My Buddy, almost 16 - the journey ends

[BestBuddy]

Hello, I finally made it here.
Buddy has just turned 15yo is a mini poodle and getting close to 6 years being diabetic. He is now blind from mature cataracts and has dental problems which will continue until the last few teeth are removed. He has an ongoing problem with UTI so has been on amoxycillin for 12 months and will continue on this for life. Buddy also has cushings although he is considered to be in remission and is not on medication for this at the moment. He recently had to have surgery for a corneal ulcer and has come through this well. It may sound like he is a very sick little boy but he is so happy most of the time and he is my inspiration. He weights 5.2kg and is on 5iu of Humulin N (was Caninsulin for 4 years) and eats 115g SD Mature canned and 1/4 cup of biopet organic kibble, no treats except for a small (really tiny) piece of liver when I test his BG. He is fed and injected at 6am and 6pm.

Here is his story......

I have always been an animal lover and luckily my husband is the same way. Buddy came into our lives quite by accident, we were at a Pet shop buying food for one of our other dogs and there was this little dog who looked a bit like a rat with curls in a cage looking really sad. Buddy was the last of a litter of five and it seemed no one wanted him. We bought the food AND the dog.
He settled into the family really well and 9 years passed. I still have guilt about the next lot of events that passed?.my husband and I took an OS holiday and all our dogs went into a kennel for a week and then to family for the next four. Buddy had become a bit porky during the last year but not so bad that I thought there was a problem?..wrong. I think the time at then kennel really stressed him and by the time we arrived home he was really sickly, drinking gallons, eating constantly and then throwing up. We took him straight to the vet and he had lost 4kg of his 7kg weight. He had pancreatitis and was very ill and also it was discovered he had diabetes. He was put on a drip overnight and in the morning the vet called and said he isn?t going to make it so come and say your goodbyes, he was like a rag doll and I must have nearly drowned him in my tears but he lifted his head and he knew I was there. The vet said he wouldn?t eat and he needed to eat to get his insulin but maybe he would for me. I got a roast chicken from the supermarket and he ate a little, so I was given a little hope. The next few days are a bit of a blur as I went to the vets every few hours to hand feed him and he improved each time I was there. Five days later he was well enough to come home and panic set in as I would have to start giving the injections and I really hated needles. My hubby did the first few needles but I forced myself to learn and it really was no trouble at all. We celebrated every year and sent anniversary cards to the vet for the next four years. We were lucky that we were able to get his blood glucose regulated so quick and for so long and then?.

Four years later my sweet little Buddy turned into a grouch, he didn't like to be touched and he was drinking and peeing a lot. His curly hair although never thick was thinning even more and there were even bald patches down his back legs. His skin turned black and was greasy, flaky and had little pimples. His blood glucose was also all over the place, mainly too high and he started to loose his sight. He always wanted food and being diabetic was on a strict feeding schedule but he was constantly begging for it.

The first tests done were for the thyroid and it was discovered that he needed medication. This improved his attitude a bit and slowed the drinking but he still wasn't happy. We had the LDDS which told us he had pituitary cushings and our small vet clinic had never dealt with this before and said we could let him go or be referred to a specialist at a University Hospital. I felt like my would had fallen apart again and cried for a week but made the appointment to see the specialist who did an ACTH test that showed a post number of 22 which I now understand is not that high but consistent with cushings.

We were given two options if we were to treat and they were lysodren or trilostane. With Buddy's thyroid and diabetes problems the specialist recommended trilostane. That in itself is another story on how to obtain this drug not yet legally sold in Australia. Anyway we started the trilostane at an average dose and noticed the drinking and peeing slowed after a few weeks and the diabetes was in much better control. Testing is very important to know how things are going so we did as advised and ACTH tested as often as recommended. The first test showed an improvement with a post cortisol of 8 so we were on the right track and increased the dose. Now although the numbers were improving I felt Buddy was getting worse, he didn't want to eat which is a big problem for diabetics and he had no zest for life at all. He slept most of the day and was a bit unsteady on his feet. It didn't seem right that although the testing showed an improvement he was actually doing worse. The next ACTH test showed a post cortisol of 5 which is great except Buddy was still miserable, we also tested his thyroid which was now into normal ranges again so we were able to stop that medication. At the specialists suggestion we stopped triostane for a week and his post cortisol was 1 so we resumed at a lower dose and he had an addison crisis and needed a cortisone injection. Buddy seemed to have no quality of life so the specialist said to stop trilostane for 10 days and retest to see what was happening. The next ACTH showed a post cortisol of 2 so we held off the trilostane for a month and his next ACTH had a post cortisol of 1. Very unusual to have the numbers still going down without the trilostane so we stayed off the trilostane and left another month and his post cortisol was still only 3. His diabetes was under control and the specialist said in an almost whisper that Buddy may actually be in remission. This was so exciting and it seemed Buddy was also feeling much better. His interest in food returned and he wanted to be cuddled again. As for the thinning hair, sometime during the previous few months it had started to grow again and the reason I noticed was that my very pale haired dog was growing new hair in a very attractive red color. It grew back better than before although at the first clipping the pretty red was cut off and it is now more a pale apricot in patches.

It is nearly 3 years since that first gut wrenching diagnosis of cushings and Buddy is doing great. The highest ACTH post cortisol was 7 and the last few 5. His attitude is good and his diabetes is under control even though we had to change his insulin as it seemed to not be working well. It's unclear whether the cushings or the triostane changed something in his system that made his previous insulin stop being effective after four and a half years but he is now a well regulated diabetic in remission from cushings and no thyroid problem. It seems he will always have problems with UTI's which could be cushing or diabetes related and will be on a low dose of antibiotics for the rest of his life. His eyesight has gone but he doesn't let that worry him and although we will keep testing several times a year to make sure the cushings doesn't return it is a happy ending in our case.

That's more than enough info for now.

Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

Hi Jenny!

It's so nice to see you here. :cool:

You know, I don't think I've ever heard the whole story about Buddy, certainly not all in one place, so I'm so glad you shared it! I copied it to the stories forum.

I know what you mean about describing their issues and making them sound like they are at death's door. That's how I feel about Chris and, like Buddy, Chris is happy and "present" and looks and feels a lot better than he by rights ought to. In fact, the home testing video I took of him was done just a couple of weeks ago.

Chris' cardiologist is a traveling one now so we visit different clinics to see her. Every new clinic hands me this form that asks "Other health conditions?" Heh, yeah, you could say that! How many lines do I have to write on?!?!?

Chris turns 14 next week. I didn't realize Buddy was older than him. Both those guys are serious seniors.

I'm glad he's doing well on NPH and doing well in general!!

Natalie

[Gooch]

Hi Jenny,

I had never read all of Buddy's story either, at least not like that. Funny that, after these years (well, just the two but living with a diabetic cush pup one year equals at least two , I think you'll agree :eek:) that we have 'known' eachother, I only have glimpses of Buddy here and there. Suddenly, he is an entire dog-lol!
Also funny to see some similarities with Olive. I'll get around to posting her story sometime soon although it is constantly evolving.

I suppose you know about d-mannose? and I was wondering if it is something you have considered (sorry if you have discussed this before). I might be looking into it too if I don't get rid of Olive's UTI with the antibiotics she is on at present.

Anyway, just wanted to say hi.

[Kiska'smom]

Hi Jenny and Buddy,

It's nice to see you and Buddy here, too! I really enjoyed reading your biography! No wonder you have given me such good advice. You have been through a lot, yourself! I'm glad that things continue to go well for Buddy. I will be so happy when Kiska comes close to being regulated. In the meantime, I know some great people on two sites who have tons of experience. Thanks for sharing your story!

Jeanne and Kiska

[ladysmom06]

Hi Jenny,

I'm another one that never heard Buddy's whole story. So glad:):)you posted it here. I am so HAPPY:D:D:D:D that he continues to do well. He really is a sweet little guy. Hugs to the two of you.

[eyelostit]

ditto, i never knew poor bud had so much trouble, i'm glad he is sparky :)

[Ricksma]

Gosh, Buddy, I'm glad you finally cut your mom some slack!!! What a trooper...both Buddy and mom!! I'm glad you told Buddy's story--I know a lot of people would have given up facing those obstacles, so it is a true testiment of love. God bless you.

Love and hugs, Teresa and Ricky

[BestBuddy]

Hi all,
Buddy now has an ulcer in his right eye!
We have been to the specialist and she scratched a grid in it and we have drops and ointment before the next check in two weeks. Hopefully he won't need surgery again. I know we have been lucky that it has been six years and many of them he has been blind with mature cataracts but this is two ulcers in different eyes in a month....I hope it doesn't continue. I think this time he may have scratched his eye on a bush so I have ordered him some of the new mesh doggles for protection during the day when I am at work. He may look silly but if it helps who cares......
Jenny & Buddy

[forscooter]

Hey Jenny,

I am so sorry Buddy has an ulcer in his eye!! I know the drop/ointment routine can be "fun"! :( Not! The doggles sound like a great idea....plus, I think every pup who wears them looks so darn cute!!!

Lots of hugs, Beth and the boys

[ladysmom06]

Hi Jenny,

Sorry to hear about Buddy's eye. Hoping it improves and he doesn't need surgery again. Hugs to you and Buddy.

[k9diabetes]

Hi Jenny,

Chris has had both the grid and a punctate keratotomy - both helped heal up ulcers that simply refused to heal otherwise so I think it's good that they did the grid sooner rather than later.

Our vet. ophthalmologist's feeling is that if an ulcer doesn't heal up immediately, don't spend a lot of time debriding and waiting - go to a keratotomy right away.

Chris went through a period of having multiple corneal ulcers but now hasn't had one in a couple of years. I'm not sure why they seemed to come in bunches.

Natalie

[Jody]

Natalie - you better knock on wood with that last statement you just made! :eek: Jody

[bgdavis]

I hope the drops can get rid of Buddy's ulcer fast. Good to see you guys here.

Bonnie and Crissy

[Ricksma]

Jenny, how is Buddy's eye? I hope it gets better quickly...you don't need any more stress!!!:D

Love and hugs, Teresa and Ricky

[Kiska'smom]

Hi Jenny,

I was so sorry to hear about Buddy's eye. Poor guy. Hope that he is making progress!

Hugs,

Jeanne and Kiska

[k9diabetes]

Jody... you are so right! Probably too late now!! :p

[BestBuddy]

Just a quick update on the ulcer.
I'm sure it is healing as Buddy is now opening the eye and isn't complaining when I put the ointment in so fingers crossed that it is all ok. He isn't crying and rubbing it either so I am taking that as a good sign. We will be back at the specialist on April 19 hoping for the "all clear".
Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

:cool: YAY!

[Dollydog]

What great news, Jenny!! :D :D :D Hope it continues...he's such a trooper, so tough!!
Jo-Ann & Lady :)

[ladysmom06]

Hi Jenny,

GREAT NEWS:D:D:D! Hoping Buddy's eye continues to improve and you get the all clear on the 19th. Hugs to you and Buddy.

[Kiska'smom]

Hi Jenny,

Add my Hooray to the rest!!! That calls for a TINKLE TONIC for sure!

Hugs,

Jeanne

[eyelostit]

I hope Buddy's eye is OK :rolleyes: we all feel so bad for our lil baby's

[BestBuddy]

Hi all,

Buddy's eye ulcer has healed. We are to continue the drops and ointment for another week and then different drops and ointment for maintenance. Fingers crossed that the ulcers are finished with.

Phoebe (another mini poodle aged 16) has just had surgery to remove 5 teeth so she is a little unhappy at the moment. She must only have a few teeth left.

But thats not all....Nelson (kelpie aged 13ish) has a rather nasty looking lump on his front leg near his elbow. It seemed to appear overnight so it's back to the vet for that to be looked at.

I really should be given special treatment at the vets considering how much money I give them or maybe they should put my name on their business card as benefactor.:p

Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

Jenny,

I am so happy for Buddy!! We know more than we want to about corneal ulcers and sympathize with you and Buddy. It's strange with Chris... he had a string of them and then none since... jinx jinx.

Actually, I think what looked like two ulcers was actually the same one and the first healing didn't cement properly. Chris has corneal epithelial dystrophy... his cornea cells tend not to cement properly and rub off again easily. Once he had a keratotomy over pretty much his whole left cornea, it finally healed properly.

Hope Phoebe's feeling better. Let us know what you find out about Nelson.

Natalie

[Kiska'smom]

Hi Jenny! LOL. I know what you mean about "benefactor" status! Wouldn't that be nice?! Hope that your crew is doing well. I'll check back to see what you found out about Nelson's lump. You'll be in my thoughts.

Hugs,

Jeanne and Kiska

[BestBuddy]

Report from the old age home!
Buddy is doing well.
Phoebe is great.
Nelsons lump was an nasty infection of a callus so he's started some heavy duty antibiotics and all should be well soon.
Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

Aaaaaahhhh.... so good to hear all good news!! :)

[eyelostit]

Very Good!!!:)

[ladysmom06]

Hi Jenny,

:D:D:D GREAT NEWS on Buddy, Phoebe and Nelson. Hoping you get a much deserved break from vet visits. Hugs to you and the gang.

[Kiska'smom]

Hi Jenny,

There's nothing like a little good news! I am so happy that the lump was nothing too serious! The report from the old age home sounded pretty good to me!

Hugs,

Jeanne and Kiska

[BestBuddy]

Hi all,

Just a quick update and a question!
Buddy is doing well, no eye ulcers and BG's in a good range but I have noticed his back legs seem really weak. His balance seems to be off as well.
My questions is about vitamin B12. Do any of you use it and how much? I wondered if some of Buddy's hind leg problems are lack of this.

A deficiency often manifests itself first in the development of neurological dysfunction that is almost indistinguishable from senile dementia and Alzheimer's disease. There is little question that many patients exhibiting symptoms of Alzheimer's actually suffer from a vitamin B12 deficiency. Their symptoms are totally reversible through effective supplementation. A low level of vitamin B12 has also been associated with asthma, depression, AIDS, multiple sclerosis, tinnitus, diabetic neuropathy and low sperm counts. Clearly, it is very important to maintain adequate body stores of this crucial vitamin.

Any thoughts?

Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

Wish I could help but I've never tried B12.

If the vet has no concerns, seems like it wouldn't hurt to try it.

Chris is sensitive to so many foods/meds that we don't experiment much.

Chris' back legs are having trouble too. He kind of sidles sidewise as they are weak and he leans or wobbles. Sometimes it looks like balance is off but I'm not sure if it's that or if he is dropping his hips in response to pain.

In his case, the vet doesn't see any obvious problems with the legs themselves and attributes it to back pain from degenerated discs and possibly some bone spurs that are present on the vertebrae, though he says he often sees bone spurs with no sign of back pain.

Have you tried the paw test to evaluate how his nerve function is in back?

Natalie

[BestBuddy]

I haven't tried the paw test but the specialist did last visit which would be about 6 months ago now. Do you just turn the paw over and wait and do you do one at a time?
Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

It should be easy with Buddy cuz he's so low to the ground. You want to give a little support under the abdomen so all the weight doesn't go onto the paw. Pick up one back paw - just the very end of the paw - and turn it over and set it on the floor while there's support so they don't have to "stand" on it.

If they have good nerve function, they should recognize that the paw is upside down and right it immediately. If they don't realize it's turned over or if it takes a long time for them to figure it out, then there's probably something impinging on the spinal cord and reducing the flow of information.

[BestBuddy]

Might I just add that nothing is easy with Buddy.:D
I supported his belly and tried to turn his paw over and place it on the ground but he won't let me, he just straightens it out before putting it down. He really fights me turning his paw and trying to get him to put it down...
Jenny & Buddy

[Denise]

I know B12 works in cats, have read about many cases but it also worked for my sisters cat whom the vet said would never walk right again.

This page has info on what to buy, where to buy....this is the B12 form not found just anywhere.

http://www.laurieulrich.com/jasper/

[k9diabetes]

Well, that suggests to me that he knows exactly where his feet are so probably no nerve damage! :)

[ladysmom06]

Hi Jenny,

Happy:D:D to hear that Buddy is doing well. Sorry - I don't know anything about B12. Do you give Buddy any supplements for the weakness? Lady has weakness in her hind legs - it's from arthritis. I give her cosequin and fish oil for it. Hoping you can find soemthing that will work for Buddy. Hugs to you and him.

[BestBuddy]

Denise, thanks for the link but I have not been able to find the B-12 methylcobalamin here in Australia. The health food shops and chemists haven't heard of it.:confused: I did manage to track down a compounding pharmacy that does the methylcobalamin lozenges to see if they could make a liquid or tablets for me but haven't hear back yet.

I started Buddy on the standard B12 which does convert (small amounts) into methylcobalamin and it has been over a week and Buddy is doing great. I don't think I am imagining it because I have had to lower his insulin form 5 to 4.5 and he seems to be a lot more balanced. Whatever the reason for the improvement I will take it. Even if the standard B12 isn't working it doesn't seem to be doing any harm so we will continue until we can get an answer from the compounding place.
Jenny & Buddy

[BestBuddy]

Hi all, It's been a bit quiet here so I hope that means everyone is ok and there are no problems.
Just thought I would give a quick update on Buddy and break the silence.
He is doing so well at the moment-I hope I don't jinx it by saying it out loud!
He seems more steady on his feet and more responsive. The only change I have made was add the B12 tablets to his diet. It's not the methylcobalamin type just the standard stuff but something has put a spring back into his step.
His eyes look clear and we have a check at the eye specialist on July 17 and also the IMS on the same day for his ACTH. He won't be a happy boy on that day but today is is great.:D
Jenny & Buddy

[ladysmom06]

Hi Jenny,

Happy:D:D to hear that Buddy is doing well. Are the B 12's your giving him just the regular vitamins and how much do you give? Hugs to you and Buddy.

[BestBuddy]

Hi Lynne,
I got a lower strength B12 (cyanocobalamin) one that is 250 mcg in a tablet so that I could cut it. The bottle says for humans to take two tablets twice a day so I give him 1/2 a tablet with each meal. From what I read B12 is just passed through if it isn't needed so I thought it was worth a try. I am still searching for the B12 that is methylcobalamin as it is supposedly much better but not having much luck yet.
Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

With Chris' wobbly back end, I should try adding the B12 too and see if it helps him. That's very cool that it's been good for Buddy.

Natalie

[BestBuddy]

Need help with syringe questions.
I have always used 29g 1/2 inch needles because that is all I can get here in Australia. I feel so guilty when I read about the choices available in the US regarding 30g and even 31g that I have tried to source them from there but not a lot of places will ship here and the postage is pretty high. I have found a few places that will ship but there doesn't seem to be much choice in the 1/2 inch length with a small barrel (.5 or .3).Any suggestions on where to shop for them? After all this time I do not feel comfortable changing to the short needle so do I just continue with what I can get or can anyone suggest where I should look.

Now a little explanation on why the syringes are hard to get here.....
Diabetes Australia controls about 99% of all diabetic supplies and to be able to get these you need to be human and have a letter from your doctor and register with their scheme and then you can get your syringes free, with a big choice and big discounts on other supplies. Most pharmacies don't stock diabetic supplies and those that do only supply to NDSS (national diabetes service scheme) so I have a online supplier that only has the once choice.

Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

I can ask Gemma if she's ever used another kind. She's a one-time member of the CDMB who never posts anymore but lives in Australia.

I can say that we switched to the short needles without a hitch and I actually prefer them. We use BD Ultrafine II 31 gauge 5/16" 3/10cc.

I didn't see it make any difference in Chris' absorption but seems less likely to go too far into the tent and hit the other side.

I'll check with Gemma and let you know what she says... seems like there was some other Australians at one point.

I wondered if the UK would ship them to you.

I get Chris' heart med from Masters Marketing in the UK and their shipping is pretty reasonable. Just ordered four bottles at a cost of $315 and the shipping was $15.50.

Natalie

[k9diabetes]

My email to Gemma bounced back. I know she was moving.

I'll see what else I can find.

Natalie

[acushdogsmom]

It says on the UK BestPet Pharmacy site http://www.bestpetpharmacy.co.uk that they do ship products to Australia. So maybe you can contact them to see if they would be able (and allowed) to ship the syringes that you want?

Here's where I see that they apparently ship to Australia:

http://www.bestpetpharmacy.co.uk/postage_info.asp

(scroll down to where it says: Bestpet Deliveries outside the UK)

And as for syringes, if you do a search for "insulin" (use search field at the top of their website page) or for "syringes" ... ("insulin syringes" doesn't seem to work) ... you'll see that they do seem to have several kinds of syringes, so maybe one that you were looking for?

When I searched for "insulin", several brands came up, including u-40 syringes (to go with the Caninsulin) and also 0.3 ml, 0.5 ml and 1 ml U-100 syringes. They don't say the guage in the descriptions, but you can see the guage written on the boxes in some of the pictures of the products and I'm sure you can clarify with them if they have what you want exactly, if you contact them.

Here's the product details on one of the kinds of syringes listed there:

http://www.bestpetpharmacy.co.uk/detailed_product.asp?id=86

And if you click on the picture you can see the detailed description of the syringes on the box

wait .. here's a direct link to the larger picture of that particular kind of syringe:

http://www.bestpetpharmacy.co.uk/show_image.asp?id=86

I also see a "contact us page" on their site at http://www.bestpetpharmacy.co.uk/contact_us.asp

So maybe you can get in touch with them to see if they have what you want exactly and if they would ship them to Australia?

[k9diabetes]

It seems like your pharmacy/chemist should be able to special order for you... willing might be another issue. But if they carry BD supplies, seems like they could order the finer gauge syringes... might have to buy a ten boxes or something.

We do that with air filters - the size we need isn't common around here so I actually order them direct from the manufacturer and they will send them as long as I buy one whole box... I think it's a dozen.

BD has an Australian office. Perhaps they could advise.

The syringes Cushy found are 30 gauge, which is nice. It makes a big difference. We accidentally got 29 gauge once after using 30s and Chris could tell the difference.

[BestBuddy]

Thanks Cushy but those syringes are only 8mm long and I have been using the 12.7mm. The Aussie dollar isn't great against the UK pound as the box of syringes works out to be about $45 and postage about $20.

Most of the US places (our dollar is great against US dollar at the moment) have the syringes at about $20 to $30 AUD but the postage is about $50. www.Researchsupply.net have 30g 12.7mm but only in a 1cc barrel so I'm not sure what the increments would be marked at. They also said if I ordered a case (500 or 1000) they may be able to do a better postage rate so maybe I will email for more info about the syringes. I think the brand was Easy Touch, do you know anything about them?

Natalie, most of our pharmacies will not go out of their way and unless they are Diabetes Australia credited they don't order any of the insulin products at all and the ones that do cannot supply me as it is too hard for them to sort out charges. We get no service from our pharmacies unless what you want is on the shelf or they have a script they can fill.

I have been in touch with BD and Terumo. the two brands of syringes used most here and they will not deal with the public. It makes me mad that we even have a NSP (Needles and syringe program) for drug users to drop off used and pick up clean syringes at my work and it is a FREE service. We have hundreds of insulin syringes but only 27 and 29g in 1cc barrels with 2unit markings that I can't use. Our pets seem to have fallen in the cracks between human and IV drug users and we can't get what we want.

Well, enough of my rant.

Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

You would think that a company like BD would want to sell as much of their product as they can!! If you're willing to buy, makes no sense not to sell.

You are quite a distance physically... though from the UK to the West Coast can't be any further.

Vets will have to push for more choices for pets I suppose and they tend to think a 29 gauge syringe is a thin needle!

Why not try the short needle if you can get them for a reasonable price?

You might find that you love them.

Is Buddy's skin thick?

Chris actually has fairly loose skin without much fat attached so it's very easy to make a big shallow tent. I've always thought the tight skinned dogs like dachsunds would be a lot more difficult.

For Chris' heart med from the UK I do order four bottles instead of two (one is for 2.5mg caps and the other is for 5mg caps to make our 7.5mg dose) from Master's Marketing because the shipping cost is the same. That's a three month supply.

Looks to me like you need a diabetic friend!

Natalie

[BestBuddy]

Thanks Nat,
Buddy's skin has thickened up over the years but not excessively.
I would have thought BD would sell if I bought in bulk but no. I have ten 31g in a 8mm length that I got in the US a year or two ago but decided not to use them unless I can continue. Buddy doesn't complain about the 29g but I would hate to mess that up and not be able to get the finer ones. The 29g are all I can get here so I've emailed research.net to get some more info on the Easy Touch. I pay about $25 and $5 postage for a box of syringes here so if I ordered a case the cost would be about the same.
Jenny & Buddy

[BestBuddy]

:D
Well finally success!
B.Braun Australia which makes Omnican Insulin syringes has decided they will sell their products to me as an individual. I know this won't help most of you but anyone in Australia may benefit from this. I have never used their syringes so I hope they are ok and the ones I will try are 1mlX30gX12mm and they are marked in one unit increments so hopefully they won't be too small to see clearly. The cost is quite reasonable too at $19 per box of 100 and regardless of how many I order $25 postage.
Jenny & Buddy

[We Hope]

I was just pleasantly surprised when I Googled "Braun Omnican". The company has a Pennsylvania office. Last year, they made application to the US FDA to sell 2 types of insulin syringes here--Omnifix and Omnican.

From their approval, shown at the link, they consider their insulin syringes to be the equivalent of BD brand (Page 1). Page 3 says that US FDA found this to be so and Page 4 of the approval letter gave them the right to start marketing their syringes in the US as of August, 2007.

http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/pdf7/K071459.pdf

Braun Omnifix|Omnican FDA approval documents.

http://www.bbraun.com/index.cfm?uuid=D9A0F0A92A5AE6266A9842B65DDE3B0B&object_id=3086084&mode=1

Here's the description of Omnican U 100 syringes--they come in 1 cc and 1/2 cc barrels-

http://www.bbraun.com/index.cfm?uuid=D9A0F0A92A5AE6266A9842B65DDE3B0B&product_id=PRID00000049&parent_id=3086089&object_id=3086089&pfad3=Omnican%C2%AE%20100&mode=2

Omnican® 100 - Insulin syringe for U-100-insulin (1 mL / 100 I.U.)

Description
Single use insulin syringe with integrated cannula for subcutaneus injection
- of polypropylene / polystyrene
- square shaped cylinder with dark blue scale
- graduation 2 I.U.
- piston with double sealing ring
- integral piston stop
- sales package with 100 syringes

http://www.bbraun.com/index.cfm?uuid=D9A0F0A92A5AE6266A9842B65DDE3B0B&product_id=PRID00000050&parent_id=3086089&object_id=3086089&pfad3=Omnican%C2%AE%2050&mode=2

Omnican® 50 - Insulin syringe for U-100 insulin (0.5 mL / 50 I.U.)

Description
Single use insulin syringe with integrated cannula for subcutaneus injection
- of polypropylene / polystyrene
- square shaped cylinder with dark blue scale
- graduation 1 I.U.
- piston with double sealing ring
- integral piston stop
- sales package with 100 syringes

They also have a range of U 40 syringes, if that helps anyone out your way. :)

[BestBuddy]

Hi all,

It’s been a while since I updated Buddy’s thread and I had to look to page 2 to find it. Buddy has now turned 15 and celebrated 6 years as a diabetic. His Bg levels have been good lately and I have added a natural joint powder to his food to help with stiffness but he really doesn't like the taste or smell of it. I am going to try to find a similar product in a tablet or capsule. It’s been 8 months since his last ACTH test to see where his levels are without medication but several eye ulcers kept putting the testing back.

Last Friday we made the trip to the teaching hospital and had an appointment with the eye specialist who was very pleased with the way they look, she said for eyes with very mature cataracts they are healthy and the pressure is excellent, we are to continue the current regime with drops and ointment. The ointment is Optimmune and the prices locally are $88 a tiny tube or $66 if I drive 2 hours to get it. I have seen it online from US but I cannot order without a US vet script.:mad: I wish there was something else I could use, anyone have any suggestions? Then the IMS appointment and the dreaded ACTH and the numbers were (drum roll please)…………………..
Pre….251 (9.0)
Post…198 (7.1)
Once again a strange non stimulation with numbers a little higher than last time but still well under the diagnostic ranges. All in all a pretty good report as it has been 1 year and 11 months since we stopped using trilostane.

Aging seems to be his biggest problem and I think he is suffering a bit with his joints. We are keeping him on a low dose of antibiotics to keep the dreaded UTI at bay. He also is a little vague at times and sleeps a lot otherwise he is doing well.

That’s all for now.

Jenny & Buddy

[BestBuddy]

Has anyone tried the Hy Optic (maybe also called OptiVet) eye drops? I have read that they are an alternative to Optimmune and are way cheaper. I don't think they are available in Aust. but they are not prescription so I may be able to get some sent from US.:D
Jenny

[eyelostit]

Hi, I tried these got from Heartland supply here is US, Niki was just about blind at the time, they were no help, price was about $ 130.00 I think

[BestBuddy]

Thanks.
I think it must be different because the ones I looked at (Petco was one site) were only about $14 a bottle.
Jenny & Buddy

[bgdavis]

I just wanted to wish Buddy a happy belated birthday. 15 is impressive!

Bonnie and Crissy

[k9diabetes]

Dolly may have been thinking of Ocluvet, which claims, falsely, to clear up cataracts.

Optimmune is cyclosporine and is available from Drs. Foster & Smith - will they take your vet's or ophthalmologist's prescription? It showed it as $26.00 for a 3.5 gram tube. I would go absolutely NUTS with the limitations on obtaining supplements and medications Jenny!!

Not sure if Masters Marketing would sell something like that. They ship to me in the U.S. from the U.K.

It's just weird. I didn't see an answer directly on Dr. Foster & Smith's site about international shipping. Perhaps your vet can have a vet in the states write a prescription.

I think cyclosporine is essentially a treatment for Dry Eye, not so much for the cataract inflammation. Perhaps something like GenTeal or Lacrilube would be enough if his eyes aren't severely dry.

On more fun topics...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUDDY BOY!!! :) :) :)

Another year and you can get a driver's license in the U.S. :)


Natalie

[BestBuddy]

Thanks Natalie, I emailed Dr Fosters & Smiths and was told the script has to be written by a US certified vet so my Aussie scripts are no good for them. I placed an order with another US company and emailed scanned copies of the scripts but the order was canceled by them two days later probably for the same reason, still waiting for a reply from them if that is the problem. Looking for pet drugs online is making me mad because we have to pay so much more for them here as you noted with Optimmune being between $60-$90 here but only $26 there. Same with Metacam, I pay $70 for a 33ml bottle but you guys can get 100ml for the same price.:mad:Very frustrating. Buddy is on the Optimunne for dry eye so I may just give the Gen Teal a try because it's cheap and I can get it easily here. As for the drivers licence he has to be 18 here and I think the fact that he is diabetic and blind may hinder his application.:D
Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

If Buddy is very sensitive to drugs, etc., you might want to try Lacrilube. It's a very simple preparation of petrolatum.

Chris didn't take well to the GenTeal, which has all kinds of stuff in it. Hope Buddy's not as hypersensitive to meds as Chris is.

[eyelostit]

Yes Nat you are right it was Ocluvet, ah i was grasping at straws at that time.

i use that Systane eye drops on Niki, I use them myself cause I have the dry eye BS.

My vet never mentioned any eye drops for Niki, is that OK?

Do all blind dogs use some kind of drops, I don't give Niki drops everyday, just when she gets the gunk in the sides which she can't rub off anymore.

[We Hope]

Jenny,

You might try sending these folks an e-mail:

http://www.entirelypets.com/opeyeoin1.html

3.5 gm tube US $23.95

http://www.entirelypets.com/shipping.html

International Orders: We ship via Express Mail. For most orders, shipping is approximately $36.50. Shipping is automatically calculated when you enter your address information. Certain international shipments may require extra shipping cost due to weight or country location. If this is required, your order will be held until we can advise you of extra charges. Please note, we do not ship pet food internationally and we do not ship any edibles to Brazil.

http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/entirelypets/faq.html

How to get your prescription to them.

They don't seen afraid to do international shipping and I saw nothing on their prescription page which indicates they will only accept prescriptions from US vets. Their e-mail is:

sales@entirelypets.com

http://www.entirelypets.com/faqs.html

It looks like they do this similarly to the way the Canadian pharmacies used to do when the US was more uptight about people ordering prescriptions from Canada. At that time, you would send them your prescription and the pharmacies had a Canadian doctor or doctors who reviewed the prescription your US doctor sent in. The price is nice--worth an e-mail to try anyway! ;)

[BestBuddy]

Thanks We Hope, I have just placed an order and we will see what happens.
Jenny & Buddy

[BestBuddy]

Update on medication order.
Well I ordered from entirleypets and the order was shipped and arrived in Australia in 4 days BUT it was stopped by Australian Quarantine and I received a letter in the mail today requiring me to contact them. I ordered Metacam which they let through but advised me that this would not always be the case in the future, the Optimmune isn't allowed in as the active ingredient is cyclosporine which is derived from fungus. So they will destroy the Optimmune as it isn't worth returning it to the company as return postage is about the same as the product. At least I tried.
Jenny & Buddy

[We Hope]

Jenny,

I have a question. Would you be allowed to import the Optimmune and/or Metacam with some type of government permit to do so?

They snatch things here too--unless you have a permit to import it. US Food and Drug Administration is where you get some of the permits and in some cases such as with people and pets who import the CP/Wockhardt insulins from the UK, you also need to do some paperwork with the US Department of Agriculture.

I wish we could find some way for you to get it cheaply and get it in country--maybe asking about permits might help.

Kathy

[BestBuddy]

Thanks Kathy,

Actually the lady from quarantine I spoke to said an import license would be the only way to get it in and she will be sending the forms to me. I have 30 days to reply with a permit or the Optimmune will be destroyed. I will have a look at the forms and see if how hard and at what cost. I do know I have to get a full disclosure from the manufacturer about the ingredients but I also think with importing that the product has to come from the manufacturer not a third party?

So it looks like I will have to pay $70 instead of $30 for the Optimmune unless I am game to try something else I can get here at the human pharmacy. I am lucky that most of Buddy's other drugs are also human so with a script the cost is a lot better.

Jenny & Buddy

[We Hope]

Jenny,

Regarding the disclosure of the ingredients and if it must come from the manufacturer, I'd ask the proper office of the government. If it need not come from the manufacturer, you could cite various online drug information sites.

Here it is from the Veterinary Edition of Drugs.com--this is a transcription of the US package insert:

http://www.drugs.com/vet/optimmune.html

"Description
Each gram of OPTIMMUNE® Ophthalmic Ointment contains 2 mg of cyclosporine, USP; petrolatum, USP; corn oil, NF; and Amerchol® CAB base. Cyclosporine (cyclosporin A), the active ingredient of OPTIMMUNE® Ophthalmic Ointment, is a cyclic undecapeptide metabolite of the fungus Tolypocladium inflatum gams."

I know FDA insists on the information coming directly from the manufacturer when you are applying for what's called an IND-Personal Use (Investigative New Drug for a person or pet's specific use only). This is how we went about getting Lucky's Caninsulin.

The situation might be different when one is applying for a permit to import a drug that is already approved in your country; Caninsulin/Vetsulin was not yet approved when we needed to file for it.

At one time FDA was quite strict on stopping people who were importing their drugs from Canada--because a lot of the time, the prescription drug prices are a LOT less than the price for the same drug here. Back then, senior citizens took bus trips to Canada strictly to purchase the prescriptions they needed at much lower prices. They've relaxed the rules about getting drugs from Canada quite a bit now; what people are buying are mainly drugs made by US pharmas for the Canadian market--made in the same place the drugs on the US market are.

Also knew people who were buying their insulin in Canada and having it sent to the US for the same reasons--much better prices. I once bought an "emergency" vial of Lilly Iletin II Lente for Lucky from a pharmacy in Manitoba, asking them not to label it as insulin, for fear it might be snatched. The insulin from the Manitoba pharmacy was made by Lilly in Indianapolis, IN for Lilly's Canadian market; made in the same plant the US labeled Iletin II Lente was made, BTW. They didn't label the package and I got it without a hitch. :)

HTH!

Kathy

[eyelostit]

Geez BestBuddy I'm sorry for all that you have to go thru. I guess you are forced to get the permit, damn shame:(

[BestBuddy]

Well I looked into getting a permit and it would cost around $248 and a lot of paperwork including official info from the company (if I could even get it) so I don't think it will be worth it. The permit only lasts 12 months and that would be about 3 to 4 tubes of the Optimmune so it is just too hard. I will just have to pay the prices here.

Don't feel too sad for me because there are probably things I can get a lot cheaper than in the US, eg. Ketodiastix which only cost me $5-$6 for 50 and the BG strips for my meter I have been able to get for around $12 per 100.

So I suppose as the saying goes....what you loose on the swings you gain on the merry-go-round.:D

Jenny & Buddy

[BestBuddy]

Just wanted to throw this out there!

Buddy has been eating Science Diet Lite and then Mature for over 6 years without any problems. I know there are better foods but this was something I could get easily and he liked it and it worked well with the insulin.

Well the last week he has been losing interest in it, he would normally eat within 10-15 minutes but it was taking about an hour with many breaks to wander around before he would go back and eat. It seemed when I put the food down he would look at me and say "not that again" so I tried adding some Eagle Pack Chicken,Liver and Rice-Mixer and wow the interest is back in food again.

The mixer is made to add to dry to make it more palatable and for Buddy's size the recommended amount per meal is only 23 grams. I just cut back the SD to add the Mixer and it hasn't seemed to change his BG.

Has anyone tried this?

Jenny & Buddy

[Debbie & Apollo]

Hi Jenny -

sorry I really can't add anything, but glad to hear Buddy is 'interested' again in meal time!
It's soo hard to wait for them to eat to give the shot!

hope it continues!

Debbie and Apollo

[k9diabetes]

I haven't but it sounds good! And I always liked the Eagle Pack brand. We tried some of their canned food at one time with Chris but, as I recall, it had some ingredients in it he might be sensitive to so we never used it long term.

Even at the SPCA obedience class, they took time to talk about diet and how they like to see at least part of the dog's diet be wet food. This seems like it could be a good way to add that in.

[Ricksma]

A vet once told me that a dog doesn't get "bored" eating the same thing all the time, but gosh....I'm not totally sure I believe that. LOL I hope your boy gets really interested again..it is so hard to see them without an appetite.

Love and hugs, Teresa and Ricky:p

[eyelostit]

I'm glad he is eating, I have not tried that Eagle Brand Line of products.

I have boiled some chicken and add the broth to the food, or scramble an egg in the micro and add some of that.

some use parmesan as a sprinkle on top of food

[BestBuddy]

Dolly,
Does the egg make any big changes in the BG?
Jenny & Buddy

[rhodesian46]

Jenny Buddy is eating If this walking away continues I would have some blood work done Maybe a check on his electrolytes Just a thought. You know your dog for sure

[BestBuddy]

I spoke too soon, Buddy is not eating well again. I'm thinking it may even be a dental problem. He seems to want to eat but he is making such hard work of it. His food is very sticky/tacky and he doesn't seem to be able to manage very well at the moment.

He used to finish his food in about 10 minutes but he will try for about 20 mins and still only be half way through. I had to give him some of Phoebe's food (very squishy/runny) so that I could give him his usual insulin.

I worry that with his previous health issues and diabetes/heart murmur that going under anesthetic would be a big problem. I do know that if it is dental we will have to do it but if we do we may see if the Uni hospital (bigger better equipment???) will do it rather than our small vet although that is where he has had it done before.

Bugger
Jenny & Buddy

[Ricksma]

It seems that I saw it posted somewhere (not sure which board, now) that the anesthesia they use now is much less dangerous than what they had available only a few years ago. If this is the case, then if it is a dental issue, hopefully you can get Buddy taken care of with a minimum of drama...fingers crossedXXXXXXXX

Love and hugs, Teresa and Ricky

[We Hope]

Jenny,

Why not take Buddy in for a "good going over" and see what it is? It might not turn out to be dental--and if it is, then you can express your concerns about him going under anesthesia to your vet. That way, you can all make a good decision re: where it would be best.

Kathy

[eyelostit]

Maybe try giving some baby food ? Will he let you feel his teeth?

As for the egg, no it did not affect BG, what was odd when one day I ran out of my gr. turkey, so I figured ok I'll scramble 2 eggs to make 3/4 cup, do you know her BG was great, now I can't believe feeding the egg did this and have not done it since, but maybe I should try it again

Take care:)

[BestBuddy]

Thanks for the info.
Buddy doesn't like his mouth messed with but I may just have to try and have a look and a feel to be sure.
Jenny & Buddy

[eyelostit]

Oh, i don't know if you could try this or not he may not like it, what about Oragel? I don't think that has sugar in it, he may not like you applying it, but just may eat afterward.

Maybe Nat or Kathy will adivse.

[We Hope]

There's no sugar in OraJel, but there is a local anesthetic, so you'd need to be very careful not to use too much because of that.

http://www.orajel.com/products/baby/teething/gel_label.htm

Baby Orajel® Teething Pain Medicine Gel Product Label

Drug Facts

Active ingredients
Benzocaine 7.5%

Purpose
Oral Pain Reliever

Uses
temporarily relieves sore gums due to teething in infants and children 4 months and older

Warnings
Do not use more than directed for more than 7 days unless told to do so by a dentist or doctor

When using this product fever and nasal congestion are not symptoms of teething and may indicate the presence of infection. If these symptoms do not go away, advise your physician.

Stop use and ask a doctor if
sore mouth symptoms do not get better in 7 days
swelling, rash or fever develops
irritation, pain, or redness persists or worsens

Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose or allergic reaction, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Directions
do not use tube if it is cut prior to opening
wash hands
cut open tip of tube on score mark
use your fingertip or cotton applicator to apply a small pea-size amount of Baby Orajel
apply to affected area up to four times daily or as directed by a dentist or physician for infants under 4 months of age, ask a doctor

Other information
Do not use this product if your baby has a history of allergy to local anesthetics such as procaine, butacaine, benzocaine or other "caine" anesthetics.

Inactive ingredients FD&C red #40, flavor,glycerin, polyethylene glycols, purified water, sodium saccharin, sorbic acid, sorbitol

-----------------------

This is advice for people with diabetes, but it stands to reason that animals with diabetes would also have some of the same dental-related problems--

http://www.dentalgentlecare.com/diabetes.htm

"The three significant problems seen in the mouth from diabetes are gum disease, saliva problems and infections."

Kathy

[k9diabetes]

I hate it when they won't eat! How's he doing today?

[BestBuddy]

Still struggling a bit. He seems to spend a lot of time at the food bowl but not eating a lot. His food is really sticky. He is eating about 3/4 of it and then I give in and give him some of Phoebe's disgustingly cheap (only one she will eat) Pedigree and he finishes that off quickly. So both taste and texture have something to do with the problem.

I had a scare the other night when I woke him to come to bed he had a large streak of bright red blood on his leg, I quickly sponged it off and couldn't see where it was coming from. It was coming from his mouth and he had rested his head on his leg to sleep. I quickly checked as much as I could in his mouth and couldn't see anything except what looked like a small cut or scratch on his lip. It isn't easy to look in his mouth so it was quite a fight. I had pretty much made up my mind that it was a dental problem until I saw the lip cut and remembered about 15 minutes before Phoebe had run over his head while he was laying in the doorway. Buddy tends to sleep in the doorway and Phoebe is loosing her sight so there are quite a few accidents.

I'm still considering getting his teeth checked but he fights so much that it will be a sure thing that they put him under.

Thanks for thinking of us.

Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

If his appetite is good, that's more reassuring to me. It's the loss of desire to eat that tends to be really scary.

Times when I've seen loss of appetite, they tend to take to something new at first and then start turning that down in a few days also. When Chris turned down Hamburger Helper I knew his appetite was really bad.

That he will quickly eat the Pedigree could mean it's not dental.

Maybe some blood work (x-ray or u/sound if he tolerates it) would ferret out any other potential causes or help narrow it down to dental before actually having to look at his mouth? Expensive way to go I guess but might be worthwhile if the refusal to eat extends to other foods, just in case it isn't dental.

It's really difficult when they won't cooperate. Chris was a very patient patient but the cats... it makes it nearly impossible to get them any care beyond a quick vaccination or even treatment at home. Gus has a bad case of acne on his chin right now but it's like World War II to put something on it and Katie's due for a physical but the last one was so traumatic for her... before she even arrived at the vet's office!... that I'm holding off a while longer.

I sure hope Buddy's feeling better. I'll bet that was a rude awakening to have Phoebe careen over his head!!!

Natalie

[k9diabetes]

By the way... I'm worried about the diabetic over at the Cushings board.

[BestBuddy]

So am I, I just read you post and scrolled up to see those numbers. YIKES is right. I hope she is back to read before upping the insulin.

[eyelostit]

Just hoping Bud is doing better, that bit of blood can give you a scare.

[BestBuddy]

Buddy is doing surprisingly well considering he is only eating half the food I think is the right food and half of the cheap food. I know it has only been a few days but his BG numbers are maybe even better than when he was only eating the good stuff. It's no wonder we are on our toes all the time with these diabetics.:confused:
Jenny & Buddy

[Cara's Mom]

Happy to hear he's enjoying his meals again!
They have a mind of their own and know what they like and don't like! Can't blame them! :D:D We do not eat ONLY what's good for us!:D:D

Best wishes.

[Dollydog]

Lady's favorite foods don't have any stars on them at the dogfoodanalysis.com site!
She likes Hill's t/d small bites, chopped into 4 pieces, and Science Diet Senior small bites. I've been mixing in some Canidae Platinum for Seniors and it has 4 stars, I think. She gets canned Royal Canin High Fiber mixed with other things like chicken, rice, broccoli, softened dry, & other canned food that's available to us. Her supplements get mixed in the wet food. She has some pieces of chicken on top of her dry food to keep her busy while I give her injection.

We now have a diet that is easy to get in either Canada or the US and doesn't all have to come from a clinic. The VERY odd time that her appetite is poor she will gobble down the Science Diet by itself.
And of course, she will always take her treat....lettuce!! That piece of lettuce always got a smile from the Nevada team...she could hardly wait to get back to the waiting room for her lettuce.
Jo-Ann & Lady :)

[BestBuddy]

Well Buddy is eating but still slow and he won't touch the kibble. It looks like some dental work will be in his future. We are lucky to get an appointment with one of Australia's leading vet dentists at the Uni hospital that treated Bud for cushings and helped with the insulin change. We have to wait until December 18 as he is only at this hospital one day a month and only takes two appointments so that he can do any surgery straight away if needed. Buddy only has 6 or 7 teeth left so how bad can it be:p I have to ring if there are any problems before then and if we have to we will just see one of the other in the Dentistry area earlier. Fingers crossed he holds out until December 18.
Jenny & Gummy

[k9diabetes]

Wow, how lucky to get one of the vet's few appointments!! I'll bet you can find something he will eat until then.

Natalie

[rhodesian46]

Hi Jenny,
Was thinking about Buddy How is he doing?

[eyelostit]

Best buddy, I am looking at some foods now, saw this maybe you want coupon if i see more will post
http://pedigree.com/01Really%20Good%20Food/default.aspx

[BestBuddy]

Well today is D day for Buddy. D being for dental, we have an appointment with a specialist at 9.45. Buddy had to miss breakfast and have half insulin which is usually 5.30am and he threw a tantrum for about an hour and now he is whimpering in the kitchen. It is nearly 8.30am and we have to leave about 8.45 so not much longer before we are on the road. I feel really bad but I know it has to be done so wish us luck and I will be back sometime later to fill you all in.
Jenny & Buddy

[Ricksma]

Jenny, We are praying for Buddy, and hoping he has a good result from today's procedure. Keeping a good thought....

Love and hugs, Teresa and Ricky

[k9diabetes]

Checking in on Buddy - anxious for news!

Natalie

[Cara's Mom]

How's Buddy??

[BestBuddy]

Ok its now 12noon and I just had a call that Buddy is awake and doing well. I can pick him up after 2pm. His teeth really needed a clean but no more were removed, they did sew up his oral nasal fistula (from 2 years ago) as it was getting plugged up with food and could be causing the mouth problems. The stitches are dissolving but we will be back for a follow up in 4 weeks. His BG is good and tonight I can resume normal food and insulin. Thank you all for checking on me, it's such a worry at his age and other health issues but it had to be done. I am so relieved.

Jenny

[We Hope]

HOORAY!

He WAS telling all of us he had some sort of mouth issue! Let's hope that this is the end of the eating issues!

Kathy

[eyelostit]

I hope all is well with The Bud, he know doubt is sorta drowsy and tired from his exhausting day.:) I'll bet you are too!!;)

[Cara's Mom]

Good news!!! Hope the mouth problems are now done with.
Give Buddy a hug from us! Oh, you might as well have one too:D:D:D!!

[Dollydog]

What great news, Jenny! I'm so glad everything went well and he still has the same number of teeth!!
I wasn't allowed to give Lady any insulin at all before her dental here and it really bothered me. I could hardly wait to give her an injection that night...and that's the only time I've been glad to give a shot :p
Her Nevada vet allowed her breakfast and her regular injection and then did the dental 4 or 5 hours later....totally different approaches to the same thing.
Hope he's home by now,
Jo-Ann & Lady :)

[k9diabetes]

Just checking in on you and Buddy. If I understand it right, they closed the fistula? I'll bet that could get pretty nasty with food up in there.

Hope he and you are doing well,

Natalie

[BestBuddy]

Hi all,

Thanks for checking on us. He is doing well this morning and even last night he ate all his meal and had his normal injection even though was feeling a big tired.
The fistula had "appeared" a couple of years ago when one of his canines was to be removed and it just crumbled. At the time because of the infection they couldn't try to close it so we just watched it and it did heal pretty well and didn't seem to be causing much trouble so rather than another surgery it was just left. This new vet decided that because he was already under it was worth a try to close it and he said he was pretty happy with the outcome. We have to go back in 4 weeks to have it all checked.

We have also done both no food and 1/2 injection and full meal and normal injection before surgeries. I think it depends on the time of the surgery (and the surgeons preference too) as the times when he has had normal meals and insulin at 6am he was operated on about 2pm and yesterday with only 1/2 insulin he was done at 11am.

His BG for the whole time at the hospital was between 4-5 (75-95) which is a little on the lowish side but he was well monitored and it was good to know how his body reacted to the insulin and no food although stress would alter things a bit too.

Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

Now that's a Christmas gift!

[eyelostit]

Thats great news, we worry a little more with our lil baby diabetic pets. I'm glad things are AOK;):)

[Ricksma]

So glad that Buddy came through this so well...and what a wonderful outcome!!! Yay :D:D:D Keep hanging in there...Ricky and I are sending good thoughts your way.

Love and hugs, Teresa and Ricky

[eyelostit]

How's the Buddy doing?

[acushdogsmom]

Hi Jenny! Me too (I want to hear a Buddy update) :D

[BestBuddy]

Well my little man just keeps going. His BG is where it needs to be and he is eating well. I've tried to look in his mouth and can't see any stitches so maybe they have dissolved already. I'll have to wait for hubby to hold him so I can get a good look with a torch to see if the fissure has healed over.

Buddy had to be fasted for the dental so we had his thyroid (freeT4) checked as he stopped thyroid meds about 2 years ago when we had the addison episode and his levels (total T4) have remained low but still ok. This time he is just under the normal range so we have to wait for our specialist (on holidays probably with my money!) returns to see if we need to start meds again.

Other than that all is well and it's New Years Eve here today so here's hoping for a happy and health start for all of us in 2009.

Jenny & Buddy

[acushdogsmom]

Happy New Year, Jenny and Buddy!

And a big bunch of (((hugs))) for you and yours!

:D :D :D

[Cara's Mom]

happy new year !!!

[Dollydog]

Happy New Year to Jenny and Buddy!!

Jo-Ann & Lady :)

[eyelostit]

Happy New Year also Jen and Buddy ;)

Take care

[Ricksma]

And a very Happy New Year from Ricky Ricardo Williams......to you and Buddy!!:D:D:D

[k9diabetes]

I'm so glad to hear that Buddy is doing well! Happy New Year to you and your menagerie (human and furry)!

Natalie

[BestBuddy]

Buddy's Journey ended today. It was sudden and those of you who know our story will understand what a fighter my little man was. He was nearly 16, cushings/addison, heart murmur and diabetic for close to 7 years. I suppose I was beginning to believe he was invincible.

He was such a little trooper getting two injections a day for the last 6+ years and numerous blood tests to check glucose and vet visits for more testing. I was home for lunch and he was fine and he had already gone when I got home tonight only 4 hours later. So once again my little man has made it easy for me by taking “that decision” away, and never having to worry if it was the right time.

He had been doing so well and the last few weeks he has been getting perfect Bg numbers and now he is gone. I'm still numb and need to pack up his things and meds and then I will let myself fall apart for a bit and have a good cry.

If any dog has earned angel wings it was my little man Buddy.

Jenny & Buddy (still in my heart)

[Soaphie & Sydney's Mom]

Oh my gosh! I'm so in shock! I am so so sorry for your loss. No words written or said aloud will help you - just know that we are all here for you.

Hugs from Tami and Sloppy Kisses from Soapher

[k9diabetes]

Hi Jenny,

I put a note to you on the Cushings forum... I was just shocked to see this. I hope that Buddy just laid down for a nap and slipped away - the kind of end we wish for all our critters when that end finally has to come. It's such a rare final gift. No one deserved it more than Buddy.

Sadly,

Natalie

[We Hope]

Jenny,

I am just as shocked and speechless as everyone else. Love and many, many hugs to you--you always took special care of Buddy, who will stay in your heart forever.

Kathy

[peggy0]

I'm so sorry for your loss. He will forever be in your heart and waiting for you at the bridge healthy and sweet as ever.

[EllasDad]

Jenny:

We are very sorry to hear about Buddy today...this is the hard part.

It is evident that this community understands some of what you feel now. We have said farewell to too many companions and it is never easy. Buddy is now getting a warm reception from many friends who had to leave before us.

It sounds like he was quite a fighter...and had many wonderful years in a special home. We are thinking of you both.

Dan and Gerry

[eyelostit]

Jen, you know how sorry I am :(

I left a message at the CDMB, I did not want to repost it and make you any sadder, in time I still hope you stay with us, I would miss my Aussie friend when i am here in the wee night hours.:)

I too am glad he must have just drifted off to his star in the sky.

[Cara's Mom]

Jenny, I am so sorry to read your shocking news. Your little man sure earned is wings, I agree. Our thoughts are with you.

God's speed, Buddy!

[Ricksma]

Ah, Jenny, I am so, so, sorry. Your sweet Buddy was just tired...he was such a fighter, and you were so strong for him. I am crying with you...I know you are heartbroken. Please take care of yourself. I am thinking of you and your sweet angel.

Love and hugs, Teresa

[Lawless' Mommy]

Jenny,

I have just started posting to this site and haven't had a chance to read everyone's story yet. But I wanted to say I am truly sorry for the loss of your furry baby. I know nothing makes it easier, but I hope you are comforted by knowing he went in his sleep, probably dreaming of a t-bone steak and field to run free in!

Be well, you are in my prayers!

Laurie

[Brandy mom]

Jenny

I am so sorry to hear about Buddy. You were a amazing mom with all the thing you went throught with Buddy. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Dawn and the girls

[BestBuddy]

Thank you all so much. I have been reading and taking comfort for all your replies and (with a little help) realized that I should let you all know I am okay. I just haven't been able to reply but I have been here and really appreciate all your kind words. Time will heal my heart and I'll be back to share more of Buddy's journey from beginning to end, all 15 years. Just kidding....but I do have so many stories that I'm sure you will read about in the future maybe more than once. As you can see a little of my strange Aussie humor is starting to creep in so that's a good start.
Jenny & Buddy

[k9diabetes]

I am looking forward to hearing all about Buddy.

How are his furry siblings doing?

Hope you've got a cuddly one there to curl up with you and let you cry into their fur...

Natalie

[bgdavis]

Jenny,

I'm so very sorry for your loss of Buddy. He lived a wonderful and complete life, going peaceably to that Rainbow Bridge. Hopefully, he was enjoying an afternoon nap, dreaming of running across the fields. I'm so relieved that he did not suffer nor force you to make a decision about his fate. You were so very lucky to have Buddy all those years.

Bonnie and Crissy

[fatdog55]

Jenny
Sorry to hear about your Buddy.
Zip and I have been following you guys in this journey for years.

Once again taking the following from Donna ( Kevlar's mom ):

Our animals shepherd us through certain eras of our lives.
When we are ready to turn the corner and make it on our own... they let us go.

Paul and Zip

[Gooch]

Aw Jenny,

I am sorry I am so late learning about Buddy's passing... my deepest condolences. I too am sure he took a nap after you came home from lunch, was happy to see you, lay down in a patch of sunlight and dreamed about lizards or whatever strange creatures in your area and drifted off peacefully.

I hope you are well and Olive and I send you a big hug.

Take care