Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) - Poor Toqua

We had another trip to the vet today. Toqua had gotten very lethargic over the past two days, and this morning her belly was really swollen. Everything was moving through her and, I feared she was filling up with fluid. I had a sobbing melt down last night. I knew she wouldn't be strong enough to go through any type of surgery. When we arrived for our appt Dr. Stover had a bottle of pred waiting. Our fears were realized. Her gums were quite pale. Something is definitely happening inside her. Most likely she is filled with blood. The good thing about internal bleeding - the body reabsorbs the iron and RBC's. So, with regards to bleeding it is the best case scenario. We are most likely faced with the beginning of the end for dear sweet Toqua. Hearing the news from the vet I thought I would be a lot more upset than I actually am. Maybe because in my heart I knew what was happening. So, we discussed options. At this point the goal is to just make sure she is not in pain, or uncomfortable, and let what happens, happen. She is back on pred, and will be for the rest of her time. I talked to him about putting her on pred; I didn't want to prolong her life because I would not be able to say, ok, today's the day we stop the pred. But, I was misinformed about what the pred will actually do. It is not a miracle drug. It is not to extend life, it cannot do that. All the pred will do is lift her up a bit and help her be more comfortable. 25mg/day, which isn't too bad for her 55 lbs. During the thick of things, in March, she was on 80mg/day. The pred will not stop what is happening, it will not give her extra time. So, I agreed, for her best interests, to start back with it. With hemangiosarcoma the tumor is basically a large blood clot. It could stop bleeding, buying her more time, or just continue to bleed. But we know it is in there, a tumor has more than likely returned at this point, and we just have to wait and see how much she recovers, or if she recovers. They only gave me a 15 day prescription, so that tells me something. I am still holding onto the hopes that she will make that final decision, so I don't have to. I am really amazed at how calm I am. I guess I know that there isn't much to be done at this point. My dearest Toqua will probably not recover from this latest episode. But considering she wasn't supposed to wake up from surgery, and is three weeks past her prognosis of a maximum of two months, I feel blessed that she has stayed strong for this long. The tail's still wagging, for now. Jessi & Toqua

Jessi BC

Hi Jessi, My heart hurts for you tonight. I am so sorry. Toqua is such a strong girl so maybe she will once again prove everyone wrong and stay around longer than you expect. Just enjoy your girl and know she WILL tell you when she has had enough. Hugs and prayers being sent to you and your Precious Toqua. Teresa

Teresa va

Dear Jessi -- I haven't been on the forum much lately, so have just gotten caught up with Toqua's case. Just want to send my best wishes that God will grant you more time together to make more memories. It sounds like you are trying hard to stay strong and to make the best decisions for Toqua, and that's all anyone could ask of you. Whatever happens, Toqua will know that you loved her as she loved you, and that you tried to do the best for her.

Brenda VA

Dear Jessi, I am so sorry.... Remember what I said when Toqua first got ill? She does not know that her days are counted. She lives in the moment. I am confident you and her will make the most of the time she has. Unless she is in pain, she is probably pretty happy and content. You will know when she had enough, you know her so well, there will be no doubt. I know it is hard, but try to live in the moment with her. Best wishes, thinking of you and brave Toqua, Brigitte

Brigitte BC Canada

Jessi, I haven't been on this forum much lately but I, too, have caught up on Toqua's story. I have been where you are at and I am so very sorry. Toqua will let you know when it is time or maybe she'll make that decision for you as I was fortunate enough to have happen to me. I was talking with my wife just this morning about how much my heart hurts for anyone who has to go through this. You seem like an amazing owner and I hope you take solace in the fact that you loved her more than anyone else possibly could have. It truly is in God's hands....all my best.

Darren Long Beach

Dear Jesse, I am so sorry to hear that you and Toqua are facing this dreadful condition. It is not fair that this happens to dogs and most especially to your girl. I spent about a week in 2007 thinking that this was what Chance had. In the last moments of the week, after thinking he would be gone very soon, the specialist said it could be removed safely. This is not always the case but we were blessed to have Chance with us for 3 more years after that surgery, however that troubled week still haunts me. Clear your time ahead of you to be with Toqua and tell her all the things you need to. She will listen. And I absolutely, positively guarantee that she will forgive you for everything, without reserve. She may even wag her tail or give you a lick when you are done. It is our job as humans to assume all these burdens for our companions, so that they may enjoy our world without worries. She is not afraid of her future because you have agreed to take care of that for her. Be graceful and loving in your duty. my love to you patrice

Patrice NYS

Brigitte - I still repeat those words daily. We are back to one day at a time. We have had an amazing 10 weeks with her. We have had the opportunity to appreciate every silly little thing she does, to realize how irreplaceable she is. That has been the silver lining of all this. The very special time we have had as a result of her getting sick. It doesn't make this all hurt any less, but I am content. I know I have done everything possible for her, I have been her voice, and I have cherished and made the best of every second with her. I asked if having her rabies shot would cause a reaction, not the case with cancer. We are crossing the border in July, and her rabies expires in June. Our vet looked at me funny, like come on realistically? I know chances are against us, especially now, that she will be but, hey, she wasn't supposed to make it of surgery! One can dream. :) I also mentioned that last night I gave her a piece of my burger,......and maybe a couple french fries. Figured the time to spoil her was now. Also mentioned that I was thinking I might give her a little scoop of ice cream, something she has never gotten, because, hey what do we have to loose? He said that dogs really like Blizzards. Whoa, I was talking a scoop out of the bucket, not buying her a Blizzard! :) On our walk tonight (I know, should be keeping her quite, but again, what do we really have to loose?) we ran into our friend Bandit. Big handsome black boy. Toqua flirts with him - spins around, jumps on his back. At first I stopped her, but decided to let her have this. She was a little tired by the time we got home. She is so content right now. I am not looking forward to the side effects of the pred, but am hoping they won't be as severe since she is on a lower dose. If it helps her feel even a little better it will be worth it. If it hadn't been for her swollen abdomen I probably would have just left her be. I was scared she was going to burst. I have known since I took her to see the vet last week that she has been getting worse. Have noticed every minor symptom this time around. Have seen the daily changes. Everything happens for a reason. I am still struggling to see the reason behind this sweetheart, but I will, one day. Jessi & Toqua

Jessi BC

Dear Jessi & Toqua, I am so very sorry to hear of this latest development for Toqua. I think now is the time to spoil her rotten! Sounds like a Blizzard is definitely on the menu! Jessi, there is no doubt that you have made the most of your time with Toqua - you've told your great stories here on this forum, and we've all shared in those good times with you. This time is something you will treasure forever. Toqua lives in the moment, she knows nothing of her prognosis, and she will let you know when it's time or make the decision for herself. I know you will continue to love her, and forever she lives on in your heart. Millie and I hope that she can pull through this latest setback. All our love, Sam and Millie. xoxo

Samantha Geelong Australia

Jessi, I'm so sorry to read the latest. It's so, so tough to go through but you and Toqua will know when it's time. I thought I would not be able to bear it when it was Riley's time but I was strangely calm and knew it was the right thing. You've packed a lot of living and loving into the last 10 weeks and should have no regrets. Please know we're thinking of you over here and wishing you peace and strength.

Jennifer

Dear Jessi and Toqua, Im not sure what it is about this forum, but I do think its about owners like us who suddenly have an ill dog and do what we can to find some answers wherever we can, and then we pour it all out to whoever will listen, and give some assistance, much like everyone here. We then become involved in their stories, and get attached to the dogs none of us have met, because suddenly we "know" them, and we just will them to get well, even if its a step at a time. I lost my Riley earlier this year, but I do have Bonnie, also a border collie, and the two of us have become quite close, whereas Riley used to be the one in between who would call the shots, though they were great buddies, but now its just us two. I have followed Toqua's story which you so beautifully relate to us, and I am sad to read your latest post on her condition, though she seems to cope with whatever life brings each day, and as Brigitte said, exactly as my vet said to me "they dont know they are not well, they just get on with it". I, much like Darren, who had our losses close together, feel quite sad when I come back in here, and each time I say to myself that I cant come back, as something someone says almost always makes me cry, I guess thats how these losses affect one, I dont know - I had never had a dog before Riley, and I miss him, but I know he could not have suffered any more. I know you have taken the best advice and you and Toqua, and the rest of your family, and "living in the moment" - as they say, enjoy every sandwich while you can. Seems to me that you have given Toqua a lot of joy in her life, and continue to do so. What else can I say? Not much, but I wish you well over the next time, as I know how hard it will be, but having said that, I sincerely hope not - Toqua seems to just be full of surprises. Take care, Silka & Bonnie

Silka Melbourne Australia

Dear Jessi Please know that we are keeping you and Touqa in our prayers. Enjoy your special time with her. Give her a BIG hug from her friends in PA. Cheryl & Ginger

Cheryl & Ginger Pineville PA

Silka - you said it so well. Most of us will never meet. I guess it is the unfortunate bond we all share that makes it feel as though we know each other, and our dogs, so well. I too choke back the tears when someone's beloved friend takes a turn or loses their battle, and let out a sigh relief when one shows improvement. Toqua is my first dog also, and the bond we share I don't think will ever be matched. I often refer to her as my never-have-another-like-her dog. I am thankful that I have Fin (he's 1.5 y/o), but having him here, healthy and carefree, also makes things harder. Toqua is doing fairly well. She is so resilient. Her strength at the worst of times amazes me. Just when I think I may lose her, she bounces back as fast as she fell. I am hoping that this is just a set back, all be it a fairly major one, and that her days are not counted yet. She is not getting any worse. I know that she will let me know when it is time. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. Jessi & Toqua

Jessi BC

Jessi, I'm just happy that Toqua has such a caring and loving mommy like you! You've done so much for her...much much more than most would!!! Cherish every moment you have together and I'd do the same as you and spoil her and show all the love you got. Give her an extra scoop of icecream for me. I'll continue to keep her in my thoughts and prayers. HUGS Johnny & Tessy

Johnny

I am a big believer in signs. Tonight on our walk I saw the biggest, most brilliantly coloured rainbow I have ever seen! I checked when I got home and a rainbow is a symbol of renewed hope; something lucky to look upon. I am somewhat upset that she had to go back on pred, well, upset with myself that I agreed to it. The side effects bothered me a great deal, and I don't want what time she has left to be like that. I am hoping that the lower dose will mean less severe side effects. She is taking 25mg/day for her 53 lbs. Anyone have any thoughts? The loss of bladder control was the worst. I felt so bad for her as two or three times I found her on her blanket soaked. I don't want to remember her like that. But with her current state she needs it. I don't want to deny her anything that may help her feel better. I am worried about the harm it will do to her already weak body. What a pickle. :) The swelling seems to have gone down slightly, she is definitely more comfortable. That's the most important thing now - make sure she's comfortable. Jessi & Toqua

Jessi BC

Jessi, I am a big believer in signs too...that rainbow sounds really cool. I would take it that the universe is giving you a glimpse of the place Toqua is going to, to give you peace she will be OK and you will be OK, no matter what happens. Toqua will continue to send you signs from the other side, I'm sure of it. I get them from Riley every now and then. The first time I took Red on a walk on Riley's and my favorite beach, I found a heart shaped rock just sitting all by itself in our path. I know it was Riley's way of telling me he loves me and that he's happy I have another dog to share my walks with. As for the pred, I never got a chance to be an expert like the others on this board but my understanding is at .5mg per lb. of body weight you should not see the worst of the side affects. Riley was on 100 mg for his 93 lbs. and it broke my heart to see the side affects that caused. I hope someone stops in here soon to let you know for sure what to expect on .5mg/lb.

Jennifer

Jennifer, That is real awesome, like Riley's ultimate approval, leaving you a heart shaped rock. I am a bit of a rock hound, and I was so excited when I found a heart shaped rock. Did you take the rock home? I keep meaning, when I post, to ask you how it is going with Red?

Jessi BC

Jessi, Hope your day is going well! Thanks for sharing my excitement about the heart shaped rock. I collect pretty rocks and fossils too, and yes, I did keep it. I put it on the night table by my bed. Red is doing fantastic. We are doing obedience classes with him and he is just blowing everyone away. He's earned the title "Rockstar Red" in class. It seems that after this class is over I should be doing something additional with him - like agility or rally, he's that good. I'm not sure I'm interested in competing, but it hit me this morning that maybe he has the makings of a therapy dog. I think we'd really enjoy that. I'm going to look into it further...anyone here with a certified therapy dog? Jessi if you're on Facebook I'd love to add you as a friend, I'm posting lots of pictures and stuff about Red on there lately if you're interested!

Jennifer

Jessi: We're sorry to hear that Toqua is not feeling well at the moment. Hopefully the pred will help her be more comfortable and you can enjoy some quality time doing all the things you love to do together. We will be keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Rita, Mike and Sheba

Rita IA

Jessi Sorry to hear Toqua has not been doing well. I have not been online for quite a while and do hope she is doing a little better now. Hang in there---we all know how tough this is, but we need to stay strong for our furry friends, cause we're all they really have to advocate for them! Please let me know how Toqua is doing now. You referred to your vet as Dr. Stover. Do you live near Merritt???? I also use a Dr. Stover and live about 20 minutes out of the town of Merritt. Wouldn't that be a curious coincidence, if we were "neighbors"!! Mercedes is in to the vet for bloodtests again on Monday. These to be sent to Dr Dodds. Keeping our fingers crossed for a better PCV this time and a "healthier" thyroid and liver result. Talk soon. Maureen and Mercedes

Maureen S. Interior

Maureen, I do in fact live in Merritt! I live across the street from Voght Park. Will you be participating in the Nicola Valley Kennel Club Dog Show later this month? Would love to meet you and your dogs. At our last visit with Dr. Stover he had mentioned his new IMHA case. Must be Mercedes! Crazy what a small world it is. I have to admit after reading your post my curiosity got the better of me. So, I googled "merritt standard poodles". And guess what I found? Your website. Mercedes is beautiful! Hope this link works it is my most recent picture of Toqua, taken at the end of May. http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=6040716&id=536562976. Jessi & Toqua

Jessi BC

Jessi, it seems British Columbia is well represented on this board (unfortunately) I guess we have to be friends on facebook not just on this board, to be able to see your pictures! Brigitte

Brigitte BC Canada

Hey Brigitte - sent you a friend request on Facebook. :) Toqua is doing alright. And I wish I could say she is doing great. Her belly has swelled up again today. She seems in good spirits despite this. I guess I am going to have to get used to her having more low days, and having them more frequently. I just hope, for her sake, this doesn't drag on too long. She still has energy probably due to the pred. So, I am feeling a little sad today. But, it seems that putting her back on pred was the right decision. Haven't noticed the side effects to be as severe as the last go around. her food is up to about 3-3.5 cups/day. Up from her regular 2.5 cups/day. We are seeing some panting, usually at night. The other morning when Zack got up he said Fin was curled up on Toq's bed in our bedroom and Toq was out in the kitchen. It seems that she has relinquished her role as top dog. I hope that means she hasn't given up just yet. :( I just remembered today that last Xmas (2008) a girlfriend gave me one of those clay hand print thingies. She gave it to me to make a cast of Finley's paw as he was a newbie then, but when we finally got together it was much after Xmas and Fin was huge, so I never bothered. Well, I am going to do Toqua's foot tonight. A great little keepsake. :) Jessi & Toqua

Jessi BC

Jessi, Great idea to do Toqua's footprint. I wish I had had the presence of mind to do that for Riley. I would love to have it now! Still thinking of you guys and sending lots of love.

Jennifer

Hi Jessi Well if you found my website: amazingpoodles.com, you know I also am the owner trainer of Iron Mountain K-9 Agility Center, and live on Iron Mountain!!(LOL!!) such a small world isn't it?? I hope to attend the Nicola Valley Dog Show, but will not have a dog entered, as all of my dogs currently have their show titles. We had planned to show Mercedes there, but of course that won't happen now. Am off to the B.C./Yukon Regional Agility Championships tomorrow, down in Abbotford. I will be competing with my other two Standards, Kalli and Jazz. Mercedes will stay home with my husband as she still is not well enough to travel, or be exposed to that kind of stress, or a bunch of other dogs. I am so sorry Toqua has been deteriorating. It is so hard when our pets health begins to fail. Take solice in the fact that you are doing all you can to keep her comfortable and happy while she is still here with you. I love your idea of a "paw print"---such a lovely thing to have as a keepsake. Hope your weekend goes well---looks like it will be fine weather. Maybe Toqua will be up for a little walk with you??? Anyway take care. Talk soon Maureen and Mercedes P.S.-Turns out Bridgett and I know each other too---- from the 90's when we competed in agility together at the coast!!!

Maureen B.C. Canada

Jessi: Just wondering if your kitchen floor is tile/ceramic or wood. One of the side effects of pred is heat intolerance. Toqua may be hanging out in the kitchen because it's cooler - not because she has relinquished her "top dog" status. Sheba spent alot of time laying around on the tile floor when taking pred because it was cool. Also spent time in front of the vents - loved the AC! Love the idea of keeping an impression of Toqua's paw print. Shortly after Sheba got sick we had a section of the garage floor repoured and I've kicked myself ever since for not sticking her paw in the fresh cement so I would have a permanent reminder of her where I would see it everyday. I may have to go out and get myself a kit to do this for Sheba now. Hang in there - we're here for you and hoping for the best. Rita, Mike and Sheba

Rita IA

I assumed that sleeping in the kitchen was due to heat intolerance. And maybe she hasn't completely relinquished her top dog status, but things are changing between Toqua and Finley. He has definitely been taking over the lead more the last week, and the fact that not only Toqua lets him into the bedroom, but his wanting/willingness to enter now is new. Before he wasn't very willing to even let Toqua catch him looking in the bedroom. :) This morning when I got up they were side by each on the floor. It was pretty cute. Toqua is hanging in there, but for how long I don't know. Her abdomen is still quite swollen. She seems to be fairly comfortable, she is still eating, and things are moving through regularly. She was a little slow on our walk tonight, but enjoyed her dip in the river. I was up on the bank and she just looked up at me like, ahhh (it was pretty hot here today, finally). Happy and content. However, she did not chase the cat that Fin stirred out of the brush. She started and then stopped, realizing she just couldn't. Not that she would have hurt it. She loves cats. We have one. But it made me sad. I tried to turn around a few times but miss Toqua does what SHE wants, and she wanted to keep going. :) Not giving up yet. The big news, and actually the reason why I am posting. Today, June 12, is three months after her surgery. Here's hoping we see four. Thoughts and prayers to all those hounds who are not feeling so great right now. Jessi & Toqua

Jessi BC

Jessi, Every added day you have had with Toqua is such a bonus. We just lost our 3rd dog in 4 years to yet another rare disease so I know every moment you have together is a treasure. While it is sad to see them relinquish their top dog status Toqua is still hanging onto the things she enjoys and has defied all the Vets prognosis. Take care Penny

Penny Lytle Creek Calif

This thread was discussed between 02/06/2010 and 12/06/2010

Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) forum index

This thread is from the Vetnet archive. The live Vetnet forum is active now.