Dear Basenji Owners,
I've been reading through these forums for some time, and have finally decided to post. We have a wonderful female Basenji, who just turned one in April. Throughout her short life she has struggled with GI issues, including chronic diarrhea that would pass and then return. She also has had allergic reactions twice, kennel cough once, and an eye infection. Her immune system has always seemed weak.
A few weeks ago, we took her to an internist, and they ran blood panels. Her results indicated proteinuria. Then they did an ultrasound, and found a section of her intestine that appeared to have abnormal growths. A needle biopsy and lab testing of the lymph nodes and the intestine section did NOT confirm malignant tissue, but based on cellular composition and structure a diagnosis of lymphoma was made.
We chose to proceed with a moderate dosage of prednisone instead of chemo and surgery. To date, our pup is also on Flagyl, Prilosec, and Benazepril (for the kidney related symptoms). Her kidneys have stabilized but the diarrhea has continued. Energy levels were decent and appetite was good.
Two weeks ago I left on a trip, and the pup remained with my wife. Unfortunately, the next day she experienced hourly diarrhea with significant blood in the stool. The doctor prescribed a GI antibiotic: Tylan Powder. The day I returned (5 days later) the symptoms vanished. A week later stool is still messy with some blood at the end (a result of straining to poop further) but not nearly as bad as it was.
The lack of a confirmed malignant tissue biopsy continues to bother me. We have been proceeding in full acknowledgement of the cancer diagnosis, yet I have read in these forums very similar situations that seem to be entirely GI related (stomach irritation, food sensitivity, stress sensitivity, etc.). Her current meal is Royal Canin GI kibble (prescription) mixed with boiled chicken and potatoes (and she gobbles it down). Perhaps we should try a change to her diet to at least help with the diarrhea? Maybe we are missing something on the diagnosis?
Any input would be very much appreciated. Thank you