Lady Peri has an Infection and Taquito has Underlying Kidney Disease

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

Bad day in the Sullivan house....I apologize in advance for a lengthy email.

Since Saturday, Peri (mini doodle) has had the sneezes and a runny nose. I decided to take her in today because her symptoms have not improved and her snot was yellow (so sorry for that nasty description). She had a fever and the cold/virus has turned into a bacterial infection. So she is on antibiotics and antihistamines - I am glad I took her in! The vet said she thought it could have been the dog flu, but she doubts it because Taquito has not caught it (and dog flu is very contagious). And Peri has gained 3 pounds since her spaying, bringing her to 20 pounds even.

Now for the Tackyman: When Taquito had his dental cleaning two months ago, his kidney levels were off. I had them do more bloodwork today while I was at the vet. Heck, why not go ahead and pay the vet's mortgage this month (lol - it wasn't that bad!)??? Just got the word that they have slightly improved but hardly at all. I am a little upset as I am writing this. I forget all of the correct terms, so I apologize in advance. But one of his levels is 100 and the norm is BELOW 40. The vet asked me if anything tragic has happened to his stomach in his lifetime and of course it has! Those (insert very nasty curseword here) food and treat recalls!!!! Two summers ago he was sick for 2 months from chicken tendons from china. In the vet every other day on fluids, had to hand feed him. I even would eat dog food to show him it was safe (I am nuts I know). He lost 2 pounds (went to 4 pounds); I lost 10 pounds due to stress. You get the gist. Vet said stress like that can cause permanent kidney damage and lead to disease in older age. She wanted me to go ahead and switch his food to that darn prescription kidney diet crap, but I hesitate because he is sooooo picky. He used to have soooo many stomach issues. Would not eat for a few days, throw up, etc... He loves his Fromm now and I am happy to report that he weighs 7.2 pounds. He seems so healthy to me!!! Bottom line is vet said those diets are not only slightly lower in protein, but they are lower in salt, which is a huge deal for the kidneys. I am keeping him on Fromm for now and then getting more bloodwork done in March. Vet said at that point, if levels are similar, she recommends I change something soon. Says dogs on kidney diets live twice as long. I am so upset right now. Looks like my little man will be getting bloodwork done the rest of his life. He is not even 6 years old yet. Vet is very concerned since he is so young and says NOW is the time to monitor him. He throws up once, take him in for fluids. No more salty treats (try not to do that anyway). She said carrots are great and eggs for a special treat too. I have to be so careful. Oh crap are bully sticks salty? Must throw those out :( I am going to be so freakin' paranoid it is going to be unbelievable.

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

I am about to go to a local Hollistic dog store and ask the owner to help me decide between Innova, Solid Gold or Wellness Senior formulas. They all have about 18-19% protein, but most importantly, their phosphorous and salt levels are in line with the Hills that my vet recommends. I just know they are higher quality foods that Taquito will enjoy more. I will keep you posted with what I decide. Thanks Adrianne!!!!

[Adrianne Matzkin]

How is he doing today? did you get any more info on kibble?

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

Thanks to all again! I have come to grips with this and it will all work out! I am enjoying coming up with really healthy snacks for both pups. Today was crazins, bananas and carrots. They go nuts for them, and better yet, those are supposed to help kidney function. On to pears and yams....
Still working on finding a good high-quality senior food with less phosphorous and salt. Thank you DK!!!

[Michele Barton]

Oh my goodness, I just saw this. First, I hope that Lady Peri is feeling better by now. Thank God for antibiotics! Second, poor Taquito, but good for you for being proactive and having his blood re-checked. Taquito is lucky to have you as his mom! I am sure that you will take very good care of him - thinking about you all!

[Yvonne N]

Taquito has you fighting for his health and he is going to live a long life. You are being proactive and keeping him healthy. Half the battle is knowing what you are dealing with and you do. Let us know if we can help. Hugs!

[Leigh & Allie]

I am so sorry to hear about Taquito!! I know how the worry can really get to you!! Remember me a few weeks ago? It sounds like you already have a good handle on everything. Allie and I send hugs and kisses!

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

THANKS for all of the great thoughts. Very much appreciated :)
Glad to know the baby carrots are okay! He goes nuts over them anyway, so it will just be an adjustment keeping Peri's training treats out of his diet. I am looking into other fruits and veggies good for his kidneys.
I am looking into Solid Gold for Seniors. It is 18% protein which I feel better about. Plus he used to eat the Solid Gold wee bit, so I know he thinks that brand is tasty. Probably muuuuch better than hills!
I will keep you all posted, but I am so thankful for DK friends.

[Adrianne Matzkin]

Allyson - I am so sorry that you have this to deal with!! So hard to find the right kibble - I will be very interested in what you and Karen find out.
Did you contact Bully Sticks and ask them??

[Joyce & Wilson]

Wilson and I are sending you our thoughts and prayers..It sounds like you are really on top of everything and keeping a sharp eye out. Peri and Taquito are soooo lucky to have you loving them!!

[Leslie and Halas]

I hope Peri starts feeling better! And it sounds like you're on the right track with Taquito. Halas loves those baby carrots, so I think Taquito will enjoy them. Maybe making a few changes now will really help you manage the problem. Halas and I send hugs your way.