A Diagnosis of Sorts and A Lot More Questions

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Jackdoodle's biopsy report came back yesterday; we now have a name for what this is, but no clear answer as to what caused it or what to do about it. His treatment plan is going to involve a collaboration between his internist, his allergist, and his regular vet, and apparently we may be getting the UC-Davis veterinary nutrition department involved, too. This being the weekend before Christmas, things are still on hold until his regular vet and I can talk to his allergist. The internist left town for the holidays yesterday. I would not have posted an update yet, but so many of you have asked about him, I wanted to up-date you.

JD has severe Inflammatory Bowel Disease, specifically the following conditions:

1. Lymphoplasmacytic Enteritis

2. Eosinophilic Enteritis

3. Chronic Hypertrophic Pyloric Gastropathy

How these conditions relate to each other, how he developed them and why, we don't know yet. There can be many causes, and sometimes there's no way of knowing which it is. There does appear to be an immune-mediated/allergic component.

Treatment will involve dietary changes and medications including some kind of immunosuppressant.

:(((

Some of the drugs being discussed are very heavy-duty drugs, with some very serious side-effects, and will probably cancel out his current immunotherapy treatment for his Atopic Dermatitis. Have to talk to his allergist to find out. And you can be sure I am going to do an awful lot of research before taking that route.

He also has developed a B12 deficiency, probably because of all the inflammatory/digestive issues, and will require B12 shots every week for a few months. That's the easiest and clearest part.

I am still a little bit shell-shocked and trying to sort all of this out and wrap my brain around the fact that my poor guy has to deal with yet another chronic illness, more meds, more lifestyle restrictions, etc. But so many of you have asked about him, I wanted to let you know what's going on.

And thank you all again for your caring and concern. He may be sick, but beyond a doubt, he has a lot of wonderful people who love him and and are rooting for him, and that has to count in his favor.

Hugs to you all.

[Pat and Traveler]

Awwwww.....so sorry to hear about all the issues for JD.  I feel upset and sad and angry for both of you--why should such a sweet animal have to deal with such illnesses, and why should such a loving owner have to be so tested?  After those feelings, which don't help, I know JD will get the best possible care, and give back to you every ounce of love you give so unstintingly to him.  And--you're bound to become an expert on all these illnesses, and be able to help others with similar problems.

Many doodle kisses to JD from Trav and me, and many hugs to you.  Sure wish there was something we could do... 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Pat. I hope nobody else ever has similar issues. :)

[Holly Paterniti]

Oh Karen.......I am so sorry to hear about what is going on with Jack :(   I am sending you and Jack positve thoughts and please know we all LOVE you both!!!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Holly.

[cheryl & oliver]

Karen I just got home and went to Doodlekisses to see if you had posted.  Well I guess the answers only give way to more questions, I hate that!!!,,,But JD has you for a Mom and you will find the answers that are right for his treatment.  I feel so bad for you and JD. why he has to be the one, it is not fair for sure, but with all the love you give him, and great care, he will make it thru this, we are all with you, you know that, and good vibes and prayers are coming your way from all of us.  Hang in there and things will get better.  Hugs to you and JD.  And thanks for keeping us so well informed with all the goings on with JD....Cheryl

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Cheryl.

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

Karen, this sounds like a lot and I don't know enough about any of it to say it will be fine, but if any dog has a chance for a long healthy life inspite of any ailments, it's JD! Thank you for the update as you've both been on my mind. Sending love and good healing thoughts.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Sue.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Karen,

     I am so glad that you received a diagnosis - at least you are no longer in the dark. Brainstorming -  I wonder if the meds Jack routinely takes for his allergies, could have been the trigger for this? (I know in humans continuing meds - even over-the-counter Tylonal, Advil, Clariton, Zirtec can cause serious problems) Like you said which part came first?  I wonder if perhaps if you can get the acute part of this illness under control, some natural healing may occur.  Perhaps I am just being a Pollyanna because I want Jack to be well and feel good.  

     I am so glad that you are Jack's owner because you have so much general health knowledge already, I am sure you will be able to thoroughly understand his needs and be able to be a full partner in deciding appropriate treatments.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Nancy. Please keep being a Pollyanna! I am also wondering if the allergy meds or even the antigens could be to blame in some way. But no one has suggested that and in fact I've been told I could give him the antihistamines if he needs them. One thing is certain, I need more info.

[Colleen, Jake & Baxter]

Jack Doodle is blessed to have you as his "mom".........I send you my hope and many prayers for extra wisdom and knowledge for all those involved in Jack's care.  May you see light at the end of this extra long tunnel you are going through :o).  Blessings to you Karen and take care of yourself!  Extra hugs from Jake and many more from my little Oscar doodle !!! (whomever adopts him will be lucky indeed!!)

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thank you, Colleen.