is to write down EVERY SINGLE QUESTION YOU HAVE for the vet:

Feeding:
What to feed
How to feed
When to feed

Hydration:
What to use
How to use
When to use

Supplements:
Nutracal?
What else?
How often?

What to watch for, and what to do if you see any of these things.

Also, make a follow up appointment for atleast 1 week so you know that you are doing all the right things for this precious lil girl.

The second most important thing is to take care of you, you know you are doing everything and anything possible to take care of this pup, relax and trust yourself. Eat, drink and relax. Your so much better than you know and take it one day at a time, imagining the worst is far worse than going through it...you will continue to do a great job.

You should be proud of what a good job you are doing, I know I am proud of you! Hindsight is 20/20, move forward, theres nothing you can do to change what already is. Love your pup, take care of both of you and do exactly what your Vet says.

Come here often for support and post your pups progress, we are all here for you!

Now the coccidia (sp), its treatable and exactly as what was posted above, my 2lb. yorkie had it and I thought the worst and she came out ok just keep an eye on her, like you already are!

Lynn

stovesj · 01-17-2012, 01:32 PM

So sorry little Bella is sick. You must be worried sick. Wishing her a speedy recovery.

dawn27 · 01-17-2012, 02:14 PM

I am so sorry that you and you baby Bella are having to go through this very scary and traumatic experience. Im sending you wishes and much hope for a quick recovery.

I really hope that you get the answers and the help that you need in order to give this baby a good healthy start in life.

I just can not understand is why the breeder would take this baby away from its mother at such an early age and stage in its life. Un freaken believable !! There must be something that you can do. Someone who you can call to report this person.

Mom to Hot Rod · 01-17-2012, 02:22 PM

You have gotten a lot of good advice, please do not ever wait to take her to the vet if you feel she needs attention. It's best to be cautious.

Sending prayers that she will be okay.

Wylie's Mom · 01-17-2012, 02:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mom to Hot Rod

You have gotten a lot of good advice, please do not ever wait to take her to the vet if you feel she needs attention. It's best to be cautious.

Sending prayers that she will be okay.

jadabug · 01-17-2012, 03:07 PM

Sending prayers for your baby. I hope she pulls through and I agree...err on the side of caution and if things don't seem right get to the vet immediately. I would rather be safe than sorry when it comes to the health and well being of these babies. I can't image a 4 week old baby being separated from its mommy

Rasthespaz · 01-17-2012, 04:46 PM

Thinking about your baby!

Ringo1 · 01-17-2012, 04:54 PM

Hoping and praying you can nurse her back to health.

Perrella · 01-17-2012, 05:03 PM

This is just so very sad

, sending prayers this sweet baby girl can pull through.

01-17-2012, 10:29 AM	#17
carmen in nj Donating YT 4000 Club Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Hopatcong, NJ, USA Posts: 4,615 Blog Entries: 74	here you go.. to keep her hydrated, follow your Vets instructions very carefully here is some info on Coccidia.. Coccidiosis in dogs... by Dr. Foster and Smith.. Coccidia are small protozoans (one-celled organisms) that live in the intestinal tracts of dogs and cats. They cause disease most commonly in puppies and kittens less than six months of age, in adult animals whose immune system is suppressed, or in animals who are stressed in other ways (e.g.; change in ownership, other disease present). In dogs and cats, most coccidia are of the genus called Isospora. Isospora canis and I. ohioensis are the species most often encountered in dogs. Regardless of which species is present, we generally refer to the disease as coccidiosis. As a puppy ages, he tends to develop a natural immunity to the effects of coccidia. As an adult, he may carry coccidia in his intestines, and shed the cyst in the feces, but experience no ill effects. How are coccidia transmitted? A puppy is not born with the coccidia organisms in his intestine. However, once born, the puppy is frequently exposed to his mother's feces, and if the mother is shedding the infective cysts in her feces, then the young animals will likely ingest them and coccidia will develop within the young animal's intestines. Since young puppies, usually those less than six months of age, have no immunity to coccidia, the organisms reproduce in great numbers and parasitize the young animal's intestines. Oftentimes, this has severe effects. From exposure to the coccidia in feces to the onset of the illness is about 13 days. Most puppies who are ill from coccidia are, therefore, two weeks of age and older. Although most infections are the result of spread from the mother, this is not always the case. Any infected puppy or kitten is contagious to other puppies or kittens. In breeding facilities, shelters, animal hospitals, etc., it is wise to isolate those infected from those that are not. What are the symptoms of coccidiosis? The primary sign of an animal suffering with coccidiosis is diarrhea. The diarrhea may be mild to severe depending on the level of infection. Blood and mucous may be present, especially in advanced cases. Severely affected animals may also vomit, lose their appetite, become dehydrated, and in some instances, die from the disease. Most infected puppies encountered by the authors are in the four to twelve week age group. The possibility of coccidiosis should always be considered when a loose stool or diarrhea is encountered in this age group. A microscopic fecal exam by a veterinarian will detect the cysts confirming a diagnosis. It should be mentioned that stress plays a role in the development of coccidiosis. It is not uncommon for a seemingly healthy puppy to arrive at his new home and develop diarrhea several days later leading to a diagnosis of coccidia. If the puppy has been at the new home for less than thirteen days, then he had coccidia before he arrived. Remember, the incubation period (from exposure to illness) is about thirteen days. If the puppy has been with his new owner several weeks, then the exposure to coccidia most likely occurred after the animal arrived at the new home. What are the risks? Although many cases are mild, it is not uncommon to see severe, bloody diarrhea result in dehydration and even death. This is most common in animals who are ill or infected with other parasites, bacteria, or viruses. Coccidiosis is very contagious, especially among young puppies. Entire kennels may become contaminated, with puppies of many age groups simultaneously affected. What is the treatment of coccidiosis? Fortunately, coccidiosis is treatable. Drugs such as sulfadimethoxine (Albon®) and trimethoprim-sulfadiazine (Tribrissen®) have been effective in the treatment and prevention of coccidia. Because these drugs do not kill the organisms, but rather inhibit their reproduction capabilities, elimination of coccidia from the intestine is not rapid. By stopping the ability of the protozoa to reproduce, time is allowed for the puppy's own immunity to develop and remove the organisms. Drug treatments of one to three weeks are usually required. How is coccidiosis prevented or controlled? Because coccidia is spread by the feces of carrier animals, it is very important to practice strict sanitation. All fecal material should be removed. Housing needs to be such that food and water cannot become contaminated with feces. Clean water should be provided at all times. Most disinfectants do not work well against coccidia; incineration of the feces, and steam cleaning, immersion in boiling water, or a 10% ammonia solution are the best methods to kill coccidia. Coccidia can withstand freezing. Cockroaches and flies can mechanically carry coccidia from one place to another. Mice and other animals can ingest the coccidia and when killed and eaten by a dog, for instance, can infect the dog. Therefore, insect and rodent control is very important in preventing coccidiosis. The coccidia species of dogs and cats do not infect humans. __________________ My Etsy shop is OPEN... Carmen in nj

01-17-2012, 10:37 AM	#18
Taryn0405 Owned by a Gremlin Donating Member Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: The Mitten State! Posts: 3,706	Companion Animal Parasite Council—Coccidia in Dogs There's some more information about coccidia the parasite. Basically I would advise not letting your baby outside or near any other dog. If you have another dog at your house, he or she is going to be need to be testing and treated for this as well. In order to get this baby to eat you're going to have to feed her many tiems a day and theser would be questions I'd be asking your vet. How many times, how much, and methods in order to help you feed your baby. Ask teh vet is her or she can even show you how to do it. Also, I would have nutrical and your local E.R vet number and driving directions in your possession. Poor little baby is going to need constant care right now. Also try to keep the little one warm as well. Lots of blankets and cuddles will be needed. Alot of members here make snuggle sacks, and I would advise either a heating pad on the lowest setting, or a warm water bottle for your little one. Good luck, keep us updated. __________________ Taryn Momma to Gizmo AKA Monkeyman My husband, daughter, son, and dog make me who I am "My goal in life is to be as good of a person my dog already thinks I am."

01-17-2012, 12:08 PM	#21
Buster Brown Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Toluca Lake, CA Posts: 5,491	Bella is such a tiny baby girl. I would also recommend if you are having to feed her the food if she is not swallowing gently stroke her throat after you feed her a small mouthful in order to get her to swallow. Also to keep her warm you can get a snuggle puppy. It has heat packs that you can place inside and a battery run heart which simulates the sound of Mom heartbeat to comfort the puppy. Amazon.com: snuggle puppy Also I would also recommend adding a probiotic to her diet as the antibiotics used to kill the coccidia also kills off the good bacteria in her stomach as well. I use Pet Dophilus Buster also had coccidia when I first got him and had many of the same symptom's a Bella. Sending prayers for her continued improvement and best wishes and hugs to her Mom. I know how scary it is when they are sick. __________________ CarolynBuster Brown "The happiest people don't have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything."

01-17-2012, 12:32 PM	#22
lynzy420 Donating YT 3000 Club Member Join Date: Dec 2011 Location: USA Posts: 7,652	Bellas Mom: You are awesome, great job! I am so glad that you are doing all the right things! Right now, the most important thing is to write down EVERY SINGLE QUESTION YOU HAVE for the vet: Feeding: What to feed How to feed When to feed Hydration: What to use How to use When to use Supplements: Nutracal? What else? How often? What to watch for, and what to do if you see any of these things. Also, make a follow up appointment for atleast 1 week so you know that you are doing all the right things for this precious lil girl. The second most important thing is to take care of you, you know you are doing everything and anything possible to take care of this pup, relax and trust yourself. Eat, drink and relax. Your so much better than you know and take it one day at a time, imagining the worst is far worse than going through it...you will continue to do a great job. You should be proud of what a good job you are doing, I know I am proud of you! Hindsight is 20/20, move forward, theres nothing you can do to change what already is. Love your pup, take care of both of you and do exactly what your Vet says. Come here often for support and post your pups progress, we are all here for you! Now the coccidia (sp), its treatable and exactly as what was posted above, my 2lb. yorkie had it and I thought the worst and she came out ok just keep an eye on her, like you already are! Lynn

01-17-2012, 01:32 PM	#23
stovesj Donating YT 3000 Club Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Kenmore, Washington Posts: 3,299	So sorry little Bella is sick. You must be worried sick. Wishing her a speedy recovery. __________________ JoanneGracie and Izzy Wag More...Bark Less

01-17-2012, 10:23 AM	#16
Bella dolce Yorkie Talker Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Lawrenceville, ga USA Posts: 21	The Vet called and Baby Bella has Coccidia (sp?). They're keeping her until 7pm tonight. IV fluids are in and she is a bit more active. I'm still very scared and depressed about our baby's health. Anyone have any experience or knowledge treating puppies this young with CoccidIa? I will get goats milk today and finger feed her the paste. They've prescribed a high calorie soft food by Royal Canin. I just don't know how to keep her hydrated and fed when she comes home. Help?

01-17-2012, 11:45 AM	#19
MY OSCAR YT 3000 Club Member Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: USA Posts: 4,514	Oh i am so sorry your baby is sick. I am saying a special prayer for her.

01-17-2012, 11:52 AM	#20
bella_bell Yorkie Talker Join Date: Dec 2011 Location: Los Angeles, CA Posts: 20	So sorry to hear you have to go through this. I have a little Bella too. Our prayers and thoughts are going out to her! Think positively. She's in good hands now and has a lot of wonderful people thinking of her.

01-17-2012, 02:14 PM	#24
dawn27 2+2=4 X the Love ♥ Donating Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: Bean Town Ohio Posts: 9,456 Blog Entries: 1	I am so sorry that you and you baby Bella are having to go through this very scary and traumatic experience. Im sending you wishes and much hope for a quick recovery. I really hope that you get the answers and the help that you need in order to give this baby a good healthy start in life. I just can not understand is why the breeder would take this baby away from its mother at such an early age and stage in its life. Un freaken believable !! There must be something that you can do. Someone who you can call to report this person. __________________ Mommy to: Quincy, & Ruby Bella / Miah & Brandi Gone but Never Forgotten Visit: Bella Dawns for all of your Custom Pet Wear needs.

01-17-2012, 02:22 PM	#25
Mom to Hot Rod Donating YT 5000 Club Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: MD Posts: 10,908	You have gotten a lot of good advice, please do not ever wait to take her to the vet if you feel she needs attention. It's best to be cautious. Sending prayers that she will be okay. __________________ www.kissecollar.com Soft Cone Collars for Post-surgery and much more! 10% (non-food) - Discount code YT10

01-17-2012, 03:07 PM	#27
jadabug Jada + Bogie = ♥ Donating Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Mayberry AKA smalltown usa Posts: 24,078	Sending prayers for your baby. I hope she pulls through and I agree...err on the side of caution and if things don't seem right get to the vet immediately. I would rather be safe than sorry when it comes to the health and well being of these babies. I can't image a 4 week old baby being separated from its mommy __________________ Michelle, Jada and Bogie

01-17-2012, 04:46 PM	#28
Rasthespaz Senior Yorkie Talker Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Dfw Posts: 149	Thinking about your baby! __________________ Ashley & Rascal

01-17-2012, 04:54 PM	#29
Ringo1 Ringo (1) and Lucy too! Donating Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: On the Edge of Glory Posts: 3,447	Hoping and praying you can nurse her back to health. __________________ Mommy to Lucy, Ringo, and Matthew

01-17-2012, 05:03 PM	#30
Perrella Donating YT 5000 Club Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: VA Posts: 8,040	This is just so very sad, sending prayers this sweet baby girl can pull through. __________________ Tena & Zhoie Sweet Little Miracle