Episode 10. 8 Lessons Learned from My Dog's Mystery Illness

Have you ever struggled with your dog’s health?  Or with getting a proper diagnosis for your dog? Have you ever felt like your veterinarian wasn’t listening? Or felt pressured by your vet to make a decision that you didn’t agree with or couldn’t afford?  I’ve been there.

On a beautiful spring morning at the end of April 2014, my Lucy collapsed on our walk around the neighborhood. I struggled to get my 60 lb pit bull girl home as she kept falling over after walking a few steps at a time. But then an hour later, she seemed back to normal. And she was fine for a few more days, but then she collapsed again. What was wrong with my girl?

I’ve learned many lessons as a Dog Mom and today I’m sharing with you: 8 lessons I learned from my dog having a mystery illness. I learned these lessons the hard way, so hopefully you won’t have to.

8 Lessons Learned:

1. You know your dog better than anyone. If you think something is wrong, weird or unusual with your dog’s health, behavior or appearance, trust yourself.
2. Keep a dog health journal. This can be in a notebook or a typed document in your Google Drive. (**I am working to create a version of this. If you would like to be part of a test group, please email [email protected])
3. Document your dog’s health concern by photo (e.g. lump, bump, wound) or taking video (e.g. seizure, movement problem, or an intermittent occurrence).
4. It’s ok to say “No” to your vet.
5. Get a second opinion. Or a third opinion. See a specialist. See a holistic vet. Get a consult at a veterinary teaching hospital.
6. Get a copy of your dog’s blood work for your own records. And any other lab results (e.g. pathology report). Compare your dog’s blood work results over time. If you are super organized, create a spreadsheet. (Note: I am not this organized.)
7. Don’t forget your own self-care. When we are dealing with a chronic or terminal illness in our dogs, it’s a very stressful time and can really take a toll on our own well-being. You can’t take care of anyone else if you aren’t taking care of yourself first.
8. Every day with our dogs is a gift. Enjoy every moment, every tail wag, every belly rub.

 

Links Discussed:

Understanding your dog's blood work. This is the best link I have found to explain what is being measured, the normal ranges and what these indicate about your dog's health.

https://www.caninecancer.com/lab-values

 

Please note: I am not a veterinarian and am not giving medical advice. This is information based on my personal experience as a Dog Mom.

 

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Have you ever struggled to get a proper diagnosis for your dog?

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