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BAILEY'S ONGOING JOURNEY With a few bumps in the road.
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Member Since:
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29 August 2014 - 3:31 pm
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Jerry,

 

 

jerry said
Ok, so first off I hope today is much better and she's shown improvement. Have you talked to Dr. Snodgrass yet? Based on what I read about her on the web (thanks for the info), she is an AMAZING vet and I would feel 110% confident having her know-how at a time like this.

Did she tell you what to expect over the next few days? Acupuncture can take at least 3-4 visits before noticeable improvement is seen, and sometimes the patient actually feels worse before s/he feels better. That's known as a "healing crisis" and it's the body's fighting response to being kicked into gear. Healing is so exhausting sometimes, I'm hoping that's what is going on. I would be in close contact with Dr. S to let her know what's going on. Then let us know OK? We are thinking of you.

Hi Jerry,

Dr. Snodgrass is wonderful and very caring.  Bailey had her first treatment on Tuesday and we did an emergency one yesterday with more needles to see if she was able to relax and stand.  I don't recall her saying that it took a few treatments for improvement... I'm sure I was not listening clearly.  It didn't seem like this treatment on Thursday relaxed her as much as Tuesday but we are dealing with both rear legs now, that has changed since Tuesday.  I think when she was trying to get up it hurts and something must have pinched or ruptured Thursday... her scream was something I never heard before and it took a while for my daughter and I to calm her down and then we did a work in appointment with Dr. Snodgrass as soon as we could get there and she took us right in... very much appreciated and very kind. Dr. Snodgrass has also recommended a chiropractor along with her acupuncture.  But we just found out today that she is out until Sept. 11th. Bailey had a horrible night but we managed to get her comfortable with codeine, the crying kills the heart.  With the holiday weekend no one was available to come to my house for even an examination... and in my heart she deserves better than an Emergency Clinic it it's her last day.

I can't get a hold of Dr. Snodgrass today she's not in she actually does acupuncture out in Chesterfield until 2:00.

So, I am looking for another chiropractor in Missouri and Bailey is scheduled for another treatment of acupuncture next week. I'm not sure if I told everyone but Dr. Snodgrass reduced her medicine the Gabapentin to 1/2 pill twice daily because she was surviving on peanut butter and tortilla rolls and water with a syringe.  So her medications are Gabapentin 600 mg  1/2 twice daily; Mirtazapine 30 mg. 1 a da; Carprofen 100 mg every 12 hours and we also have the Codeine 30 mg every 8 to 12 hours.

 

I hope and pray that things improve over this long weekend.

Thanks for the information Jerry.  I'm going to her web page.  I'm not sure if you know of the Bach Essences but we purchased the Rescue Remedy from her and it sure did slow her breathing down just by rubbing on her face, muzzle and ears.  We can also put a couple drops in her water.  It works to ease her anxiety it seems when the pain meds wear off.  I really hate giving her codeine but she's resting when she's had that and not in a panic mode.  I know that's no way to live but I can't give up yet. Especially knowing what you just told me.  I know she said she would like to start with 4 treatments and if we wanted she would recommend the chiropractic visits. 

So I'm looking for chiropractor advice? Who has done this and what am I in for?

Jerry thank you for reading her web site for me!  I feel so guilty leaving her side and when I'm by her I can't concentrate.

Everyone on here is wonderful.  I couldn't ask for a better support group and loving extended family.

Prayers for all our Tri-Pawds and Angels above.

Much love and tight hugs!

Tracy and Bailey

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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29 August 2014 - 8:51 pm
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Dear Tracy: if something is out of place the chiropractor can help a lot because will be able to "reset" what is out of order. Have had that experience with my husband, who was barely walking and after two sessions the pain went away.  Keep us updated on how Bailey is doing.  We're all here for you and praying that Bailey responds to the medication and has a more restful night.

Daniela & Johnnie 

Our awesome Golden Boy was diagnosed for OSA in April 2014 in the proximal humerus, front-leg amp on 05/20/2014. Finished chemo (Carbo6) on 07/10/2014. Ongoing treatment: acupuncture + K-9 Immunity Plus ( 3chews) and home-cooked no-grain diet.   Stopped Apocaps because of liver issues.   Liver issues: controlling altered enzymes with SAM-e and Milk Thistle.  October 17:  started having seizures.  Taking fenobarbital for seizures.  April 18: started prednisone.

On The Road


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29 August 2014 - 9:18 pm
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I think the reason she wanted you to do the 4 appointments is because generally that's how long it takes to show improvement with acupuncture. Generally. Remember everyone is different but hopefully Bailey will start responding. I'm thinking that if she is responding to Bach's Flower Essences that is GREAT because not all dogs do. She obviously is very, very sensitive so to show a pawsitive response to Rescue Remedy is a really good sign!

{{{{hugs}}}}}

Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet

Virginia







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29 August 2014 - 10:32 pm
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Continuing to wrap you and Bailey up in healing hugs.
Your strength to carry on boggles my mind. you have been on a continuing journey that would put me in the looney farm in a straight jacket! I am in awe of your ability to even be able to function at all under this kind of strees!

Rub some of that Rescue Remedy under your nose too! You deserve a little stress relief too! Glad to hear that it brought Bailey some relief too. Hoping her appetite will pick up too.
Keeping all paws crossed for you and Bailey

Sending lots and lots of love and hugs!

Sally and Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle

Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!

On The Road


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30 August 2014 - 8:07 am
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Sally is correct, Rescue Remedy can be used for humans too.

Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet

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30 August 2014 - 8:32 pm
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Just a quick update!  Bailey is still with us and still the sweetheart that she has always been.  The holiday put a road block for the chiropractor so we start calling Tuesday for the soonest available and reputable.

 
We are doing our best to keep her quality of life pain free, we are doing all we can with it being the holiday weekend. Not much improvement, we can get her up and she can walk a few steps... outside today she was barking at another lady jogging. Bailey doesn't get up unless you make her. But the pain seems to be improving, not sure if it's my imagination. Someone from tri-pawds web said that acupuncture sends the body into a "healing crisis" an...d that it may take a few treatments for us to see "improvements." The food issue continues, she doesn't want to eat anything but K-9 Immunity Plus which is a supplement... well she can't live off of those. We still are spoon feeding her the Prescription Diet, a/d Critical Care dog food. The cans are small and PETSMART (UGGH) would not sell it to me without a prescription even though it's on the shelf. But my very caring regular vet waited for us to get to his office to pick up a case. ($52.00 for a 3 day supply that's if she would eat what her weight requires her to... 8 cans, 5.5oz) Well we are lucky if we can get three down her. She is eating extra sharp cheddar cheese from the deli and peanut butter rolled in a tortilla. She will not eat kibble, chicken, hamburger, brown rice, steak... you name it. So unless she cries she's laying here with us sitting close by. She does whine when she wants something like she will look at her water bowl when she wants a drink and it brought to her... we did find that funny tonight. She will only let you help her up to go outside and up the one step. So some improvement in taking cross steps again when she gets up to go outside.  I know you said small update but it's how the day went yesterday and today so far. At night she is getting codeine to relax her so she sleeps, we only give her 1 at night. She wakes up and 2 am wanting to be moved to a different position or night bathroom break. I know, sorry for the diary.

 

But looking for anything to get her to want to eat... anyone have thoughts... I have a food processor going trying to mix kibble with shredded cheddar and chicken and hamburger and brown rice... something that I can get on a spoon... she refuses to eat otherwise.  I know that is not the quality of life I want but I have a few days I have to try to keep her from losing weight and give her strength to walk a little. 

But it has to be the spine, when I massage her like they showed me she turns her head and is telling me no... she never growls at me.

So that's the update for now.  I really wish she could get up and drink and wag her tail even if she just had to take pain medicine for now. She is doing better since the acupuncture if we get her up and steady her and massage the back she walks a little distance, then leans on you and wants to lay down... but we have to keep reminding her that we need to go outside.  Also, maybe TMI but she squatted today to pee and did not lay down to do it!  :)

Ohh one more thing... she's getting really really soft stools... I know pumpkin... I'm thinking this Prescription diet canned food is really good stuff... the most she has had in a day is three cans breakfast, lunch and dinner... 5.50oz... that's all she will allow us to spoon feed her, otherwise she begins to flick it out she finally figured out a way!

So another deep breath... I'm breathing but I'm not showering... lol   I was going to today but I figured I didn't have to go outside and I was making all sorts of doggie food in the food processor... I'm sure any other tri-pawd would eat!  :)

Thank you, thank you for all the wonderful support.  I would be in the looney bin if it wasn't for all my posts and well wishes.

LOVE AND TIGHT HUGS,

Tracy and Bailey

 

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30 August 2014 - 8:36 pm
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jerry said
I think the reason she wanted you to do the 4 appointments is because generally that's how long it takes to show improvement with acupuncture. Generally. Remember everyone is different but hopefully Bailey will start responding. I'm thinking that if she is responding to Bach's Flower Essences that is GREAT because not all dogs do. She obviously is very, very sensitive so to show a pawsitive response to Rescue Remedy is a really good sign!
{{{{hugs}}}}}

Jerry,

This made me smile and I think you are right!  She is so sensitive it did work I was amazed.  She gave me a list of Bach Flower Essences Guide to a Happy Pet and it's a chart with Indication; Bach Remedy; Outcome

I know it won't work for all.  But the Rescue Remedy sure did relax Bailey and slowed her breathing down.

(((((HUGS))))) back at you!

Tracy



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30 August 2014 - 9:20 pm
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Hey Tracy. I've followed Bailey's struggles for the past few weeks, well maybe not that long but it has been awhile and I feel so sad for her, and for you.

I haven't had a dog live with me but have cared for some. I'm not trying to be funny but I was wondering if she'll eat baby food? Online I've seen them feed it to great danes being raised as service dogs - sometimes when the dogs are sick or when the pups are learning their names. If you find one Bailey likes then you could whip it up in the food processor! And even fool her by putting it in the baby food jar.

I hope this photo of a great dane puppy feeding lightens your day.

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Kerren and Mona, who got to eat canned kitten (not cat) food during her recovery - she loved it!

Virginia







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30 August 2014 - 9:21 pm
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TRACY AND BAILEY!

:-Thank you so much for taking the time to update. We are all so interested in Bailey's well being so we hold onto every little detail you share with us...always looking for some sign as to how Bailey is feeling.

It does sound like you have her pain back under control somewhat and that is so important.

Peeing and squatting....way to go Bailey!!! I know that made your momma so happy!

And somethingnthat I think made us all s m ile...Bailey barked today!!! Is that the music to your ears or what?!!

I like the idea of using the blender to fix her us a nice buffet! Maybe crumble the k9 Immunity in the finished product to lead her nose to it.

Have you tried walking out of the room like you did before...or someone else trying to feed her? I think I already mentioned cat chow one time
She did eat three cans...nope, not eight...but it's better than nothing!!! I'm just guessing that the soft stool may be the Prescription food

Keep givi g her the Rescue Remedy

And yes.....please do keep breathing!!!! Bailey...and we...need you!! Showe? Nah...not a priority right now!!!

We're all still here hugging you tightly and hoping for a miracle for Bailey...whatever that may be!

Thanks again for taking the time to update us. We are all cheerifg for you both.

She barked!!!! That's almost as good as a tail wag!!!clap

LOVE AND HUGS!

Sally and Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle

Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!

Virginia







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30 August 2014 - 9:25 pm
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Awwwwww Mona and Kerren! Yes, I know that will make her smile...it sure did me! I think I'm in love!!!

Yeah, maybe canned cat food worth a try as well as the baby food.

Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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31 August 2014 - 4:51 pm
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Dear Tracy,

thanks for the update.  Have been thinking of you and Bailey all week-end, and anxious for news.  Hope you have managed to keep her comfortable and that you have been able to get some rest.  

Hugs and positive thoughts,

Daniela  & Johnnie

Our awesome Golden Boy was diagnosed for OSA in April 2014 in the proximal humerus, front-leg amp on 05/20/2014. Finished chemo (Carbo6) on 07/10/2014. Ongoing treatment: acupuncture + K-9 Immunity Plus ( 3chews) and home-cooked no-grain diet.   Stopped Apocaps because of liver issues.   Liver issues: controlling altered enzymes with SAM-e and Milk Thistle.  October 17:  started having seizures.  Taking fenobarbital for seizures.  April 18: started prednisone.

Orrtanna Pa.
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31 August 2014 - 5:58 pm
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Tracy, thanks for letting us know how she is doing. Never apologize for writing too much. We all love you and Bailey and want to know how she is doing. I forgot about cat food and jarred baby food meat. Ty actually really liked one that was a mixture of meat and vegetable. Also, have you tried a paper plate? I fed Ty from one for a long time. I would hold it and sort of fold it to make it easy to get his food from it. Sacra bled eggs with cheese were also a favorite. Keep us updated. Hugs from, Lori and Ty

TY GUY, Best Black Lab ever! Diagnosed  and had amp in January, 2014. Kicked MRSA's butt. Earned his angel wings on April 16, 2014. Run Free my boy and don't forget a shoe. Ty is a proud member of the " April Angels". Ty sent us Daryl, a Tripawd rescue in Sept. of 2016. Daryl is 5 +or -. We are also Pawrents to Chandler, a Border Collie mix who is 15 and 1/2, Lucy, a Corgi who is 7, 2 minis, 2 horses, and a feisty cat named Zoe. Zoe had a non skeletal Osteosarcoma removed in July 2015. No Chemo, she was at least 16. She is going strong although she is now completely blind. She is now close to 20 and her hobbies are eating and sleeping in front of her personal heater. 

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1 September 2014 - 9:12 pm
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Quick update.  Bailey hasn't had much change other than she is back to just the left leg with no weight so she gets up with help but it hurts because she cries.  Her laying on her bed crying break my heart... I use the Rescue Remedy a lot and she seems to look and me and just lays her head down.  Of course I am rubbing her ears and muzzle etc...  :)

We have started to giving her the codeine 12 hours instead of just at night (The bottle says every 12 as needed.)  Early morning was rough and we finally calmed her down with codeine. She likes to lay on her amp/incision side but has a hard time shifting to that side so she does a whining, cry to get help.

Let's see no good news on the food, she still refuses to eat, but she is drinking water actually pretty much (again brought to her or we have been leaving it by her bed.) Seeing a Great Dane drink laying down from the side is actually kind of cute!

She has been getting a few cans of the Prescription Diet Critical Care a/d but now she has poo problems... the tail gets really dirty  🙁  I try to grab it without her knowing but then it's stops the progress and she gives up.  I think it hurts her to go potty especially the poo.

Tried scramble eggs with cheese, tried brown rice with hamburger, yogurt with pumpkin (which I fed her with a spoon to get something in her) guess what she ate tonight... my husband mix raw hamburger in with a can of her food and she liked that... well he decided to give her a few cookies he brought home from his mothers (I'm not leaving her alone I don't thin that is safe) and she scarfed those... they did have a few chocolate chips no nuts (I know!  I yelled at him!)  Well a half hour later Bailey gave it all back to him on my new fancy area rug from her bed never sat up or coughed...  I just shook my head and went outside... Sorry guys... MEN!!!

But area rugs can be replaced.

I will see about the cat food, I tried some baby food and she had nothing to do with it.  I blended a few things together and she wouldn't eat it.  I will try a paper plate... I have been leaving the room with the peanut butter and tortilla rolls sliced and she looks around before she eats them and I can see her through the cutout in the kitchen... she's a stinker.

Sooo

Tomorrow is Tuesday and everyone will be back at work hopefully and I can get some other references as far as chiropractors in Missouri.

I am looking for suggestions of what to try to feed her and if anyone has any idea of how much.  She's about 120 pounds.  When you feed with a spoon and put it up on the roof of her mouth it's hard to know when she's full because she likes the taste she just won't eat it on her own.  Her and her peanut butter on soft tortilla shells... that's it.

So anyone... recipes... suggestions...

Jerry... feel free to direct me to some areas I missed reading... it's hard to always get to where you want to be when you have a sick child in the house.  I do not have an ipad or reader... just a computer.

So hopefully tomorrow I will get some answers or help with getting appointments.  I may end up taking her up to Mizzou Vet Hospital.  I'm on my own tomorrow, wish me luck.  It will be a pj party even outside... who cares right.

I love you all for helping me and all the wonderful support.  My poor baby is crying and I think my husband went to bed. So until tomorrow.  Prayers to all above and our tri-pawds fighting for life.

 

LOVE AND TIGHT HUGS,

Tracy and Bailey

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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1 September 2014 - 9:30 pm
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Dear Tracy,

thanks for the update. Was just going to bed and decided to check if there were any fresh news on Bailey. You did get through the long week-end, which was already a great achievement.  Blessings for you and Bailey and that tomorrow the right person crosses your way bringing answers and guidance.  

hugs from Daniela & Johnnie

Our awesome Golden Boy was diagnosed for OSA in April 2014 in the proximal humerus, front-leg amp on 05/20/2014. Finished chemo (Carbo6) on 07/10/2014. Ongoing treatment: acupuncture + K-9 Immunity Plus ( 3chews) and home-cooked no-grain diet.   Stopped Apocaps because of liver issues.   Liver issues: controlling altered enzymes with SAM-e and Milk Thistle.  October 17:  started having seizures.  Taking fenobarbital for seizures.  April 18: started prednisone.

Virginia







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1 September 2014 - 9:37 pm
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I know it's hard to update with everything going on, but we all sure appreciate it.

Sorry she puked...but glad she actually ate something!!! A little chocolate chip cookie here and there wont hurt. Dont fuss at hubby too much...he did get her to eat! Actually, he might be onto something by addingthe hamburger...maybe it just needs to be smaller amounts more frequently. At least peanut butter is good for her. Ibet she is a cutie pie when she looks around to see if you've left the room.! Such a sweetie.

If it seems to hurt her to pooh..all that could still mean something is going on with her spine. Hope you can get some answers and relief for her this week.

Keep stylin' those PJs !! You'll start a new trend in the world of fashion!

Sending love and hugs...

Sally and Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle too!

Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!

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