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.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thank you, Nancie. At least his nose is still great as ever!

I think JD and Gracie would be best friends if they could meet.

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Karen, I so understand how frustrating this whole thing is for you.  You've been looking for answers for weeks now....and every time you get an answer there are so many more new questions.  It sounds like this team of Vets knows what they're doing, so that at least helps.  It just seems like there are no "absolutes" when it comes to JD's condition....and I know how much we all need those definitive answers.  I'm happy that Jack is with you....most other owners wouldn't "have a clue".  I'm also happy that he's feeling a little better and acting more like himself.  I know you'll get through this difficult time, and you have so many of us here to support you. 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Wouldn't have gotten through this far without you, Jane.

[Christine & Camus]

Karen,  I'm so sorry to hear that Jack's diagnosis is so complicated and severe, but glad to hear that you did get a diagnosis and can begin treatment.  I cannot even begin to know how you must feel, but he is in the best of all hands -- Yours!  With your caring and knowledge, and the help of the vet team, he is sure to feel better soon.  Virtual hugs to both you and JD.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Christine.

[Leslie and Halas]

I was hoping for better news for you guys, but at least you know what you're dealing with now. JD has lots of medical people in his corner, and I'm sure they'll figure out a good course of action. And, of course, we'll be here for you, too.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Leslie.

[Doris, Knox & Flash]

Just want to cry reading this...just know that the best medicine for JD is Y-O-U!! What would his life been without you?? What a scary thought!!

By the way, I participated in my 2nd rescue yesterday! Libby (with the Captain) is fostering "Norman," a doodle found living under a house! You'll be hearing all about him soon!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thank, Doris, on behalf of JD and Norman!

[Donna K & Quincy]

I hope JD is feeling better and now that you have a diagnosis and a plan for moving forward we hope that the days ahead get easier to deal with. Like others have said JD is so lucky to have you and I know how much you love him and I know it also works the other way that you are lucky to have JD in your life and that he returns that love unconditionally. While this is not a great diagnosis, it is also not the worse. I have every confidence that you and JD will be fine. ps, The offer still stands. :>)

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thank you, Donna!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Roberta.