My beautiful glider has just gotten his bloodwork back and the vet says it looks like leukemia. I am devastated and confused, I have never heard of a glider with leukemia.
We noticed he was making odd squeaking and sneezing noises and not eating much about 5 days ago (he is 7, and has been healthy his whole life). We took him to the vet and he ran bloodwork and x-rayed him to look for any infection in his lungs. The x-ray was clean.
So the vet just called to report the bloodwork came back and that it showed very high levels of white blood cells, but not the type of white blood cells you see with infection. He said the it was the lymphocytes that were very elevated, and this almost certainly meant leukemia or possibly bone marrow cancer.
Does anyone have ANY information on this? I feel like my world has come down on me and I have no idea what to do since I have never even heard of leukemia or any other cancer for that matter in gliders.
Is it possible that there is something else going on here? Could something else cause an extremely elevated lymphocyte count or does this high count mean that it is indeed cancer?
I love him so much and would do anything for him but I don't want him to suffer. Any insight or information would be much appreciated.
I should also mention that on his rear thumb he has had a half-pea sized bubble for 6 months. The vet didnt think much of it and it never seemed to bother him but ever since he awoke from the anesthesia from the x-ray a few days ago, he has been dragging that foot. I was worried about HLP but he is using the leg, but he has curled the foot in and it and isnt moving the actual foot much. The vet thinks this may be due to the leukemia or bone marrow cancer which he just diagnosed. It's confusing I know, I just wanted to provide all details. Thanks.
I'm so sorry, I have never heard of anything like this either. Please do keep us updated and share any information you are comfortable sharing along the way. Your journey with him may help others.
~Gretchen
If we never loved, then maybe we would never feel pain. Love anyway. It's worth it.
Thanks for this info Candy! I sent him a list of all of the consulting vets. I didn't realize Dr. Tristan was specializing in this and it's great info to have!
I am so sorry for you and your baby. I hope you can help the rest of the community with your story, and the ups & downs of treatments, if there are any available.
I'll be sending positive thoughts your way, and hoping for a pain free outcome.
Hey guys Thanks so much for the well wishes. I am still quite confused about what is going on. I have now spoken with several glider experts who run glider rescues and no one has ever heard of a glider with leukemia. Apparently gliders to get cancer rarely, but all cases so far have involved large tumors. My glider had a full body x-ray and no tumors were found. It's all very odd.
The one thing I am wondering about is if this growth on his thumb could be a tumor. The vet didnt think much of the growth (thought it was just a cyst), but since his bloodwork indicated cancer and no tumors were found anywhere else, I am wondering it this could be it. I am attaching 2 pics of the growth and would love some feedback from those who may have seen a growth like this before. Does it look like it could be a tumor or is it unlikely?
Thanks again, and please pray for my beautiful Romulus-he is the sweetest, most sensitive soul.
i no of a glider that lived many yrs with lymphoma i would get a second opinon from a glider knowledgeable vet. as i was told my glider had liver issues and from a glider vet was told those values on the bloodwork are not the same as the australian bloodwork. dont fear anything yet. but if it weree me i would get a good all around antibiotic and see if there is improvement in 3 to 4 days if not switch to another antibiotic. it sounds bacterial to me. have done a bacterial culture and sensitivity on the stool.
I'm so sorry to hear about your glider and wish I had answers for you and your little one My Pikaboo died of cancer but had a large visible tumor behind her eye. I've never heard of glider leukemia but I hope it's not really that. (((hugs)))
Animal & Bird Helth Care Center & Hospital 1785 Springdale Road Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08003 856-751-2122 No website or email address Animal Clinic of Morris Plains 3009 Route 10 Morris Plains, New Jersey 07950 973-539-2775 or 973-366-3223 http://www.animalclinicofmorrisplains.com/ No email address
Animal Emergency and Referral Center 1237 Bloomfield Avenue Fairfield New Jersey 07004 973-226-3282 http://www.animalerc.com/ No email address
Animal Hospital of Somerdale 408 White Horse Pike Somerdale, New Jersey 08083 856-346-4242 No website or email address
Plainfield Animal Hospital 2210 Park Avenue South Plainfield, New Jersey 07080 908-755-2428 www.plainfieldanimalhospital.com Email on website
Ramtown Animal Hospital of Howell 6 Ramtown Greenville Road Howell, New Jersey 07731 732-836-9500 No website or email address
Raritan Animal Hospital multiple locations 1850 Lincoln Hwy Edison New Jersey 08820 732-985-0278 And Oak Tree Animal Clinic 2122 Oak Tree Road Edison, New Jersey 08820 732-548-4411 And Piscataway Animal Clinic 13 Shelton Street Piscataway ,New Jersey 08854 732-968-6888 And Hopelawn Animal Clinic 297 New Brunswick Avenue Fords New Jersey 08863 732-738-1338 http://www.raritananimalhospital.com/index.html No email address
Red Bank Veterinary Hospital 197 Hance Avenue Tinton Falls, New Jersey 07724 732-747-3636 www.rbvh.net No email address
Ridgewood Veterinary Hospital 320 East Ridgewood Avenue Ridgewood, New Jersey 07450 201-447-6000 www.ridgewoodvet.com No email address
Rothman Animal Hospital Dwight Ave and Route 130 North Collingswood, New Jersey 08108 856-854-7575 http://www.rothmananimalhospital.com/ Email on website
Rutherford Animal Hospital 755 Rutherford Avenue Rutherford, New Jersey 07070 201-933-4111 www.raho.com Email on website
Swedesboro Animal Hospital 392 Kings Hwy. Swedesboro, New Jersey 08085 856-467-0004 http://www.swedesboroah.com/ No email address
Vetco Animal Hospital #471 1565 Route206 Vincentown, New Jersey 08088 609-268-9470 www.vetcoanimalhospital.com No email address
Wantage Veterinary Hospital 465 Route 23 Wantage, New Jersey 08461 973-875-7297 www.wantagevet.net paws@wantagevet.net
Willingboro Veterinary Clinic 12 Sidney lane Willingboro ,New Jersey 08046 609-871-1600 http://www.willingborovet.com/ Email on website
If your vet is not glider experienced, or needs help, these are experienced sugar glider vets, who will consult with your vet by phone. They will speak only to other vets.
Dr.Tim Tristan OSO Creek Animal Hospital 361-994-1145
Dr. Bradley Walsh Village vet Animal Clinic/All Creatures Veterinary Hospital 918-258-0040
Dr. Andrew Grzanowski Canton Center Animal Hospital 734-459-1400
Dr. Kate Zimmerman TriCounty Animal Hospital (Has 24hr emergency contact info on her office answering machine) 423-391-0303
Dr. Paul Welch Forest Trails Animal Hospital 918-299-8448
Dr. Teresa Bradley Belton Animal Clinic 816-331-3120
Dr. Kristen West Mandel Veterinary Hospital 216-321-6040
Poor little guy. Prayers going out to you and your little man. Please keep us updated on his condition.
Kimberley Feathers-Sweetie, Mister Peanut & Big Mack Fur-Guinan, Mr. Spock, T'Mir, Cho, Toothless, Maverick & Maharet T'Pol, Elizabeth & Curzon TY, TJ, Light Fury, Madison & T'Pring Forever in my heart, Gizmo, Tucker, Khayman and the rest of my babies over the
romulusandremus, I had a similar experience with one of my gliders. He had a bruise on his one hand and loss of appetite.
The blood work showed that the AbNmat is too low (1.36) and the AbLympho is higher than it should be (9.43).
The vet indicated to me that it could be anything from a Viral infection to the rare possibility of Hepatic enzyme induction or Biliary Cystadenoma or Leukameia or Aflatoxicosis or Lymphosarcoma.
hey guys Thanks so much for all of the prayers and well wishes. It's such a sad situation but we are doing the best we can. The good news is that right now Romulus seems comfortable and we started him on prednisone and anti-biotics which seem to be helping a bit. And while he is obviously ill, he doesn't seem to be suffering, and is loving all of the attention and his round the clock, hand-fed waxworms.
Just to provide an update. The vet has now consulted with several specialists and they all seem certain that this is some kind of cancer. His bloodwork showed that 93% of his white blood cells were lymphocytes (it should be around 30%). The absolute count for the lymphocytes was 20460. The vets are all saying that they can't think of anything aside from cancer that would cause such an increase. I was TRULY hoping for an alternative diagnosis, but so far everyone seems to agree that cancer is the culprit. A bacterial infection would cause an increase in neutrophils, and his neutrophil count is quite low (only 6%).
He is such a sweet little guy and we are doing everything we can for him. I have him in my shirt all day and am feeding him tons of waxworms and avocado to keep his weight up (he initially lost some weight but it is coming up now). If this is indeed cancer (which everyone thinks it is) then it is sadly, but obviously fatal. We don't know how long he may have, but we are doing all we can to keep his as happy and comfortable for as long as we can. With that said, if he starts to go downhill, I will not allow him to suffer. I hope that is a decision I don't have to make for some time, but it is something I know I will face sometime in the future. In the meantime, we are enjoying spoiling the little guy rotten....
Thanks again for all of the kind words and thoughts-it really helps to hear from those who know how this feels and what we are going through. If anyone has any additional insight, thoughts or suggestion, we would love to hear them. -Josh
Josh, this is truly breaking my heart (I'm totally crying a little bit). I'm so glad though that he doesn't seem to be suffering and I'm SUPER glad he's enjoying being spoiled rotten! I was so wishing for an alternative diagnosis, but there doesn't seem to be one. I'm definitely going to keep you and your little one in my prayers and hope that whatever time he does have left is full of joy and happiness and love and free from any discomfort....
Jess
2 spoiled gliders, Gizzy (6/05) and Ruthie (?/05) <3
Please consider rescuing first!
Please remember to complete your surveys at http://www.sugargroup.org/ - help better the lives of gliders everywhere
Josh, I'm so sorry you and your little guy is going through this. A note tho.....if you take him off the prednisone for any reason, be sure to take him off slowly. If you go cold turkey you will have psycho glider on your hands. My Brodie has been on prednisone for his sinuse issues and the one time I didn't step him down off the prednisone he went nuts on me. It was like he had no idea who I was or what I was going to do to him. He refused to come near me and he is normally a baby who loves nothing more than to dive into my bra.
Chris Illusion, Malcom, Isabell, Annabelle, Zach, Isis, Aly & Indy AND Miss Emmy & Miss Chloe kitties
My Angels: You are always in my heart.
You've flown to the rainbow and wait there for me Someday I will join you together to be
Re: Glider Diagnosed With Leukemia, Please Help. PICS
[Re: romulusandremus]
#1086003 03/17/1104:21 AM03/17/1104:21 AM
I'm so sorry to hear this :-( I am not sure where in NJ you are, but we see Dr Hodes in Mine Hill and he is really kind and knowledgeable about gliders.. He always takes the time to explain things to me. You seem happy with your vet and what they are doing, but just in case. I thought I'd throw it out there. **hugs**
Hi Josh~ I am so sorry to hear this!! I am so new to gliders but I have had experience with dogs with cancer. I dont know if homeopathy plays into it as much with gliders but I so a homeopathic vet with my lab, Andi. I also gave her only distilled water and a special diet. You might want to look into that??? Im a firm believer in alternative treatments and therapies. Sending prayers and good wishes
Re: Glider Diagnosed With Leukemia, Please Help. PICS
[Re: tournesoul]
#1089622 03/24/1104:00 AM03/24/1104:00 AM
I just wanted to give a quick update for all of you who have wished us well and kept Romulus in your prayers.
Rommy is still with us and we continue to spoil him in every way we can. We try to let him rest but also give him tons of attention and hand-feed him all of his favorite foods.
He is obviously very tired and weak but does not seem to be suffering. It just tears me apart to see him like this though.
I could use a little advice, especially from those who have gone through the process of having a glider with a serious, and likely terminal illness.
As I mentioned, several vets all agree that Romulus has some sort of cancer (likely leukemia or lymphoma), however a definitive diagnosis cannot be made without a bone marrow biopsy. There is a big part of me that is hoping against hope that it is not cancer, but I just don't know if it's a good idea to put him through the stress, danger and pain of a bone-marrow biopsy. I also don't know if the results of the biopsy would be much help.
My vet has told me that we can try a chemotherapy drug(cyclophosphamide) that generally has very mild side-effects, and I am considering this option. Of course the problem is that there is really no info out there regarding sugar gliders and chemotherapy and the LAST thing I want to do is put him through something that might make him suffer, especially since it likely will not make much of a difference.
I'm just not sure what route to take. Do I accept the assumed diagnosis of cancer, or do I get a bone-marrow biopsy to confirm? Do I treat for cancer with cyclophosphamide in the hopes it may buy him time or is that going too far?
Right now he is on prednisone and Baytril (since prednisone will suppress his immune system). He is still eating, but I see him getting increasingly lethargic. I desperately want to save my little Rommy but I strongly suspect that there is nothing to be done.
What do you guys think? I know it's a personal decision, but I would appreciate any insight. It's just so hard to admit defeat and accept that I will lose him. He thanks you for all of your prayers and raises a mealworm to you..
My personal input is that quality of life far exceeds quantity. Why put him through chemotherapy if it's only going to give you a few extra months....and he be miserably sick in the process?
I can't begin to imagine how heartbreaking it is to see your little one growing more tired every day....just thinking about it makes me cry! I've been through it with several humans....it cannot be any easier with one of your precious furry children.
I'll pray that an answer comes soon for both of you...whatever it may be.
Minkasmom (Papillon Kisses) Slave to: 25 gliders,4 cats, and ONE husband (can't handle two, lol!) Remembering all my lost loves
I have seen animals fighting cancer. It is heart breaking. I have also seen humans on chemo and I would NEVER put any animal through that. Humans can understand why they are sick and feeling miserable, animals just can not. All they know is they are sick. And worse, they might figure out that it is the humans making them sick. (by giving the meds they hate so much)
If he were mine, I would love him and spoil him and give him all the things that a little glider could ever want (even chocolate if that is what he wants) and let him live what life he has to the fullest. I would be with him and make sure he knows he is loved. And if he got to where there was no quality of life left, I would help him cross to the rainbow bridge carrying part of me with him.
I am so very sorry you and your little glider is going through this. It isn't fair nor just. Some things are just out of our control. But the sickness he would have with chemo or the pain of the biopsy are within your control.
May you find some peace with your decision, which ever it may be.
620-704-9109 Judge not until you have walked in their shoes and lived their lives. What you see online is only part of the story.
I could have missed the pain But I'd of had to miss the dance
The soul would have no rainbow if the eyes had no tears.
I just wanted to give a quick update for all of you who have wished us well and kept Romulus in your prayers.
Rommy is still with us and we continue to spoil him in every way we can. We try to let him rest but also give him tons of attention and hand-feed him all of his favorite foods.
He is obviously very tired and weak but does not seem to be suffering. It just tears me apart to see him like this though.
Thank you for the update Josh. Keep on spoiling Rommy, give him whatever his precious heart desires. It is very hard to see your glider in such a fragile state.
Originally Posted By: romulusandremus
Hi guys I could use a little advice, especially from those who have gone through the process of having a glider with a serious, and likely terminal illness.
As I mentioned, several vets all agree that Romulus has some sort of cancer (likely leukemia or lymphoma), however a definitive diagnosis cannot be made without a bone marrow biopsy. There is a big part of me that is hoping against hope that it is not cancer, but I just don't know if it's a good idea to put him through the stress, danger and pain of a bone-marrow biopsy. I also don't know if the results of the biopsy would be much help.
My vet has told me that we can try a chemotherapy drug(cyclophosphamide) that generally has very mild side-effects, and I am considering this option. Of course the problem is that there is really no info out there regarding sugar gliders and chemotherapy and the LAST thing I want to do is put him through something that might make him suffer, especially since it likely will not make much of a difference.
I'm just not sure what route to take. Do I accept the assumed diagnosis of cancer, or do I get a bone-marrow biopsy to confirm? Do I treat for cancer with cyclophosphamide in the hopes it may buy him time or is that going too far?
I agree with you and what others have said, it's just not fair to put him through the stress, danger and pain of a bone-marrow biopsy. Especially when it's an assumed diagnosis of cancer. When my husband and I have been told that our baby has possible cancer, we were devastated, they gave us two words, leukemia and lymphoma. We have a very close bond with our exotic vet, and to this day I will never forget her face when she walked up to me with the haematology report in her hands. After she gave us the news, I broke down completely. We started discussing the options, she had little hope. She mentioned a few other things like the possibility of viral infection etc, but showed me on the report that he had elevated lymphocytes (AbLympho is higher than it should be (9.43)), together with AbNmat is too low (1.36). The fact that the one was higher than normal and the other was lower than normal she said is usually an indication of some sort of cancer. likely lymphoma. She contacted several exotic vets in the USA that agreed with her findings. She sent me home with meds to treat for viral infections etc, but had little hope. At first he was his normal self, he just didn't want to eat and had obvious weight loss. Soon after, he became very weak, he would run his wheel, but will go slower and slower, getting too exhausted. The night came that we thought it's his last night with us... He was very weak. We had to force fluids and food, giving our vet regular updates. In the end, he pulled through what the vet later could not explain, but he pulled through. We had so many people all over the world pray for our little guy, and he is one happy healthy boy today. I guess what I am trying to say is that as hard as it is to stay positive, you need to, for Rommy. We don't know that Rommy has cancer for sure, and that should give us a glimpse of hope which we should hang on to. I am not saying at all that Rommy's situation is like Gizzy's, it may very well be different, we just don't know. You saw the similarities in our haematology reports, hold on to the fact that there are similarities, and that Rommy CAN make it.
Originally Posted By: romulusandremus
What do you guys think? I know it's a personal decision, but I would appreciate any insight. It's just so hard to admit defeat and accept that I will lose him. He thanks you for all of your prayers and raises a mealworm to you..
Whatever you decide, we as a community will be right here with you, praying and supporting both of you.
Ugh, I cry everytime I read this thread. I'm so sorry about all of this, I truly am...I noticed you posted a thread asking for a vet in NJ, so I'm thinking you're going to get another opinion (haven't read it yet, gonna do that next). The biopsy just sounds so painful to me, I just think it wouldn't make much of a difference at this point. I can only tell you what I would do if he were mine, and I would love him and spoil him and cuddle him for the time he has left and be with him when he passed, holding him and telling him I loved him. Whatever decision you make, we're all behind you, supporting you all the way...give him kisses for us!
Last edited by angelic4296; 03/28/1103:04 AM.
Jess
2 spoiled gliders, Gizzy (6/05) and Ruthie (?/05) <3
Please consider rescuing first!
Please remember to complete your surveys at http://www.sugargroup.org/ - help better the lives of gliders everywhere
Re: Glider Diagnosed With Leukemia, Please Help. PICS
[Re: romulusandremus]
#1091507 03/28/1111:03 AM03/28/1111:03 AM
Bloodwork has been done which would have given a better indication if there was an illness than the fecal would have and specialist have been consulted reguarding the results.
It is heartbreaking knowing what you and Rommy are going through and my thoughts and prayers are with you. If it were me, I would love on him and tell him every day what he means to me and give him all the nummies he wants. When the time finally comes, he will let you know that he is done fighting and is ready to go.
Chris Illusion, Malcom, Isabell, Annabelle, Zach, Isis, Aly & Indy AND Miss Emmy & Miss Chloe kitties
My Angels: You are always in my heart.
You've flown to the rainbow and wait there for me Someday I will join you together to be
Hey guys, Just wanted to provide another update since everyone here has been so concerned and comforting during this very difficult time for us.
I was VERY worried about Romulus 2 nights ago. He was very lethargic and was just limp in my hand when I held him. I was terrified he wouldn't make it through the night and so I put him in his favorite plush hammock and kept him in bed with me as I went to sleep. I kept my hand on him and eventually dozed off and then at 3 in the morning I felt something jump on my pillow! He had climbed out and looked alert and so I got up and fed him and he actually ran (literally ran) around for a bit and ate and drank quite a bit.
I know he is seriously ill and that I am going to lose him, but I was so thankful to see that life in him. Since then (2 nights ago) he has kept up his appetite and is active at times. Again, I know how sick he is but considering I was almost certain I was losing him 2 nights ago, I welcome these small signs of life he gives me.
I also want to thank everyone for their suggestions. Someone mentioned (I think it was in this thread) using live crickets to keep him engaged and keep his spirits up. Romulus hasn't had live crickets in many years so I thought I would give this a try. So I put him in a box with a couple live crickets and his ears perked up immediately and he pounced on them like he was a little joey!! Again, as sick as he is, it really warms my heart to see him enjoy himself like that.
Lastly, I wanted to mention something about his weight. Since being diagnosed with cancer, Romulus has GAINED (that's right...gained) 20 grams!!! We took him to the vet yesterday to get a refill of antibiotics and the vet weighed him and couldn't believe it. He must be the only animal in the world to gain weight with cancer. We have just been so paranoid and worried about him losing weight that we have just given him whatever he wants all day, every day. Avocado, waxworms, mealies, corn, honey...all the fatty foods he shouldn't have but loves.
Anyway, I just wanted to post a little good news for everyone in an otherwise, very sad situation. He is being such a strong little fighter and I am so proud of him. He has taught me alot and I will love him forever. It helps so much to hear from you guys and share with you and so I thank you from the bottom of my heart and Romulus gives you all a big, avocado-stained hug.
I know a dog who's bone cancer was cured by using shark cartilage daily...maybe something like this would help. Something all natural might slow the progressiveness
Enjoy and cherish the time you have with him. You might want to look into the books: Grey Angels and Grey Angels2 by Donna Fritz.
Lord Darcy had lymphosarcoma a form of blood cancer. They are wonderful books, both fiction and non-fiction at the same time. You might find comfort in them, she fed Lord Darcy crickets.
Kimberley Feathers-Sweetie, Mister Peanut & Big Mack Fur-Guinan, Mr. Spock, T'Mir, Cho, Toothless, Maverick & Maharet T'Pol, Elizabeth & Curzon TY, TJ, Light Fury, Madison & T'Pring Forever in my heart, Gizmo, Tucker, Khayman and the rest of my babies over the
im glad u have him on antibiotics i dont trust bloodwork all the time. just my opinion. since having it done and being told my glider had high liver enzymes only to find out the blood values were for that of a rodent and not a marsupial. i always trust a fecal bacterial culture and sensitivity. which is different from a normal fecal that most people do. on the culture and sensitivity it takes a week for the results as the sample is sent out which then tells you the correct med for what type bacteria the glider has. also since you cant wait a week when the glider is ill for this test to come back. i always ask for a broad spectrum antibiotic till i get the results of the test. and the antibiotic usually should show improvement in the glider within 3 days. i have a glider who was almost dead she was on antibiotics and nothing no improvement. she was on them 4 days. took her back to the vet. the vet gave her baytril in shot form and i continued with oral antibiotics after the one shot. now this was a new med from what was not working. withing a few hrs the shot that was given went directly into her bloodstream and she was moving again. i saw improvement the same day. this glider was extemely critical. being force fed. she is still with me alive and well 1 yr later.
Enjoy and cherish the time you have with him. You might want to look into the books: Grey Angels and Grey Angels2 by Donna Fritz.
Lord Darcy had lymphosarcoma a form of blood cancer. They are wonderful books, both fiction and non-fiction at the same time. You might find comfort in them, she fed Lord Darcy crickets.
Thanks for the suggestions. I have heard several people mention Lord Darcy but since I am fairly new to the forum, I'm not sure who she is (well I know Darcy is a glider, but I am wondering who the member is who owns her). I would love to speak with her since she has gone through a similar health issue.
On another note, unfortunately Romulus has been having bad diarrhea the past few days. However I spoke to Gizmogirl on Skype today and she mentioned that oatmeal can help with diarrhea. The good news is that he LOVES the oatmeal. First I just gave him a few dry oats which he nibbled on, and since he was looking interested, I microwaved a bit of plain oatmeal with water and some honey....well the chubby little boy gobbled it up.
While this is such a heartbreaking situation, I must say that I am loving every minute of the day with him. I don't begin med school for another few months so I have alot of free time at the moment and I just spend the day thinking of new and fun ways to spoil him rotten. It's amazing how much you can fall in love with these teeny bandits. Ok...off to feed Rommy a mash of avocado and honeydew melon...
Re: Glider Diagnosed With Leukemia, Please Help. PICS
[Re: romulusandremus]
#1092542 03/30/1102:53 AM03/30/1102:53 AM
i knew donna fritz very well but lost contact with her but darcy was on darcys diet which is on the board in diets. as far as i know darcy is doing well many yrs since he had lymphoma. the diareah could be a parasitic or stress issue. did u have a fecal snap test or cytology run on his stool. it cant hurt. just bring a sample to the vet and he could do both if theres enough. by splitting it in half you dont need to bring him in for these tests just a sample of his stool, the symptoms you describe from the start sound more like a bacteria than cancer to me. dont lose hope tests arent always 100 percent. after you finish the course of meds wait 4 to 5 days till his system is clear of the meds and i would run a bacterial culture and sensitivity on his stool to make sure he dont have any bacteria in him its a costly test but well worth it. ive done it several times and it is worth doing this way you know he is fine. but a glider must be off meds at least 4 to 5 days to do this or it must be done before the first dose of meds..
Re: Glider Diagnosed With Leukemia, Please Help. PICS
[Re: romulusandremus]
#1092557 03/30/1103:21 AM03/30/1103:21 AM
Karen, Rommy's diarrhea is from the medication he is on.
Josh is doing everything and anything he can at this stage to do what is in the best interest of Rommy. He is in consultation with several knowledgeable vets constantly re-assessing Rommy's situation and adjusting treatment accordingly. Josh has also put all his time and energy into researching and consulting with several people who can assist, I think you are a wonderful glider daddy and I commend you for all your efforts.
Ps, Please go slow on the oats, one flake at a time is enough, we don't want him constipated.
Karen, not every glider has bacterial infections! Fecal C&S is NOT the answer for EVERY SICK GLIDER!
This glider is being given the best care possible and I would bet that multitudes of tests have been done. In this case, the blood work IS the most reliable.
Josh, hang in there and just keep loving on that boy!
Oh, and definately go easy on the oats. The reason they help with loose stools is they absorb excess fluids in the digestive track. Absorb to much and he could become constipated.
620-704-9109 Judge not until you have walked in their shoes and lived their lives. What you see online is only part of the story.
I could have missed the pain But I'd of had to miss the dance
The soul would have no rainbow if the eyes had no tears.
I do think the diarrhea can be caused by the prednisone. I know Kira started having occasional diarrhea after she started pred and there was no problem with her fecals (no parasites or anything).
Donna (Lord Darcy's owner) hasn't been active here for a while now and is no longer a member. But we often use the example of Lord Darcy because we knew what he had (non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma) and how Donna and her vets treated it and that he was in remission for a very long time. Last we all heard (a few years back) he was still in remission and doing very well.
The one thing I can suggest (and know you are watching for anyway) is dehydration. If you have not already learned and have the supplies - I would ask your vet to teach you how to give subcutaneous fluid injections (as well as how much to give, how often and in what circumstances). There have been more than a few times that I have had to give Kira subQ injections because her diarrhea got a little ahead of her fluid intake.
I hope Romulus continues to show you positive little signs.
~Gretchen
If we never loved, then maybe we would never feel pain. Love anyway. It's worth it.
I am so sorry this is happening, I am praying that if he has to cross the Rainbow Bridge, that he does so painlessly and knowing how much he is loved....
Jess
2 spoiled gliders, Gizzy (6/05) and Ruthie (?/05) <3
Please consider rescuing first!
Please remember to complete your surveys at http://www.sugargroup.org/ - help better the lives of gliders everywhere
Thinking of you both and sending prayers to give you strength.
Kimberley Feathers-Sweetie, Mister Peanut & Big Mack Fur-Guinan, Mr. Spock, T'Mir, Cho, Toothless, Maverick & Maharet T'Pol, Elizabeth & Curzon TY, TJ, Light Fury, Madison & T'Pring Forever in my heart, Gizmo, Tucker, Khayman and the rest of my babies over the
i no too well the pain it gets better with time. i still remember my first glider ruby now i have 6 of them to love. do get more. the more you get the better it will help heal your pain. it tore my heart out when i lost ruby i can still cry about her and its been 5 yrs since them. but do get more im sure rom would want you too. there are lots of them out there that are in need of love
Re: Glider Diagnosed With Leukemia, Please Help. PICS
[Re: romulusandremus]
#1094625 04/03/1106:10 AM04/03/1106:10 AM
I am very sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in your memories of little Rommy.
Glide Free Little Rommy
Kimberley Feathers-Sweetie, Mister Peanut & Big Mack Fur-Guinan, Mr. Spock, T'Mir, Cho, Toothless, Maverick & Maharet T'Pol, Elizabeth & Curzon TY, TJ, Light Fury, Madison & T'Pring Forever in my heart, Gizmo, Tucker, Khayman and the rest of my babies over the
Re: Glider Diagnosed With Leukemia, Please Help. PICS
[Re: romulusandremus]
#1094640 04/03/1108:01 AM04/03/1108:01 AM
Josh and Amy...my heart is breaking for you today, I'm so very sorry for your loss of sweet Rommy. You did everything you could and that little sweet one knew that he was loved SO much! I bet he's dancing hand in hand with Sugar right now because he's pain free and watching over you both. May the memories keep your heart warm and happy. Thinking of you.
I just wanted to drop in quickly to thank everyone from the bottom of my, Amy's and especially Rommy's hearts for all of the support and prayers everyone in this great community gave us.
As Liezl updated you, it breaks my heart to say that we lost Romulus yesterday (Saturday) afternoon. He hung on as long as he could but was not in pain. He lived an amazingly happy and healthy 7.5 years and we are blessed to have had him in our lives for these many years. He was truly the sweetest glider you could imagine. Gentle, affectionate, playful and beautiful. We will miss him more than I can ever express but we are relieved to know he went peacefully and is now at rest (flirting and playing with Liezl's Sugar).
This has been a devistating 3 weeks, and I don't know how we would have gotten through it without you guys. Cherish all your little guys and girls and give them an extra mealy tonight from Romulus. And in your prayers, if you can remember, let Rommy know that Josh, Amy and his best friend Remus love him and miss him deeply, but that we will see him soon and will be a whole family again. Thanks guy-Josh, Amy and Remus
if u need to talk please call me. i no what you are going through. 919 270 8992 best time is in the evening. i lost my mom 3 yrs ago and when i lost ruby 5 yrs ago the pain was the same if not worse so i no what its like, but just think my ruby is waiting for me and is with rom too,
I haven't been on for a long time and this was the first thread I read when I just logged on. Now I remember why I used to pour over the threads hour after hour. The compassion and support that this site offers is second to none and the options that are discussed and the knowledge contained on its pages is unfounded.
I am so sorry for your loss, but something can and will be learned from this experience. Romulous will be remembered for his valiant struggle and the legacy he left behind with the knowledge gained from him is invaluable to all.
Thank you for sharing this with all of us even though it must have been extremely difficult. You are my heros!
Love and Prayers for all of you!
Barbara
Suggies - Pooka(female) and Jazz(neutered male) Husband and 2 skin kids Dogs - Shelties: Jeter, Rusty (rescue), and Nemo (rescue) Cats - Maggie (rescue) and Minnie (rescue)
I am so sorry for your loss Josh, Amy, and Remus. Rommy seemed like such a sweet, special little boy, and I know you all miss him very much. He is at peace now and you will see him again someday.
Rest in peace little Rommy.....
Jess
2 spoiled gliders, Gizzy (6/05) and Ruthie (?/05) <3
Please consider rescuing first!
Please remember to complete your surveys at http://www.sugargroup.org/ - help better the lives of gliders everywhere
Re: Glider Diagnosed With Leukemia, Please Help. PICS
[Re: romulusandremus]
#1094961 04/04/1112:18 AM04/04/1112:18 AM
Josh and Amy, Romulus had the best parents possible in the two of you. I know your heart is broken right now and words are of little comfort but please know, Romulus absolutely knew he was loved tremendously and he was in your hands as he passed.
I am so very sorry for your loss.
Glide free, sweet, precious Romulus over the Rainbow Bridge, healthy once more, to be with those who have gone before you. You have changed lives and touched hearts forever. You will always be loved, remembered and missed....
Josh, Amy, and Remus I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May you find comfort in his memories. He no longer has Leukemia and is pain free and will be waiting for you to be together again sometime.
As a tribute to Romulus and Sugar, we took the opportunity while on our recent trip, to carve their initials in a tree where we hope it will forever be.
We also carved their initials in the honeymoon suite we ALWAYS stay in, in memory of these two.
Oh my God Liezl and Casper, that is the most beautiful thing we have ever seen! Those pictures brightened our day more than you can ever imagine. It makes me so happy to know our 2 little angels are united and what an amazing way to commemorate them. Thank you so much for this.
We once took Romulus and Remus on a vacation with us and Amy made up miniature passports for them as a joke and we are now going to print a South Africa stamp on Rommmy's passport. Again, thank you SOOOOO MUCH!!
I hope you are both enjoying your trip. Talk to you soon-Josh and Amy and Remus
Re: Glider Diagnosed With Leukemia, Please Help. PICS
[Re: romulusandremus]
#1096193 04/06/1111:35 AM04/06/1111:35 AM
I'm so sorry for your loss. It hurt to read the last pages of this thread. My thoughts are with the three of you; extra love and mealies tonight in his honor.
Fuzz LightYear
Silly "Ozball" Ozzie. You left us 11/21/12..way too soon. You're forever loved, remembered, missed."
Sari
My Pikaboo died of cancer but had a large visible tumor behind her eye. I've never heard of glider leukemia but I hope it's not really that. (((hugs)))
T'Pol, Elizabeth & Curzon 
TY, TJ, Light Fury, Madison & T'Pring 
Will be in contact. Stay strong in this difficult time. 
Remembering all my lost loves 
