Timber Update

Let me start off by saying , "Crocs flung off the foot into a lamp will indeed catch on fire." 

Moving on.....

Timber came home Sunday evening!  He is a walking medicine cabinet, but he's home!

The findings?  HOD.  Hypertrophic Osteodystrohpy.  It's a mouthful.  In 'I didn't go to Veterinary School terms', it is a bone disease that usually affects young, rapidly growing, large breed dogs.  The disease produces severe lameness and pain and usually affects multiple limbs. The cause of the disease is currently unknown. (taken straight from here!)

Generally, it is very painful.  And the treatment is just supportive.  Pain killer, anti-inflammatory and antibiotic.  Along with lots of rest and limited activity. 

What's makes Timber's case so different is the severity of it.  He will be treated for 3 weeks at which point we re-evaluate with another set of x-rays.  If the bone is clear, we are finished.  If not, we begin another round of treatment.  Our vet is confident that we are treating aggressively and one treatment should be sufficient. 

Another topper is that in his weakened state, Timber has picked up a worm that healthy dogs normally repel naturally.  So he has a dewormer added onto his meds for 14 days.  And a medication to stop the diarreah.  In total, he take 3 meds in the morning and 4 in the evening.  I literally have a cheat sheet with his meds to keep them straight. 

Onto the good part.....he is feeling much, much better.  Just about pain-free and acting like a normal puppy.  Minus the running and jumping.  But chewing...he's got it down pat.  And the HOD will have no lasting effect.  The prognosis after treatment is very good. 

Thanks to all for your offers of help!  Unfortunately, we are looking at a long road ahead pursuing the rescue, but it will be well worth it to know that other adopters will not have to go through this same ordeal. 
Don't get me wrong, you always take a risk when getting a new pet, however, the deceit outlying our situation was too much to turn a blind eye too.  

New pics to come!

Comments

[Katia / Crazy for trying]

so glad he's on the mend! good luck.

[Nancy Kane]

TIMBER! TIMBER! TIMBER! TIMBER!...

[Mommy Cracked]

I'm so glad to hear he is a little better. Please keep us posted!