Something is wrong with Teddi!

[yorkiesmiles]

Originally Posted by RONLYNN

Just wanted to update everyone on Teddi. We had the consultation today with the surgeon. She explained everything to me and drew a picture of the insides and explained that normally only about 15% of the blood is not filtered through the liver and in Teddi's case she has 85% that is not filtering. She is scheduled to have her surgery on Monday (12/3/07). I have to bring her to the hospital on Sunday night. She will have to stay in the hospital for about 2-3 days. The doctor told me that if I didn't have the surgery she would only live another year. I did contact the breeder I got her from to ask if they have other puppies with this condition and got this back:

Thank you for your email.
I am sorry to hear about Teddi and hope she will feel better soon.
Both of his parents are 100% and we never had this problem in the past so i am puzzled for how she got it.
Please forward all the medical record to us so we can look into it and keep us updated on how Teddi is doing.

I guess it was just a fluke that she got the liver shunt but she is in really good spirits. She was running all over the house last nite and this morning. She was attacking her toys and Cassie.

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers and please keep them coming for us!!!

xoxo, Ronda

I am so glad it's operable. Continuing to pray for you to make the best decisions for Teddi & where to have the surgery. I loved the pix & video of your 2 together. I don't know if you have seen this new thread or not - maybe there is something here that would help you.


http://www.yorkietalk.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=104978

Originally Posted by LaviniaHyacynth

Hi Everyone, It has been a really long time since i have posted. For those of you that don't know my story.....I have a 3 and a half year old yorkie named Lavinia "Vivi" who was diagnosed before her second birthday with an inoperable liver shunt which resulted in large inoperable kidney stones. My vet sent her medical files to UT to get the opinion of Dr. TObias...she was surprised that Vivi had survived her puppyhood based on the clinical reports. I have struggled to find a balanced diet that allows her to get the necessary protein without overwhelming her very under developed liver. Last Spring she almost died as a result of the kidney stones and we were given very little hope for her future. Vivi, however, was not ready to give up and neither was I. Her diet consists of organic baby food and added carrots, apples, and bananas. She loves the added texture. She gets 3cc's of lactulose 3 times a day. Last summer I was walking in the East Village in NYC and I came across a holistic pet store and went in to see if they had

anything for liver ailments.
I found a bottle of their private label herbal supplement for liver and kidneys and decided to try it. Vivi has never liked any other supplement and i have tried several so i didn't give this one much hope. I mixed it in her food and she ate it....in fact she gobbled it down. THat was four months ago and during that time I have seen a remarkable difference in my dog.....she has more energy than she has ever had....her eyes are bright, she is very alert....I thought I was imagining this...could my dog actually be getting better? Yesterday, I took her to my vet and he also noticed a big difference and decided to run extensive blood tests....I just got the results....her numbers are the best they have been in her entire life. She is not cured by any stretch but she has improved which means that clinically her tiny liver is working better. He and I both are astounded. I bought this stuff from Whiskers Holistic Products 235 E. 9th street, NYC,NY 10003. 1-212-979-2532. or 1-800-WHISKERS. It is called WHiskers Own Liver/Kidney Aide.It is not available online so i just reordered it over the phone. I do not work for this company or know anyone that does....nor am I being compensated in any way. I apologize for sounding like an infomercial but I have been trying to help Vivi for a long time and this is the first time the vet has ever called me with good news. My dog's condition is inoperable so this is the only thing I can do....try to keep her underdeveloped liver working to it's best ability. And finally something helped her. The product contains dandelion root, milk thistle, corn silk,marshmallow root, and cleaver's herb . It is organic. I hope that this helps other dogs suffering from liver disease.

[laurenr]

Originally Posted by yorkiesmiles

I am so glad it's operable. Continuing to pray for you to make the best decisions for Teddi & where to have the surgery. I loved the pix & video of your 2 together. I don't know if you have seen this new thread or not - maybe there is something here that would help you.


http://www.yorkietalk.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=104978

I am SO glad you posted this information. I have already copied and pasted it in another thread where yet another poor baby has been diagnosed with Liver Shunt.
Lauren

[RONLYNN]

Knoxville, TN - here we come. We are flying out on 12/11 to Knoxville, will arrive on 12/12 in the morning. Teddi's surgery is scheduled for 12/13. We will return on 12/17. I'm feel so happy and comfortable having the surgery done at the University of Tennessee Hospital. Thank you all for all your support. I would have been able to get through this without all of you!!!!

xoxo

[Gypsy & Me]

Originally Posted by RONLYNN

Knoxville, TN - here we come. We are flying out on 12/11 to Knoxville, will arrive on 12/12 in the morning. Teddi's surgery is scheduled for 12/13. We will return on 12/17. I'm feel so happy and comfortable having the surgery done at the University of Tennessee Hospital. Thank you all for all your support. I would have been able to get through this without all of you!!!!

xoxo

YAY! That's great news Ronda.

Love to Teddi!

[mistyinca]

Originally Posted by RONLYNN

Knoxville, TN - here we come. We are flying out on 12/11 to Knoxville, will arrive on 12/12 in the morning. Teddi's surgery is scheduled for 12/13. We will return on 12/17. I'm feel so happy and comfortable having the surgery done at the University of Tennessee Hospital. Thank you all for all your support. I would have been able to get through this without all of you!!!!

xoxo

Wow Ronda,
That is great that you are going to take her to the top hospital for the surgery. Soon, Teddi is going to be all fixed up and back to 100%. I know its still a couple of weeks away, but I just want to say that I will keep you and Teddi in my thoughts and prayers, and I hope you have a safe and easy flight and Teddi's surgery is a smooth and easy one with no complications and an easy, pain-free recovery!

How is she doing right now? Still no more episodes? Does she have to be on a special diet right now in addition to her medicine?

[laurenr]

Originally Posted by RONLYNN

Knoxville, TN - here we come. We are flying out on 12/11 to Knoxville, will arrive on 12/12 in the morning. Teddi's surgery is scheduled for 12/13. We will return on 12/17. I'm feel so happy and comfortable having the surgery done at the University of Tennessee Hospital. Thank you all for all your support. I would have been able to get through this without all of you!!!!

xoxo

Ronda,
Is that the final date? So you decided then to push it back a week? I am SO happy you found that support group which led you to those wonderful sounding doctors you told me about. I think the week after next is great, because it gives Teddi time to build up her strength even more after last week's ordeal.
I've been thinking of supplies you will need to take with you. You're going to have SO much on your mind, so let us help you get organized. Maybe others here can suggest items that would come in useful. This is what I have thought of...(keep in mind, I am thinking like a Mommy, not a Medical professional):
Crate for the plane - I know this sounds obvious, but most people use the soft-sided Celtei type, and I think to avoid possible injury if knocked (after the surgery), the crate should be the solid kind - all 4 walls hard surfaced. Airports/planes could be a dangerous place for a very delicate post-op Teddi.
Baby receiving blankets- these are great for putting on the floor of the crate. They can be washed with bleach before you leave, to provide a more sterile place for Teddi to lie on. They pack very small and flat, and if Teddi soils one during the journey, it's very easy to change them out. They can be purchased in a three-pack anywhere like Target, Toys/Babies R Us, Walmart, etc.Also, remember how very cold it can be on a plane, especially the floor. Teddi could be covered with one because she is unlikely to be able to wear her usual sweaters.
Baby Wipes again for use if Teddi throws up/soils herself on the journey home.
Nutrical/Nutrigel - if Teddi's doctors approve of its use, you could need this en route, especially when you consider possible flight delays this time of the year.


Other obvious items: Vet approved food? water bowl that Teddi can use at the airport or on the plane - I just cannot see her being able to drink out of a cup.

Okay Yorkie Talkers! What else do you think Ronda and Teddi would need to prepare? Having never experienced this, there is probably tons I am forgetting to mention....

Lauren

[Baby Blessing]

Originally Posted by laurenr

Ronda,
Is that the final date? So you decided then to push it back a week? I am SO happy you found that support group which led you to those wonderful sounding doctors you told me about. I think the week after next is great, because it gives Teddi time to build up her strength even more after last week's ordeal.
I've been thinking of supplies you will need to take with you. You're going to have SO much on your mind, so let us help you get organized. Maybe others here can suggest items that would come in useful. This is what I have thought of...(keep in mind, I am thinking like a Mommy, not a Medical professional):
Crate for the plane - I know this sounds obvious, but most people use the soft-sided Celtei type, and I think to avoid possible injury if knocked (after the surgery), the crate should be the solid kind - all 4 walls hard surfaced. Airports/planes could be a dangerous place for a very delicate post-op Teddi.
Baby receiving blankets- these are great for putting on the floor of the crate. They can be washed with bleach before you leave, to provide a more sterile place for Teddi to lie on. They pack very small and flat, and if Teddi soils one during the journey, it's very easy to change them out. They can be purchased in a three-pack anywhere like Target, Toys/Babies R Us, Walmart, etc.Also, remember how very cold it can be on a plane, especially the floor. Teddi could be covered with one because she is unlikely to be able to wear her usual sweaters.
Baby Wipes again for use if Teddi throws up/soils herself on the journey home.
Nutrical/Nutrigel - if Teddi's doctors approve of its use, you could need this en route, especially when you consider possible flight delays this time of the year.


Other obvious items: Vet approved food? water bowl that Teddi can use at the airport or on the plane - I just cannot see her being able to drink out of a cup.

Okay Yorkie Talkers! What else do you think Ronda and Teddi would need to prepare? Having never experienced this, there is probably tons I am forgetting to mention....

Lauren

Knowing that this is a very expensive surgery and I understand that their insurance won't pay for this surgery and the expense in getting there plus accomodations of someplace to stay, am sure Ronda will have taxi or rent a car expenses, etc..... so if any of us would like to donate a little something how can we do it? Can someone please PM Jack and myself as we want to make a donation towards this wonderful cause for Teddi ?
Ronda we are keeping Teddi in our prayers and you too.
Patti and Jack

[maxlover]

Ronda, I have been following this thread closely. I know how emotional you must be right now. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jackie

[Sukoshi's Mom]

Originally Posted by RONLYNN

Knoxville, TN - here we come. We are flying out on 12/11 to Knoxville, will arrive on 12/12 in the morning. Teddi's surgery is scheduled for 12/13. We will return on 12/17. I'm feel so happy and comfortable having the surgery done at the University of Tennessee Hospital. Thank you all for all your support. I would have been able to get through this without all of you!!!!

xoxo

Ronda - I'm so glad you've worked it out to go to TN. Since you said the Yahoo Group says that's the best...that's great that you are going to take Teddi there! Will you be traveling alone or is your mom or SIL able to join you? This is really perfect timing because Teddi will be fixed and hopefully feeling better in time for Christmas. Just think about what a gift that is! I was overwhelmed with emotion to think we wouldn't have Teddi in a year if she didn't have the sugery. I can only imagine what you were feeling! I am working from home Friday and Monday, so please call my cell if you need ANYTHING. I can talk more freely when I'm not in the office. I will be keeping you and Teddi in my prayers for safe travels and a successful surgery!

[saphire]

Originally Posted by laurenr

Ronda,
Is that the final date? So you decided then to push it back a week? I am SO happy you found that support group which led you to those wonderful sounding doctors you told me about. I think the week after next is great, because it gives Teddi time to build up her strength even more after last week's ordeal.
I've been thinking of supplies you will need to take with you. You're going to have SO much on your mind, so let us help you get organized. Maybe others here can suggest items that would come in useful. This is what I have thought of...(keep in mind, I am thinking like a Mommy, not a Medical professional):
Crate for the plane - I know this sounds obvious, but most people use the soft-sided Celtei type, and I think to avoid possible injury if knocked (after the surgery), the crate should be the solid kind - all 4 walls hard surfaced. Airports/planes could be a dangerous place for a very delicate post-op Teddi.
Baby receiving blankets- these are great for putting on the floor of the crate. They can be washed with bleach before you leave, to provide a more sterile place for Teddi to lie on. They pack very small and flat, and if Teddi soils one during the journey, it's very easy to change them out. They can be purchased in a three-pack anywhere like Target, Toys/Babies R Us, Walmart, etc.Also, remember how very cold it can be on a plane, especially the floor. Teddi could be covered with one because she is unlikely to be able to wear her usual sweaters.
Baby Wipes again for use if Teddi throws up/soils herself on the journey home.
Nutrical/Nutrigel - if Teddi's doctors approve of its use, you could need this en route, especially when you consider possible flight delays this time of the year.


Other obvious items: Vet approved food? water bowl that Teddi can use at the airport or on the plane - I just cannot see her being able to drink out of a cup.

Okay Yorkie Talkers! What else do you think Ronda and Teddi would need to prepare? Having never experienced this, there is probably tons I am forgetting to mention....

Lauren

Her favorite toy - and - tons and tons of love and good wishes from all of us on YT.

[RONLYNN]

Teddi is probably going to have more luggage than me! I'm a little scared of flying on a smaller plane. Flying from LA to Charlotte is fine but then from Charlotte to Knoxville I have to go on a smaller plane...I had a choice of one with 9 rows or one with 13 rows and I booked the 13 row one...I figured it was a little bigger than the 9 row one. I've only been on a small plane like that once to go to Penn State and I got sick...hope it doesn't happen this time!!

[laurenr]

Originally Posted by RONLYNN

Teddi is probably going to have more luggage than me! I'm a little scared of flying on a smaller plane. Flying from LA to Charlotte is fine but then from Charlotte to Knoxville I have to go on a smaller plane...I had a choice of one with 9 rows or one with 13 rows and I booked the 13 row one...I figured it was a little bigger than the 9 row one. I've only been on a small plane like that once to go to Penn State and I got sick...hope it doesn't happen this time!!

Ronda,
Any plane with less than 13 rows of seats is what I call a "Wind-up and Toss'em". Not for me either. Nope, no way, never. I flew on one once with Jack to an island. The wind tossed us around like an overloaded kite gone schitzo. When it was time to fly home, I refused to board, stood there like a crazy lady on the runway and would not budge. I took a boat back to the mainland and ended up tossing my cookies while the boat tossed and turned in the enormous waves....LOL. We nearly got divorced on my return, he was THAT happy with me...Tee! Hee!
Gotta love flying,
Lauren
Note: Hubby said it was "divine justice" that my luggage took almost a week to arrive after my infamous airborne desertion (I think my suitcase took a tour of the islands)

[Sukoshi's Mom]

Originally Posted by laurenr

Ronda,
Any plane with less than 13 rows of seats is what I call a "Wind-up and Toss'em". Not for me either. Nope, no way, never. I flew on one once with Jack to an island. The wind tossed us around like an overloaded kite gone schitzo. When it was time to fly home, I refused to board, stood there like a crazy lady on the runway and would not budge. I took a boat back to the mainland and ended up tossing my cookies while the boat tossed and turned in the enormous waves....LOL. We nearly got divorced on my return, he was THAT happy with me...Tee! Hee!
Gotta love flying,
Lauren
Note: Hubby said it was "divine justice" that my luggage took almost a week to arrive after my infamous airborne desertion (I think my suitcase took a tour of the islands)

LOL! This story cracks me up Lauren!!!!

Ronda - Try not to worry about the plane. I know that's easier said than done coming from someone who loves flying, but I've been on a small 13-row or less passenger plane before, and we didn't have any problems. You do feel the turbulance more, but I just think of it as a fun amusement park ride! Try to make the best of it, as Teddi will be able to sense if you're upset, and she needs you to be strong for her right now! Good luck with your travels!!!

[AVERYxo]

Originally Posted by RONLYNN

Just wanted to update everyone on Teddi. We had the consultation today with the surgeon. She explained everything to me and drew a picture of the insides and explained that normally only about 15% of the blood is not filtered through the liver and in Teddi's case she has 85% that is not filtering. She is scheduled to have her surgery on Monday (12/3/07). I have to bring her to the hospital on Sunday night. She will have to stay in the hospital for about 2-3 days. The doctor told me that if I didn't have the surgery she would only live another year. I did contact the breeder I got her from to ask if they have other puppies with this condition and got this back:

Thank you for your email.
I am sorry to hear about Teddi and hope she will feel better soon.
Both of his parents are 100% and we never had this problem in the past so i am puzzled for how she got it.
Please forward all the medical record to us so we can look into it and keep us updated on how Teddi is doing.

I guess it was just a fluke that she got the liver shunt but she is in really good spirits. She was running all over the house last nite and this morning. She was attacking her toys and Cassie.

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers and please keep them coming for us!!!

xoxo, Ronda

Ronda,
im glad you were able to get that date-she will get some time to relax before you go-and it will be a few weeks before christmas, which is good. ive been thinking about you guys everyday..and have been keeping the both of you in my prayers, as well. im SO glad teddi will be getting such amazing care at the Univ of Ten., that is great!! and that yahoo group has probably been SO helpful, as well.. plus its ALWAYS nice to hear feedback and interact with people going through the same thing!! anyways.. AGAIN-let me know if you need anything..and i will continue to pray for teddis quick and successful recovery..and of course ur nerves for the little plane..hehe. no worries you will be FINE!! xo.

[Dan & Corinne]

Hi Ronda,

Just wanted to check and see how Teddi is doing. Hopefully she is staying stable.

Think of you both daily and am sending you warm fuzzies.