hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Hey everyone, been a while for me. Life has been hetic. I have a recent addition to my family, my son Xander. Between him & my active ( hunting) lifestyle I'm not on forums much. Any way to the point. Duff. My llew, a King dog, blizzard line (please keep the rude or told you so comments to yourself, that's moot at this point, I need REAL advice) has started to have seizures. His worst episode was last nite when he had 2. I am working with my vet, and am putting together info to have him DNA tested for NCL (neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis). Please, does anyone here have a setter with siezure issues, specifically King dogs. Any help would be great. I am really upset, Duff is almost 2 now & has developed into a great dog as both a family pet & my hunting companion. If he has NCL it's curtains. Wringing my hands in grief.
THANKS!
THANKS!
- Ryman Gun Dog
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Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Phoenix,
Sure wish I could help you with your problem but I have not had to deal with any ES Seizure problems, I hope everything works out for your young dog,
keep my fingers crossed for ya.
RGD/Dave
Sure wish I could help you with your problem but I have not had to deal with any ES Seizure problems, I hope everything works out for your young dog,
keep my fingers crossed for ya.
RGD/Dave
- Cajun Casey
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Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Check for celiac disease - gluten intolerance - also. Accupuncture and chiropractic care may also help SOME forms of seizure disorder. Your situation is stressful and heartbreaking. I'm very sorry you and your dog are going through this. Good luck.
Never try to teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time and annoys the pig.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
thanks for the kind replys. Yea, looking at everything at the momment. I have read every post the search will return. A little more info, it only happens in the middle of the night, the seizures are severe, long & violent. He wets himself and his anal gland goes crazy. He usually can't walk for 20-30 minutes after, although he tries. Last night he had 2 only 3 hours apart. Vet is coming at 2. To check on him. I am afraid she will want to put him down. I wish I could see one as it starts to see if there is any odd behavior preceding the seizure.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Thoughts and prayers for the situation!
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
to update, Duff has had 4 seizures so far today, he is at the vet er & sedated. I'm very broken & just got "the talk" from the vet. Not prepared. I don't know what to do. I wish in these cases the vet would just do what's best for him. I am too emotional & selfish. Not asking for an answer. Just advice based on personal experience. Not the first dog I've lost, but he is way above any before him. He really is the dog you imagine to own as a child! I waited 10 years to own him, until I could afford to train him, and dedicate a piece of me to him, give him a safe fenced yard. Sigh, grown man crying.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Stop and think about what you just told us. He is special because of the great memories he has given you. Dwell on those times and not wjhat might have been since those times are just a dream. Do not make him suffer because of your dreams but REVEL IN THE TIMES HE HAS GIVEN YOU THAT YOU HAVE SPENT TOGETHER. Sounds like he is ready to go to a better place where he can spend his time with out pain. Is th time to remember all of the special times you have had because of him. Yoou have my prayers.phoenix wrote:to update, Duff has had 4 seizures so far today, he is at the vet er & sedated. I'm very broken & just got "the talk" from the vet. Not prepared. I don't know what to do. I wish in these cases the vet would just do what's best for him. I am too emotional & selfish. Not asking for an answer. Just advice based on personal experience. Not the first dog I've lost, but he is way above any before him. He really is the dog you imagine to own as a child! I waited 10 years to own him, until I could afford to train him, and dedicate a piece of me to him, give him a safe fenced yard. Sigh, grown man crying.
Ezzy
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=144
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Ezzy, is right. I can sort of identify with you since I have waited a long time and am already in love with a pup that doesnt even exist yet! It will be hard but you can do it! Remember the dog you had as he was in the field, not sedated and/or highly medicated like he would have to be! Its hard I know. Get around some friends and just have a good cry. There is nothing wrong with a grown man crying... remember the mam above all men wept!
- big steve46
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Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Cajun's advice is good. You can also stretch the dog's head in different ranges of motion to possible relieve any nerve impingement in it's upper neck that could be contributing.
big steve
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
just back from the er again. They loaded him with an 8 times dose of phenobarbitol (sp) the vet said we are 50 50 at the momment, But there is no way to tell how he will come out of it since he was in rough shape when he got there. I told him that at any time he felt like he was declining to please ease the pain. I wish I could have hugged him once more. I pray I will get to. Ezzy you are right, thank you. It's going to be a long night. Keep you posted.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
I am real sorry to hear that. I saw him as a young dog, he had the talent. No real advice to add other than trust your vet if you have a good relationship with him.
Mo
Mo
- Kiki's Mom
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Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Oh Phoenix!!
My heart is with you at this time. Epilepsy and seizure disorders are heartbreaking. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I have faith, however that the right decision will be made at the right time and when that time comes you will be able to handle it. Sending lots of healing ZEN to Duff right now from all of us here at Wild Mtn!
Let us know how things are going.....thinking of you.
My heart is with you at this time. Epilepsy and seizure disorders are heartbreaking. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I have faith, however that the right decision will be made at the right time and when that time comes you will be able to handle it. Sending lots of healing ZEN to Duff right now from all of us here at Wild Mtn!
Let us know how things are going.....thinking of you.
Helen, Kiki
& the Wild Mtn Brittany Gang
www.wildmtnbrittanys.com
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=875
& the Wild Mtn Brittany Gang
www.wildmtnbrittanys.com
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=875
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
thank you all for your kind words & prayers. Duff made it through the night with no more seizures. I am over joyed! He is still under observation, but the vet on duty today thinks he may be ahead of it now. Duff is awake and alert, however has not regained his coordnation. (sp?) i'll keep you all posted.
- Cajun Casey
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- Joined: Sun Aug 01, 2010 9:59 pm
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Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Great! Hopefully some bloodwork will narrow down the cause. I wouldn't rule out anything at this point. Some kind of toxin (heavy metals come to mind) may be the culprit.
Never try to teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time and annoys the pig.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Duff made it home! He is all there in spirit, but is still off mentaly. His back legs are not working quite right either. Just have to see if he recovers. Time will tell. His lab work showed no toxns, his glucose levels were good. Still have to test his thyroid function & send DNA off for NCL testing. He will be seeing his vet later in the week to follow up and check bloodwork again to ensure the dosing of phenobarbitol is correct, right now he is getting 65mg twice daily. That's where we are at. Thanks for the support & suggestions.
fg
fg
- Cajun Casey
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Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
While you are waiting for a resolution, you might consider going ahead with a gluten free diet for your dog. You can get many grain free foods at big box pet retailers, including simple ingredient formulas based on a single protein source combined with potato or sweet potato. Natural Balance Potato and Duck is the one I usually recommend because it is easy to digest.
Good luck. I hope the prognosis continues to improve.
Good luck. I hope the prognosis continues to improve.
Never try to teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time and annoys the pig.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Are you referring to wheat gluten? I am aware of only three 3 grains that contain gluten: wheat, rye & barley.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
What does a Gluten free diet have to do with a dog having seizures? I have never heard of a connection.Cajun Casey wrote:While you are waiting for a resolution, you might consider going ahead with a gluten free diet for your dog. You can get many grain free foods at big box pet retailers, including simple ingredient formulas based on a single protein source combined with potato or sweet potato. Natural Balance Potato and Duck is the one I usually recommend because it is easy to digest.
Good luck. I hope the prognosis continues to improve.
Ezzy
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=144
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
mcbosco wrote:Are you referring to wheat gluten? I am aware of only three 3 grains that contain gluten: wheat, rye & barley.
But you are the one that can't stand Corn Gluten used in a dog food.
Ezzy
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=144
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
- Cajun Casey
- GDF Junkie
- Posts: 4243
- Joined: Sun Aug 01, 2010 9:59 pm
- Location: Tulsa, OK
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
ezzy333 wrote:What does a Gluten free diet have to do with a dog having seizures? I have never heard of a connection.Cajun Casey wrote:While you are waiting for a resolution, you might consider going ahead with a gluten free diet for your dog. You can get many grain free foods at big box pet retailers, including simple ingredient formulas based on a single protein source combined with potato or sweet potato. Natural Balance Potato and Duck is the one I usually recommend because it is easy to digest.
Good luck. I hope the prognosis continues to improve.
Ezzy
Celiac.
Never try to teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time and annoys the pig.
- Cajun Casey
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Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Tampering with rice gluten caused our last big pet food recall. Recall?mcbosco wrote:Are you referring to wheat gluten? I am aware of only three 3 grains that contain gluten: wheat, rye & barley.
Never try to teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time and annoys the pig.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
I comment on corn gluten with respect to it being used to doll up a regular kibble into a performance kibble. You need to read.ezzy333 wrote:mcbosco wrote:Are you referring to wheat gluten? I am aware of only three 3 grains that contain gluten: wheat, rye & barley.
But you are the one that can't stand Corn Gluten used in a dog food.
Ezzy
The gluten referred to by Cajun is Wheat Gluten. For the purposes of a possible reaction and Celiac, Corn is considered "gluten free", as is rice, millet and even oats nowadays.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Yes adding a chemical but there is nothing naturally in rice, white or brown, that has been remotely linked to gluten intolerance. Come on adding melamine is a little different don't you think?Cajun Casey wrote:Tampering with rice gluten caused our last big pet food recall. Recall?mcbosco wrote:Are you referring to wheat gluten? I am aware of only three 3 grains that contain gluten: wheat, rye & barley.
- Cajun Casey
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- Location: Tulsa, OK
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Gliadin free, if we want to be precise. Rice and corn can be contaminated during the manufacturing process. If a food is labled "limited" or "gluten free," it has to be produced in a process which protects the ingredients.mcbosco wrote:I comment on corn gluten with respect to it being used to doll up a regular kibble into a performance kibble. You need to read.ezzy333 wrote:mcbosco wrote:Are you referring to wheat gluten? I am aware of only three 3 grains that contain gluten: wheat, rye & barley.
But you are the one that can't stand Corn Gluten used in a dog food.
Ezzy
The gluten referred to by Cajun is Wheat Gluten. For the purposes of a possible reaction and Celiac, Corn is considered "gluten free", as is rice, millet and even oats nowadays.
But yes, it is the wheat/rye/barley association with celiac that I was referring to. Celiac sufferers can have massive seizures.
Never try to teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time and annoys the pig.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Potatoes can be contaminated by wheat products too. Anyway, I am aware of Celiac every other kid in NJ has it, or so the parents think.
We had a BBQ this year and one family brought there own food to cook because there was a chance a hot dog or hamburger could touch a bun.
I asked the kid about it and he said he didn't have Celiac but his parents insist he does.
Wacky
We had a BBQ this year and one family brought there own food to cook because there was a chance a hot dog or hamburger could touch a bun.
I asked the kid about it and he said he didn't have Celiac but his parents insist he does.
Wacky
- Cajun Casey
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- Joined: Sun Aug 01, 2010 9:59 pm
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Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
I'm talking about adhering to lable. If it says it does not contain certain products, then it has to be produced on a dedicated line that does not process those products.mcbosco wrote:Potatoes can be contaminated by wheat products too. Anyway, I am aware of Celiac every other kid in NJ has it, or so the parents think.
We had a BBQ this year and one family brought there own food to cook because there was a chance a hot dog or hamburger could touch a bun.
I asked the kid about it and he said he didn't have Celiac but his parents insist he does.
Wacky
As far as human allergies, gluten is the new peanut, except it is also very popular among adults. Personally, I think it is a secondary effect of too much Botox, Zoloft and Viagra.
Never try to teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time and annoys the pig.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
I think you got that right and seems to be the same phenomna with our dogs. People have to much time to sit around and worry about things that never happened. It started as prevenative medicine and developed into "what rare desease do I have".Cajun Casey wrote:I'm talking about adhering to lable. If it says it does not contain certain products, then it has to be produced on a dedicated line that does not process those products.mcbosco wrote:Potatoes can be contaminated by wheat products too. Anyway, I am aware of Celiac every other kid in NJ has it, or so the parents think.
We had a BBQ this year and one family brought there own food to cook because there was a chance a hot dog or hamburger could touch a bun.
I asked the kid about it and he said he didn't have Celiac but his parents insist he does.
Wacky
As far as human allergies, gluten is the new peanut, except it is also very popular among adults. Personally, I think it is a secondary effect of too much Botox, Zoloft and Viagra.
Ezzy
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=144
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
I'm glad he made it home You might also want to do some research on the preservatives in the food. There are certain preservatives that have been found to trigger seizures in epileptic dogs. Just do a google search on preservatives and seizures and you will find the names. I can't say for sure it's true, but I have seen an improvement on a dog after switching to a new food that was preserved naturally. This is just a thought, I know seizure disorders can be a challenge to work through and every little bit may help. Good luck with your guy!
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
just to update, duff is doing ok but no better. He is still having seizures regularly. Still running tests with more scheduled for the 31st. I have received no replys from the Kings nor do they take my calls, sad very sad. All I want is information. To me silent avoidance equals guilt. I'm guessing they have seen this issue before. What a shame.
- Ruffshooter
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Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Phonix:
Real sorry for what your dog and you are going through.
Some times we just can't fix things. I know what you are going through.
Wish you both the best.
Rick
Real sorry for what your dog and you are going through.
Some times we just can't fix things. I know what you are going through.
Wish you both the best.
Rick
The best part of training is seeing the light come on in your little prot'eg'e.
Rick
Rick
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Phoenix,
Someone on another board is dealing with their dog's siezures, too. They suggested keeping a journal of everything that goes on in the house and all seizure activity. They list everything the dog ate, who came to visit, what kind of housework they did and what cleaning supplies they used, if they used fabric softener, just everything.
Looking back on their entries they found a common thread with a particular cleaning spray and another seemingly harmless issue, something that they would never have thought about or made a connection with if it wasn't written down. By eliminating those things they've seen a reduction in their dog's seizures.
I'm throwing this out not as an indictment of cleaning sprays, but as an idea that might help you and Duff. Sometimes seizures are idiopathic, sometimes they are related to the environment or medical disorders - they are hard to sort out. Just thought that maybe you also might notice something if it was written down and reviewed.
You're dealing with a tough problem and I wish you and your buddy the very best.
Someone on another board is dealing with their dog's siezures, too. They suggested keeping a journal of everything that goes on in the house and all seizure activity. They list everything the dog ate, who came to visit, what kind of housework they did and what cleaning supplies they used, if they used fabric softener, just everything.
Looking back on their entries they found a common thread with a particular cleaning spray and another seemingly harmless issue, something that they would never have thought about or made a connection with if it wasn't written down. By eliminating those things they've seen a reduction in their dog's seizures.
I'm throwing this out not as an indictment of cleaning sprays, but as an idea that might help you and Duff. Sometimes seizures are idiopathic, sometimes they are related to the environment or medical disorders - they are hard to sort out. Just thought that maybe you also might notice something if it was written down and reviewed.
You're dealing with a tough problem and I wish you and your buddy the very best.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
hi i was reading the posts but dont recall seeing if you ever tried changing dog foods as someone suggested?....the only reason i say is because my aunt had a brittany years ago and it started with seizures as well and after hundreds of dollars and loads of stress she switched dog foods and saw a real improvement immediately...if i recall her vet said maybe the dog reacted to PROPYLENE GLYCOL its a preservative in dog food thats also found in anti-freeze...when she went to a dog good preserved with rosemary instead her dogs seizures litterally stopped...im not saying this IS your issue cause im not a vet but just giving some info from memory....also alot of people dont know grapes, raisins, and some plants cause liver damage and seizures as well...have you thought about where you take your dog hunting? do they possibly use pesticides, insecticides as some are very toxic to dogs just by inhaling....hope the best for you and your pal.......ruth
GUNDOGS SHORTCREEK IRON HORSE (HARLEY)
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Ruth, are you sure you are corret in some of that info. I don't think you will find that the same material is used or ever has been, that is used for antifreeze. It was two different materials as the one was poisonous and the other of course isn't. Some of your other points are good but remember farmers are not using insecticides and probably not using pesticides in the fall and winter since there is no need at that time of year. I have read about the grapes and raisin thing also but no one ever told my dogs as they love to eat the grapes off of the vine along with all of the berries they can find. All are things to be aware of but it appears they are over stated like so many other things that are put out for public consumption.
Ezzy
Ezzy
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=144
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Hi ezzy...i want to make sure i give the most accurate info i can so yes feel free to question my post...i called my aunt just to recall the situation and she said the vet told her that this MAY be the cause of her britts seizures...many dogs and even people ingest it daily and may never have a problem but some have reactions such as rashes, shortness of breath(which is how her dog began showing signs) and in severe reactions seizures...PROPYLENE GLYCOL is in fact used in dog food it is approved under the FDA under the category "animal feed" but it is prohibited in the use of cat food as a preservative as it has proven to kill cats when tested in labratories...it cannot exceed doses of 9ml per kg as this amount then becomes lethal to dogs resulting obviously in death...like i said im not suggesting this IS in fact the problem with the dog but when i saw unexplained seizures it rang a bell what my poor aunt went through with "josie" and thought id share since her changing foods helped ...also for the grapes they are very toxic as well as raisins and yes many people im sure feed them to their dogs with no instant effects or maybe no reaction at all along with chocolate too but it is posted by the ASPCA that for every 2oz of grapes ingested per 10pd of weight of a dog its toxic and renal failure does begin...some dogs may never die from it, i guess its the same as how some people smoke 50 years and are fine but others standing beside them die of lung cancer in a few years... i do hope the best for the dog and hope he lives a long healthy life!!! thanks.......ruth
GUNDOGS SHORTCREEK IRON HORSE (HARLEY)
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Why I posted is that antifreeze is ethylene glycol and not propylene glycol. Propylene glycol is used in some beauty aids for people plus other human products. Like most things using too much can be harmful whether it is salt, water,or most any other thig we can think of. I am not aware of it being used in dog food anymore and not sure it ever was common but I am sure it could be found so it could be a problem if a dog was allergic to it like you say. Just wanted to straighten out the confusion that might have resulted between propylene and ethylene glycol and their intended uses.
I do get concerned though about the things put out as being bad for us or our dogs. Most are so over stated in an effort to scare everybody that many people are just completely misled too often. For instantance the chocolate thing. Most think they are refering to milk chocolate when what is actually being talked about is the bitter dark chocolate that is used primarily in baking. Though milk chocolate isn't good for them it is not particularily harmful unless fed in hugh amounts. And I think the same is true with the grape raisin thing where they didn't include any amount that was dangerous but just that they were poisonous. Though maybe not untrue they certainly are misleading. Kind of like the global warming dire predictions when we aren't even warming.
Ezzy
I do get concerned though about the things put out as being bad for us or our dogs. Most are so over stated in an effort to scare everybody that many people are just completely misled too often. For instantance the chocolate thing. Most think they are refering to milk chocolate when what is actually being talked about is the bitter dark chocolate that is used primarily in baking. Though milk chocolate isn't good for them it is not particularily harmful unless fed in hugh amounts. And I think the same is true with the grape raisin thing where they didn't include any amount that was dangerous but just that they were poisonous. Though maybe not untrue they certainly are misleading. Kind of like the global warming dire predictions when we aren't even warming.
Ezzy
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=144
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=207
It's not how many breaths you have taken but how many times it has been taken away!
Has anyone noticed common sense isn't very common anymore.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Very sorry to hear about your situation, Phoenix.
Good luck.
Good luck.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
well the last thing i want to do in this thread is take away from the situation pheonix is dealing with so i will post my info only to answer you ezzy...There are 2 varieties of glycol..theres ethylene and propylene...both are used in automotive or heavy duty engine coolants but propylene glycol is the one that is considered "generally safe" for consumption by the FDA therefore approved for human and animal consumption if added in low doses..but it is still used in dog foods as of today..see the thing is we eat it in all kinds of things including some salad dressings..but we dont eat it every meal every day for 7 days a week for our entire life..animals do..therefore the effects on the kidneys and central nervous system are more noted in dogs than humans and it is against the law for food manufactures to put in catfood as it as i said kills them very quickly(species related)..and milk chocolate does in fact containe Theobromine which is the chemical that causes health complications in dogs it contains 64mg per oz ..but you are right bakers chocolate does contain way more its actually 450mg per oz and much more deadly..in any event i agree with you 100% that if we were to really look at everything we eat and drink or touch we would live in fear..i mean did you ever think you would see the day we would buy water in a bottle when we have it readily available in our taps..but i only wanted to give pheonix the info and he do with it what he may..i still think switching food if all medical reports come back ok is worth the 50 bucks or so!! thanks for the chat .....ruth
GUNDOGS SHORTCREEK IRON HORSE (HARLEY)
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
hey all, thanks for all of the great responses. I have indeed switched his food after this last round of seizures. I will see if it helps. Willing to try about anything. I don't have alot of choice in high quality dog foods where I am, so I may have tp start ordering his food online. Doing some research on foods now.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Hi phoenix, i was just wondering how the dog is doing..any updates?..hope things have gotten better!!.....ruth
GUNDOGS SHORTCREEK IRON HORSE (HARLEY)
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Phoenix,
First off- very sorry for your dog's health issues troubling you recently. It's an absolutely gut-wrenching ordeal- I know, as I was there but 5 years ago with one of my dogs (seizures, but not a Setter).
Secondly, I'll offer the following for your consideration:
- Toxins, has your dog had access to any toxic chemicals lately? If so, this could bring on sypmtoms resembling seizures
- Canine "vertigo", I know- sounds crazy. But the syptoms are almost identical to that of a seizure (limb paddling, eyes rolling back, loss of bladder control). This can be treated with simple medication.
I hope this helps & I pray for your dog's speedy recovery.
Rob
First off- very sorry for your dog's health issues troubling you recently. It's an absolutely gut-wrenching ordeal- I know, as I was there but 5 years ago with one of my dogs (seizures, but not a Setter).
Secondly, I'll offer the following for your consideration:
- Toxins, has your dog had access to any toxic chemicals lately? If so, this could bring on sypmtoms resembling seizures
- Canine "vertigo", I know- sounds crazy. But the syptoms are almost identical to that of a seizure (limb paddling, eyes rolling back, loss of bladder control). This can be treated with simple medication.
I hope this helps & I pray for your dog's speedy recovery.
Rob
May all your dog's points be productive & your arrows avoid all timber
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
hey all, Things are about the same. He had 1 more seizure last week, 4 iin Jan so far despite 195mg of phenobarb a day. At least they are not coming in clusters now. They are all however gran mal (sp). I have been keeping a journal & I may be on to something. Peanutbutter. The day before the cluster of 5 I let him have the mostly empty jar to finish. He was seizure free till the 20th of Jan when I gave him a second jar to clean up. 2 that night one the next day. Then on the 29th my wife gave the dogs a spoon full of pbutter and he had one the next day. So no more peanut butter. And no more seizures so far. Only been 4 days though. Pretty compelling evidence but could be coincedence. Have to wait & see. Like to hear some thoughts on this. Anyone seen peanut alergy cause seizures?
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Seizures can be caused by so many things, could be. We have guys in the office with epilepsy that need special screens on their monitors because flashing lights can cause seizures.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
For sure it can be peanut butter..or any food for that matter..but if in your journal you notice the timing of pbutter and the seizures i think you might be on to something..a food allergy can definitley trigger a seizure ..when i worked at an animal hospital one of the first things we asked owners of dogs with seizures is what change has taken place in their diet, or new cleaners, shampoos ect..i hope you have found it..if so i wonder if it would even be a contact allergy like if you have it on your hands or the other dogs have eaten it and lick him?..keep that in mind too..good for you working so hard to help him, hes a lucky dog ....ruth
GUNDOGS SHORTCREEK IRON HORSE (HARLEY)
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Have you thought about adding to Potassium Bromide and/or eventually switching to it? Maybe discuss it with your vet, see if your guy is a candidate for it.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Glad you are decreasing the seizure frequency. It sounds like a brutally difficult situation. I have read about seizures in humans related to acute, extreme allergic reaction (severe peanut allergy), but was not able to find anything directly related in dogs.
The vet did rule out brain tumor, right?
Oftentimes these deals have more than one cause. Cause #1 may elevate potential for a seizure, and cause #2 (or 3, etc) causes the system to surpass a threshold and initiates the seizure.
Here's some basic info on canine seizures. I'm sure you could have written this by now, but in case it triggers any new thinking, I thought I'd post it. It definitely sounds like you may be onto something with the peanut butter.
Good luck!
The vet did rule out brain tumor, right?
Oftentimes these deals have more than one cause. Cause #1 may elevate potential for a seizure, and cause #2 (or 3, etc) causes the system to surpass a threshold and initiates the seizure.
Here's some basic info on canine seizures. I'm sure you could have written this by now, but in case it triggers any new thinking, I thought I'd post it. It definitely sounds like you may be onto something with the peanut butter.
source: http://www.dogseizures.net/dog-seizures-causes.phpCauses of Dog Seizures
Epilepsy
This is probably the most well-known cause of seizures, both in dogs and in humans.
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that involves frequent, sudden seizure attacks.
This can involve malfunction in a dog's sensory or muscular functions. Epileptic seizures may or may not be accompanied by complete loss of consciousness.
Epileptic seizures have been speculated by researchers to be caused by a locus of abnormal brain nerve tissue, which begins to send out signals via nerve impulses. Since this area of the brain is abnormal, these impulses result in a chain reaction which may cause the voluntary muscles in a dog's body to become active. This is how the characteristic convulsions and "twitching" which accompany epileptic seizures occur.
Canine Distemper
Canine Distemper is a viral disease that is very common in young dogs. Distemper is a very serious condition, since it has a relatively high likelihood of being fatal to your dog. The Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is also very contagious, being able to spread by mere non-contact association with an infected dog. When Canine Distemper progresses to the nervous system, it can cause muscle weakness, loss of basic motor skills, and seizures. Seizures may or may not occur in dogs with advanced stages of Canine Distemper.
Genetics
There is currently some evidence that being prone to seizures may be a hereditary trait (However, hereditary epilepsy has already been confirmed). Also, there are many dog breeds that are known to be succeptible to having seizures. These breeds include the German Shepherd, the Dachshund, the Collie, the Beagle, the Keeshond, the Golden Retriever and the Poodle.
Brain Tumor
If your dog has a brain tumor, this may cause certain types of seizures. A brain tumor is characterized by an abnormal growth in the brain, which usually causes disruption in brain functions. The reason why a brain tumor may cause seizures in your dog, is because a tumor may be putting pressure on your dog's brain tissue. This can cause seizures, and may also be accompanied by other problems such as loss of coordination and deteriorating vision.
Head Injury
If your dog has had a recent accident involving significant head injury, this may be contributing to the occurrence of seizures. An impact to the head can damage or crack the cranium, which may also cause damage to brain tissue. In addition to this, a displaced or damaged skull may put pressure on the brain, which also causes seizures in dogs.
Environmental Toxins
We generally assume that common household products are safe for both people and pets. However, this is not the case. There are many household products that can cause seizures in your dog. A good example of potentially seizure-causing chemicals are Organochlorines. Organochlorines are commonly found in some brands of flea powders, and in products designed to control parasite infection in dogs. Other potential chemicals that may cause seizures are Lead (in some rat poisons and paints), Methylxanthines (commonly found in chocolate and chocolate products), and Zinc Phosphate (a substance found in some rat poisons).
Lyme Disease
It's possible for your dog to become infected with Lyme Disease by being bitten by the "Ixodes Genus" tick (also known as the "Deer Tick"). The most common sign of a dog being affected by Lyme Disease is arthritis. However, in severe cases of Lyme Disease, symptoms involving the central nervous system may result, such as seizures.
Good luck!
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Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
I really hope you are on to something with the peanut butter. That would be awesome!
Charlie
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Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
GUNDOGS wrote:For sure it can be peanut butter..or any food for that matter..but if in your journal you notice the timing of pbutter and the seizures i think you might be on to something..a food allergy can definitley trigger a seizure ..when i worked at an animal hospital one of the first things we asked owners of dogs with seizures is what change has taken place in their diet, or new cleaners, shampoos ect..i hope you have found it..if so i wonder if it would even be a contact allergy like if you have it on your hands or the other dogs have eaten it and lick him?..keep that in mind too..good for you working so hard to help him, hes a lucky dog ....ruth
It may not be an actual "food allergy". It could be triggered by the scent of the peanut butter. Seizures can be triggered by sensory stimulation. This is why sounds and visions of different sorts can trigger them. I taught a kid who would seize if a checkerboard tablecloth was on a table in front of him. If you ever talk to someone who has seizures they will also mention smelling certain scents before they have an onset.
Pam
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Cherrystone Weimaraners
Breeding for Conformation and Performance
NFC/FC Cherrystone La Reine De Pearl
CH Cherystone Perl of Sagenhaft MH,SDX,NRD,VX,BROM
CH Cherrystone Gone With the Wind JH
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Agreed..but according to phoenix he is noticing the seizues on days the dog has ingested the pbutter..thats why i mentioned cleaners in my post because some can simply inhale products and trigger a seizure..i also mentioned contact as a possibility... a teacher at my daughters school cannot even inhale watermelon or she gets a reaction......ruthCherrystoneWeims wrote:GUNDOGS wrote:For sure it can be peanut butter..or any food for that matter..but if in your journal you notice the timing of pbutter and the seizures i think you might be on to something..a food allergy can definitley trigger a seizure ..when i worked at an animal hospital one of the first things we asked owners of dogs with seizures is what change has taken place in their diet, or new cleaners, shampoos ect..i hope you have found it..if so i wonder if it would even be a contact allergy like if you have it on your hands or the other dogs have eaten it and lick him?..keep that in mind too..good for you working so hard to help him, hes a lucky dog ....ruth
It may not be an actual "food allergy". It could be triggered by the scent of the peanut butter. Seizures can be triggered by sensory stimulation. This is why sounds and visions of different sorts can trigger them. I taught a kid who would seize if a checkerboard tablecloth was on a table in front of him. If you ever talk to someone who has seizures they will also mention smelling certain scents before they have an onset.
GUNDOGS SHORTCREEK IRON HORSE (HARLEY)
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Phoenix, I've copied/pasted this paragraph that might interest you, from this article http://www.canine-epilepsy-guardian-ang ... havior.htm
The third group of dogs showing aberrant behavior consists of those that experience seizure or seizure-like disorders beginning in puberty and continuing to mid-life. These are dogs that appear perfectly healthy outwardly and have normal hair coats and energy, but suddenly experience seizures for no apparent reason. The seizures are often spaced several weeks to months apart, and occasionally they appear in a brief cluster. In some cases the animals become aggressive and attack those around them shortly before or after having one of these seizure episodes.
Have a thyroid workup done, then contact and send the results to Dr. Dodds. I hear she is very helpful.
If you check out the llew forum at delphi, there was someone there who has experience with Dr. Dodds.
The third group of dogs showing aberrant behavior consists of those that experience seizure or seizure-like disorders beginning in puberty and continuing to mid-life. These are dogs that appear perfectly healthy outwardly and have normal hair coats and energy, but suddenly experience seizures for no apparent reason. The seizures are often spaced several weeks to months apart, and occasionally they appear in a brief cluster. In some cases the animals become aggressive and attack those around them shortly before or after having one of these seizure episodes.
Have a thyroid workup done, then contact and send the results to Dr. Dodds. I hear she is very helpful.
If you check out the llew forum at delphi, there was someone there who has experience with Dr. Dodds.
Re: hello, been a while, scared with a health issue.
Any updates, Phoenix?