Sick puppy on prednisone and tetracycline - bloated?

StellaBee · #1 11-01-2009, 06:18 PM

Our 11 week old puppy, Bonzai, has been on prednisone and tetracycline for about 4 days now. The vet didn't know what was wrong with him - almost overnight, Bonzai became very weak, lost all of his "pinkness," began breathing rapidly, coughing with no results, and wouldn't eat. The vet put in an IV and kept him overnight. The vet tested for some sort of blood-borne bacteria, which came back negative, so he figured these 2 drugs would knock out whatever the problem was. I didn't necessarily like that answer, but didn't know what else to do.

Over the past 30 minutes or so, the puppy's belly has gotten really distended. He waddled when he walked outside and tried really hard to poop, but just a little came out. He's obviously very uncomfortable. It's hard to tell whether he has any new symptoms because he's already sick! My husband just talked with the vet's office (a different vet) and we're waiting for the vet to call back. Does anyone think it's possible the puppy has bloat/torsion or could it be a side effect from the drugs? We just don't know what to do for this poor puppy!

johann · #2 11-01-2009, 06:29 PM

I would bring him to an ER vet. He could have some sort of obstruction or bloat.

Personally, I would also look for a different regular vet. It makes no sense to prescribe a steroid for a potential infection because steroids decrease a puppy's immune system. Did the vet think he could have kennel cough? Johann got really sick as a puppy when he had kennel cough/pneumonia. Just layed around, coughed all the time, didn't want to eat or drink, etc.

I hope Bonzai is feeling better soon!

StellaBee · #3 11-01-2009, 07:32 PM

Thank you for the insight. We contacted a different emergency vet who said it's very unlikely the puppy has torsion, but that he could be bloated from the labored breathing. She suggested we keep a close eye on him tonight, bring him in right away in the morning and she'll determine whether we continue with the current treatment plan. She was surprised to hear the puppy was on steroids. We'll see what she says tomorrow.

johann · #4 11-02-2009, 10:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by StellaBee

Thank you for the insight. We contacted a different emergency vet who said it's very unlikely the puppy has torsion, but that he could be bloated from the labored breathing. She suggested we keep a close eye on him tonight, bring him in right away in the morning and she'll determine whether we continue with the current treatment plan. She was surprised to hear the puppy was on steroids. We'll see what she says tomorrow.

I hope you get some answers at the vet today. Its so hard when they're sick....

I was a wreck when Johann ended up with kennel cough and bronchitis.

Good luck at the new vet.

StellaBee · #5 11-03-2009, 10:10 PM

Our sweet little Banzai passed away last night at the vet's office. We are just grief-stricken and heartbroken and all out of tears. The vet sent his blood away to run tests to make sure Stella is safe. He's also hoping we may gain some insight as to why he died. Even though we only had Banzai for three weeks, he wiggled his smooshy face into our hearts and our family. We love him and miss him so much.

EAO76 · #6 11-03-2009, 10:56 PM

Oh my, I am so sorry. What a terrible turn of events. Are you going to allow the vet to do a necropsy? I assume that would be the only definite way of knowing what is wrong. If your pup came from a reputable breeder they will most certainly want to know if this was genetic so they can stop breeding the parents.

Again I am so sorry. Hopefully you will get some answers soon.

auntthelm · #7 11-03-2009, 11:22 PM

I am so sorry to read of your loss of Bonzai. I know that little one must have given you so much joy and to lose him so quickly is just too much or words. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Run free at the bridge sweet Bonzai, you have earned your wings

.

iluvfrankie · #8 11-04-2009, 01:51 AM

Poor u and poor Banzai, he and u are in my thoughts and prayers. x

StellaBee · #9 11-04-2009, 07:35 AM

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. We immediately notified the breeder when Banzai got sick and she's been in touch with the vet ever since. We consented to whatever tests she needed to run to ensure the safety of her animals. At this point, I'd just rather not know about anything other than what I can do to keep Stella healthy. Maybe later, but it's just too difficult right now. This board is such a blessing-thank you all.

johann · #10 11-04-2009, 10:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by StellaBee

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. We immediately notified the breeder when Banzai got sick and she's been in touch with the vet ever since. We consented to whatever tests she needed to run to ensure the safety of her animals. At this point, I'd just rather not know about anything other than what I can do to keep Stella healthy. Maybe later, but it's just too difficult right now. This board is such a blessing-thank you all.

I'm so sorry that little Banzai didn't make it. I hope you can get some answers on what caused this and make sure that Stella is safe from getting ill.