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tips for living with SM

Molly

Hi

Molly was diagnosed only on Thursday so we are still in shock. We
have been prescribed Gabapentin twice daily and Previcox for her
joint pains. I know this might sound stupid but she has a build up of fluid
in pockets on her spine, would something like dandelion help to disperse
this. The vet is very gloomy and has said she is a severe case and has
said he will prescribe her something to reduce the cerebal fluid in 4
weeks time. We are a bit lost and confused, now she is on pain killers
she is in good spirits.

Tania
 
I saw a holistic vet who gave Ilsa some supplements, dandelion wasn't one of them but I think she feels even better on them then on the regular meds alone (of course I give both)

Hasn't been that long yet but I think acupuncture and homeopathy can't hurt if you can find a good specialist in your area,

I'd recommend that they are also familiar with SM and the meds your dog is currently taking to avoid interactions.

I wouldn't try at home, it's hard to dose for small dogs
Jen
 
You have to be very careful in using homeopathy/alternative remedies and traditional medicine at the same time. I won't give my daughter homeopathic medicine as she is on epilepsy medicine. If she needs any other meds, her Dr types it into the computer and, if there is any incompatibility with her epilepsy meds, we are told about it. I am not anti homeopathy, I prefer it in fact but the truth is, the compatibility of traditional drugs and most homeopathic drugs has not been researched.

I do know that St Johns Wort interferes with the contraceptive pill. My daughters epileptic drug interferes with her contraceptive pill but she only uses it to regulate her periods.
 
Just done a little online research and came up with this.

http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/69200.cfm#HerbDrugInteractions

"Animal studies have shown moderate anti-inflammatory, cholagogic and hypoglycemic activities; however, results of studies of its diuretic properties have yielded mixed results. "

This is quite good:

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-dandelion.html

"Some modern naturopathic physicians assert that dandelion can detoxify the liver and gallbladder, reduce side effects of medications metabolized (processed) by the liver, and relieve symptoms associated with liver disease."

Interactions with Drugs
Drug interactions with dandelion have rarely been identified, although there is limited study in this area.
Dandelion may reduce the effects of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (Cipro®) due to reduced absorption of the drug. In theory, dandelion may reduce the absorption of other drugs taken at the same time.
Dandelion may lower blood sugar levels, although another study notes no changes. Although effects in humans are not known, caution is advised in patients taking prescription drugs that may also lower blood sugar levels. Those using oral drugs for diabetes or insulin should be monitored closely by a healthcare professional while using dandelion. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.
Historically, dandelion is believed to possess diuretic (increased urination) properties and to lower blood potassium levels. In theory, the effects or side effects of other drugs may be increased, including other diuretics, lithium, digoxin (Lanoxin®), or corticosteroids such as prednisone. However, dandelion also contains potassium and human supportive evidence is lacking.
The effects or side effects of niacin or nicotinic acid may be increased (such as flushing and gastrointestinal upset), due to small amounts of nicotinic acid present in dandelion.
In theory, due to chemicals called coumarins found in dandelion leaf extracts, dandelion may increase the risk of bleeding when used with blood thinners. Examples include warfarin (Coumadin®), heparin, and clopidogrel (Plavix®). Some pain relievers may also increase the risk of bleeding if used with dandelion. Examples include aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®), and naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve®, Anaprox®). It is possible that dandelion may reduce the effectiveness of antacids or drugs commonly used to treat peptic ulcer disease. Examples include famotidine (Pepcid®) and esomeprazole (Nexium®).
Dandelion may interfere with the way the liver breaks down certain drugs (using the P450 1A2 and 2E enzyme systems). As a result, the levels of these drugs may be raised in the blood, and the intended effects or side effects may be increased. Patients using medications should check the package insert and speak with a healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, about possible interactions.
Be aware that many tinctures contain high levels of alcohol and may cause nausea or vomiting when taken with metronidazole (Flagyl®) or disulfiram (Antabuse®).
Although not well studied in humans, caution is advised in patients taking analgesics (pain-relievers), anti-inflammatories, or certain types of antacids or peptic ulcer agents (Pepcid® or Nexium®). Dandelion may increase the effects and toxicity of blood pressure-lowering agents or niacin if taken together.
Dandelion may also interact with cholesterol-lowering agents, such as bile acid sequestrants. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, to check for interactions.
Other potential interactions with dandelion that are lacking human scientific evidence include anticancer agents, appetite suppressants, hormonal agents (such as estrogens), and laxatives.

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements
Interactions of dietary supplements with dandelion have rarely been published, although there is limited study in this area.
Based on an animal study, dandelion may lower blood sugar levels, although another study notes no changes. Although effects in humans are not known, caution is advised when using herbs or supplements that may also lower blood sugar. Blood glucose levels may require monitoring, and doses may need adjustment.
Historically, dandelion is believed to possess diuretic (increased urination) properties and may increase the effects of other herbs with potential diuretic effects, such as artichoke, elder flower, or horsetail.
In theory, due to chemicals called coumarins found in dandelion leaf extracts, dandelion may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleeding. Multiple cases of bleeding have been reported with the use of Ginkgo biloba , and fewer cases with garlic and saw palmetto. Numerous other agents may theoretically increase the risk of bleeding, although this has not been proven in most cases.
Dandelion may interfere with the way the liver breaks down certain drugs (using the P450 1A2 and 2E enzyme systems). As a result, the levels of other herbs or supplements may become too high in the blood. In theory, dandelion may also alter the effects that other herbs or supplements possibly have on the P450 system, such as bloodroot, grapefruit juice, or St. John's wort.
Dandelion leaves contain vitamin A, niacin, lutein, and beta-carotene and thus, supplemental doses of these agents may have additive effects or side effects.
Dandelion may reduce the effectiveness of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (Cipro®) and thus may have interactions with other antibacterial herbs or supplements.
Although not well studied in humans, dandelion may interact with anti-inflammatory agents, antacids, analgesics, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), laxatives, nondigestible oligosaccharides (such as inulin), urine alkalinizing herbs and supplements, anticancer herbs or supplements, or other antioxidants. Dandelion may also decrease dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate, androstenedione, and estrone-sulfate levels.
Dandelion may increase the toxic effects when taken with supplements that lower blood pressure such as hawthorn ( Crataegus laevigata ). Toxic effects associated with herbs such as foxglove may increase when used in combination with dandelion.
 
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Lost my little guy to SM

I posted a long thread about this subject but wanted to say that I have read the chat but was to upset to ever respond. My little B& T 3 1/2 year old guy just lost his life to SM. He had the most up to date surgery, crainoplasty, seven months ago and was on Gabaphentin, Tramadol and predisone (5 doses over seven months) but the symptoms got worse, more varied and more severe. I had to release him from his pain. I can't stop the tears from flowing and feel for everyone out there that is faced with this terrible genetic illness. It's so hard to watch your beloved friend going through the pain and discomfort and having to take so many meds. It certaily isn't the life I envisioned for Ollie after he passed his CGC and therapy test and we worked as a team in childrens hospitals and assisted living homes giving comfort to others. Then unfairly Ollie needed comfort. it's really hard and I hate to say it just gets harder but until the breeders start having their dogs MRI for SM and taking those that test positive out of the breeding gene pool we won't have a chace of saving our babies from this terrible plight. I'm working with breeders and vets now and trying to get low cost MRI screening available in each state. I would not recommend the surgery although that's a personal decision. I feel that treating with meds is the best course of action as even after surgery you must treat with drugs. So...what's the point in putting you baby through brain surgery. Good luck to all. I feel your pain. I know what you're going through. Hugs to all. Karen Orange
 
I'm very sorry for you loss. I agree with your thoughts on surgery. I hope you come to terms with your loss soon but I can only imagine how you must feel. My thoughts and feelings are with you. :hug:
 
Karen, I'm so sorry to read about Ollie. It sounds like he was a great dog and did lots of good work. Life is so unfair sometimes.
:hug::hug:
 
I am so sorry.

Please keep telling everyone what it is like to see this happen to your much loved family pet.
 
I'm so sorry that Ollie suffered so much from SM. He probably is thanking you for giving him his wings. It is such a heartbreaking and heart wrenching decision to make though.

Just another viewpoint about SM decompression surgery - for my Riley it was absolutely the right decision. No medication helped her prior to surgery and her symptoms were gettting worse. Since her surgery last June she is like another dog and is only on prednisone, no other meds. Unfortunately, we don't have crystal balls and can't tell for sure if the surgery will help or not. The neurologists can give it their best medical opinion, but they still don't know how each dog will react. I'm so sorry it wasn't a help to Ollie.
 
So sorry to hear about your loss of Ollie, I think it is a decision all of us with SM dogs will have to make one day and really dread. Its good that you are working to help others in the same boat with the scans.
 
I can't imagine how you are feeling. I am so sorry for you and Ollie.

Living with an sm dog is like living with a ticking bomb, we will be faced with this impossible decision in the future and I am not sure how you know what is the right thing to do.
Ollie was very lucky to have your love, care and devotion.
 
i was reading your post. and i have a cavalier her name is jazzy she is 8months old. she is the light of my life. i have a question for u about the sm. how old was your baby when u new that he had sm? what are the signs? i hope to hear back from u. im really scard about this. :(
 
There is lots and lots of information here on the site on SM and also I gave you four website links for information on your intro thread. Cavaliers on this board have been diagnosed with SM at anything from a few months old to elderly dogs so really it depends on the dog and if it is symptomatic -- many dogs with the condition are not. This is more a thread for discussing ways to care for dogs with the condition -- so maybe have a read of the sites I suggested and other information pinned at the top of the SM/MVD forum and if you have questions about what you have read, post them into the SM forum and someone will be happy to answer I am sure. (y) It is a complex condition so reading up on it from some accurate sites will help fill in answers to many of your questions. :) Sites I suggested as starting points are:

www.smcavalier.com
www.cavalierhealth.org
http://www.veterinary-neurologist.co.uk/faq.htm
www.cavaliercampaign.com
www.cavaliermatters.org
 
Lily - newly diagnosed

Hello all, while this is an old thread, it is very helpful to me. Lily was diagnosed last week with severe SM. We are now trying out and implementing as much as we can to make her as comfortable as possible.

Along that line, I have made her her own custom designed walking harness. It looks like this one (http://www.bottomsupleash.com/) which I found after the fact and which she wears around her front legs. I made it out of an old jersey knit belt, a large keyring, and a clip. It stays on as loose versions of other harnesses have not, has no neck collar or chest strap, and she doesn't scratch at all on her walks! It was completely easy to make and it is my contribution to things we can do to help our beloved family members.
 
Tip for giving meds to your dog while at work or during the middle of the night

My 6 year old, Jeszel, gets pills/capsules 6 times per day. I use a timed cat feeder that is set to open when I'm not at home or alseep. I wrap the pills/capsules with Greenies pill pockets and place them in the feeder and set the timer. Jeszel likes the taste of the pill pockets so she grabs the meds out of the feeder right away and has never left a pill behind. Jeszel actually found the timed feeder fun and keeps an eye on it... she makes sure to sleep near it in my bedroom so that she does not miss it opening at 3am. If you don’t have another dog around that could grab the meds instead, this is a handy method.
:)
 
Tips for Living with SM for you and your Cavalier

1) Enjoy the good days. I learned that I was really scared of what would come and the unknown future that I missed out on a couple of months. However those months were when she was recovering from decompression surgery. It is tough when there are bad days and set backs but try and stay stong even though it can be tough. I know it was for me.

2) Support groups. These have helped me a lot.

3) Medication may need to be adjusted but finding the right mixture and if some works it is worth it.

4) Accupuncture- This helped Ella but I was told Prednisone does not work with accupuncture.

5) water bottles- When Ella had a hard time drinking she would drink from a water bottle used for cages.

6) watch for too much activity. Some days Ella is playful and is fine, but others I notice she isn't feeling good so I am just aware of her needs.

7) Give them all the love in the world and even though it may not be enough to heal them, they will know.:paw::paw::l*v:
 
I think this tip has been discussed before in other threads, but I didn't see it in this thread:

Some cavaliers who have SM seem to have pain build-up around when they have to go potty. I have seen it happen with Geordie, and also with Charlie in the past.

If your cavalier is exhibiting signs of discomfort and it isn't time for his/her next dose of pain med, try taking him/her outside to go potty and reward them for eliminating. I've found the reward works to help them 'want' to go, and they should feel some relief afterwards.

Usually when I see Geordie start to scratch himself or 'dig' in his bed, I take him outside and he potties with a little encouragement. He seems to feel so much better afterwards!
 
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