Vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea with blood, panting hard, tender stomach, glazed over look in eyes, not eating or drinking, constipated at times, back legs seem to be starting to give out on her more. But sometimes it'll switch and she'll have great days instead where she wants to walk and eat and no diarrhea or vomiting so it's hard to know
I'm really sorry to hear that your poodle is experiencing these symptoms. Given her age and the range of issues she's facing, it's understandable that you're concerned. The symptoms you're describing, such as bloody diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, difficulty breathing, and weakness in her back legs, are quite serious and could indicate a number of underlying conditions.
Bloody diarrhea and vomiting can be signs of gastrointestinal issues, infections, or even more severe conditions like pancreatitis or gastrointestinal bleeding. The fact that she is also on prednisone, a steroid, can complicate things as it can affect her immune system and gastrointestinal tract.
Here are a few steps you can take at home while monitoring her condition:
1. **Hydration:** Ensure she stays hydrated. Offer her small amounts of water frequently. If she refuses to drink, you can try offering ice cubes to lick.
2. **Diet:** If she is willing to eat, offer bland foods like boiled chicken and rice in small, frequent meals. Avoid giving her fatty or rich foods.
3. **Comfort:** Make sure she has a comfortable, quiet place to rest. Minimize stress and keep her environment calm.
4. **Monitor:** Keep a close eye on her symptoms, especially her breathing and any changes in her stool or vomiting. Note any patterns or triggers that seem to worsen her condition.
Given the severity and variety of her symptoms, it's crucial to seek immediate veterinary care. The combination of bloody diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and difficulty breathing can indicate a potentially life-threatening condition that requires professional attention. A veterinarian can perform necessary diagnostics, such as blood tests, imaging, and possibly hospitalization, to stabilize her condition and determine the underlying cause.
If you have any further questions please ask us. Thank you.
Hello thank you so much for this reply!! I forgot to mention that they put her on Prednisone after finding potential gi cancer through an ultrasound but the Prednisone has been making her symptoms worse so it doesn't look like it would be the right one for her and after all the other things we've already tried they said euth would be a good idea at any time now with her symptoms but she's still having such great days that it's now just trying to decide if it's time to let her go or essentially keep her on hospice care while she stays in pain despite all the meds we give her from the vet
I'm truly sorry to hear about your poodle's condition. It's incredibly difficult to watch a beloved pet go through such a tough time, especially when faced with a potential diagnosis like gastrointestinal cancer. Prednisone can sometimes help with inflammation and symptoms, but it can also have side effects that might exacerbate other issues.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on what is best for her and what will minimize her suffering. It's a deeply personal decision, and there is no right or wrong answer. It's clear that you're making a big effort for her.
Thank you 🖤 if a client walked into your clinic with a pet exhibiting these symptoms, would you tell them it's likely time to move forward with euth or that she could be kept comfortable but having to trial and error until we find the right one meanwhile keeping her in pain the whole time? That's the part we're really struggling with as I feel it's causing more suffering to keep her alive right now but because she's having some good days here and there my mom doesn't want to move forward with it so I'm not sure how to make all parties be at peace.
Please understand that since I have not personally examined Kendall. I cannot provide you advice on a significant decision based solely on the facts you have provided through the question.
I understand how heart-wrenching this situation is for you and your family. Please keep in mind that whichever decision you make is the right one and that she will also understand your decision.
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