Wimpy

[Jean]

As some of you may have gathered by the e-mail I inadvertently sent, Wimpy is down. I've been a basket-case for quite some time but I'll try to fill you in as best I can. Approximately two weeks ago Wimpy showed signs of pain in his front. We took him to our vet and he was given a cortisone shot. I believe it was the next day that he started walking on the top of his front paw. Again, we took him to the vets... again he was given cortisone and he was put on crate rest. We took him in daily for approximately a week for his cortisone shot. We asked our vet several times about a referral to Auburn but, for some reason, he wouldn't give us one. We've used, and trusted, this vet for 18 years. He's treated both Wimpy and Tiny for back problems in the past. I don't know why he wouldn't give us a referral... perhaps because of Wimpy's age (he's 11+) but, since Wimpy has not improved (if anything he's worse) we've taken Wimpy to another vet. He started treating Wimpy with heavy doses of cortisone and has set up a referral with Auburn for us on Monday. Any and all good thoughts and prayers would be most appreciated.

Jean

[Meemoo]

Jean-

So sorry to hear of Wimpy's condition. Hoping he gets well real soon. Thinking positive thoughts and paws crossed for a speedy recovery.

Loren

[dutchman]

Hi Jean,

My thoughts are with you. The one good thing is that even if there is a problem and surgery is deemed the proper treatment the recovery rate is much better for slow onset symptoms than with fast onset complete paralysis. The walking on the top of a paw is a sign (as you already knew) that all of us with dachshunds should watch out for. Another thing that I saw with Aggie several days before I noticed her starting to have leg problems was a very stiff held high tail. The stiffness would be unusual for almost any dog in her case the holding the tail high was unusual. I know Monday seems like a long time to wait but unless things get much worse prior to then it sounds like you are on the right track as far as general care and treatment for back problems. Has either vet done any x-rays? In this area they like to use predisone(SP) not cortisone for back problems but I have no medical training to say that would not be just as effective. I was told with rapid onset symptoms (complete paralysis, loss of deep pain response) the key surgery window is less than 24 hours. With slow onset symptoms conservative treatment if generally the preferred first alternative over surgery. Of course every case is different.

Jean, I know you already knew most of what I just stated but I'm sure you agree with me it's always worth repeating so that others who's little companions develop back problems will know what to look for.


Best wishes and rays,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

[Lili's Mama]

Jean, I'm so sorry about your Wimpy. Lili and I live about an hour and a half from Auburn so if you need a place to rest or spend the night or leave another dog (we have a fenced yard) just let us know. Lili and Shirley

[Maggie Aggie]

Jean,

So sorry to read about Wimpy's back pain. Many Texas http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif are being sent your way.

Vicki and Maggie

<FONT COLOR="#00FFFF" SIZE="1" FACE="Verdana, Arial">This message has been edited by Maggie Aggie on April 25, 2001 at 03:02 PM</font>

[Jean]

Thank you all for your good thoughts.

Thank you, Lili and Shirley, for your kind offer. It looks like we live about the same distance from Auburn. According to my husband, it's about 100 miles from here.

Tom, our vet took x-rays the day Wimpy started walking on the top of his paw. The x-rays showed nothing. He thought Wimpy may have a pinched nerve in his neck. What troubled me was that he wasn't getting any better with the cortisone and crate rest. Wimpy had his last cortisone treatment on Saturday. The vet gave us some pills to give to him and told us to bring him back in five days! My husband is sure he said the pills were Chondroitin, which made absolutely NO sense. Thus the new vet.

Wimpy still has deep pain response however he is not able to walk.

Jean

[stacey5971]

good luck wimpy!! we'll be thinking about you!

------------------
"If you've never owned dachshunds, no explanation is possible. If you have owned dachshunds, no explanation is necessary."

Benny Archuleta

[Oscar's Mom]

Hope your feeling better soon Wimpy!

[2DogsLong]

Jean, I'm so sorry to hear about Wimpy. I hope that the new vet will offer new insight and he will begin to improve.

My thoughts are with you and your family.

Sue

[Susan63]

Jean, I'm sending well-wishes to Wimpy. You mentioned that he's had prior back problems, when was that? Hopefully things will improve.

~Susan~

[pkmiddler]

Never had to deal with this but some of my friends have and swear by something called Anaquain (spelled wrong I'm sure)also some have taken their dogs to Chryopractors.Worth a try if you can find one.Water thearpy too from what I hear.Get well soon Wimpy Mom is very worried and loves you lots.GOOD LUCK!!!

[Jean]

Once again, thanks to all for your good wishes, thoughts, prayers, and RAYZ.

Susan, Wimpy's last back episode was about 5 years ago. He never went "down", but did get a bit wobbly. He was treated with anti-inflammatories and crate rest.

Kaye, I've also heard that water therapy is good for them. Wimpy and I spent some quality time in the spa prior to his hospitalization. http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif

A friend of mine wrote to Auburn late last week and received a response from one of their neurosurgeons today. It's his feeling, given the description of Wimpy's condition, that Wimpy probably has a herniated disk in his neck. We were considering acupuncture as an alternative however he feels that this would not be an option. He said, "Acupuncture can do quite a bit, but it will not remove the pressure on the spinal cord that the disc is causing."

The time that's lapsed is a worry.

Jean

[Augie Dog]

Jean,

we are so sorry to hear about whimpy. our thoughts and prayers are with you and him.

call me dumb but, "walking on top of the paw" I can't imagine that. I have never seen a back problem and I pray that I never will!

did he fall, jump or something that made this happen or come back

D S A & B

[Mark]

Here's an update on Wimpy:

Jean's a little tied up right now (Wimpy just came home from the Vet to wait for the Auburn appointment), so she asked me to update everyone with what I could.

Here's a copy/paste from an email I got from Jean a short time ago:

"YES! He's home. He looks good! The puppers had a regular bark-fest! Man, you should have been here... they were all so happy to see Wimpy! http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif

I'm typing this in a rush so if it doesn't make much sense you know why. http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif

The vet said we'd done everything right with Wimpy and to continue doing it.... taking him out to potty using the towel method, massaging his muscles, water therapy, etc. If we have any problems or concerns, not to
hesitate to call. I've got four different kinds of pills to give him. I'm also supposed to give him Mylanta for his tummy 'cause of all the drugs.

I took him out to potty... there may be a *little* improvement but not much. Even so, he looks so much better than he did. Actually, he's rather perky compared to what he was. Although he can't hold himself up well, as he was laying next to me on the couch, he tried to get down! YIKES! He's
one gutsy little guy.

I've got to go... He's calling. http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif"

I should also say that the new Vet found that Wimpy has a heart murmur, making it even more difficult to rush in to surgery. And if you don't know or remember . . . Wimpy is blind.

I'm sure Jean will check in later, but that's the latest breaking news.

Mark

David - No, there was no fall or exherting episode that brought it on. It just happened.

[dutchman]

David,

I think what Jean meant by walking on his paws is what if often referred at toe dragging. When a dog starts to develop a back problem their toes will kind of knuckle under as they walk rather than that clean pickup and put down of feet we normally observer. A standard test when rear legs is involved is for the vet to place a rear foot so that the dog is somewhat standing on it's toes (I'm not doing a very good job of explain this I suggest everyone ask there vet to show them how to do this the next time they are in for anything). In a normal healthy dog the foot will promptly be picked up and they will return to a more normal stance. IT should be noted that both sides should be check since is is possible for each side to react differently.

Tom

[pkmiddler]

Glad to here the new vet is GOOD at his job the mumer thing is comman in older dogs as I'm told can or can not mean anything.I will ask some more friends as to what they have done.Go Wimpy swim it may be for health but you can have fun too!<IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm20.gif" border=0>

[Jean]

We took Wimpy to Auburn today and I'm afraid the news isn't good. The heart murmur that the new vet told us about is severe. They did a chest x-ray and discovered that his heart is quite enlarged. Wimpy will be staying in the CCU for a few days while they treat this. We were told he might not make it. BUT... if they can fix the problem with his heart the neurologist feels there's a good chance they can can help him walk again with back surgery. So, please keep Wimpy in your thoughts and prayers.

Thanks,
Jean

[dutchman]

Jean,

You and Wimpy are very high in our thoughts these days. I know it is hard leaving them especially when they aren't well but if the staff in Austin is anything like it is here at the VTH you can be sure he will be well cared for and possibly even spoiled a little.

Best Wishes and rays,

Tom and the boys

[Susan63]

Jean, I sure hope Wimpy pulls through this. May I ask, is he a former Mill baby or not? You say he's 11?
I remember when my first Dachshund had heart problems (this was years ago when I was young, so I don't remember all the details).

My thoughts are with ya Jean.http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif

~Susan~

[Wienergal]

Dear Jean, I am so sorry that I have been unaware of Wimpy's problems until now. Belated though they may be, I'm sending you my most fervent wishes, healing thoughts, and many, many http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif. I'm certainly thinking of you tonight.

Pamela

[~Jen~]

Jean

You and Wimpy are in our thoughts and prayers!! Sending MEGA HUGE Dachsie RAYZ your way http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif

Jen

<FONT COLOR="#00FFFF" SIZE="1" FACE="Verdana, Arial">This message has been edited by ~Jen~ on April 30, 2001 at 10:59 PM</font>

[pkmiddler]

Our Fudgie had a infection in a valve and ended up with a murmer that led to heart englargement she was on water pills and enacard for about 3 years before we lost her and we knew the heart was getting worse when she had a massave heart attack and we lost her.Poor Wimpy has a real bag of bad things going on hope he can get the surgary with meds for his heart.

[~Jen~]

Here is a link for more information on Adequan i have heard alot of ppl speak highly of it in the past year so it might be something to looking into http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif
http://www.luitpold.com/canine/index.html

Jen

<FONT COLOR="#00FFFF" SIZE="1" FACE="Verdana, Arial">This message has been edited by ~Jen~ on April 30, 2001 at 11:52 PM</font>

[2DogsLong]

Rayz for Jean and Wimpy! My thoughts are with both of you during this tough time.

Sue http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif

[Maggie Aggie]

More Texas http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif on the way, Jean and Wimpy!!

Vicki and Maggie

[Oscar's Mom]

I'm so sorry to hear about Wimpys Heart murmur. You are both in my prayers.

[Lili's Mama]

Jean, Lili and I have been thinking of you today and sending prayers up that everything will work out well for Wimpy. For sure, we know he is having plenty of TLC and love.

You are not alone in this........Shirley and Lili

[Jean]

Many thanks for your prayers and RAYZ... I think they're working! The vet tech from Auburn called tonight and said Wimpy is doing well. Even though he's got mega problems, apparently his appetite is still intact. http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif They did an ECG today which confirmed their heart diagnosis but Wimpy is holding his own... he's showing them all what dachsies are made of! There is a possibility that they will be able to do the cervical work-up on Thursday... I'll find out more about this tomorrow. Please keep those prayers, good thoughts, and RAYZ coming!

Breathing a little easier,
Jean

[Wienergal]

Glad to hear the latest news, Jean!!

Have a few more http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif from Chicago! Also a big hug to you. You must be missing him a lot!

[Susan63]

That's good news to hear Jean!http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif Wimpy must be strong. Hoping he continues to do well!

~Susan~<IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm38.gif" border=0>

[dutchman]

Hi Jean,

Be sure to let all of us know when/if they schedule surgery. We will all be sure to send all the rays and positive thoughts we can. You and Wimpy are never far away from us this past week.

Best wishes,

Tom

[Tanya]

I hardly ever get the chance to check the board anymore so I had no idea about Wimpy. I will keep him in my thoughts and prayers. I know this is tough for you too and having multiple things to worry about adds to the stress. Wimpy is showing his true dachsie tenacity and hopefully will get through fine. Please keep us posted. I've missed all you guys!!
Tanya

[Jean]

I received my nightly call from the vet tech at Auburn so here's the latest on Wimpy. He's still doing well. They've prescribed three meds for his heart problem and they've put him on a low-sodium diet. They want us to bring him home for the weekend, then return him to Auburn on Monday for more testing. Hopefully this course of treatment will have the desired effect and they will be able to proceed with the back surgery.

Please keep those positive RAYZ comin'!

Thanks,
Jean

[~Jen~]

Sending more http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif Wimpy's way!! Glad to hear hes doing well http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif

Jen

[dutchman]

Hi Jean,

I know the drive is a long one but I bet you and Wimpy will not think it so bad when he gets to spend the weekend at home.

I'm not sure if you said but I've been assuming the hospital at Auburn is a VTH. IF that is the case and their setup is like the one here at CSU the CCU staff is composed of fourth year vet students (about to graduate) who the school uses as a free to them nursing staff. The students there obviously love animals and give their patents a lot of personal attention. The student to patent ration is very low.

Best wishes and rays,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

[Heather]

Jean, sorry to hear about Wimpy, I hope everything works out ok this weekend.

[Jean]

Thanks again, everyone, for your support. We brought Wimpy home yesterday. He's not at all himself but I guess I wouldn't be either if I'd been through as much as he has.

Tom, you asked if Auburn is a Veterinary Teaching Hospital... yes, it is. Wimpy has a very nice 4th year student caring for him when he's there... this is who was calling me with nightly reports on his condition.

We received a Discharge Summary/Instructions so I'll just copy it here so y'all know where we're at...

As you will see, Wimpy really needs a lot of RAYZ. I so hope we're doing the right thing by Wimpy; I'm scared to death we're going to lose him.

DIAGNOSIS:

Tetraparesis (suspect intervertebral disc disease)
Mitral, Tricuspid, Aortic, and Pulmonic Insufficiency (Cardiac disease)


SURGERY/DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES:

Neurologic Exam: Severe tetraparesis which inhibits Wimpy's ability to ambulate. Caudal cervical neck pain.
CBC, chemistry: Elevated ALP/ALT, Regenerative anemia (33% with 13% reticulocytes)
Thoracic radiographs: Markedly enlarged heart
Echocardiography: All valves were insufficient. Fractional shortening was increased.
EKG: no arrythmias noted.

DIET:

Wimpy should avoid high salt diets.

ACTIVITY/EXERCISE RESTRICTION:

Wimpy should be carried outside three times daily to urinate and defecate. Also, physical therapy (flexing and extending of the limbs) should be performed at least three to four times daily.

Be sure he is urinating at least two times each day.

MEDICATIONS:

Enalapril 2.5mg: Give one tablet orally twice daily.
Furosemide 12.5mg: Give one tablet orally once daily.
Spironolactone 25mg: Give 1/2 tablet orally once daily.

COMMENTS/PROGNOSIS:

Further diagnostics such as myelography and/or CT scan would be necessary to determine if Wimpy has a cervical lesion that is surgical. However, without further diagnostics and possible surgery, the prognosis for ambulation is guarded.

At this time Wimpy has heart disease, but is not in heart failure. Once heart failure occurs, fluid will begin to accumulate in Wimpy's lungs, and blood perfusion to his organs may be decreased. It is impossible to predict if and when heart failure will occur. Intermittent rechecks will be required to monitor heart disease and kidney function since cardiac medications can have a detrimental effect on kidney perfusion.

Anesthesia required for the cervical diagnostics and surgery may worsen signs of heart disease.

If you wish to pursue the diagnostics and surgery, we may proceed next week, once he has been on cardiac medications for 2-4 days. Please bring him Monday morning so that we can recheck his blood work prior to anesthesia on Tuesday.

The cause of the increased liver enzymes is most likely due to steroid hepatopathy. However, it is possible that an underlying liver disease is present. If recheck blood work reveals increasing liver enzymes, further liver diagnostics may be indicated.

[Meemoo]

Hi Jean-

I am glad Wimpy is home with you but sad to read of the report attached. Hoping he feels better soon and that they will be able to help him feel better!!

Mega rayz to u all

Loren

[dutchman]

Hi Jean,

I can see why you are scared few of wouldn't. You and Wimpy are high in our thoughts. We all know that you will do what ever is right for Wimpy. I has to be especially hard when the specialist are so far from your home. As long as Wimpy doesn't give up on himself we will hope for the best. Will you try to stay in Auburn through the test on Tuesday if they say his heart had improved enough to perform them? Drop us a note if/when you have any new news till then we will be pulling for a rapid improvement for Wimpy sot that they can finally do the test and give you more information on his spinal problems.

Best wishes and rays,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

[Cathy]

Jean and Wimpy.....here are tons and tons of rayz coming all the way from VA. You are in our hearts and prayers.http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif

------------------
Cathy and Maximus

[dutchman]

Jean,

One of my first thoughts this morning was that this is the day Wimpy is due back at Auburn to see how his heart meds are working. We sincerely hope that they are doing their job and he will be able to undergo the test for his back tomorrow.

Best wishes and rays,

Tom and the boys (frank and Tanner)

[Wienergal]

http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif

Ditto what Tom said.

Hugs to you.....

[Augie Dog]

Mega prayers and rays from here.

We are thinking of you!


D S A & B

[Jean]

Thank you, thank you, thank you all for your continued good thoughts, prayers, and RAYZ for Wimpy. He had a good weekend. In fact, he actually stood on all fours and turned around in his crate without any help a couple of times!

I don't know if I've told y'all this or not, but, because he had little to no use of his front legs, I've been using a towel to support him when he goes potty. Yesterday afternoon he walked placing the pads of his feet on the ground!! I still used the towel because he was wobbly but he did the walking! http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif We told the Auburn vet this news and he checked it out. We put Wimpy on the floor and he stood without support! The vet still thinks surgery is indicated but this is a good sign!

Tiffany (vet tech) called a few minutes ago. Wimpy's blood work is good. They will take his blood pressure tomorrow morning and if it's ok they will do the Myelogram at 9:30 AM. Please keep those paws-i-tive thoughts comin'!!

Jean

[TessieMom]

Sounds great! Hope he keeps improving. More Texas mega giga rays are being sent by me and the girls! Rena

[dutchman]

Jean,

The news sound encouraging. We will be thinking about both of you in the morning. It sounds like if his heart cna take it Wimpy is a good candidate for a full recovery from his back problems.

Best wishes and rays,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

PS we have sent our little guardian angle dachsie Aggie to keep a special eye on Wimpy tomorrow. I've told the boys they have to behave themselves tomorrow because they will be on their own.

[Jean]

What a glorious picture, Tom! Can't you just picture Aggie and Pammy (Wimpy's hooman sister angel) floating above guiding their hands and watching over Wimpy through all of this!

It's my understanding that they will take this in two steps so that Wimpy won't be under the anesthesia for too long. They'll do the Myelogram tomorrow and then, depending on the results, of course, they'll do the actual back surgery at another time... I'm not sure when but I would imagine within a day or so.

Jean

[Maggie Aggie]

That's wonderful news, Jean! Sounds really encouraging. Continued http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif on the way for Wimpy.

Vicki and Maggie

[Susan63]

That is wonderful Jean!http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif I sincerely hope the days ahead of him go well and is sucessful. Give him a hug and kiss for me.<IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm38.gif" border=0>

~Susan~

[Roxane]

Like so many others I will be standing by waiting to hear what I hope will be very positive reports from today's activities.
Hugs,
Roxane and crew

[Jean]

Your RAYZ continue to shine on Wimpy. He had the Myelogram and a CT scan today which showed a protruding disk in the cervical area. This was about a two hour procedure. He did well, although he did get cold at one point. They had hot water bottles on hand and immediately used these to warm him up. He will have the surgery on Thursday or Friday... they will let me know for sure sometime tomorrow. He will remain in CCU until the surgery where they will monitor him 24-hours a day. I asked how long the back surgery will take and was told approximately three hours. They think he will be able to handle it but, of course, the risk is still there. I will let y'all know more when I do.

Many thanks,
Jean

[dutchman]

Hi Jean,

I'm glad our angles did their jobs today. I hope they can do as good a job when Wimpy has his surgery. Even though I know it's a long way from home for you it has to feel good to know he is in such good hands as those at Auburn.

Best wishes and more rays,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

<FONT COLOR="#00FFFF" SIZE="1" FACE="Verdana, Arial">This message has been edited by dutchman on May 09, 2001 at 08:43 AM</font>

[Roxane]

Very encouraging news, Jean.
Many http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif being sent for all you,
Roxane and crew


<FONT COLOR="#00FFFF" SIZE="1" FACE="Verdana, Arial">This message has been edited by Roxane on May 09, 2001 at 08:35 AM</font>

[Jean]

I just talked to Tiffany at Auburn. Wimpy is doing fine and is scheduled for surgery tomorrow morning at 9:00 A.M. Central Time. If you would hold him in your thoughts and prayers during this time it would be most appreciated. I'll let y'all know how it goes as soon as I can.

Many thanks,
Jean

[dutchman]

Hi Jean,

Our thoughts will be with the two of you tomorrow morning. The boys and I will tell Aggie to do her best to help keep Wimpy warm and see him safely through all this.

Best Wishes,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

[TessieMom]

We will definitely be sending the biggest rayz we can find! Rena and the girls

[Jean]

We just got the call from Auburn. Wimpy came out of surgery around noon. He's in CCU and is doing well. I don't have any details yet, other than they cleaned out a lot of disc material and that they expect good results. Tiffany is supposed to call me later this afternoon with more info.

Many thanks for your prayers and support.

Jean

[dutchman]

Jean,

Thank you for the update. One hurdle at a time Wimpy is advancing to that day when he can run back across the floor to be held on your lap. I'm sure they already told you this but don't be alarmed if at first he appears worse. Sometimes there is some irritation form surgery that makes the back problems seem worse before they improve.

Best wishes and ongoing rays,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

[Augie Dog]

More rayz and prayers on the way!

[Lili's Mama]

Jean, I woke up thinking about your Wimpy and now that I read he is out of surgery and doing fine, I know all the rays and love are healing him. Good luck to both of you.....Shirley and Lili

[Susan63]

http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/happy.gif http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/heart.gif Good news Jean!

[pkmiddler]

<IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm8.gif" border=0> GREAT,WONDERFUL!!! DON'T KNOW WHAT ELSE TO SAY EXCEPT GO WIMPY!!!!<IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm38.gif" border=0>

[Oscar's Mom]

I'm so happy the surgery went well!
Get well soon Wimpy http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/circle.gif

[Jean]

Tiffany just called and I'm afraid the news isn't as good today. Although Wimpy has been eating/drinking and all bodily functions are working, apparently he's become lethargic. He's also developed a nasal discharge. They took x-rays and his lungs are clear. They've started administering antibiotics to be on the safe side. He remains in the CCU where he can be monitored 24-hours a day. We'd hoped he would be able to come home on Sunday but now they're saying it won't be any earlier than Monday, depending on his progress. http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/frown.gif

As always, all prayers, RAYZ, and good thoughts are most appreciated.

Jean

[Roxane]

I would like to think that because he has had major surgery, this is just a temporary reaction to all he has gone through.http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/heart.gif
Sending positive healing rayz your way,
Roxane and crew

[dutchman]

Hi Jean,

We will keep those rays coming. Perhaps Wimpy is just a little extra sore from the surgery and with his heart I suspect they are minimizing the pain meds often used following surgery. The fact he has otherwise normal body function is good news. Of course he may also just be missing you. I was lucky that our VTH is less than five miles from my home and I could visit several times a day.

Best wishes and rays,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

[Jean]

I'm so happy to report that Wimpy is doing better! He was still a little lethargic this morning but he's perked up since then. He continues to eat and drink and all bodily functions are working well. The nasal discharge is still there (they have no idea why) so he remains on antibiotics. Here's the biggie! They stood him up and he actually took a couple steps!! Tiffany said it took a little while for him to remember how but, using food as an incentive, he actually walked!! http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/jacks.gif

Thanks for all those RAYZ and prayers!
Jean

[Roxane]

I hope all the good news indicates that he will be able to come home on Monday.
Keeping all fingers and toes crossed,
Roxane and crew

[Oscar's Mom]

Wimpy took some steps!?! That is WONDERFUL news!

[dutchman]

Hi Jean,

It sounds like Wimpy is doing great. I hope there are no further delays in getting him home. I know both of you will feel a lot better once he gets home.

best wishes and rays,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

[Susan63]

Jean, that's such wonderful news!http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif May I ask what his prognosis on his heart is? Will the meds keep his heart stable? Now that his back surgery is over and he may make a full recovery, what's the future news for his heart? I sure hope things remain good!

~Susan~<IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm38.gif" border=0>

[~Jen~]

Wow what great news Jean... hope Wimpy continues to improve everyday <IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm8.gif" border=0>

Jen

[Jean]

WIMPY IS COMING HOME TOMORROW!!

He's doing great! They lay a trail of doggie food and he follows it with his nose, walking on all fours! Initially his left-front paw is folded under but once he gets going he puts it upright and he's off! http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif

Wimpy has heart disease, not heart failure, and will remain on heart meds for the rest of his life. It's possible, of course, that he could go into heart failure at any time but there is no way to predict if, or when this will happen. He will have to be rechecked intermittently because the heart meds can have a detrimental effect on his kidneys.

For now I'm just glad my little old man is coming home! http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/biggrin.gif

Ever grateful for your kindness and support,
Jean

[~Jen~]

<IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm8.gif" border=0> <IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm8.gif" border=0> <IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm8.gif" border=0> YAY!!! What a WONDERFUL Mother's Day Gift!!!<IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm8.gif" border=0> <IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm8.gif" border=0>

SO happy to hear that he is doing better!!!
Continued Rayz http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gifhttp://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif comming his way!

Jen

[Susan63]

Fantastic Jean!http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif Keep us posted.

~Susan~<IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm38.gif" border=0>

[Roxane]

Absolutely overjoyed to hear the good news! http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/bounce.gif

Despite his heart condition it really sounds as tho he has come through the operation in very good shape. From what you have posted he may make a full recovery.http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif

This is wonderful to hear,
Roxane and crew

[dutchman]

Way to go Wimpy http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/bounce.gif. You just keep on beating those odds.

Jean, I know of dogs who have lived for years after being diagnosed with a hear condition. We are pulling for wimpy to be one of those dogs. We know he will receive the best of care from your loving heart and arms.

Best wishes and warming Colorado rays

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

[pkmiddler]

HOW WONDERFUL for you Jean that is GREAT NEWS <IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm8.gif" border=0>

[dutchman]

Hi Jean,

We all trust that Wimpy got out of the hospital yesterday and is now recuperating at home. We know he is going to be a lot happier at home and that you will give him the best of care.

Best wishes,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

[Jean]

I'm very happy to say my little old man is home! If you had seen him *before* and could see him *now* you wouldn't believe the difference! Wimpy can walk!! He can really walk! On all fours! It's absolutely amazing the progress he's making! His activity is limited to potty breaks for the next month but it's pretty obvious that it's going to be hard keeping this little guy down! http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/biggrin.gif

Thanks to all who supported Wimpy and I with your prayers, RAYZ, and good wishes. As you can clearly see IT WORKED!

Jean

[Roxane]

The news couldn't be any better, could it?http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/walking.gif
Very, very happy for you and Wimpy,
Roxane and crew

[Augie Dog]

http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/rayz.gif

There's one more for good luck!

[dutchman]

Hi Jean,

All the credit goes to you Wimpy, your new vet and the folks at Auburn. We were just here for moral support. We will keep our rays going coming and hope his heart never causes him any major problems. Don't forget if you have air conditioning don't make the house too cool while Wimpy's hair grows back. Anyone who has never seed a dachshund's back after it is shaved for surgery can count their blessings. Not that the back is ugly just that they are lucky to have never had to face the problem.

Best wishes and rays,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

[Susan63]

That's just amazing Jean! WOW!http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif Continued well-wishes, and I'm blowing a http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/kiss2.gif to Wimpy and a <IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm38.gif" border=0> to you!

~Susan~

[doxielvr]

Hi Jean!
I'm a new member (actually just joined today) but I have read Wimpy's story from start to finish. My 9-year-old doxie underwent removal of a cervical disc when she was just five years old so I can DEFNITELY appreciate what you are going through. Although my doxie was much younger than Wimpy when she had the surgery she recovered beautifully! Sounds like Wimpy is a fighter and he will not let his age get in his way!!! My thought and prayers are with you all!

[pkmiddler]

How is Wimpy???

[Lili's Mama]

Sooooo happy to hear about Wimpy. We have been busy and out of town some so I was anxious to get back online and check on the precious dashies. What a blessing this is for all your family. shirley and lili

[Jean]

Wimpy is doing GREAT! I think he feels better now than he has in a long time. He is walking, rolling over on his back for belly rubs, and giving lots of kisses to his mama and daddy. He has an appointment with the vet on Tuesday morning to have his stitches removed. I couldn't be more pleased!

I took a picture of him so that you could see him on all fours but I'm afraid it didn't turn out very well... I couldn't get him to hold still (No, I'm not complaining!). http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/biggrin.gif

Here's Wimpy...
http://dachsie.org/images/wimpy.jpg

Many thanks to all!
Jean

[Oscar's Mom]

Thats wonderful http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/bounce.gif

Go Wimpy!

[dutchman]

Hi Jean,

It's great to hear Wimpy is doing so well. And now that you are aware of his heart condition and on meds I'm betting he will will be with you for many more years. Now just watch out to make sure he doesn't get sunburned before his hair grows back.

Best wishes and rays,

Tom and the boys (Frank and Tanner)

[pkmiddler]

He looks MAVALOUIS!!! gLAD HE IS DOING SO WELL!!!<IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm20.gif" border=0>

[Timber]

It's so good to hear that Wimpy is doing great! Actually, I hear about it until today! I don't visit the back problems forum too often. Wimpy looks great in the pic. Timber sends a http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smiletongue.gif to Wimpy! It's good to hear that he's walking good. http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/walking.gif

------------------
Tiffany
Proud owner of a little frito!

[Wienergal]

Jean, that picture says it all. <IMG SRC="http://dachsie.org/ubb/cwmsmilies/cwm34.gif" border=0>

This happy ending is so deserved. I'm thrilled for you and Wimpy!

[Susan63]

Way to go Wimpy!http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/smile.gif Jean, I'm glad that Wimpy bounced back and is walking again.

[Roxane]

http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/pink.gif Way To Go Wimpy http://dachsie.org/ubb/smilies/pink.gif
Sensationally good news, Jean.
Roxane and crew

[JadedpixieandBrutus]

Once again common sense and a damn good vet triumphs. I am so glad to hear that all is well.

I have a question though, when you mention Auburn, what do you mean? Is it a city or a vet hospital. Sorry for my ignorgance, I am kinda new at this. We have an Auburn, Massachusetts that is nearby but I don't believe that is the location you are speaking of. Pleas enlighten me.

JadedpixieandBrutus

[Jean]

Thank you! Wimpy was treated in the Small Animal Hospital at Auburn University in Alabama.

Jean

[SandyLynn]

Jean -
I'm just catching up on Wimpy's story - glad to hear he's doing well after his surgery. He looks so cute in the picture!