All symptoms of Liver Shunt - but negative
 

Hi there! First off, I live and breathe my yorkie!! He is my sunshine, he makes me smile everytime I look at him. I am eat up with this dog! I don't care what anyone thinks! I am sure everyone else feels the way I do!! Ok so to start,
I too, am new to the forums, have been reading for months, just never posted. Mostly got ideas and good informative info, but now I need someone to help me. Is there ANYONE out there that has experience my sweet baby's problem. We have had 2 Bile Acid test done from our local vet, which she said both times she shows high percentages of Liver Shunt. SO my vet then refers us to this Radiology clinic where they do all sorts of test like the liver shunts and etc, and the test to our amazement came out negative for liver shunt!! Now, my problem starts all over. He stargazes, runs with his tail between is legs and just falls to lick himself in his privates CONSTANTLY, he rubs his head on the couches like a cat would, and what's weird is, on Aug 17th I gave Aidan is heartguard, which never phased him before, he went into a complete different world about 2 hours later. Disorientation, spaceyness, didn't know who were were , etc - He used to sleep with us, but now he feels comfort under the bed, instead of being stuck to me like glue on my back. I miss THAT MOST OF ALL! He used to cuddle, but has no part in it now.... SO that is why we got the test above ruled out. I can't for the life of me figure this one out, nor can the vets. We have an appt with the neurologist this week, and I hope she can tell us what's wrong. My local vet seems to think he may have something wrong with his BRAIN!! I am so torn about this, it breaks my heart into millions of peices. He just doesn't act like his playful sweet self anymore. Any ideas??? Please??

omigosh, i hate to respond without knowing anything, but please do keep us posted and let us know.....that is very scary! :(

Thank you. I am scared of out my mind. Each day he gets worse and worse. He is now stargazing every 15 minutes or so if he's not sleeping. He doesn't even come to us anymore, and goes straight to his kennel. Seems he gets worse at night more than anything. This is just breaking my heart, to the point where I am just crying out of the blue because I don't know what he is feeling.

I know how hard it is, but do try to be optimistic. There is a lot of medicine out there these days to treat neuroses. It happens. Just like people. But it may not be permanent, either. That's why I say to try to be optimistic. Let us know how it goes, will you?

Liver shunts can be very difficult to "see". I would recommend contacting Dr. Karen Tobias. This website provides a multitude of info....

http://www.yorkielane.com/LiverShunt/

I had questions about a dog once and I emailed Dr. Tobias. She returned my email within 24 hours.

Good luck and please keep us updated on your little one!

Sending prayers up for your baby!
:hands: :hands: :hands: :hands:

I would wonder about an allergic reaction to the heartguard.
They rub the face, lick, stratch,..etc.
I would ask about changing him to a different heartworm protection.


More Information on Heartgard Tabs

Generic Name
Ivermectin (eye-ver-mek’-tin)

Brand Name(s)
Heartgard (Merial), Heartgard Plus (Merial)

What is this medication used for
Heartgard is an anthelminthic (dewormer) used for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs and cats. Heartgard is also used for the control of hookworm in cats. Combined with pyrantel pamoate (Heartgard Plus), it also protects against hookworm and roundworm in dogs.

Availability
Heartgard is available by prescription as unflavored tablets and flavored chewable tablets. Heartgard Plus is available as flavored chewable tablets

How this medicine should be used
Heartgard is given once a month year round for the prevention of heartworm disease. The usual dose of Heartgard in dogs up to 25 pounds is 68mcg, for 26-50 pounds is 136mcg and for 51-100 pounds is 272mcg. Dogs over 100 pounds are given a combination of tablets. The usual dose of Heartgard in cats 5 pounds or less is 55mcg and for cats 6-15 pounds is 165mcg. The chewable tablets should be chewed. They are not meant to be swallowed whole. For dogs that normally swallow treats whole, the tablet can be broken into pieces. As an alternate to year round dosing, this medication can be given during the mosquito season and for one month after the season ends.

What are the side effects
The side effects of Heartgard are rare at the recommended heartworm prevention dose. Higher doses in dogs may cause tremors, dilated pupils, and loss of body weight or death. Side effects in cats include agitation, loss of appetite, staggering, dilated pupils, tremors, blindness and disorientation.

What special precautions are there
This medication should not be used in animals allergic to it. Use with caution in Collies. Heartworm testing should be performed prior to the start of prevention therapy. If the animal is off Heartgard for 6 months or less, start the medication and test after 6 months since microfilaria, that take 6 months to mature, will result in a positive test result. Because humans can contract hookworm from animals, it is important to maintain good personal hygiene. It is also important to eliminate fleas on the pet and in the household and to not feed the pet rodents or uncooked meat or fish. To prevent reinfection, daily cleanup of stools is recommended.

In the event of an overdose
Contact your veterinarian or veterinary emergency room. Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting, diarrhea, and incoordination in dogs. The symptoms of overdose in cats may include disorientation, tremors, incoordination, and blindness.

How should I store this medication
Keep this medication in the original box. Do not remove the tablet from the wrapper until ready to give the medicine. Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep this medication out of the reach of children and pets.



This information sheet is for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. The information is NOT to be used for diagnosis or treatment of your pet. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.

The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, allergic reactions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for your pet. It is not a substitute for a veterinary exam, and it does not replace the need for services provided by your veterinarian.
Note: Any trademarks are the property of their respective companies

Here is also a link to shunt and seizure info..
http://www.canine-epilepsy-guardian-...m/site_map.htm

PORTO SYSTEMIC SHUNTS

CAN CAUSE SEIZURES IN DOGS



Porto Systemic Shunts (also known as Portacaval Shunts) are abnormal communications between the portal vein coming from the gastrointestinal tract and the posterior vena cava, which carries blood back to the heart. The communications are normally present during fetal life and then close off shortly after birth. When the communications fail to close properly, the vessels serve as shunts so that portal blood flow does not pass through the liver for detoxification before being delivered to the rest of the body.

Most Porto Systemic shunts are congenital, that is, present at birth. In some cases, an acquired Porto Systemic shunt can develop secondary to an underlying liver disease. Congenital Porto Systemic shunts are most common in Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, Irish Wolfhounds, Cairn Terriers, and Old English Sheepdog, but any breed can be affected.

I have mentioned the Heartguard to the vet numerous times, but she doesn't think that the medicine has anything to do with Aidan's behavior. She thought that it was the protein that was effecting his moods or episodes as we call it. I am very familiar with what shunts are. I have done more research than you can imagine along with my husband taking turns researching, I have had our vet consult us on the liver shunt and as I mentioned before we have had 2 tests done, and also taking Aidan to the Animal Radiology Clinic in Dallas, where they did a "NucMed Portal Scan" Basically the "Yes" "No" test, If he has it or not. The test came back today after he had to be there all day, and the specialist there called us and stated it was DEFINITLEY not a liver shunt, so I have no idea what else to research.

Let me also bring up the fact that in the heartguard posting, that he did have a MAJOR episode where it scared us to death. All the symptoms listed is what he experienced. Does anyone know how long the heartguard stays in the system? Monthly? I will NOT be giving him any more until this is all cleared up. He was showing light signs of the shunt before the HG, but then after his monthly dose (which I might add he has been taking since a little puppy) he totally reacted in such a different way.

Thank you all for throwing the ideas out there. You have me and my husbands attention on this. This has caused suffering in my family. I had to rush my husband to the emergency room last Thursday night because when he saw Aidan licking at nothing (in the air like a lizard) it threw my husband in what he thought was a mild heartattack, ended up being a major panic attack. He had to go through all the blood testing and Xrays. This is how much this little angel means to us. If that's not love.. I don't know what is.

It might be MVD microvascular dysplasia all the symptoms of liver shunt but it's not a shunt, it's usually treated non surgically with a low protein prescription diet. The only way to know for sure whether a dog has a shunt or issues with the liver is through surgery. If he isn't neutered yet a specialist can perform a liver biopsy at the same time.

Anyone know anything about insulinoma? I saw somewhere symptoms of this that sounded similar to what she has been describing.

"What are the symptoms of insulinoma?
Symptoms of insulinoma may include dizziness, disorientation and weight gain — often patients feel better after they eat, and so eat more frequently. Eighty-five percent of patients have blurred vision, palpitations, sweating and weakness, as hypoglycaemia produces adrenaline which causes these effects. Seizures are not uncommon.
The lack of food to the brain results in the signs seen which usually are periodic (they come and go on their own). The early signs are: depression, lethargy, blankly staring with poor response to sound or touch, salivating and pawing at the mouth (because they are nauseated), and periodic weakness, especially of the hind quarters."
Don't know if that helps atall???
I would get him in to see a veterinary neurologist as soon as possible as they will be able to see if there are any 'brain' problems. The sooner they find what it could be and treat him sooner you get yr furbaby back to normal. He's got the best mum and dad ever you'll sort it together :)

Syringomyelia???
 

Have you ever heard of syringomyelia? This has a lot of symptoms that you are seeing - esp. the face rubbing. Here is a site that explains it much better than I could. It is very common in Cavalier king charles spanials also a toy breed and is in a number of small breeds. It usually starts to become evident between 2 and 3 years. It is treatable with medication and surgery is coming along. It is basically a malformation in the occipital bone of the skull and spinal fluid builds and causes the symptoms. Does he scratch a lot when he is wearing a collar or do you always have him in a harness?

I hope he is just allergic to the HG but this is also something to consider. I will see what other info I can get for you. Prayers are with you and your family!:)

information site: htttp://sm.cavaliertalk.com.

Also Cavaliertalk.com has ALOT of info.

The appointment with your neurologist is a great starting place and they could tell you if this is a possibility.

It is so hard when you havedone everything to find out what is wrong with him. Cali has a mild MVD internal shunt. It was diagnosed with a Liver biopsy, but she does not have any of those symptoms as hers is vey mild. I do keep her on a low protein diet. Good luck you both are so dedicated to getting him well I pray he can get healthy again.

Well, last night after Aidan had been home for an hour or so, he started his episodes again, and seemed to be getting worse and worse. Our vet referred us to a neurologiest in North Dallas, VERY PRICEY! I called this morning to see how soon I could get him in, and she only had a 10am today, until Monday, So I shipped my husband off to take him to get analyzed. I am starting to lean towards what "smmrpm" said. All the symptoms that Aidan has, are in this disease, and the clinic that performed the last test to see if Aidan had a LS mentioned that it could be something to do with his brain. This doctor is charging us$ 125.00 a visit and the MRI ranges between $1900. and $2500.00. It kills me that the doctors here charge that much... and they know they can. I am already out 800.00 with thinking he had a liver shunt. I am just mad now!

Oooo those are expensive tests, but an MRI can tell you so much! Good luck and I hope you find answers and help! :ghug:

A full MRI and Spinal Tap will be administered. Aidan was just checked out at the only clinic in the south west region that does this type of stuff. That is what the doctor told us... so anyone one AR, OK, MS and NM have to come to Dallas... so anyway, he said it could be many things, he is pushing more toward a disease, which after the tests, it maybe cureable thru meds. He said that the clinic that performed the test for LS, said that if they said that the test came back negative, then it is negative, which he said if the test hadn't been done, he would have diagnosed as LS also. I dont know guys, I am feeling alittle like Kara, tired worn down, depressed, angry.........feeling like a hex has been put on me this year. Lost my baby of 6 months pregnant in March, lost my sweet cockatiel, and now worrying what is wrong with my precious Aidan.... i feel like i am losing my mind. It's good that they ruled out the LS, but at the same time, starting back zero again just sucks.

OMG, you are going thru hell and back. I am sooo sorry.:( I pray that poor little Aiden can finally be diagnosed correctly and get the proper medication or whatever it takes to get him well again. It is too bad that vet can and do charge so much because they know that somehow we will come up with the money for out babies. They should offer discounts when the billls reach a certain point. They are vets so they love animals. If they loved animals that much then why would they withhold medical treatment that might save a pets life if the parents couldn't afford it. Sorry, it really upsets me to think about it.:mad: Maybe the vet will work with you. I know you'll do whatever it takes to get Aiden well again. Your posts show how much he means to your husband and you. I also hope your husband is doing better. Please take care of yourself and him so you will be there for Aiden so he can be a healthy little puppy again. Prayers for a simple solution to all this.

I hope you find out something real soon so you can help you poor little baby. I am so sorry you are having to go through this. My prayers are with you and your baby.

You and your babies are in my prayers.....

Well, it's a sure thing that when trouble visits, it comes in bunches. Feeling like you're losing your mind is normal when you're under that constant stress and emotional distress. We're all here if you need an ear. I think most of us have been through similar bad times. Praying for the best for your little one...Hugs to you:hug:

Well I gotta say, thank you ALL for your continued support. You HAVE no idea what tis means to me with all the suggestions, advice and prayers.... ok maybe you do, but the overall sensation is a wonderful feeling to know i have all of you out there praying for my Aidan. This dog is truley my little angel.....and I dont what to even think about what it would be like to not have him in my life.... so WE WONT DO THAT.. LOL! The medicine that the neurology clinic/hospital gave him is called Gabapentin, ever heard of it or know what it really does. I could read up on it on the internet, but wanted to see if anyone knows what this stuff does. The dr said that this is given to humans also, which if it works to calm him down, he will call into the pharmacy and we can pick up the full amount, as the dr just gave us a sample..... KEEP ALL FINGERS AND TOES CROSSED that this stuff works.... LOVE YOU ALL! WILL KEEP YOU UPDATED!

Well I gotta say, thank you ALL for your continued support. You HAVE no idea what tis means to me with all the suggestions, advice and prayers.... ok maybe you do, but the overall sensation is a wonderful feeling to know i have all of you out there praying for my Aidan. This dog is truley my little angel.....and I dont what to even think about what it would be like to not have him in my life.... so WE WONT DO THAT.. LOL! The medicine that the neurology clinic/hospital gave him is called Gabapentin, ever heard of it or know what it really does. I could read up on it on the internet, but wanted to see if anyone knows what this stuff does. The dr said that this is given to humans also, which if it works to calm him down, he will call into the pharmacy and we can pick up the full amount, as the dr just gave us a sample..... KEEP ALL FINGERS AND TOES CROSSED that this stuff works.... LOVE YOU ALL! WILL KEEP YOU UPDATED!

Fingers and paws are all crossed.:)

I was able to get some photos so you can see my lil family. I hope this link comes up.

Nope. I couldn't see it, either.

I got it. Such a beautiful little family you have. They look so cute sleeping together. Prayers being sent for the meds to work for Aiden and for his continued improvement. Hugs to all and maybe now you can relax a little and get some rest. :)

In humans Gabapentin is generic for Neurontin....not sure if it is the same for dogs. It is an Epileptic medication for seizures. My husband does not have seizures, but takes it for his severe back pain...evidently, it helps with the nerve pain. Hopefully, it will help your baby. I am sending prayers for Aidan to get well soon!