Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) - Mitch's last chance

Mitch had his human immunoglobulin IV today. His bloods previous to this were PCV 22, WBC 2.2 and platelets 6. He has anaemia, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia - the odds are well and truly stacked against him. This is still believed to be immune mediated but may just be bone marrow failure of unknown cause. He has failed to respond to immunesuppressant and chemo meds over the last 6 weeks. This is his last chance to pull this together. Cruelly Mitch's PCV is not too bad and so he feels pretty good in himself, just a toned down terrier. However his low WBC and platelets mean unless things improve dramaticly soon he will succumb to serious infection or heamorage. We will have to make an awful decision before it comes to that if he shows no response. However we can pick him up tomorrow and spend some time with him this weekend - hopefully not our last. I am emotionally drained. Kath and my beloved Mitch.

Kath Scotland

Kath, I know how you feel. Follow your heart. It is not an easy decision nor one that will make things any easier on your already breaking heart. I hope things can still turn around. This has not been a good week for some of our pups on this site. Yet, for some, it has been a wonderful, glorious week. Let's hope that Mitch will have a glorious week. Enjoy every moment of every day with Mitch. I did with Oliver. God bless you both and take care.

Mardi Northern Calif

Kath, I hope that having Mitch home with you will help. I think that if he is still acts good but just toned down and is not in any pain or dire staights I would let the powers that be make the decision of what you should do next. Some dogs take a really long time to show inprovement especially with the combination of problems Mitch has. Keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers.

Penny Lytle Creek Calif

Kath I continue to pray for Mitch that he will be your little miracle.It's still worth trying the biopreparation you know. Nollaig continues to keep well in herself,thank God, and I pray it continues. Kathleen and Nollaig

Kathleen North Ayrshire

Kath- My Sway lived with a PCV of 18-25 for 2 years while fighting this disease. Hoping for the best with Mitch...

Josh California

Kath, I am thinking of you in this difficult time. Make sure you have a shoulder to cry on, somebody to talk to (beside this board) try to get some rest and give yourself a pat on the shoulder. You are running an emotional marathon. If you are run down you are not able to help Mitch. All I am saying is, try to look after yourself too. I will be thinking of you and Mitch and send some positive energy from Canada, Best wishes, Brigitte

Brigitte BC Canada

Dear Kath, I hope that Mitch can turn a corner. Enjoy this weekend and make lots of happy memories! Hoping for the best for Mitch, Samantha & Millie.

Samantha Geelong Australia

My heart just breaks for you and what Mitch is going through, it is so hard to watch as our beloved pets struggle. Mitch is very lucky to have you as a mom Wendi

Wendi Ohio

We are hoping and praying that Mitch can overcome this, he sure is a fighter. Sending our prayers and positive thoughts his way. Hang in there and know that Mitch has a whole team of cheeleaders rooting for him on this forum. Cheryl & Ginger

Cheryl & Ginger Pineville PA

Kath: We just wanted to add to the positive thoughts coming your way. Enjoy your weekend with Mitch. We are praying that he will beat this thing. Rita, Mike and Sheba

Rita IA

Kath, We are praying for a quick turnaround for Mitch, having him home will be a wonderful step. melissa and tiggs

melissa slc

Dear Kath, Continued prayers going out to you and Mitch. Take care, Aden

Aden Jerusalem

Dear Kath: My heart is with you both you and Mitch. I'll include you both in my prayers. Sue

Sue Kingston Ontario Canada

Kath -- sending prayers for you and Mitch. Enjoy your time together, and as Penny and Josh said, watch his behavior and appetite and don't let the numbers make any decisions for you. Even with IMHA, it's all about attitude!

Brenda VA

This thread was discussed between 10/09/2009 and 12/09/2009

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