Re: [Felvtalk] DMG
Hope the DMG proves to be helpful, but just thought I'd mention the 3 we've had who had full mouth extractions were like new cats afterwards, and have done wonderfully ever since. They were not FELV cats, though. On Tue, Jul 5, 2011 at 9:59 AM, Natalie at...@optonline.net wrote: Has any vet ever suggested using DMG (N, N-DIMETHYLGLYCINE)for FeLV+ cats? I AM USING IT ON A FIV+ CAT THAT HAS PAINFUL STOMATITIS IN THE MOUTH, TO THE POINT WHERE HE COULDN'T EAT; FIV/FeLV+ cats often get that condition, and unfortunately, the only suggested and supposedly appropriate thing is to have their teeth pulled by a specialist, with special emphasis on cleaning out the areas extremely well. My vet says that he doesn't like doing it because often it doesn't help at all, so we are trying DMG. I am using the liquid form, but it apparently also comes in different forms. It has many clinical uses and a variety of applications: http://www.goodsearch.com/search.aspx?keywords=N%2C+N-DIMETHYLGLYCINE ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes were swelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up. When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even responded well with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer - it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as well as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the course of the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his body temperature dropped to 94 degrees. His little body had given out as this terrible disease had taken almost everything from him. I say almost everything, because when we arrived at East Dallas Animal Clinic this morning, even though he was being hand fed oxygen while under a warming pad, little Dexter still had a playful wag of the tail when we placed our hands on him and told him how much we love him. Dexter died at 8 this morning. We are heartbroken that our sweet boy is gone and that he was only with us for a year and a half. He was such a wonderful, sweet and special kitty - we will miss him terribly. He was a huge part of our family - not some pet or animal. We have four other wonderful kitties at home who are not FelV or FIV positive. They have been wonderful as our attention has been so focused on Dex for the last month and we owe them some serious one on one time right now. While all of the kitties get along well, Dex was the one cat in the house that all the other cats adored. He was never involved in spats with any of them and they
Re: [Felvtalk] DMG
Your cats had stomatitis? And it helped having all teeth removed? The problem with doing this to a cat with immunodeficiencies is (ours is FIV+, which is better than FeLV+) obviously slightly more risky! It does sound rather drastic, doesn't it? We have several old cats without teeth, and they look like they're chomping a way at dry food...they just swallow it and love it more than canned food at times. Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Heather Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 10:18 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] DMG Hope the DMG proves to be helpful, but just thought I'd mention the 3 we've had who had full mouth extractions were like new cats afterwards, and have done wonderfully ever since. They were not FELV cats, though. On Tue, Jul 5, 2011 at 9:59 AM, Natalie at...@optonline.net wrote: Has any vet ever suggested using DMG (N, N-DIMETHYLGLYCINE)for FeLV+ cats? I AM USING IT ON A FIV+ CAT THAT HAS PAINFUL STOMATITIS IN THE MOUTH, TO THE POINT WHERE HE COULDN'T EAT; FIV/FeLV+ cats often get that condition, and unfortunately, the only suggested and supposedly appropriate thing is to have their teeth pulled by a specialist, with special emphasis on cleaning out the areas extremely well. My vet says that he doesn't like doing it because often it doesn't help at all, so we are trying DMG. I am using the liquid form, but it apparently also comes in different forms. It has many clinical uses and a variety of applications: http://www.goodsearch.com/search.aspx?keywords=N%2C+N-DIMETHYLGLYCINE ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
Dear Ben, I'm having problems with receiving my email, so I've missed some of what's transpired with Dexter, but in reading your post, your profound love for him is so very clear. You did all you could for your dear boy and he knows that. I lost my beloved dog Jack to cancer last year. He had a tumor that was pressing against his heart, causing him to have trouble breathing. When the specialist identified it and said it was inoperable, I was crushed to have to let him go. I'm still not over the loss and I cry many days, but I promise you that it does get better in time. I pray you find comfort in knowing Dexter is happy and healthy now - and that this separation is only temporary. When you consider that you'll have eternity together, this is but a blink of an eye. I look at the sweet FeLV+ boy I'm fostering and get so angry at this disease and the lack of treatment that exists for it. I'm praying for a treatment and cure. You're in my thoughts and prayers. Cindy McHugh - Original Message - From: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 10:46 AM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes were swelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up. When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even responded well with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer - it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
Don't ever doubt that you did everything you could for your little guy, and don't ever doubt that he knew that and loved you for it. Sounds like he was too tired to stick around, and made the decision on his own. Dex is free of this awful disease now, and is happily romping around with all of our departed FeLV+ babies already waiting for us. Goodnight, sweet Dexter... =^..^= Terri, Siggie the Tomato Vampire, Guinevere, Travis, Dori and 6 furangels: Ruthie, Samantha, Arielle, Gareth, Alec, Salome and Sammi =^..^= - Original Message - From: Ben Williamsmailto:drsiebl...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgmailto:felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 10:46 AM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes were swelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up. When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even responded well with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer - it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as well as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the course of the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his body temperature dropped to 94 degrees. His little body had given out as this terrible disease had taken almost everything from him. I say almost everything, because when we arrived at East Dallas
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
It sounds like Dexter was a wonderful boy. You were lucky to have him he you. Beth Don't Litter, Fix Your Critter! www.Furkids.org --- On Wed, 7/6/11, Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com wrote: From: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Date: Wednesday, July 6, 2011, 10:46 AM I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes were swelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up. When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even responded well with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer - it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as well as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the course of the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his body temperature dropped to 94 degrees. His little body had given out as this terrible disease had taken almost everything from him. I say almost everything, because when we arrived at East Dallas Animal Clinic this morning, even though he was being hand fed oxygen while under a warming pad, little Dexter still had a playful wag of the tail when we placed our hands on him and told him how much we love him. Dexter died at 8 this morning. We are heartbroken that our sweet boy is gone and that he was only with us for a year and a half. He was such a wonderful, sweet and special kitty - we will miss him terribly. He was a huge part of our family - not some pet or animal. We have four other wonderful kitties at home
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as well as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the course of the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his body temperature dropped to 94 degrees. His little body had given out as this terrible disease had taken almost everything from him. I say almost everything, because when we arrived at East Dallas Animal Clinic this morning, even though he was being hand fed oxygen while under a warming pad, little Dexter still had a playful wag of the tail when we placed our hands on him and told him how much we love him. Dexter died at 8 this morning. We are heartbroken that our sweet boy is gone and that he was only with us for a year and a half. He was such a wonderful, sweet and special kitty - we will miss him terribly. He was a huge part of our family - not some pet or animal. We have four other wonderful kitties at home who are not FelV or FIV positive. They have been wonderful as our attention has been so focused on Dex for the last month and we owe them some serious one on one time right now. While all of the kitties get along well, Dex was the one cat in the house that all the other cats adored. He was never involved in spats with any of them and they all took turns cleaning him and looking after him. Dex was special to everyone. In the end, I wish there was more I could have done for Dex - I look back at the timing of everything and how the last three weeks have gone for him. Could the outcome have been different? I'll never know, of course, but I'm not done fighting this fight with FeLV and FIV. These diseases took our boy from us and I will not stop until they are both a thing of the past. Its the very least I can do in honor of Dexter - a wonderful boy who fought with dignity and calm, and above all else, the special brand of sweetness that only he had. Thanks, everyone. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org __ NOD32 6270 (20110706) Information __ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.com ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
Ben, I guess Dexter knew that Cali needed someone to play with from Dallas. We lost our Cali last Monday and it has been to hard for me to even write about it. You were so helpful to our little Cali and Dr. Wright was wonderful in the short time we had to make so many decisions. We only had our little girl 5 months and she was tired (but a true fighter in her short little life). She ended up with fluid around her lungs and we drained it once and it refilled back up within 24 hours. She was so tired but she fought so hard for the five months we had her. She was the cutiest kitten but it was so hard to watch her laboring to breath. I just want you to know that you and Dexter were a blessing to my husband and I (and our little girl, Cali) and I promise, Cali and he are playing together now with no pain. Bless you, Ben, and thank you for all you did for Dexter and for my family in our time of crisis and pain. Cathy and Mark Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com wrote: = I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes were swelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up. When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even responded well with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer - it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as well as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the course of the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his body temperature dropped to 94 degrees. His little
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
I was saddened to read that little Dexter has crossed the Rainbow Bridge. He was a brave warrior in his battle against FeLV. You both did everything you could to help Dexter in this battle. He is now healthy and chasing butterflies. I'll light a candle for Dexter tonight. Sharyl From: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 6, 2011 10:46 AM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes were swelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up. When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even responded well with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer - it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as well as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the course of the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his body temperature dropped to 94 degrees. His little body had given out as this terrible disease had taken almost everything from him. I say almost everything, because when we arrived at East Dallas Animal Clinic this morning, even though he was being hand fed oxygen while under a warming pad, little Dexter still had a playful wag of the tail when we placed our hands on him and told him how much we love him. Dexter died at 8 this morning. We are heartbroken that our sweet boy is gone and that he was only with us for a year and a half. He was such a wonderful, sweet and special kitty - we will miss him terribly. He was a
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
Wanted to send my condolences as I may not post often as but I do read and follow the postings. It is heart breaking indeed I'm saddened by your loss of Dexter! I know this feeling all too well. Remember, he knows how much you loved him and did what you could do. He loved you in return. Bless you for giving him the love and care he needed. He will send another angel to you in due time that will need your help. Meanwhile, he is at the Rainbow Bridge with my Taz and late husband of course all the other furangels where they are healthy and chasing butterflies. I've been in this group/list for a very long time. Have seen many come and go but I continue to stay and read. I pray everyday for a cure for this damn disease. TAZZY'S ANIMAL TRANSPORTS/SIAMESE COLLIE RESCUESultan, WA. 98294Terrie Mohr-Forkerhttp://tazzys.org/Non-Profit national rescue Dedicated to the welfare of animals. Copyright © 1999-2010 tazzys.org. All rights reserved. Original Message Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] DexterFrom: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.comDate: Wed, July 06, 2011 7:46 amTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgI'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kindwords regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have sharedand appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us.Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - wereceived a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic'sDr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of thenight. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, weimmediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright hasbeen on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be backyesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him onthree occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulatorinjections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex inon Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given noadvice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex hisshot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don'tblame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice wherehe is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patientsinformed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or daysaren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago,when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which tookhim over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic bythe LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas AnimalClinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr.Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of takingcalls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work withand have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment.I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to themyesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't bereturning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in forhis checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had setin, his advice was to "take him home and make him comfortable." A weekpassed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternatetreatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week hetook to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks whereDex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anythingdone for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spokewith him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remainingdoses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex lastyear when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dexwithout question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have hadmore effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while onImmunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases,though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex whilewe treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes wereswelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up.When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even respondedwell with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer -it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it hadprobably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and morelabored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too muchpain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, aswell as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the courseof the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his bodytemperature dropped to 94
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
Dear Cathy and Mark, I didn't realize you lost your little Cali. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I'm glad that Cali got to know your love and kindess. As I said to Ben, I pray you find comfort in knowing she's now happy and healthy. And when you consider that you'll have eternity together, this separation is but a speck of time. Cali just turned a corner before you did and one day, you'll turn that corner and there she'll be. She's not gone...just gone ahead. You're in my thoughts and prayers, Cindy - Original Message - From: ckess...@cox.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 12:00 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Ben, I guess Dexter knew that Cali needed someone to play with from Dallas. We lost our Cali last Monday and it has been to hard for me to even write about it. You were so helpful to our little Cali and Dr. Wright was wonderful in the short time we had to make so many decisions. We only had our little girl 5 months and she was tired (but a true fighter in her short little life). She ended up with fluid around her lungs and we drained it once and it refilled back up within 24 hours. She was so tired but she fought so hard for the five months we had her. She was the cutiest kitten but it was so hard to watch her laboring to breath. I just want you to know that you and Dexter were a blessing to my husband and I (and our little girl, Cali) and I promise, Cali and he are playing together now with no pain. Bless you, Ben, and thank you for all you did for Dexter and for my family in our time of crisis and pain. Cathy and Mark Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com wrote: = I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes were swelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up. When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even responded well with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer - it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as well as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the course of the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his body temperature dropped to 94 degrees. His little body had given out as this terrible disease had taken almost everything from him. I say almost everything, because when we arrived at East Dallas Animal Clinic this morning, even though he was being hand fed oxygen while under a warming pad, little Dexter still had a playful wag of the tail when we placed our hands on him and told him how much we love him. Dexter died at 8 this morning. We are heartbroken that our sweet boy is gone and that he was only with us for a year and a half. He was such a wonderful, sweet and special kitty - we will miss him terribly. He was a huge part of our family - not some pet or animal. We have four other wonderful kitties at home who are not FelV or FIV positive. They have been wonderful as our attention has been so focused on Dex for the last month and we owe them some serious one on one time right now. While all of the kitties get along well, Dex was the one cat in the house that all the other cats adored. He was never involved in spats with any of them and they all took turns cleaning him and looking after him. Dex was special to everyone. In the end, I wish there was more I could have done for Dex - I look back at the timing of everything and how the last three weeks have gone for him. Could the outcome have been different? I'll never know, of course, but I'm not done fighting this fight with FeLV and FIV. These diseases took our boy from us and I will not stop until they are both a thing of the past. Its the very least I can do in honor of Dexter - a wonderful boy who fought with dignity and calm, and above all else, the special brand of sweetness that only he had. Thanks, everyone. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org __ NOD32 6270 (20110706) Information __ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.com ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
My heart is breaking after reading your story! I'm truly sorry Dexter is gone, but he will live within your heart now. You did so much for him and he fought the battle as much as he could. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Lynda - Original Message - From: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 9:46 AM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes were swelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up. When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even responded well with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer - it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as well as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the course of the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his body temperature dropped to 94 degrees. His little body had given out as this terrible disease had taken almost everything from him. I say almost everything, because when we arrived at East Dallas Animal Clinic this morning, even though he was being hand fed oxygen while under a warming pad, little Dexter still had a playful wag of the tail when we placed our hands on him and told him how much we love him. Dexter died at 8 this morning. We are heartbroken that our sweet boy is gone and that he was only with us for a year and a half. He was such a wonderful, sweet and special kitty - we will miss him
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
It is always so sad to hear about any of our little furries succumbing to this horrible disease; I just wish that there were more available to help them to feel better or get well. One would think, that after all these years, there would be more hope for them! What is it about this disease that makes it so complicated? So many different symptoms that mimic other thingsdoes anyone out there care to find a cure? I am so sorry to hear about all of the crossings over the rainbow bridge! Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Cindy McHugh Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 1:31 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Dear Cathy and Mark, I didn't realize you lost your little Cali. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I'm glad that Cali got to know your love and kindess. As I said to Ben, I pray you find comfort in knowing she's now happy and healthy. And when you consider that you'll have eternity together, this separation is but a speck of time. Cali just turned a corner before you did and one day, you'll turn that corner and there she'll be. She's not gone...just gone ahead. You're in my thoughts and prayers, Cindy - Original Message - From: ckess...@cox.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 12:00 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Ben, I guess Dexter knew that Cali needed someone to play with from Dallas. We lost our Cali last Monday and it has been to hard for me to even write about it. You were so helpful to our little Cali and Dr. Wright was wonderful in the short time we had to make so many decisions. We only had our little girl 5 months and she was tired (but a true fighter in her short little life). She ended up with fluid around her lungs and we drained it once and it refilled back up within 24 hours. She was so tired but she fought so hard for the five months we had her. She was the cutiest kitten but it was so hard to watch her laboring to breath. I just want you to know that you and Dexter were a blessing to my husband and I (and our little girl, Cali) and I promise, Cali and he are playing together now with no pain. Bless you, Ben, and thank you for all you did for Dexter and for my family in our time of crisis and pain. Cathy and Mark Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com wrote: = I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
Thanks so much, everyone. It's been a really hard day for us and I'm haunted by seeing Dexter this morning struggling so hard to live. You've all been so wonderful and your kind comments have really helped today - if anything, we are realizing even more now just how much we love that little boy. He was so special to us. If I may, I have a question regarding Euthanasia for those of you who have been through this before - for those of you who are squeamish, please just skip this one: Dexter passed peacefully when Dr. Cantrell administered the euthanasia this morning. He let out a small sigh when the initial sedative was injected and silently slipped away when the final injection was made. A few minutes later, as we were still petting him, a fair amount of yellow, clear liquid came out of his mouth and nose. I assume this was fluid that had started to collect in his lungs, perhaps part of the jaundice from his liver? I don't know - I just can't stand the idea that he was in severe pain for a while there and that, perhaps, we put him through it. He had a chest X-ray on sunday night and no fluid was visible. Or, maybe it was missed. Sorry for the awkward question. On Wed, Jul 6, 2011 at 12:46 PM, Lynda Wilson longhornf...@verizon.netwrote: My heart is breaking after reading your story! I'm truly sorry Dexter is gone, but he will live within your heart now. You did so much for him and he fought the battle as much as he could. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Lynda - Original Message - From: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 9:46 AM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
Ben, Try not to remember what happened after Dexter gave his small sigh. Take comfort that his sigh to you was his sign that he could now relax and breath freely. What happens after that is just what the body does naturally. Many times, an animal can urinate or have other fluids that come out from their mouths and noses because the body is just relaxing and riding itself of all types of fluids. It is very natural and some animals do it and some animals don't. It has nothing to do with suffering. Dexter knows you loved him and he loved you. That is WHAT MATTERS. Don't go down the road of what if's. You were a good family and Dexter loved you. I have never been able to have children so my pets are my kids. I take the decision to end a kids life very seriously (as I know you did). I believe it is the last huge responsibility I do, as a loving parent is to make sure my child has the best quality of life they can have. That is exactly what you did for Dexter. You didn't want to see him continue to struggle to breath and you helped him to be peaceful. Look to your other kids to help you get through. See the life in them. They will show you the way. You are a compassionate and loving man. Cathy Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com wrote: = Thanks so much, everyone. It's been a really hard day for us and I'm haunted by seeing Dexter this morning struggling so hard to live. You've all been so wonderful and your kind comments have really helped today - if anything, we are realizing even more now just how much we love that little boy. He was so special to us. If I may, I have a question regarding Euthanasia for those of you who have been through this before - for those of you who are squeamish, please just skip this one: Dexter passed peacefully when Dr. Cantrell administered the euthanasia this morning. He let out a small sigh when the initial sedative was injected and silently slipped away when the final injection was made. A few minutes later, as we were still petting him, a fair amount of yellow, clear liquid came out of his mouth and nose. I assume this was fluid that had started to collect in his lungs, perhaps part of the jaundice from his liver? I don't know - I just can't stand the idea that he was in severe pain for a while there and that, perhaps, we put him through it. He had a chest X-ray on sunday night and no fluid was visible. Or, maybe it was missed. Sorry for the awkward question. On Wed, Jul 6, 2011 at 12:46 PM, Lynda Wilson longhornf...@verizon.netwrote: My heart is breaking after reading your story! I'm truly sorry Dexter is gone, but he will live within your heart now. You did so much for him and he fought the battle as much as he could. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Lynda - Original Message - From: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 9:46 AM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
It is natural for a body to release fluids and solids as the soul leaves it. This is true with animals and with people. It is not a sign of pain. It is a sign of muscle relaxation. This is one reason a vet may wrap a body in plastic. I never, ever, never have or will leave a friend to leave this world without me holding him/her and this happens. It also happens in natural deaths. Don't ask about releases when a person commits suicide or even is murdered. It can be awful if a family member discovers the body. This, again, is not a sign of pain. On Jul 6, 2011, at 4:25 PM, Ben Williams wrote: Thanks so much, everyone. It's been a really hard day for us and I'm haunted by seeing Dexter this morning struggling so hard to live. You've all been so wonderful and your kind comments have really helped today - if anything, we are realizing even more now just how much we love that little boy. He was so special to us. If I may, I have a question regarding Euthanasia for those of you who have been through this before - for those of you who are squeamish, please just skip this one: Dexter passed peacefully when Dr. Cantrell administered the euthanasia this morning. He let out a small sigh when the initial sedative was injected and silently slipped away when the final injection was made. A few minutes later, as we were still petting him, a fair amount of yellow, clear liquid came out of his mouth and nose. I assume this was fluid that had started to collect in his lungs, perhaps part of the jaundice from his liver? I don't know - I just can't stand the idea that he was in severe pain for a while there and that, perhaps, we put him through it. He had a chest X- ray on sunday night and no fluid was visible. Or, maybe it was missed. Sorry for the awkward question. On Wed, Jul 6, 2011 at 12:46 PM, Lynda Wilson longhornf...@verizon.net wrote: My heart is breaking after reading your story! I'm truly sorry Dexter is gone, but he will live within your heart now. You did so much for him and he fought the battle as much as he could. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Lynda - Original Message - From: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 9:46 AM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
So very sorry for your loss. I post rarely but have been following Dexter's story and it touched me. About your Euthanasia question - I don't know the answer but you may want to ask Dr. Cantrell to get the specifics of the yellow liquid just for your own information (and because you will continue to wonder). Underneath your question is - did you do the right thing, soon enough? The answer is unequivocally yes. Your love for Dexter and the information you were provided in real time guided you to making the right choices every step of the way.I know because I’ve been there. Euthanasia is very sad, particularly after a long struggle in the hospital. I’ve beaten myself up for similar circumstances. You did the best you could (and yes your best was good enough). In the end you helped Dexter pass peacefully, which is a gift. If Dexter could talk to you right now what would he say? He would probably say think of me with joy in your heart for knowing me and please go play with my brothers and sisters for me. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
I know that when an animal or human being dies, this is supposed to happen - but in all the years and all the euthanasia I had to have administered, always holding the animals (cats and dogs), and then staying with them for about 15 minutes (our vet allows everyone to be alone with them) - it has NEVER happened, yet! I wonder if that's unusual? Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of MaiMaiPG Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 6:05 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter It is natural for a body to release fluids and solids as the soul leaves it. This is true with animals and with people. It is not a sign of pain. It is a sign of muscle relaxation. This is one reason a vet may wrap a body in plastic. I never, ever, never have or will leave a friend to leave this world without me holding him/her and this happens. It also happens in natural deaths. Don't ask about releases when a person commits suicide or even is murdered. It can be awful if a family member discovers the body. This, again, is not a sign of pain. On Jul 6, 2011, at 4:25 PM, Ben Williams wrote: Thanks so much, everyone. It's been a really hard day for us and I'm haunted by seeing Dexter this morning struggling so hard to live. You've all been so wonderful and your kind comments have really helped today - if anything, we are realizing even more now just how much we love that little boy. He was so special to us. If I may, I have a question regarding Euthanasia for those of you who have been through this before - for those of you who are squeamish, please just skip this one: Dexter passed peacefully when Dr. Cantrell administered the euthanasia this morning. He let out a small sigh when the initial sedative was injected and silently slipped away when the final injection was made. A few minutes later, as we were still petting him, a fair amount of yellow, clear liquid came out of his mouth and nose. I assume this was fluid that had started to collect in his lungs, perhaps part of the jaundice from his liver? I don't know - I just can't stand the idea that he was in severe pain for a while there and that, perhaps, we put him through it. He had a chest X- ray on sunday night and no fluid was visible. Or, maybe it was missed. Sorry for the awkward question. On Wed, Jul 6, 2011 at 12:46 PM, Lynda Wilson longhornf...@verizon.net wrote: My heart is breaking after reading your story! I'm truly sorry Dexter is gone, but he will live within your heart now. You did so much for him and he fought the battle as much as he could. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Lynda - Original Message - From: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 9:46 AM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
You are most certainly correct, Natalie! Anyone know of a Feline Leukemia Society to donate to? Is there a group of scientists that are trying to find a cure or a better treatment plan for this deadly disease? Our poor babies!! - Original Message - From: Natalie at...@optonline.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 2:41 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now It is always so sad to hear about any of our little furries succumbing to this horrible disease; I just wish that there were more available to help them to feel better or get well. One would think, that after all these years, there would be more hope for them! What is it about this disease that makes it so complicated? So many different symptoms that mimic other thingsdoes anyone out there care to find a cure? I am so sorry to hear about all of the crossings over the rainbow bridge! Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Cindy McHugh Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 1:31 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Dear Cathy and Mark, I didn't realize you lost your little Cali. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I'm glad that Cali got to know your love and kindess. As I said to Ben, I pray you find comfort in knowing she's now happy and healthy. And when you consider that you'll have eternity together, this separation is but a speck of time. Cali just turned a corner before you did and one day, you'll turn that corner and there she'll be. She's not gone...just gone ahead. You're in my thoughts and prayers, Cindy - Original Message - From: ckess...@cox.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 12:00 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Ben, I guess Dexter knew that Cali needed someone to play with from Dallas. We lost our Cali last Monday and it has been to hard for me to even write about it. You were so helpful to our little Cali and Dr. Wright was wonderful in the short time we had to make so many decisions. We only had our little girl 5 months and she was tired (but a true fighter in her short little life). She ended up with fluid around her lungs and we drained it once and it refilled back up within 24 hours. She was so tired but she fought so hard for the five months we had her. She was the cutiest kitten but it was so hard to watch her laboring to breath. I just want you to know that you and Dexter were a blessing to my husband and I (and our little girl, Cali) and I promise, Cali and he are playing together now with no pain. Bless you, Ben, and thank you for all you did for Dexter and for my family in our time of crisis and pain. Cathy and Mark Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com wrote: = I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr.
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
Ben, same thing happened to my kitty, Crash, that I had adopted from the local Humane Society. I thought the same. I stayed so long with him to say good-bye that I noticed the fluid coming out of his nose. I never asked about it. I think at the time, I did not want to know. He was having a hard time breathing as well. Peace be with you! Lynda - Original Message - From: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 4:25 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter Thanks so much, everyone. It's been a really hard day for us and I'm haunted by seeing Dexter this morning struggling so hard to live. You've all been so wonderful and your kind comments have really helped today - if anything, we are realizing even more now just how much we love that little boy. He was so special to us. If I may, I have a question regarding Euthanasia for those of you who have been through this before - for those of you who are squeamish, please just skip this one: Dexter passed peacefully when Dr. Cantrell administered the euthanasia this morning. He let out a small sigh when the initial sedative was injected and silently slipped away when the final injection was made. A few minutes later, as we were still petting him, a fair amount of yellow, clear liquid came out of his mouth and nose. I assume this was fluid that had started to collect in his lungs, perhaps part of the jaundice from his liver? I don't know - I just can't stand the idea that he was in severe pain for a while there and that, perhaps, we put him through it. He had a chest X-ray on sunday night and no fluid was visible. Or, maybe it was missed. Sorry for the awkward question. On Wed, Jul 6, 2011 at 12:46 PM, Lynda Wilson longhornf...@verizon.netwrote: My heart is breaking after reading your story! I'm truly sorry Dexter is gone, but he will live within your heart now. You did so much for him and he fought the battle as much as he could. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Lynda - Original Message - From: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 9:46 AM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
Ben, I'm so sorry you and Dexter lost your fight. It happens all too often, and not from lack of caring or trying -- or from not doing things differently. Given Dex's condition as you describe it, I don't think the outcome would have been wildly different if the variables you mention had been different -- but possibly you would have had less worry about someone being available to treat him in a timely manner. My condolences to all of you. Diane R. -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Ben Williams Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 9:46 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes were swelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up. When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even responded well with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer - it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as well as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the course of the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his body temperature dropped to 94 degrees. His little body had given out as this terrible disease had taken almost everything from him. I say almost everything, because when we arrived at East Dallas Animal Clinic this morning, even though he was being hand fed oxygen while under a warming pad, little Dexter still had a playful wag of the tail when we placed our hands on
Re: [Felvtalk] DMG
Yes, in cats (and in humans) the constant infections and abscesses in a bad mouth of teeth have all sorts of dire consequences in the rest of the body's systems. I have never heard anyone who regretted having some or all of their babies' teeth pulled in the interests of clearing up stomatitis, etc. Diane R. -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Heather Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 10:00 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] DMG Yes, we have had 3 cases (2 rescues of mine, one a friend's so I don't know his testing status, he could be FIV+ though, he was a big male brought in from the streets) of full mouth extractions that resulted in a very sick kitty soon becoming a 'brand new cat. One is a year out from the extraction, the other is 2 years out, both are doing so well! Both of those guys were negative. My friend's kitty is doing wonderfully, too, and his full mouth extraction was done by our humane society low-cost clinic for a fraction of what my guys were done for--most low cost clinics probably can't do that, though. All 3 of these guys now also eat dry food, by their own liking, I couldn't believe it. On Wed, Jul 6, 2011 at 10:53 AM, Natalie at...@optonline.net wrote: Your cats had stomatitis? And it helped having all teeth removed? The problem with doing this to a cat with immunodeficiencies is (ours is FIV+, which is better than FeLV+) obviously slightly more risky! It FIV+does sound rather drastic, doesn't it? We have several old cats without teeth, and they look like they're chomping a way at dry food...they just swallow it and love it more than canned food at times. Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Heather Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 10:18 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] DMG Hope the DMG proves to be helpful, but just thought I'd mention the 3 we've had who had full mouth extractions were like new cats afterwards, and have done wonderfully ever since. They were not FELV cats, though. On Tue, Jul 5, 2011 at 9:59 AM, Natalie at...@optonline.net wrote: Has any vet ever suggested using DMG (N, N-DIMETHYLGLYCINE)for FeLV+ cats? I AM USING IT ON A FIV+ CAT THAT HAS PAINFUL STOMATITIS IN THE MOUTH, TO THE POINT WHERE HE COULDN'T EAT; FIV/FeLV+ cats often get that condition, and unfortunately, the only suggested and supposedly appropriate thing is to have their teeth pulled by a specialist, with special emphasis on cleaning out the areas extremely well. My vet says that he doesn't like doing it because often it doesn't help at all, so we are trying DMG. I am using the liquid form, but it apparently also comes in different forms. It has many clinical uses and a variety of applications: http://www.goodsearch.com/search.aspx?keywords=N%2C+N-DIMETHYLGLYCIN E ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.o rg ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
I have no idea - maybe we should all do some searches to see what's out there and ask a lot of questions! I'd hate to donate to anyone who merely uses cats for the sake of research; I'd like to see if there's someplace where they actually treat FeLV+ cats while trying for a cure, not mere research for research sake and getting their hands on grant money. I should ask my veterinarian, he was co-founder of AVAR (Association of Veterinarians for Animal Rights, now part of HSUS) whether he is aware of any real and constructive research done on FeLV. In the 90s, Cleveland Amory was on a show debating a researcher who got lucrative grants for animal experiments, and not really contributing to anything specific - just useless stuff! Cleveland asked him about a specific case (Please note: it was made up at that moment to see how ridiculous and irrelevant some research is!), describing a really grotesque scenario of one cat's eye sewn shut, while the other was sewn so it couldn't close, electrodes attached to the forehead, tail cut off, feeding tube inserted, etc. The researcher started defending every bit of it without a blink of an eye. When he finished, Cleveland boomed Aha, I knew you would defend just about anything to get your hands on grant money; I just made the whole thing up! BTW- Cleveland Amory was my very first adopter of a kitten that I trapped at the Greenwich dump in 1992 - Tiger Bear, an pale orange tabby with golden eyes (after his beloved white cat Polar Bear died). Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Lynda Wilson Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 6:54 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now You are most certainly correct, Natalie! Anyone know of a Feline Leukemia Society to donate to? Is there a group of scientists that are trying to find a cure or a better treatment plan for this deadly disease? Our poor babies!! - Original Message - From: Natalie at...@optonline.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 2:41 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now It is always so sad to hear about any of our little furries succumbing to this horrible disease; I just wish that there were more available to help them to feel better or get well. One would think, that after all these years, there would be more hope for them! What is it about this disease that makes it so complicated? So many different symptoms that mimic other thingsdoes anyone out there care to find a cure? I am so sorry to hear about all of the crossings over the rainbow bridge! Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Cindy McHugh Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 1:31 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Dear Cathy and Mark, I didn't realize you lost your little Cali. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I'm glad that Cali got to know your love and kindess. As I said to Ben, I pray you find comfort in knowing she's now happy and healthy. And when you consider that you'll have eternity together, this separation is but a speck of time. Cali just turned a corner before you did and one day, you'll turn that corner and there she'll be. She's not gone...just gone ahead. You're in my thoughts and prayers, Cindy - Original Message - From: ckess...@cox.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 12:00 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Ben, I guess Dexter knew that Cali needed someone to play with from Dallas. We lost our Cali last Monday and it has been to hard for me to even write about it. You were so helpful to our little Cali and Dr. Wright was wonderful in the short time we had to make so many decisions. We only had our little girl 5 months and she was tired (but a true fighter in her short little life). She ended up with fluid around her lungs and we drained it once and it refilled back up within 24 hours. She was so tired but she fought so hard for the five months we had her. She was the cutiest kitten but it was so hard to watch her laboring to breath. I just want you to know that you and Dexter were a blessing to my husband and I (and our little girl, Cali) and I promise, Cali and he are playing together now with no pain. Bless you, Ben, and thank you for all you did for Dexter and for my family in our time of crisis and pain. Cathy and Mark Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com wrote: = I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven
Re: [Felvtalk] DMG
What is puzzling about the connection between stomatitis/teeth/gums is that one could understand if they were in bad shape, but our FIV+ Sox has gorgeous white teeth and great pink gums. The consensus is that there may be things going on deep down at the roots, not visible in the mouth. Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Diane Rosenfeldt Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 7:00 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] DMG Yes, in cats (and in humans) the constant infections and abscesses in a bad mouth of teeth have all sorts of dire consequences in the rest of the body's systems. I have never heard anyone who regretted having some or all of their babies' teeth pulled in the interests of clearing up stomatitis, etc. Diane R. -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Heather Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 10:00 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] DMG Yes, we have had 3 cases (2 rescues of mine, one a friend's so I don't know his testing status, he could be FIV+ though, he was a big male brought in from the streets) of full mouth extractions that resulted in a very sick kitty soon becoming a 'brand new cat. One is a year out from the extraction, the other is 2 years out, both are doing so well! Both of those guys were negative. My friend's kitty is doing wonderfully, too, and his full mouth extraction was done by our humane society low-cost clinic for a fraction of what my guys were done for--most low cost clinics probably can't do that, though. All 3 of these guys now also eat dry food, by their own liking, I couldn't believe it. On Wed, Jul 6, 2011 at 10:53 AM, Natalie at...@optonline.net wrote: Your cats had stomatitis? And it helped having all teeth removed? The problem with doing this to a cat with immunodeficiencies is (ours is FIV+, which is better than FeLV+) obviously slightly more risky! It FIV+does sound rather drastic, doesn't it? We have several old cats without teeth, and they look like they're chomping a way at dry food...they just swallow it and love it more than canned food at times. Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Heather Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 10:18 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] DMG Hope the DMG proves to be helpful, but just thought I'd mention the 3 we've had who had full mouth extractions were like new cats afterwards, and have done wonderfully ever since. They were not FELV cats, though. On Tue, Jul 5, 2011 at 9:59 AM, Natalie at...@optonline.net wrote: Has any vet ever suggested using DMG (N, N-DIMETHYLGLYCINE)for FeLV+ cats? I AM USING IT ON A FIV+ CAT THAT HAS PAINFUL STOMATITIS IN THE MOUTH, TO THE POINT WHERE HE COULDN'T EAT; FIV/FeLV+ cats often get that condition, and unfortunately, the only suggested and supposedly appropriate thing is to have their teeth pulled by a specialist, with special emphasis on cleaning out the areas extremely well. My vet says that he doesn't like doing it because often it doesn't help at all, so we are trying DMG. I am using the liquid form, but it apparently also comes in different forms. It has many clinical uses and a variety of applications: http://www.goodsearch.com/search.aspx?keywords=N%2C+N-DIMETHYLGLYCIN E ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.o rg ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
Doesnt the Wynn Foundation do a lot of good work for cats? -- My iPhone told me to send this message. -- On Jul 6, 2011, at 6:15 PM, Natalie at...@optonline.net wrote: I have no idea - maybe we should all do some searches to see what's out there and ask a lot of questions! I'd hate to donate to anyone who merely uses cats for the sake of research; I'd like to see if there's someplace where they actually treat FeLV+ cats while trying for a cure, not mere research for research sake and getting their hands on grant money. I should ask my veterinarian, he was co-founder of AVAR (Association of Veterinarians for Animal Rights, now part of HSUS) whether he is aware of any real and constructive research done on FeLV. In the 90s, Cleveland Amory was on a show debating a researcher who got lucrative grants for animal experiments, and not really contributing to anything specific - just useless stuff! Cleveland asked him about a specific case (Please note: it was made up at that moment to see how ridiculous and irrelevant some research is!), describing a really grotesque scenario of one cat's eye sewn shut, while the other was sewn so it couldn't close, electrodes attached to the forehead, tail cut off, feeding tube inserted, etc. The researcher started defending every bit of it without a blink of an eye. When he finished, Cleveland boomed Aha, I knew you would defend just about anything to get your hands on grant money; I just made the whole thing up! BTW- Cleveland Amory was my very first adopter of a kitten that I trapped at the Greenwich dump in 1992 - Tiger Bear, an pale orange tabby with golden eyes (after his beloved white cat Polar Bear died). Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Lynda Wilson Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 6:54 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now You are most certainly correct, Natalie! Anyone know of a Feline Leukemia Society to donate to? Is there a group of scientists that are trying to find a cure or a better treatment plan for this deadly disease? Our poor babies!! - Original Message - From: Natalie at...@optonline.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 2:41 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now It is always so sad to hear about any of our little furries succumbing to this horrible disease; I just wish that there were more available to help them to feel better or get well. One would think, that after all these years, there would be more hope for them! What is it about this disease that makes it so complicated? So many different symptoms that mimic other thingsdoes anyone out there care to find a cure? I am so sorry to hear about all of the crossings over the rainbow bridge! Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Cindy McHugh Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 1:31 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Dear Cathy and Mark, I didn't realize you lost your little Cali. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I'm glad that Cali got to know your love and kindess. As I said to Ben, I pray you find comfort in knowing she's now happy and healthy. And when you consider that you'll have eternity together, this separation is but a speck of time. Cali just turned a corner before you did and one day, you'll turn that corner and there she'll be. She's not gone...just gone ahead. You're in my thoughts and prayers, Cindy - Original Message - From: ckess...@cox.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 12:00 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Ben, I guess Dexter knew that Cali needed someone to play with from Dallas. We lost our Cali last Monday and it has been to hard for me to even write about it. You were so helpful to our little Cali and Dr. Wright was wonderful in the short time we had to make so many decisions. We only had our little girl 5 months and she was tired (but a true fighter in her short little life). She ended up with fluid around her lungs and we drained it once and it refilled back up within 24 hours. She was so tired but she fought so hard for the five months we had her. She was the cutiest kitten but it was so hard to watch her laboring to breath. I just want you to know that you and Dexter were a blessing to my husband and I (and our little girl, Cali) and I promise, Cali and he are playing together now with no pain. Bless you, Ben, and thank you for all you did for Dexter and for my family in our time of crisis and pain. Cathy and Mark Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com wrote: = I'd like to start off this
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
I have no idea...do you know what exactly they do? What's their website - let's look into it. -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Ben Williams Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 7:34 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Doesnt the Wynn Foundation do a lot of good work for cats? -- My iPhone told me to send this message. -- On Jul 6, 2011, at 6:15 PM, Natalie at...@optonline.net wrote: I have no idea - maybe we should all do some searches to see what's out there and ask a lot of questions! I'd hate to donate to anyone who merely uses cats for the sake of research; I'd like to see if there's someplace where they actually treat FeLV+ cats while trying for a cure, not mere research for research sake and getting their hands on grant money. I should ask my veterinarian, he was co-founder of AVAR (Association of Veterinarians for Animal Rights, now part of HSUS) whether he is aware of any real and constructive research done on FeLV. In the 90s, Cleveland Amory was on a show debating a researcher who got lucrative grants for animal experiments, and not really contributing to anything specific - just useless stuff! Cleveland asked him about a specific case (Please note: it was made up at that moment to see how ridiculous and irrelevant some research is!), describing a really grotesque scenario of one cat's eye sewn shut, while the other was sewn so it couldn't close, electrodes attached to the forehead, tail cut off, feeding tube inserted, etc. The researcher started defending every bit of it without a blink of an eye. When he finished, Cleveland boomed Aha, I knew you would defend just about anything to get your hands on grant money; I just made the whole thing up! BTW- Cleveland Amory was my very first adopter of a kitten that I trapped at the Greenwich dump in 1992 - Tiger Bear, an pale orange tabby with golden eyes (after his beloved white cat Polar Bear died). Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Lynda Wilson Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 6:54 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now You are most certainly correct, Natalie! Anyone know of a Feline Leukemia Society to donate to? Is there a group of scientists that are trying to find a cure or a better treatment plan for this deadly disease? Our poor babies!! - Original Message - From: Natalie at...@optonline.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 2:41 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now It is always so sad to hear about any of our little furries succumbing to this horrible disease; I just wish that there were more available to help them to feel better or get well. One would think, that after all these years, there would be more hope for them! What is it about this disease that makes it so complicated? So many different symptoms that mimic other thingsdoes anyone out there care to find a cure? I am so sorry to hear about all of the crossings over the rainbow bridge! Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Cindy McHugh Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 1:31 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Dear Cathy and Mark, I didn't realize you lost your little Cali. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I'm glad that Cali got to know your love and kindess. As I said to Ben, I pray you find comfort in knowing she's now happy and healthy. And when you consider that you'll have eternity together, this separation is but a speck of time. Cali just turned a corner before you did and one day, you'll turn that corner and there she'll be. She's not gone...just gone ahead. You're in my thoughts and prayers, Cindy - Original Message - From: ckess...@cox.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 12:00 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Ben, I guess Dexter knew that Cali needed someone to play with from Dallas. We lost our Cali last Monday and it has been to hard for me to even write about it. You were so helpful to our little Cali and Dr. Wright was wonderful in the short time we had to make so many decisions. We only had our little girl 5 months and she was tired (but a true fighter in her short little life). She ended up with fluid around her lungs and we drained it once and it refilled back up within 24 hours. She was so tired but she fought so hard for the five months we had her. She was the cutiest kitten but it was so hard to watch her laboring to breath. I just want you to know that you
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
Natalie, I have never had this experience either when one of my furbabies has passed -- but I haven't picked them up or moved them around, perhaps this is just a gravity issue. I work for the county Medical Examiner, and I can attest that more often than not, there is some sort of fluid that escapes when a person dies. Could be mucus, urine, whatever might seek its own level when all the muscles relax. In Dexter's case, I'm guessing it was fluid that was building up somewhere, but that doesn't necessarily mean it was making him suffer. I'm sorry that was the last thing you saw happen with him and it bothered you, but please don't let it make you feel guilty. It's natural. Diane R. -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Natalie Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 5:47 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I know that when an animal or human being dies, this is supposed to happen - but in all the years and all the euthanasia I had to have administered, always holding the animals (cats and dogs), and then staying with them for about 15 minutes (our vet allows everyone to be alone with them) - it has NEVER happened, yet! I wonder if that's unusual? Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of MaiMaiPG Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 6:05 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter It is natural for a body to release fluids and solids as the soul leaves it. This is true with animals and with people. It is not a sign of pain. It is a sign of muscle relaxation. This is one reason a vet may wrap a body in plastic. I never, ever, never have or will leave a friend to leave this world without me holding him/her and this happens. It also happens in natural deaths. Don't ask about releases when a person commits suicide or even is murdered. It can be awful if a family member discovers the body. This, again, is not a sign of pain. On Jul 6, 2011, at 4:25 PM, Ben Williams wrote: Thanks so much, everyone. It's been a really hard day for us and I'm haunted by seeing Dexter this morning struggling so hard to live. You've all been so wonderful and your kind comments have really helped today - if anything, we are realizing even more now just how much we love that little boy. He was so special to us. If I may, I have a question regarding Euthanasia for those of you who have been through this before - for those of you who are squeamish, please just skip this one: Dexter passed peacefully when Dr. Cantrell administered the euthanasia this morning. He let out a small sigh when the initial sedative was injected and silently slipped away when the final injection was made. A few minutes later, as we were still petting him, a fair amount of yellow, clear liquid came out of his mouth and nose. I assume this was fluid that had started to collect in his lungs, perhaps part of the jaundice from his liver? I don't know - I just can't stand the idea that he was in severe pain for a while there and that, perhaps, we put him through it. He had a chest X- ray on sunday night and no fluid was visible. Or, maybe it was missed. Sorry for the awkward question. On Wed, Jul 6, 2011 at 12:46 PM, Lynda Wilson longhornf...@verizon.net wrote: My heart is breaking after reading your story! I'm truly sorry Dexter is gone, but he will live within your heart now. You did so much for him and he fought the battle as much as he could. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Lynda - Original Message - From: Ben Williams drsiebl...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 9:46 AM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
http://www.winnfelinehealth.org/ You know, I've thought a lot about things that could make a difference and the most important thing that could change right now is the lack of availability of Virbagen Interferon Omega in the United States. Why in the world does it make any sense for the FDA to require millions of dollars worth of peer reviewed studies to be undertaken for US approval on a drug that has been effectively saving cat's lives for almost a decade everywhere else in the world and has been used in hundreds of foreign studies. Interferon Omega would have probably saved Dexter's life, plain and simple. However, I can't get a drug for him (that has absolutely no abuse potential in humans, by the way) unless I go through a 2 month process with the DEA and FDA that will only result in a guarantee that any overnight package from Europe that contains the medication that I've been given permission to import, will be seized and held for months, only to lose its refrigeration and spoil. This is, of course, after I've spent about $1200 for the honor. So, I suggest that we all start calling and writing our congress-people and senators and demanding an immediate provisional approval be given for Virbagen Interferon Omega to be sold in the US. Heck, it's practically a cure for FiP as well! ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Dexter
Ben, I'm very sorry to hear about Dexter. He sounds like such a special boy. It's never easy to know exactly the right time to let such a cherished friend go. I have lost so many to this disease and I wonder the same things at times. Did this one suffer? Did I wait too long? Did I miss something? Could I have changed the outcome? Could I have done more? I've just tried to focus on the positive. Dexter had you by his side through all of this. What more could he possibly have asked for? All that matters is that you love him and had his best interest in mind the whole time and he knows that. He was so lucky to have you and you him. Hoping you find comfort in all the wonderful memories you have of Dexter. Amy ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes were swelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up. When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even responded well with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer - it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as well as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the course of the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his body temperature dropped to 94 degrees. His little body had given out as this terrible disease had taken almost everything from him. I say almost everything, because when we arrived at East Dallas Animal Clinic this morning, even though he was being hand fed oxygen while under a warming pad, little Dexter still had a playful wag of the tail when we placed our hands on him and told him how much we love him. Dexter died at 8 this morning. We are heartbroken that our sweet boy is gone and that he was only with us for a year and a half. He was such a wonderful, sweet and special kitty - we will miss him terribly. He was a huge part of our family - not some pet or animal. We have four other wonderful kitties at home who are not FelV or FIV positive. They have been wonderful as our attention has been so focused on Dex for the last month and we owe them some serious one on one time right now. While all of the kitties get along well, Dex was the one cat in the house that all the other cats adored. He was never involved in spats with any of them and they all took turns cleaning him and looking after him. Dex was special to everyone. In the end, I wish there was more I could have done for Dex - I look back at the timing of everything and how the last three weeks have gone for him. Could the outcome have been different? I'll never know, of course, but I'm not done fighting this fight with FeLV and FIV. These diseases took our boy from us and I will not stop until they are both a thing of the past. Its the very least I can do in honor of Dexter - a wonderful boy who fought with dignity and calm, and above all else, the special brand of sweetness that only he had. Thanks, everyone. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org __ NOD32 6270 (20110706) Information __ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.com ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter
Ben My deepest condolences go out to you and your family, including the other felines who are sure to miss Dex. What a little sweetheart he must have been. He was fortunate to have your love and care. ~Bonnie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Ben Williams Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 7:46 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter I'd like to start off this message by thanking all of you for your kind words regarding Dexter over the past few days - - my wife and I have shared and appreciated every one of the emails - it's meant a lot to us. Unfortunately, this morning has proven to be heartbreaking to us both - we received a call first thing this morning from East Dallas Animal Clinic's Dr. Ken Cantrell that Dexter's condition had worsened over the course of the night. After picking Dex up from the Emergency clinic yesterday morning, we immediately took him to Dr. Wright at Lakewood Vet Center. Dr. Wright has been on vacation since last week and we were told that he would be back yesterday morning - but he hadn't yet returned. I took Dexter to see him on three occasions last week for his lymphocyte T-Cell Immunomodulator injections, but was only able to see him that Monday. When we took Dex in on Friday when the swelling of his feet and face had begun, we were given no advice by his staff who were unable to do anything other than give Dex his shot and usher us out the door. They are all very caring people and I don't blame them for anything, but I feel that any vet who runs a practice where he is the only doctor on staff, should do a bit more to keep his patients informed about his availability - that way precious minutes or hours or days aren't wasted waiting for him to return. Fortunately, several weeks ago, when trying to convince Dr. Wright to order the LTCI treatment (which took him over a week to do) I was referred to the East Dallas Animal Clinic by the LTCI folks - they had used the medication before. East Dallas Animal Clinic is a wonderful place. We've worked with Dr. Ellsworth and Dr. Cantrell there - - they are both compassionate and make a point of taking calls from concerned pet owners. They have both been wonderful to work with and have been open to taking every conceivable avenue with Dex's treatment. I only wish we had been seeing them from the start. We rushed Dex to them yesterday morning as soon as it became clear that Dr. Wright wouldn't be returning. Again, I don't blame Dr. Wright, but when we took Dexter in for his checkup three weeks ago and Dr. Wright informed us that anemia had set in, his advice was to take him home and make him comfortable. A week passed as I researched and tried to communicate with him about alternate treatments and off-label meds. When you factor in that week and the week he took to order the LTCI meds, that's two out of the last three weeks where Dex had little treatment. Again, why the difficulty in getting anything done for Dex? East Dallas, however, fit Dex in on the first day we spoke with him and started him on Acemannan injections. They had two remaining doses remaining of that drug; a drug that was very beneficial to Dex last year when he was first diagnosed. they sacrificed those 2 doses for Dex without question - had I gone to them earlier, perhaps it would have had more effect on him. Regardless, Dex seemed to make improvements while on Immunoregulin, LCTI and the acemannan. FeLV and FIV are horrible diseases, though, and I felt like there was something always sneaking up on Dex while we treated him. We seemed to reverse the anemia, but his Lymph nodes were swelling. Some days they would go down, other days, they would blow up. When the mystery feet and face swelling started last week, he even responded well with benadryl. That thing sneaking up on Dexter? Full blown cancer - it wasn't just in his lymph nodes, it was in his liver and spleen - it had probably made his heart swell. His breathing was becoming more and more labored and we struggled with the decision of when Dexter was in too much pain to continue. Yesterday, Dr. Cantrell started chemotherapy on Dex, as well as steroids. He seemed to tolerate the meds well, but over the course of the night, he became more jaundiced and vomited, while his body temperature dropped to 94 degrees. His little body had given out as this terrible disease had taken almost everything from him. I say almost everything, because when we arrived at East Dallas Animal Clinic this morning, even though he was being hand fed oxygen while under a warming pad, little Dexter still had a playful wag of the tail when we placed our hands on him and told him how much we love him. Dexter died at 8 this morning. We are heartbroken that our sweet boy is gone and that he was only with us for a year and a half. He was such a wonderful, sweet and special kitty - we will miss him
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
I will ask my vet as well. Let's keep in touch and share what we find out. We definitely do not want our money wasted. Thanks for sharing that story. L - Original Message - From: Natalie at...@optonline.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 6:15 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now I have no idea - maybe we should all do some searches to see what's out there and ask a lot of questions! I'd hate to donate to anyone who merely uses cats for the sake of research; I'd like to see if there's someplace where they actually treat FeLV+ cats while trying for a cure, not mere research for research sake and getting their hands on grant money. I should ask my veterinarian, he was co-founder of AVAR (Association of Veterinarians for Animal Rights, now part of HSUS) whether he is aware of any real and constructive research done on FeLV. In the 90s, Cleveland Amory was on a show debating a researcher who got lucrative grants for animal experiments, and not really contributing to anything specific - just useless stuff! Cleveland asked him about a specific case (Please note: it was made up at that moment to see how ridiculous and irrelevant some research is!), describing a really grotesque scenario of one cat's eye sewn shut, while the other was sewn so it couldn't close, electrodes attached to the forehead, tail cut off, feeding tube inserted, etc. The researcher started defending every bit of it without a blink of an eye. When he finished, Cleveland boomed Aha, I knew you would defend just about anything to get your hands on grant money; I just made the whole thing up! BTW- Cleveland Amory was my very first adopter of a kitten that I trapped at the Greenwich dump in 1992 - Tiger Bear, an pale orange tabby with golden eyes (after his beloved white cat Polar Bear died). Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Lynda Wilson Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 6:54 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now You are most certainly correct, Natalie! Anyone know of a Feline Leukemia Society to donate to? Is there a group of scientists that are trying to find a cure or a better treatment plan for this deadly disease? Our poor babies!! - Original Message - From: Natalie at...@optonline.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 2:41 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now It is always so sad to hear about any of our little furries succumbing to this horrible disease; I just wish that there were more available to help them to feel better or get well. One would think, that after all these years, there would be more hope for them! What is it about this disease that makes it so complicated? So many different symptoms that mimic other thingsdoes anyone out there care to find a cure? I am so sorry to hear about all of the crossings over the rainbow bridge! Natalie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Cindy McHugh Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 1:31 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Dear Cathy and Mark, I didn't realize you lost your little Cali. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I'm glad that Cali got to know your love and kindess. As I said to Ben, I pray you find comfort in knowing she's now happy and healthy. And when you consider that you'll have eternity together, this separation is but a speck of time. Cali just turned a corner before you did and one day, you'll turn that corner and there she'll be. She's not gone...just gone ahead. You're in my thoughts and prayers, Cindy - Original Message - From: ckess...@cox.net To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 12:00 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now Ben, I guess Dexter knew that Cali needed someone to play with from Dallas. We lost our Cali last Monday and it has been to hard for me to even write about it. You were so helpful to our little Cali and Dr. Wright was wonderful in the short time we had to make so many decisions. We only had our little girl 5 months and she was tired (but a true fighter in her short little life). She ended up with fluid around her lungs and we drained it once and it refilled back up within 24 hours. She was so tired but she fought so hard for the five months we had her. She was the cutiest kitten but it was so hard to watch her laboring to breath. I just want you to know that you and Dexter were a blessing to my husband and I (and our little girl, Cali) and I promise, Cali and he are playing together now with no pain. Bless you, Ben, and thank you for all you did for Dexter and for my family in our time of crisis and pain. Cathy and Mark
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
Do you know if the Interferon is available in Canada or Mexico? The FDA is a real joke. My husband retired from Pfizer International Marketing, and I've heard my share of things.those who have worked at big pharmas end up working at the FDA, and often the reverse is true to - very handy for them! All the antibiotics like Amoxicillin and Clavamox are pediatric oral suspension formulas, merely packaged for veterinary us - that's why they are ridiculously flavored with strawberry or pineapple type yuck that cats' certainly don't like, but are made to tolerate.I purchase those for a fraction of a cost in Mexico - vets charge us a fortune for the same thing, even though we get 50% discount. -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Ben Williams Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 8:43 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now http://www.winnfelinehealth.org/ You know, I've thought a lot about things that could make a difference and the most important thing that could change right now is the lack of availability of Virbagen Interferon Omega in the United States. Why in the world does it make any sense for the FDA to require millions of dollars worth of peer reviewed studies to be undertaken for US approval on a drug that has been effectively saving cat's lives for almost a decade everywhere else in the world and has been used in hundreds of foreign studies. Interferon Omega would have probably saved Dexter's life, plain and simple. However, I can't get a drug for him (that has absolutely no abuse potential in humans, by the way) unless I go through a 2 month process with the DEA and FDA that will only result in a guarantee that any overnight package from Europe that contains the medication that I've been given permission to import, will be seized and held for months, only to lose its refrigeration and spoil. This is, of course, after I've spent about $1200 for the honor. So, I suggest that we all start calling and writing our congress-people and senators and demanding an immediate provisional approval be given for Virbagen Interferon Omega to be sold in the US. Heck, it's practically a cure for FiP as well! ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Test post
My last post to Ben had question marks all through it that I did not type. Guessing it might be due to the new Yahoo e-mail upgrade. Sorry! ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now
Where please and how do you purchase Amoxicillin in Mexico? I buy the powder from my vet at her cost which is outrageous so if I could get it from Mexico it would be a God send to the small rescue I am co-founder of and maybe to her too. And for my two FeLV+ kitties I have a vet that provides human interferon but if ANYONE finds a way to purchase Virbagen Interferon Omega for us here in America to use, PLEASE share the info and help save our furrbabies lives... Thanks Kat A 2nd Chance of Hillsboro, Ohio katofo...@gmail.com On 7/6/11, Natalie at...@optonline.net wrote: Do you know if the Interferon is available in Canada or Mexico? The FDA is a real joke. My husband retired from Pfizer International Marketing, and I've heard my share of things.those who have worked at big pharmas end up working at the FDA, and often the reverse is true to - very handy for them! All the antibiotics like Amoxicillin and Clavamox are pediatric oral suspension formulas, merely packaged for veterinary us - that's why they are ridiculously flavored with strawberry or pineapple type yuck that cats' certainly don't like, but are made to tolerate.I purchase those for a fraction of a cost in Mexico - vets charge us a fortune for the same thing, even though we get 50% discount. -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Ben Williams Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2011 8:43 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Dexter and Cali are together now http://www.winnfelinehealth.org/ You know, I've thought a lot about things that could make a difference and the most important thing that could change right now is the lack of availability of Virbagen Interferon Omega in the United States. Why in the world does it make any sense for the FDA to require millions of dollars worth of peer reviewed studies to be undertaken for US approval on a drug that has been effectively saving cat's lives for almost a decade everywhere else in the world and has been used in hundreds of foreign studies. Interferon Omega would have probably saved Dexter's life, plain and simple. However, I can't get a drug for him (that has absolutely no abuse potential in humans, by the way) unless I go through a 2 month process with the DEA and FDA that will only result in a guarantee that any overnight package from Europe that contains the medication that I've been given permission to import, will be seized and held for months, only to lose its refrigeration and spoil. This is, of course, after I've spent about $1200 for the honor. So, I suggest that we all start calling and writing our congress-people and senators and demanding an immediate provisional approval be given for Virbagen Interferon Omega to be sold in the US. Heck, it's practically a cure for FiP as well! ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
