Sydneys Mom
Well-known member
Oh Dear God, please keep Holly safe. Will keep praying until we hear from you.
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Severe Pancreatitis ?
- Thread starter Reptigirl
- Start date
Sydneys Mom
Well-known member
3 weeks ago, that's what happened to Sydney. At 2am. panting, collapse, tongue turning blue, unresponsive. We rushed him to the ER and they put him on oxygen for 24 hrs and he had IV fluids and IV diuretic. His condition had also had worsened within 6 mos. Luckily, all the equiptment for cardio was there and his cardiologist works out of that hospital as well and was able to see him in the AM. I am happy to say, that since that episode, he has done well. She may have to be on heart meds to help control this.
Will continue praying for you and Holly. Keep us updated when you can.
Will continue praying for you and Holly. Keep us updated when you can.
mommytoClaire
Well-known member
I am just glad that she is someplace where they can watch her. Is it possible that this is what has been going on all along? I mean, could the heart situation cause vomiting like you experienced?
Still praying for little Holly. Please keep us updated. And praying for you too!
Still praying for little Holly. Please keep us updated. And praying for you too!
Reptigirl
Well-known member
Holly is very stable & acting normal again. All of her blood work came back normal. No cardio available for ultra sound tonight. Tomorrow will hopefully be the soonest but they can't guarantee any will be available. Talked to my regular vet and said she can probably get her person out pretty quickly in the AM since it is an emergency.
mommytoClaire
Well-known member
Oh my.....what to think. Wouldn't something show up in the bloodwork? So are you taking her home? Try to get a little sleep, sounds like tomorrow will be a full day. Hugs!
Reptigirl
Well-known member
I'm not sure if it is right or wrong... please don't judge. But I am bring her home to be comfortable in her bed tonight. They quoted me $1200 to monitor her over night plus having the cardio exam some time tomorrow.
Already talked to my vet. Cardio exam/ultra sound is $300. Said she would be at her clinic at 8am and call right away for the cardio. Asked me to be at her clinic with Holly at 8am as well. I know I'm lacking 24 hour monitoring but I will sleep light tonight. I would just rather her be here. Especially if it is her last moments. Where she is comfortable in a loving environment with her friends and family. Not locked in a cage and scared.
Already talked to my vet. Cardio exam/ultra sound is $300. Said she would be at her clinic at 8am and call right away for the cardio. Asked me to be at her clinic with Holly at 8am as well. I know I'm lacking 24 hour monitoring but I will sleep light tonight. I would just rather her be here. Especially if it is her last moments. Where she is comfortable in a loving environment with her friends and family. Not locked in a cage and scared.
Sydneys Mom
Well-known member
I can't imagine how difficult this is for you. Sending hugs and prayers. Let us know how Holly is tomorrow. You are not alone.
If it was a syncopal episode, they should do an electrocardiogram - can't they do that in the emergency hospital? If it's an intermittant arrhythmia, they would do a holter electrocardiogram to try to record it to see what kind of arrhythmia. I think I'd rather wait for a cardiologist to do a workup even if it has to wait for a day or so. She is not in heart failure, so if it's cardiac-related, it may well be something uncommon. This would not at all be anything similar to Sydney who is in advanced heart failure after many years of MVD; Holly has had no symptoms of heart failure so you can't compare the two situations.
The other question is - if it's syncope, how is it related to the undiagnosed apparent GI problem of last week or are there two different problems? I would really want a consult with a board certified internist or a board certified cardiologist. Internist might be easier to find. You need someone that can do an abdominal ultrasound AND an echocardiogram at this point. I don't think I'd deal with GP vet at all at this point. If you use the "traveling ultrasound vet" find out his exact credentials. A lot of these ultrasound vets aren't credentialed and it can be a waste of money when you can pay the same for an expert who will be better at giving and interpreting the ultrasound and echocardiogram. There are traveling ultrasound vets in my area who are nothing more than GP vets who purchased ultrasound equipment and now call themselves "specialists."
Where do you live?
Pat
The other question is - if it's syncope, how is it related to the undiagnosed apparent GI problem of last week or are there two different problems? I would really want a consult with a board certified internist or a board certified cardiologist. Internist might be easier to find. You need someone that can do an abdominal ultrasound AND an echocardiogram at this point. I don't think I'd deal with GP vet at all at this point. If you use the "traveling ultrasound vet" find out his exact credentials. A lot of these ultrasound vets aren't credentialed and it can be a waste of money when you can pay the same for an expert who will be better at giving and interpreting the ultrasound and echocardiogram. There are traveling ultrasound vets in my area who are nothing more than GP vets who purchased ultrasound equipment and now call themselves "specialists."
Where do you live?
Pat
Doesn't she want to do an abdominal ultrasound also in light of the still undiagnosed original problem?
Pat
Reptigirl
Well-known member
Great point Pat.... They have been dismissing the likely hood of them being related. We have found a cardio across town that is on office... Not available tonight..of course! They require appointment AND referral. Vet was told to call in the am to speak with the cardio
Did some checking. In San Antonio, there is no cardiologist. Here are the available board certified internists:
Stacy R. Randall, DVM
Diplomate American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine 1990
Residency in Small Animal Internal Medicine
Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine
1992-1995
Lucia Alvarez, DVM
Diplomate American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine 2006
Internship in Small Animal Medicine and Surgery
Veterinary Specialists of South Florida
2006-2007
Residency in Small Animal Internal Medicine
University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine
2007-2010
Ronald S. Walton, DVM, MS
Diplomate American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Diplomate American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
University of California at Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine 1986
Internship in Medicine and Surgery
University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
1986-1987
Residency in Internal Medicine and Emergency and Critical Care Medicine Colorado State University
1994-1997
There is another female internist, but she specializes in oncology.
These are all at South Texas Veterinary Specialists.
South Texas Veterinary Specialists, LLP
503 E. Sonterra Blvd., Suite 102
San Antonio, TX 78258
210-930-8383
Fax 210-930-8040
I'd probably go for one of the two women!
If this is the mobile ultrasound vet that your GP vet uses, you should be aware that this is not the equivalent of an internist or cardiologist; this is a GP vet who has some training in sonography:
http://sonovet.us/
Here is his CV:
sonovet.us/docs/MARTIN%20HENDERSON%20-%20CV%20Only.pdf
The cost for ultrasound should be about the same, perhaps a bit more with internist because you'll also pay for history and physical. You can take the x-rays and bloodwork that you already have so no need to repeat those tests. The $1,200 quote was much higher because it included overnight critical care which I agree is not necessary assuming this was syncope or seizure. I would have also brought my dog home but I'd strongly consider a consult with an internist which would be much better quality diagnosis and treatment plan than using GP vet and mobile sonographer GP vet, esp. if you are dealing with something uncommon. And this is not the typical presentation of "everyday" degenerative valvular disease.
Pat
Stacy R. Randall, DVM
Diplomate American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine 1990
Residency in Small Animal Internal Medicine
Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine
1992-1995
Lucia Alvarez, DVM
Diplomate American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine 2006
Internship in Small Animal Medicine and Surgery
Veterinary Specialists of South Florida
2006-2007
Residency in Small Animal Internal Medicine
University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine
2007-2010
Ronald S. Walton, DVM, MS
Diplomate American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Diplomate American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
University of California at Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine 1986
Internship in Medicine and Surgery
University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
1986-1987
Residency in Internal Medicine and Emergency and Critical Care Medicine Colorado State University
1994-1997
There is another female internist, but she specializes in oncology.
These are all at South Texas Veterinary Specialists.
South Texas Veterinary Specialists, LLP
503 E. Sonterra Blvd., Suite 102
San Antonio, TX 78258
210-930-8383
Fax 210-930-8040
I'd probably go for one of the two women!
If this is the mobile ultrasound vet that your GP vet uses, you should be aware that this is not the equivalent of an internist or cardiologist; this is a GP vet who has some training in sonography:
http://sonovet.us/
Here is his CV:
sonovet.us/docs/MARTIN%20HENDERSON%20-%20CV%20Only.pdf
The cost for ultrasound should be about the same, perhaps a bit more with internist because you'll also pay for history and physical. You can take the x-rays and bloodwork that you already have so no need to repeat those tests. The $1,200 quote was much higher because it included overnight critical care which I agree is not necessary assuming this was syncope or seizure. I would have also brought my dog home but I'd strongly consider a consult with an internist which would be much better quality diagnosis and treatment plan than using GP vet and mobile sonographer GP vet, esp. if you are dealing with something uncommon. And this is not the typical presentation of "everyday" degenerative valvular disease.
Pat
Reptigirl
Well-known member
Thank you so much Pat for looking that up! I was feeling really frustrated...
South Texas Veterinary Specialists is where I am wanting to go. But they told me there was an actual cardiologist there. Guess they figure I wouldn't know the differance between a cardiologist and an internists. We have to call in the morning as the overnight staff could not make an emergency appointment for the cardio department. My vet has to call with a referral and I'm stuck HOPING they can get us in right away. Holly is home and seems okay right now. Curled up to sleep with Blitz. But now I am having more car trouble. Boyfriend is trying to figure out my car trouble tonight (midnight!) so I can make it to where I need to go at 8am!
I'm worried this is something that is related to previous symptoms but the vets keep saying no. Feeling so frustrated! If only dogs could talk!
South Texas Veterinary Specialists is where I am wanting to go. But they told me there was an actual cardiologist there. Guess they figure I wouldn't know the differance between a cardiologist and an internists. We have to call in the morning as the overnight staff could not make an emergency appointment for the cardio department. My vet has to call with a referral and I'm stuck HOPING they can get us in right away. Holly is home and seems okay right now. Curled up to sleep with Blitz. But now I am having more car trouble. Boyfriend is trying to figure out my car trouble tonight (midnight!) so I can make it to where I need to go at 8am!
I'm worried this is something that is related to previous symptoms but the vets keep saying no. Feeling so frustrated! If only dogs could talk!
Nicki
Moderator
Oh goodness Shannon I'm so sorry to hear about Holly's latest troubles 
I can't see that it is directly connected to the GI problems, but that was a huge stress on her wee body.
Do hope you manage to get booked in quickly, Pat has been fantastic in finding all that information. :thnku:
I can't see that it is directly connected to the GI problems, but that was a huge stress on her wee body.
Do hope you manage to get booked in quickly, Pat has been fantastic in finding all that information. :thnku:
So much unknown at this point - Are these symptoms all part of the same problem that just hasn't been diagnosed or are there two simultaneous problems? Minor or major problem/s? Easy or difficult to diagnose? The key is quickly getting the best possible diagnostic evaluation and treatment plan.
General pointers for everyone in the US - it's always good to know the credentials of anyone you are considering using. I checked the ACVIM website under the "find a specialist" link. ACVIM is the accrediting body for cardiologists, internists and a few other specialities. I think that a board certified internist can be as good as a cardiologist as they often deal with heart disease, esp. in an area with no cardiologist. I have an internist that I've used for my dogs for heart disease that I like as much or more than my cardiologist - they are in practice together so they are able to consult with one another. I've also used my cardiologist in the past for help with dogs with other problems such as kidney disease. I next checked the website for South Texas Vet. Spec once I found board certified specialists; you can read all of the credentials for the various clinicians. If one's GP vet uses a mobile ultrasonographer, you can usually google and find information about that person and check credentials. From being in various canine health groups, I've found that sometimes vets are a little dodgy about accurately disclosing credentials of various available consultants, assuming that clients won't really check or understand the difference. Part of the motivation can be the desire not to lose a client to a specialty group but to keep the income in their practice. That is particularly annoying to me. The goal should always be to get the best possible diagnosis and treatment plan to maximize quality and quantity of life.
Pat
General pointers for everyone in the US - it's always good to know the credentials of anyone you are considering using. I checked the ACVIM website under the "find a specialist" link. ACVIM is the accrediting body for cardiologists, internists and a few other specialities. I think that a board certified internist can be as good as a cardiologist as they often deal with heart disease, esp. in an area with no cardiologist. I have an internist that I've used for my dogs for heart disease that I like as much or more than my cardiologist - they are in practice together so they are able to consult with one another. I've also used my cardiologist in the past for help with dogs with other problems such as kidney disease. I next checked the website for South Texas Vet. Spec once I found board certified specialists; you can read all of the credentials for the various clinicians. If one's GP vet uses a mobile ultrasonographer, you can usually google and find information about that person and check credentials. From being in various canine health groups, I've found that sometimes vets are a little dodgy about accurately disclosing credentials of various available consultants, assuming that clients won't really check or understand the difference. Part of the motivation can be the desire not to lose a client to a specialty group but to keep the income in their practice. That is particularly annoying to me. The goal should always be to get the best possible diagnosis and treatment plan to maximize quality and quantity of life.
Pat
:yikes
Just catching up; this must all be so frightening for you, but I think you are dealing with it all really well. I would definitely have done the same as you–brought her home given the fact that she didn't seem to be likely to just collapse and also, I too would've wanted her nearby. It is all very strange to have suddenly come on, and I think I would find it hard to imagine that the 2 episodes could be totally unrelated. I hope you will be able to find some answers. Pat as always has given some really useful and detailed advice.
Just catching up; this must all be so frightening for you, but I think you are dealing with it all really well. I would definitely have done the same as you–brought her home given the fact that she didn't seem to be likely to just collapse and also, I too would've wanted her nearby. It is all very strange to have suddenly come on, and I think I would find it hard to imagine that the 2 episodes could be totally unrelated. I hope you will be able to find some answers. Pat as always has given some really useful and detailed advice.
mommytoClaire
Well-known member
I can't give any medical advise, because I've had no experience with the heart, but wanted to say I think I would have done the same thing, and brought Holly home.
That said, I know you mentioned you have insurance but it's the fact that you have to have the money upfront, and then get reimbursed. Have you considered applying for a Care Credit card? They sometimes run interest free periods, and this would allow you to pay for Hollys care, submit your insurance claim, and then pay the Care Credit off when the insurance money comes through. Just a thought.
Still praying that you'll get some answers today. I know you must be exhausted.
That said, I know you mentioned you have insurance but it's the fact that you have to have the money upfront, and then get reimbursed. Have you considered applying for a Care Credit card? They sometimes run interest free periods, and this would allow you to pay for Hollys care, submit your insurance claim, and then pay the Care Credit off when the insurance money comes through. Just a thought.
Still praying that you'll get some answers today. I know you must be exhausted.
Love my Cavaliers
Well-known member
Shannon - I would have brought Holly home overnight also. I did a similar thing with Oliver when he had an obstruction and we were waiting to see if it would pass and I wanted him home with me not in some cage, just like you said about Holly. I understand completely. I hope you are able to get Holly in to a specialist this morning. She deserves it. Why do we have to have referrals? I don't understand why they make you wait - especially in an emergency like this. I'm glad she's stable now. Kepp her close to you. Hopefully your boyfriend got your car fixed also. Yikes! When it rains, it pours! Good luck today.