Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) - Sadie has AIHA/IMHA (Johnny)

As some of you know I have 8 cockers and my worse fears came to light today! My other little princess Sadie was diagnosed with this disease! Just as Tessy had beaten this nasty disease now I'm back to square one with her big sis! Her crit was 25.7% so luckily I caught it early! Of course it's a long weekend so I'm hoping and praying nothing goes down hill within the next couple days. I'll keep you all posted on how she's progressing. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. Johnny & Tessy & now Sadie

Johnny

is there a hereditary component in your breed?

Rottlady NH USA

Hi Johnny, I am so sorry to hear about the new case of IMHA in your family. Poor Sadie----this will be especially hard for you as you have already been through it once with Jesse and know what you are up against. Man, sometimes a guy just can't catch a break!!!! I hope your girl will respond to therapy quickly and have a full recovery. Please keep us updated. We will be thinking about you! Sending lots of well wishes and positive vibes your way........ Maureen and Mercedes

Maureen BC Canada

Johnny: Sorry to hear that Sadie now has this rotten disease. Glad to hear you caught it quickly and hope Sadie responds well to treatment. When you say big sis - do you mean that genetically or figuratively? And if genetically - do you have any more that are related to Tessy and Sadie? Since 1/3 of all cases are Cockers (if I remember correctly) and if I'm not mistaken there is a genetic predisposition - have you had a CBC for everyone else done so you have a baseline "normal" for everyone? Will keep everyone in our thoughts and prayers. Rita, Mike and Sheba

Rita IA

Johnny I am very sorry to read that your Sadie has been diagnosed with AIHA and I will keep her in my prayers. Please keep us posted on how she is doing and how her vet visit goes. Sending hugs and prayers. Cheryl & Ginger

Cheryl & Ginger Pinevile Pa

Dear Johnny, I am so sorry to hear about Sadie's diagnosis... She is in good hands with you though, which surely gives her the best chance of survival! I can't believe you have to go through this again with another of your dogs, I couldn't imagine if it happened to one of my others, or even if Millie was to have a relapse.... Our thoughts are with you, hoping Sadie gets well. Sam & Millie.

Samantha Geelong

Johnny, That is terrible. I am so sorry your Sadie has been diagnosed too. I guess in a way you are lucky (if you can call it that.) You are a champion of the fight and know so much more than when Tessy was diagnosed. I hope that armed with that knowledge Sadie's battle is a much easier fight. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Penny

Penny Lytle Creek Calif

Dear Johnny, How unfair is that? I am so sorry you have to face this battle again. Like Penny said, Sadie is very lucky to have you on her side. she could not ask for a Papa that is more educated about this rotten disease than you. Just as Tessy she will beat it with you by her side. Best of luck , I will be thinking of you and your pups tonight! Brigitte

Brigitte BC Canada

Johnny So sorry to hear your bad news. I'm praying all goes well with your new fight. At least this time you had all of your knowledge about IMHA and were able to catch it in the early stage. I'm sure that will help in a speedier recovery for Sadie. You have been a life line for me and I hope I can return the favor someday. (Darn those Cocker spaniels!!!!) Prayers, Ronda and my darn Cocker spaniel, Buster

Ronda Illinois

Johnny, Wishing you strength and wondering how lightning could strike twice. Keep us posted and if anyone could handle this, it is you. -Darren

Darren Long Beach

Thanks guys, I'm still a little shell shocked at the thought of having to fight this battle all over again! I was just accepted into school on Friday and this throws a wrench in the whole plan now! Just my luck I suppose. Diane, ALL autoimmune diseases have a heritable genetic component. The heritability is from the MHC (major histocompatibilty complex) genes of the DLA (dog leukocyte antigen) locus. Please don't ask me to explain this one right now....LOL My head isn't in the game lately. Sadie goes for blood work in the morning and I'll likely ask them to put her on cyclo regardless her numbers. She's taking 70mg daily of pred so with this addition I'm hoping to lower this dosage sooner than later. Thanks for the vote of confidence and the thoughts and prayers. They all mean so much right now. I'll keep you all posted on how she's doing tomorrow when I hear more. Johnny, Tessy and Sadie

Johnny

Johnny, I am so sorry you have to go through this battle yet again...you, Tessy, and Sadie will be in my thoughts. Having been through this twice myself, I did notice when Aiyana was diagnosed I almost felt a sense of relief, at least I knew what we were up against. I knew what to expect, where to get support, etc. To me it was much better than the other possibility of Hemangiosarcoma, which was thankfully ruled out quickly. I hope you feel that same peace that I did. You know you have tons of support! blessings, Julie

Julie IL

Johnny, I'm so sorry Sadie was diagnosed with IMHA but I know she could not have a better person taking care of her than you! I'll be thinking of you guys and sending lots of love and light your way. Keep us posted!

Jennifer

the vet just diagnosed our sweet 12-yr old rescue golden (also named sadie!) with evan's syndrome- we took her in for a checkup because she had stopped eating and was getting very lethargic. she would only eat if i hand-fed her little bites of food. we really don't know anything about this disease or the prognosis...the vet said her platelet and red blood cell counts were very low. we have her on two medications that we pray will increase her appetite and help her get well. we would appreciate any encouraging information about the disease- thank you, and God bless all of y'all who are going through a pet illness. mary sue and ben

mary sue texas

Hi Johnny, I was shocked to read your post, you have been so helpful for everyone here that I hope we can support you although obviously cannot explain things to you to help you understand as you did so well for me. It is probably even worse for you because you do know so much. Let's hope you caught it early enough with Sadie and Archie and I wish her well. Sue

Sue Cambs UK

Just a quick update here. I had Sadie in yesterday for a check and her crit fell a few points. The lymphs are lower so I guess that's a good thing. You'd think the second time around would be easier but I'm thinking different right now. Thanks again everyone for the thots & prayers & well wishes. She'll take all she can get right now! Johnny Tessy & Sadie

Johnny

Sending you prayers and support. Can't express how saddened we are that you have to go through this again with another pup.

leslie ca

Oh Johnny! I am so sorry to hear that another one of your babies is affected with this horrible disease. I recall how difficult it was for you when Tessy became ill. Thank God you have all the medical knowledge you need to beat AIHA. You and Sadie and of course always Tessy, are in our prayers. Susie & Ren

Susie Delaware

Oh no Johnny! I just popped in after being absent for a while, and I'm so saddened to hear of this news. I guess if there can be any silver lining it's that Tessy's battle has enlightened (albeit involuntarily) you to this disease, hopefully making it a little easier the next time around. I can't believe this, it's just not fair. Little Tessy will be Sadie's mentor, and you guys will get through this once again, I have no doubt. I'm just so sorry you have to face all of this again. Tiggs and I will have you and the girls in our thoughts. melissa and tiggs

melissa slc

Well I'm off to the vet yet again with Sadie. Her appointment isn't until tomorrow but I'm fearing she's getting worse. I'll keep you all posted. Johnny Tessy & Sadie

Johnny

Maybe sometimes it is better to not know everything. Worrying is total ____!!! I hope your fear mode is just in overdrive and you receive better news than you seem to be expecting. Good Luck, and I'm putting in a special prayer for both of you. Ronda

Ronda Illinois

Thinking of you and crossing fingers and toes. All the best Brigitte

Brigitte BC

Johnny Please let us know how Sadie did on her vet visit. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and hope Sadie is doing better. Cheryl & Ginger

Cheryl & Ginger caf0208@aol.com

Johnny, I am keeping you in thoughts and prayers and hope that it is just the paranoia that this disease brings on and that you will be posting better news later. Penny

Penny Lytle Creek Calif

Penny, I wish it was just paranoia but my gut is usually right with these things. I'm glad I brought her in cause now I'm in the middle of trying to plan a blood transfusion for tomorrow. Looking like I might be heading off to the island again... Deja Vu???? Just trying to figure out all my options right now given the limited funds! Her crit is dropping faster than I thought and is now at 18%. 18% isn't that bad a number but if it continues to drop then it'll be in the critical range come tomorrow. I'm trying t obase my decision on the clinical signs rather than the numbers and I remember when Tessy was at around 18% she handled the lower numbers much better. The poor little girl...you can tell she's just terrified...doesn't know what's going on. She's loving the roast beef I made for her! Thank doG I'm a veggetarian and had meat left in the freezer!!! She's got a chicken cookin just for her now! I'll keep you all posted. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers....they are so appreciated right now. Johnny Tessy & Sadie

Johnny

Johnny, Stay positive! At least you don't have to drive in a snowstorm this time. This is just so awful and scary. The good thing is, you know what to do, you know the lingo and some vets could learn something from YOU! I am assuming you have already contacted Dr. Dodds. We don't have to tell you what to feed Sadie, what supplements to give her or to watch for her peeing lots etc. I don't remember, did Tessy have a transfusion too? Just be careful with the ice cream for Sadie:) You on the other hand can have as much as you want! I wish there would be more I can do for you. Don't forget to look after yourself and seek help from family and friends. Best wishes and a hug from the West Coast, Brigitte

Brigitte BC Canada

Johnny -- sending good wishes to you and to Sadie. Always remember, you know how to fight this.

Brenda VA

Hi Johnny and Sadie, Don't know what to say as you've been through this before. Hope you get the strength to cope with this and manage to keep in there. Sue and Archie x

Sue Cambs UK

Well, we made it through the day today without needing a transfusion!!! YAY! She's still pretty lethargic and I've got the vet on notice just in case she might need one tomorrow. She's having bad reactions to the cyclo as it's causing her to puke more than I'd like. Adjusted the dose some so hopefully this will do the trick. Like Tessy, she a fighter. I'm sure we'll get through this...even if we have to bear the battle scars! Thanks for the thoughts everyone. Hugs are being passed on to Sadie. I'll keep everyone posted on her progress. Johnny Tessy & Sadie

Johnny

Johnny, One day at a time. Hugs to you all!

Penny Lytle Creek Calif

Our precious 8 year old miniture poodle, TORI has just returned home from the hospital due to the sudden onset of IMHA. My husband & I are trying to "digest" all this new life threatening effects for TORI and someone said it is like a roller coaster ride... Will tell the "story" later, but glad to find this forum, as we are rather overwhelmed seeing her so weak, lethargic and not wanting to eat...not even her favorite treats. Just learning how to minister the 7 medicines and times for dosages is enough for now and pray our little girl continues to be one that recovers. We feel for the rest of you, but we are encouraged by just reading a few of your posts. Thanks.

Cindi PCB

Dear Johnny, Good news that Sadie doesn't need a blood transfusion. Thinking of you and Sadie... Sam & Millie.

Samantha Geelong

Well, looks like Sadie is gonna need a transfusion either tonight or in the morning. Her crit is down to 11.4% now so it's in the critical range. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. She needs all she can get. Thanks, Johnny Tessy & Sadie

Johnny

Dear Johnny, you and Sadie are on our minds. We will send positive thoughts your way and have all our fingers and paws crossed. Tessy has beaten it, so there is no reason why Sadie should not recover. Best wishes, Brigitte & the poodle boys

Brigitte BC Canada

Hi Johnny, OMG I can't believe this is happening to you and your puppies again. I've been away at the AAC National Championships in Calgary since last Wednesday, and just got back on-line to check up on you and Sadie! Can't believe what I'm reading. I pray everything goes well for you and Sadie today!!!!! Please keep us all updated. We are thinking of you and send you our MOST POSITIVE vibes, for a complete turnaround! Hug to all of you-----Maureen and Mercedes

Maureen BC Canada

Johnny, Hoping the transfusion buys the time Sadie needs. With you in her corner I know you will leave no stone unturned. Keeping you in thoughts and prayers. Penny

Penny Lytle Creek Calif

Sending prayers for Sadie, please let us know how it goes. Cheryl & Ginger

Cheryl & Ginger Pineville PA

Johnny: Just wanted to let you know we're keeping Sadie in our thoughts and prayers. Rita, Mike and Sheba

Rita IA

Johnny- Thinking of you and Sadie. Hope the transfusion goes well and buys Sadie some more time to fight. You are in my prayers. Cheri and Chloe

Cheri Maryland

Hi Johnny, Just checking in to see how Sadie is doing? Our prayers are with you both. Sue and Archie

Sue Cambs UK

Johnny, I hope all goes well for Sadie today. Wishing you luck, and saying some prayers!!! Ronda and Buster

Ronda Illinois

The thoughts and prayers are doing their jobs!!! GREAT news today! HER CRIT IS 24%!!!!!!! If I would have listened to the doctor(s) and did the transfusion last night then who knows what the outcome would have been. Transfusions are always done ONLY when absolutely needed. Lots of risks involved. They were going to take her to the back to prep today but I insisted them do another blood draw cause things just weren't adding up for me. Got some weird looks for this request!!! I've dealt with this disease enough to know something just wasn't clicking. Go figure...my gut feeling was right again. How many people do you know would back down from a transfusion with a crit of 11%....which was run twice by the way (same blood sample though). I went with the gut which was saying last night that she was clinically stable enough NOT to need to be transfused. Most people would go ahead and do it not actually knowing why or what. Can't help but wonder how many get done without actually needing them. Anyhow....this is just the news I needed to keep me from having a nervous breakdown..LOL. She's laying here snoring next to me now. She's still not out of the woods...not even close...but she's on her way to recovery!!! YAAAAYYYY Thanks for all the thoughts, prayers and well wishes! Sadie sends you all some SLOPPY smooches!!! Johnny Tessy & Sadie

Johnny

YAY Sadie... you go girl! You know your girl better than anyone else...don't second guess your gut...ever! blessings, Julie

Julie IL

Now I get all teary eyed! I want to say: I told you so! Sadie has you in her corner and we are all on team Sadie, cheering for her. You go Sadie! like you say she is not out of the woods, but this is a HUGE improvement. Stay positive and keep listening to that gut feeling. Best wishes, Brigitte & the poodle boys

Brigitte BC Canada

Way to go Sadie! Isn't that the most wonderful news! Cheri and Chloe

Cheri Maryland

Hi Johnny Well, one big "HIP, HIP, HOORAY" for Sadie----and an even bigger one for her owner!!! I was so excited to see the news! You two hang in there. You have beat this once with one dog and you can do it again with Sadie. We are thrilled to hear that things are turning around for you two. Hang in there---you are on the right path! Hugs from Maureen and Mercedes

Maureen BC Canada

Awesome Johnny....keep up the great work. Thinking about you and your girl.

Darren Long Beach

Johnny, Excellent news! The only thing I can even remotely say positive about this awful disease is that in fighting it we learn so much about our dogs and ourselves and the dangers out there. We no longer go blindly into things and are not afraid to voice our opinions on their care and are able to deal with everything in an educated way. Time you start a new thread about Sadie's positive journey :)

Penny Lytle Creek Calif

Penny, you are so right! This disease has taught me soooooo much about my dogs it's unreal!!! Sadie is quickly learning the puppy dog look!!! Spoiled rotten now!!! LOL Tessy's been giving me the stink eye all week cause she's not gettting as much attention as Sadie now! hehe The little stinker!

Johnny

Johnnie, wow, I have not check here in ahwile, I am so sorry to hear you are going thru8 this again, I am so glad Sadie is improving, Laurie and Wylie

Laurie CA

Such brilliant news, well done to both of you. Sue

Sue Cambs UK

What is going on in here! Sadie you get well now, quickly! You are indeed in the best of hands. Lots of healing white light and a heap of well wishes from Silka and Bonnie.

Silka Melbourne Australia

Johnny, great call! So glad you little one is on the recovery road! I still can't wrap my head around this disease that seems to come out of "no where" and is so destructive. Tori is gaining more strength and is even trying to jump up on the bed. I catch her and give her a boost and she rolls around messing up the throw pillows "talking" thinking she's really done something special! It's good to see her happy! Blessings, Cindi

Cindi & Tori PBC

Best of luck Johnny, sending lots of good vibes from the UK.

libby south west

This thread was discussed between 01/08/2010 and 18/08/2010

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