Getting A Service Dog.

[Freida]

Ya--- I found out that SD is allergic to grass and Christmas trees when he was a puppy. He also had a reaction to the gel they used when he had his ultrasound. :banghead:

Honestly I would look for a new vet because there are a ton of things you can do for allergies before you jump to those shots and the nasty meds. It's kind of concerning that she didn't offer any of them.....

You might try switching to a hot spot shampoo - or one with tea tree oil or oatmeal. The part about leaving it on is critical so that it soaks into his skin. I bathe SD in the shower with a handheld sprayer. Rub the shampoo in then close the doors and leave him in there. It doesn't make him happy but it corrals him so the shampoo can do it's thing.

There is a spray the vet can give you (no idea why she didn't do that?!) that is a type of cortisone you can spray right on the itchy parts for instant relief. It can sting a bit on open sores but it's really effective.

Regular Benadryl works wonders - just check the dosage. It's not for long term use but it is fabulous for a day or so to give him relief. Google it for the right dosage for his size. (again - no idea why she didn't tell you that)

SD gets ear infections from the allergies so vet gave me a liquid to pour into his ears to help clean them. Again - not an expensive fix and works really quickly

Check his dog food - have you changed it or is he still on the same one? That can cause allergies. Stay away from grain free!!!! It is causing all sorts of heart problems in dogs and is only supposed to be used for dogs that have been diagnosed with a grain allergy -- which means testing their stomach lining.

Worst case scenario --- SD is on apoquel daily which is super expensive (all hail dog insurance!) and that really helps keep it under control

Hopefully the other vet you try is smarter than the first one because damn. I can't believe she let you leave without suggesting at least some of these.

 

[siniang]

Agree with @Freida completely.

If anything, that vet was lacking bed side manners. Please go get a second opinion and maybe a third (as the first doesn't really count).

I'm really sorry @blackemerald1 for this additional stressor and hope Bos will get some relieve really soon.

 

[Sideways]

I don't know if this is a possibility, but vets, like mechanics? I go a little out of my way to use ones in lower income suburbs. Because they're used to not going straight to the most expensive options.

 

[blackemerald1]

I've taken Bos to another vet (and I really do live in a working class area - so that's the standard) and he said much the same thing re his condition, same treatment and same costs.

I've contacted a relative who is a senior vet and sent some photos and video plus the reports and got an opinion. They told me that Bos's health come first and I should allow him to go back where he had no allergies.

I've contacted the organisation Bos is from. They've spoken to both vets. They've told me he has to go back to them.
He's booked on a flight early next week. They would have taken him sooner but there is a heat wave happening for the next half week and it's not safe to drive or fly dogs in such weather conditions. I'm taking him via car to the nearest city to get a direct flight for him. Saves him being traumatised by being transported via truck, plane, truck, plane. ugh...

I've been told not to bathe him again. Just rub him down with a damp cloth and keep him comfortable.

I'm so sad.

 

[siniang]

Shit. I'm so sorry :( There really aren't any words that will help at this point, but I'm really feeling your pain.

(I have to admit I'm a little dumbstruck at how black and white and sudden and absolute this feels. I get that Bo's health takes absolute priority....but maybe it's something really straight forward that's easily removable from your home that's triggering the allergies?)

 

[bellbird]

Ohhh, b.
Really feeling for you and Bos. I'm truly sorry for the turn this has taken all of a sudden.
Sitting with you.

 

[LuckiLee]

Oh no! I'm so sorry this is happening.

I had a dog when I still lived with my parents and when we moved she freaked out. Started itching and scratching at the door. Constantly. Sometimes just the move can cause strange behaviors.

I'm so sorry! ?

 

[Sideways]

Blown my mind - I'm so sorry. I can't imagine what you're trying to cope with right now. I hope somehow there ends up being a good resolution for you and Bos

 

[MrMoonlight]

I'm so sorry @blackemerald1 , I've been following your progress here and this is just heartbreaking.

 

[blackemerald1]

I've asked if it could be something really simple and easy to find and remove and was told, 'God no! Don't start trying to work out what it is because it could be in the air from somewhere not on your property'.

This is like a ngihtmare. I feel like scum.

I have to admit I'm a little dumbstruck at how black and white and sudden and absolute this feels. I get that Bo's health takes absolute priority....but maybe it's something really straight forward that's easily removable from your home that's triggering the allergies?)

^I know..it's brutal.

My dog was selected, trained and examined intensively because he didn't have anxiety issues and was unflappable. He's very chilled out when he's not sleeping, eating or laying around. He's not anxious at all. The trainer was here with us for five days and commented that he settled in well and she'd not seen him ever so relaxed.

Except for the constant coughing, scratching, runny eyes and bald spots on his otherwise pristine coat... who'd know? He looks like he has lived here forever.

I've got out of bed and gone to the couch today. I've not done a thing. He's been sitting next to me waiting for me to get up and do stuff but I've gone to a dark place. :(

 

[mumstheword]

So sorry you are going through this @blackemerald1 .

What an absolute blow.

. I know you'll get through this because. you've already survived worse, but it's sad and hard, I'm sure

 

[Madmaninabox]

Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm trying and failing to owner train a service dog. I am so happy you were able to get a trained one that's amazing!!!