masticatory myositis

[Rick Andrews]

Simon was diagnosed with this a few months ago and trying to find out if anyone else has had success with treating with holistic treatments.

[F, Calla & Luca]

Me three.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

I think what delayed Gracie's healing was that she had so many side effects from the Prednisone.  Not all dogs have so many side effects.

[Nancie & Gracie Doodle]

I have been AOL for a week on my computer while babysitting little Eowyn (13 mos).  I have contacted Rick through a PM and sent him my journal of Gracie's year with the disease.  There are a few things that concern me about Simon.  One is the fact that he is being treated holistically.  We got our third opinion from a Eastern/Western Vet and the bottom line was that they would have treated Gracie exactly the same way as we did, with Prednisone.  The only thing different is that they would have added various herbs and such to maybe help maintain her coat, etc. from the side-effects.  The reason I am concerned is because I just read that Simon seems fine and out of pain but can only open his mouth 2 inches.  When Gracie was diagnosed we were in a Catch 22 situation.  She needed to start treatment immediately to prevent any permanent muscle loss or damage.  While waiting for second and third opinions we could do her more harm than good.  Also, while waiting for the blood test (10 days) to confirm the disease, we wold have lost valuable time.  Hearing that Simon is not on Prednisone and doesn't have full range of his jaw concerns me.  Gracie carries around two tennis balls and can catch them on the fly!!!  

DH and I were discussing the disease again today after I read Rick's post and we came to a conclusion that possibly Gracie could have been cured much earlier and with less side effects had we not taken her off the Prednisone so quickly.  The first round she was on it for 30 days, within a week she was back to her old self and after 30 days we started the weaning process.  One month later it came back.  We again started treatment but went a bit longer.  Same thing.  On the third treatment we kept her on the Prednisone for three months at full dosages and then ever so slowly started weaning her.  We wasted a lot of precious time with the first two attempts.  Had we just gone with the three or more months in the very beginning, Gracie would not have taken a year to recover and I think the horrible side effects of the Prednisone would maybe not have been so great. So, bottom line...my concern is that Simon is not on Prednisone because I honestly believe that is the only treatment for this disease.  

UPDATE:  Gracie is so far doing fantastically.  I never in a million years ever thought I would see her hair come back and see her full tail again.  Her hair is fuller, thicker and curlier than before.  She is even more loving than before if that is even possible.  I think she knows she has been given a second chance and also that we were so devoted to her that she is just that much more loving and attentive.  Things are great but still, every day, we hold our breath when she yawns or catches her first tennis ball of the day.  We consider each day is a gift!

[F, Calla & Luca]

I am delighted to hear that Gracie is doing so well.

[Nancie & Gracie Doodle]

Thanks F.  We are so in love with her and so happy with how she is doing.  I have a smile all the time now!  You should have seen her this last week with the baby.  She adores Eowyn and won't leave her side.  Eowyn started walking last week and Gracie is so gentle and sweet with her.  They all left today and Luna left as well.  Gracie is in a funk!  So am I!  We miss that little fire ball!  

[F, Calla & Luca]

I can understand that funk. I would expect Gracie to be nothing less than the perfect toddler companion : )

[BG and Gavin]

Excellent advice and an excellent update.  Hugs to you and Gracie!

[DJ & Chance]

This is such good news.

[Doris, Knox & Flash]

This update is music to my ears, Nancie! 

[GBK]

Such Great News Nancie!  I am so glad Gracie is back to herself and able to play ball and dote on Eowyn :)

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

Thrilled to hear all of this. So great to know that Gracie is doing so well, catching balls and being a wonderful friend to Eowyn (can't believe he is 13 months already)

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Nancie, I am so happy to hear about Gracie! This made my day!