schultzlc Posted February 14, 2020 Share Posted February 14, 2020 Hi all, I am writing in regards to my Luna. She will be 13 in May, but has been all around a pretty healthy dog. Her teeth are not good, but she has always struggled with anesthesia, and after it was so hard to bring her back out of her last dental two years ago, the vet and I decided that it needed to be her last one. In spite of that, and the general loss of muscle mass and some coordination that comes with being a greyhound of a certain age, she’s still been her goofy self with occasional zoomies in the yard and pouncing on toys. She’s always been a finicky eater, but with some special add ins, that has been okay too. Beginning Wednesday evening, she has started to act a little off. Just a little lethargic, not at all interested in going for her daily walk (we were still going a mile or so a day). Tonight, I’m noticing that her breathing seems rather shallow or labored. While her breath isn’t super loud, there is more sound than normal both inhaling and exhaling. She also seems to be breathing more rapidly while resting than normal. And when she is up and moving, she is panting a bit, though she has always panted on walks even in the middle of winter. I’m going to cancel my classes tomorrow morning and have her seen by a vet. Going to the vet is such a difficult and traumatizing experience for her right now, so I may actually skip her normal vet and have someone mobile come to the house instead. I’m wondering, have any of you had a similar experience with your hounds where something like this came on very suddenly? Thanks in advance from the worried mom of a beloved senior girl. Quote Laura, mom to Luna (Boc's Duchess) and Nova (Atascocita Venus).Forever in my heart, Phantom (Tequila Nights) and Zippy (Iruska Monte). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
racindog Posted February 14, 2020 Share Posted February 14, 2020 The red flag that would go up for me would be a possible blood clot? The only reason I say this is that I noticed Bobber at 9 yoa all of a sudden just seemed to get out of breath faster than normal. She used to love to run and run but I noticed that she would begin to but then would seem to get out of breath too soon? I thought perhaps it was age because it was not real bad and since I am a mother hen with my dogs I notice the slightest changes. But then one day she suddenly lost neurological response in her back end, and while it was minor when I first noticed it--the rear feet not righting itself thing-it quickly progressed to full paralysis!!! The vet was incompetent and sent her home paralyzed with a big bottle of prednisone and poor Bobber suffered and suddenly passed away on her own less than 5 hours after it all began.(I did not know the protocol at that time for this and the vet told me that she was OK and that my biggest problem would be to restrict her activity once she felt better. BTW she had NEVER had any spine issues either. Anyway I stupidly trusted the vet and in so doing caused undue suffering to my girl. That won't happen again on any level. #1 I now know the PROPER protocols for an animal presented in her condition which I would now demand and #2 I will NEVER trust a vet again. ) I did not have a necropsy done but I suspect it was a clot particularly because she always had protein in her urine. TBH I think most times the breathing issues may be heart related but because of what I went through with Bobber I personally am suspect of a clot also. I don't know but it seems to me that perhaps a clot may have been inhibiting her breathing and then just broke off on that fateful day and lodged/blocked a critical vessel? All the best for Luna! I'll be praying for her. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MaryJane Posted February 14, 2020 Share Posted February 14, 2020 What comes to mind is the heart problems (dilated cardiomyopathy) that dogs fed novel protein/grain free/boutique brands are encountering. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ramonaghan Posted February 14, 2020 Share Posted February 14, 2020 Laura . I agree that it sounds like a possible heart issue, perhaps CHF. My experience is limited to cats, but lethargy and high resting respiratory rate are classic signs. Please keep us posted. You and your sweet Luna will be in my thoughts. Quote Rachel with Doolin Doodle Dooooo, boss cat Tootie, and feline squatters Crumpet and Fezziwig. Missing gentlemen kitties Mud, Henry, and Richard and our gorgeous, gutsy girlhounds Sweep and Willa. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
schultzlc Posted February 14, 2020 Author Share Posted February 14, 2020 Thank you all for your input and well wishes! With heart issues, could that come on quite suddenly? There wasn’t really any lead up to this (lethargy, phlegm, cough, etc). I’ll have to do some research. I have called over 20 vet clinics this morning and everyone is slammed right now. I don’t think I can put her through waiting a couple of hours at a walk in clinic, so I’ll have to keep checking. Hopefully I’ll be able to get her seen shortly. In the meantime, we’re having a lazy day at home. This morning she took me by complete surprise by demanding a walk and eating her complete breakfast. Quote Laura, mom to Luna (Boc's Duchess) and Nova (Atascocita Venus).Forever in my heart, Phantom (Tequila Nights) and Zippy (Iruska Monte). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
greysmom Posted February 14, 2020 Share Posted February 14, 2020 Unfortunately, yes. Heart issues don't often present observable symptoms until it's quite close to the end. If you have a good emergency hospital with a cardiologist on staff, you might try and see if she can be seen today by them. Other symptoms you might notice: a small, nagging cough - like something caught in her throat - after very light exercise; consistent or intermittent soft stools (caused by her body shifting bloodflow from other organs to support the heart); episodes of mental confusion; difficulty walking or stumbling a lot; difficulties rising from a prone position. Good luck. We'll be thinking of you both. Quote Chris - Mom to: Felicity (DeLand), and Andi (Braska Pandora) siggy by Chris Harper, on Flickr Angels: Libby (Everlast), Dorie (Dog Gone Holly), Dude (TNJ VooDoo), Copper (Kid's Copper), Cash (GSI Payncash), Toni (LPH Cry Baby), Whiskey (KT's Phys Ed), Atom, Lilly Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ramonaghan Posted February 14, 2020 Share Posted February 14, 2020 (edited) Laura, I know it's not right down the street, but if you need a recommendation, Nashville Vet Specialists are *wonderful.* You'll need a referral from your regular vet unless you go on an emergency basis (which I hope won't be necessary!). Edited February 14, 2020 by ramonaghan clarity Quote Rachel with Doolin Doodle Dooooo, boss cat Tootie, and feline squatters Crumpet and Fezziwig. Missing gentlemen kitties Mud, Henry, and Richard and our gorgeous, gutsy girlhounds Sweep and Willa. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
schultzlc Posted February 14, 2020 Author Share Posted February 14, 2020 1 hour ago, greysmom said: Unfortunately, yes. Heart issues don't often present observable symptoms until it's quite close to the end. If you have a good emergency hospital with a cardiologist on staff, you might try and see if she can be seen today by them. Not ever what we hope to hear, but I appreciate this info. She’s such a stoic type too, that I’ve always felt that I would never know something is wrong until it’s very wrong. I had never observed any of those other symptoms, but I do feel as though my poor girl has aged substantially in just 24 hours. I’ll keep you all posted on what I learn. Quote Laura, mom to Luna (Boc's Duchess) and Nova (Atascocita Venus).Forever in my heart, Phantom (Tequila Nights) and Zippy (Iruska Monte). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
schultzlc Posted February 14, 2020 Author Share Posted February 14, 2020 1 hour ago, ramonaghan said: Laura, I know it's not right down the street, but if you need a recommendation, Nashville Vet Specialists are *wonderful.* You'll need a referral from your regular vet unless you go on an emergency basis (which I hope won't be necessary!). This is good to know, thank you, Rachel. Clarksville doesn’t really have a 24/7 clinic, but we spend about half of our week in Nashville with my BF anyways, so I will keep them in mind. It seems like we’re usually referred to a Nashville clinic during off hours. Quote Laura, mom to Luna (Boc's Duchess) and Nova (Atascocita Venus).Forever in my heart, Phantom (Tequila Nights) and Zippy (Iruska Monte). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ramonaghan Posted February 18, 2020 Share Posted February 18, 2020 On 2/14/2020 at 1:34 PM, schultzlc said: This is good to know, thank you, Rachel. Clarksville doesn’t really have a 24/7 clinic, but we spend about half of our week in Nashville with my BF anyways, so I will keep them in mind. It seems like we’re usually referred to a Nashville clinic during off hours. Just checking on Luna. Hope all is well. Quote Rachel with Doolin Doodle Dooooo, boss cat Tootie, and feline squatters Crumpet and Fezziwig. Missing gentlemen kitties Mud, Henry, and Richard and our gorgeous, gutsy girlhounds Sweep and Willa. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
schultzlc Posted March 20, 2020 Author Share Posted March 20, 2020 Just an update on Miss Luna. She doesn’t have anything specific wrong her her that we could pinpoint, as it turns out. And we have mostly good days when she bounds around, plays with toys, and eats. Then, suddenly we wake up one morning and she’s a mess. Her breathing is short and shallow, she has trouble with walking, doesn’t really want to eat or walk, and pretty much lays on her bed semi-napping. Then, a day or two later, she bounces back and is perfect again. It’s confusing and concerning, and I wish I could identify something that triggers this, but I haven’t found a pattern yet. I understand that at nearly 13, I’ve been lucky that her health has been so good. And right now, the good days vastly outnumber the bad, so I’ll be grateful for that. Has anyone ever experienced anything similar with their seniors? Quote Laura, mom to Luna (Boc's Duchess) and Nova (Atascocita Venus).Forever in my heart, Phantom (Tequila Nights) and Zippy (Iruska Monte). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
schultzlc Posted March 26, 2020 Author Share Posted March 26, 2020 A post I’ve dreaded making for years. Luna has had a really tough week, and I’ll have to let her go within the next couple of days. I’m absolutely heartbroken and wish more than anything that I could fix her and make everything okay. Social distancing has added some uniqueness to this experience. On one hand, my university has been closed and I’ve been teaching online from home since March 6, so I’ve been gifted a ton of extra time to shower my hounds with love. On the other hand, local vet offices are picking dogs up at the door and their people aren’t allowed in with them. There’s no way I could ever leave Luna alone in the end. Fortunately, one mobile vet is still operational and can come right to our home. It gives me some peace of mind knowing that she’ll be here where she feels safe and comfortable and that I can be with her every step of the way. If you could spare a thought for Luna, and for a smooth and dignified passing, I’d greatly appreciate it. For now, I’m off to snuggle with my girl and try to not show her how much I’m hurting. Quote Laura, mom to Luna (Boc's Duchess) and Nova (Atascocita Venus).Forever in my heart, Phantom (Tequila Nights) and Zippy (Iruska Monte). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
greysmom Posted March 26, 2020 Share Posted March 26, 2020 I'm so sorry. {{{hugs}}} Quote Chris - Mom to: Felicity (DeLand), and Andi (Braska Pandora) siggy by Chris Harper, on Flickr Angels: Libby (Everlast), Dorie (Dog Gone Holly), Dude (TNJ VooDoo), Copper (Kid's Copper), Cash (GSI Payncash), Toni (LPH Cry Baby), Whiskey (KT's Phys Ed), Atom, Lilly Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ShebasMom Posted March 26, 2020 Share Posted March 26, 2020 22 minutes ago, schultzlc said: A post I’ve dreaded making for years. Luna has had a really tough week, and I’ll have to let her go within the next couple of days. I’m absolutely heartbroken and wish more than anything that I could fix her and make everything okay. Social distancing has added some uniqueness to this experience. On one hand, my university has been closed and I’ve been teaching online from home since March 6, so I’ve been gifted a ton of extra time to shower my hounds with love. On the other hand, local vet offices are picking dogs up at the door and their people aren’t allowed in with them. There’s no way I could ever leave Luna alone in the end. Fortunately, one mobile vet is still operational and can come right to our home. It gives me some peace of mind knowing that she’ll be here where she feels safe and comfortable and that I can be with her every step of the way. If you could spare a thought for Luna, and for a smooth and dignified passing, I’d greatly appreciate it. For now, I’m off to snuggle with my girl and try to not show her how much I’m hurting. I'm so glad you'll have someone come to your house to ease Luna's passing. My heart goes out to you and Luna. Know that she is loved and you're doing the best for her. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ramonaghan Posted March 26, 2020 Share Posted March 26, 2020 Oh, I am so saddened and sorry to read this. Hugs to you and both your girls, and best wishes for a gentle passing for Luna. Quote Rachel with Doolin Doodle Dooooo, boss cat Tootie, and feline squatters Crumpet and Fezziwig. Missing gentlemen kitties Mud, Henry, and Richard and our gorgeous, gutsy girlhounds Sweep and Willa. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jerilyn Posted March 26, 2020 Share Posted March 26, 2020 I'm so sorry! I hope Luna's passing is easy for all of you. Quote Jerilyn, missing Lila (Good Looking), new Mistress to Wiki (PJ Wicked). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FiveRoooooers Posted March 26, 2020 Share Posted March 26, 2020 Laura, I am so sorry. Please know that our hearts are with you and Luna. Quote Old Dogs are the Best Dogs. Thank you, campers. Current enrollees: Punkin. AnnIE Oooh M, Ebbie, HollyBeeBop (Betty Crocker). Angels: Pal . Segugio. Sorella (TPGIT). LadyBug. Zeke-aroni. MiMi Sizzle Pants. Gracie. Seamie . (Foster)Sweet. Andy. PaddyALVIN!Mayhem. Bosco. Bruno. Dottie B. Trevor Double-Heart. Bea. Cletus, KLTO. Aiden 1-4. Upon reflection, our lives are often referenced in parts defined by the all-too-short lives of our dogs. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BatterseaBrindl Posted March 26, 2020 Share Posted March 26, 2020 Quote Nancy...Mom to Sid (Peteles Tiger), Kibo (112 Carlota Galgos) and Joshi. Missing Casey, Gomer, Mona, Penelope, BillieJean, Bandit, Nixon (Starz Sammie), Ruby (Watch Me Dash) Nigel (Nigel), and especially little Mario, waiting at the Bridge. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Remolacha Posted March 26, 2020 Share Posted March 26, 2020 I am so sorry Luna’s time is near, but glad you are able to have someone come to the house, I think it makes such a difference. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Houndtime Posted March 27, 2020 Share Posted March 27, 2020 I am so sorry to read that Luna's time has come. G-d speed and G-d bless. Quote Irene Ullmann w/Flying Odin and Mama Mia in Lower Delaware Angels Brandy, John E, American Idol, Paul, Fuzzy and Shine Handcrafted Greyhound and Custom Clocks http://www.houndtime.com Zoom Doggies-Racing Coats for Racing Greyhounds Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RaineysMom Posted March 27, 2020 Share Posted March 27, 2020 I'm so sorry I hope the mobile vet could be there to help her cross Quote Kim and Bruce - with Rick (Rick Roufus 6/30/16) and missing my sweet greyhound Angels Rainey (LG's Rainey 10/4/2000 - 3/8/2011), Anubis (RJ's Saint Nick 12/25/2001 - 9/12/12) and Zeke (Hey Who Whiz It 4/6/2009 - 7/20/2020) and Larry (PTL Laroach 2/24/2007 - 8/2/2020) -- and Chester (Lab) (8/31/1990 - 5/3/2005), Captain (Schipperke) (10/12/1992 - 6/13/2005) and Remy (GSP) (?/?/1998 - 1/6/2005) at the bridge"Always do sober what you said you'd do drunk. That will teach you to keep your mouth shut." -- Ernest Hemmingway Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JohnF Posted March 28, 2020 Share Posted March 28, 2020 So sorry that Luna's time needed to come to a close. It is never easy, and it sounds like you have been one of the best owners a dog could ever have hoped for. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Patsy Posted March 29, 2020 Share Posted March 29, 2020 Holding you all in my heart. Quote Patsy and DH with the Humane Society specials, Linus & Jazz, in North Dakota Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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