Basenji Surgery For GI Bleed Potential

[Mmasco]

Hi Everyone,
I posted a pretty lengthy description already in a topic "Not Interested In Eating His Food!".

Short story is my 9 month basenji was admitted to the hospital for anemia caused by low red blood cell count and lethargy. After many attempts to correct this issue he required a blood transfusion (twice). Following an endoscopy they discovered an "Angry" ulcer-like area on his duodenum. Following the endo and 2nd blood transfusion (because his RBC count dropped dramatically) he developed a fever of 105 and it has not went down in 4 days. They did take samples of this area but the labs are taking 3-5 days to come back!!! I also feel in my gut the sampling inflammed these area so much it triggered the fever (but they won't admit this).

My question is.. Has anyone went through a surgery like this to remove part of the duodenum (small intestine)? It's around 5-7cm for the site to be removed. What is the recovery like? Is there anything anyone can share that helps me feel a bit more confident in surgery for a dog?

A piece of me wants to wait for the results to come back but his conditions is going downhill.. He is now not eating anymore, fever still blaring, and he is sleeping all day at the hospital. Thankfully they allow me to go see him daily! They want to get this thing out of him but im nervous we are rushing to surgery too fast!

[tanza]

@mmasco - I don't believe that taking the sample would trigger the fever....but then as we have talked, I am not a Vet, nor have I have this kind of issue.... Recovery? Depends on the dog... I had surgery done on one of my girls for a tumor, non cancer and she recovered very well....

[Zande]

I am not a vet either - but it is surprising just what we humans and our canine family can actually do without.

If the vets suggest removing part of the duodenum, then it would seem to me that you are being dictated to by circumstance. Poor wee boy is not eating, has a fever, is in pain, is not enjoying life. You can't let him go on like this indefinitely. You are going to have to come to a decision and as the status quo seems not to be coming to a satisfactory outcome, you probably have no alternative.

Heartfelt sympathy from this side of the Pond - but whatever happens, you will know you have done your best for your Basenji. That is the best comfort.

[eeeefarm]

I find your dilemma distressing and I'm not sure what I would do in your place. My head would tell me one thing, my heart another. I'm so very sorry you are having to go through this.

[JKent]

Wishing him a speedy recovery.

[Kembe]

Hope everything works out well for your basenji. Poor little guy - hope you’re able to fix the problem. Sending positive thoughts and energy your way.

[Mmasco]

Wanted to post a quick update. We were given horrible news that our Brody has Lymphoma in small intestines specially the duodenum! It’s extremely focused on a 5cm section of the wall. It’s a legion area and not in the lymph nodes. They will not operate as he is too weak from a fever (I believe they caused from biopsy the area) and are concerned they don’t have enough room to cut and seal the area. now have him on steroids and are using an aggressive anti cancer drug they injected today. We still have not talked to an actual oncologist which since last Saturday we are into this journey for $15,000 and climbing!

He is only 9 months and I can’t see how he has cancer so young! Can he fully survive this being soon young and this cancer being isolated to a very specific spot?? I’m devastated

[senjisilly]

I am so sorry... My heart hurts for you.

[JKent]

Sorry to hear this news and hoping for a recovery
I met a man the other week with an elderly Labrador who had suffered cancer early on and recovered. Hoping you get some reassuring news soon.

[elbrant]

@mmasco said in Basenji Surgery For GI Bleed Potential:

he developed a fever of 105 and it has not went down in 4 days.

IMHO, your first course of action should be to contact your dogs breeder. Whomever you acquired your dog from may have information regarding similar health issues with other dogs within their breeding lineage. That information might help your Vet with your pups care. That doesn't make it your breeders fault. Even human babies sometimes get cancer. (Think St. Jude's.)

Since your pup is at the Vets office getting poked and prodded (and not with you), he may be extra nervous and upset. So, theoretically, the fever may just be a natural response to the anxiety he's feeling.

I think all of us appreciate that this is an incredibly upsetting and frustrating experience for you. Please keep us updated.

[JKent]

@Mmasco how is he?

[Alex]

Sorry you are going through this, it must be really hard, hope for a speedy recovery

[DonC]

So sorry to hear this.This has to be absolutely horrible. Cancers can be genetic but they can also just be random, but they are never good. You have our sympathy.

[Rocky1]

@mmasco
Please go to Homeoanimal.com
They have remedies for Cancer that could help.
I have used them for my dog with great results.
Praying for your sweet boy.