"Tuffy" Elliot - July's Pet of the Month 
"Tuffy" Elliot, an eleven year old neutered Cocker Spaniel, who generally lived up to his name during examinations, was presented with complaints of fainting spells, anorexia, increased thirst. Tuffy
also had a rapid heart rate, pale mucous membranes, and orange stool. A complete blood count (CBC), serum chemistries, and urinalysis were ordered promptly.
Significant findings concluded that Tuffy suffered from an elevated white blood cell count (WBC) of 28,000 (normal
being 12,000) and anemia (PVC) of 23% (normal being 40-45%). With this information, further diagnostics determined him to have a normal platelet count and a positive test for auto-agglutination.
These results brought us to a diagnosis of Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia, a disease where an animal begins to recognize his own red blood cells as abnormal and begins to destroy them. This is similar
to an organ transplant rejection. Tuffy was immediately placed on Prednisone at very high levels to suppress his immune system. This therapy alone is often successful.
A stomach protectant was also added to the diet to prevent ulcers, a possible complication from Prednisone (a steroid). Three days later, Tuffy began vomiting. His WBC had climbed to
45,000 and his PCV had dropped to 17%. These were both very poor signs. Tuffy was failing quickly. The decision was made to try Cytoxin, a human chemotherapy agent,
to shut down his immune system quickly. This agent was given through an intravenous catheter, along with other supportive medications and fluids. After a very rough weekend, Tuffy's attitude
began to change and improve. Within nine days he was back, attempting to bite the Veterinarian. We knew he was on the road to recovering.
Over the next six months, Tuffy was gradually weaned off his medications. He did have one set back when he developed a heart condition, which has also responded well to medication.
Today Tuffy is back to his old self, terrorizing squirrels and Veterinarians. He is living up to his name. |
