Not A Happy Dog.

A lot of time has been spent surfing looking for information about heartworm and it’s treatment.
Without being Vets ourselves, we arrived at our Vet’s office thinking Skeeter was a Class One:
• Class I: Lowest Risk. Young healthy dogs with minimal or no disease evident on radiographs, normal blood work, and no symptoms of illness. They may cough only occasionally if ever, they only fatigue with exercise, and their chest radiographs are normal.
We had a very good consultation. The Vet laid out the situation and the treatment. Armed with some internet gleaned knowledge we were able to carry on a fairly intelligent conversation.

Anyways, the Vet decided to treat Skeeter’s case as a Class Three, as far as treatment protocol goes.
That means, one shot Melarsomine (Immiticide®; Merial) followed in 30 days by two shots 24 hours apart.
After the consult, testing for kidney and liver function was conducted along with a xray of the heart. Conclusion? Skeeter was in good condition. Treatment commenced with an injection in the hind very deep into the muscle. A pain killer was also administered.

During the drive home there was a lot of panting and discomfort.

Upon arrival back home I tried to get a whiz (pee) out of her, but she would have little to do with the walking around and plopped down in protest.
Come time for dinner, she showed near zero interest in her food. However, she did manage to eat some nann from our home made Indian Feast. BTW, I make a mean Beef Vindaloo.

With closing time approaching at the Vet’s office I called to check in with some questions. The Vet had gone home but a message was sent and I received a call back in a few minute.
I must say the care and attention being given Skeeter and us is wonderful. After addressing our concerns the Vet said she would call back in an hour to follow up.

Now a few words concerning the original reason for creating this Blog.
Yesterday, during a day trip to Toronto I met with a Veterinarian. This particular Vet has been helping Cuban Vets and animals since 2003. This coincides with my involvement in the lives of Cuban dogs. Only recently have we been in contact and yesterday was our first face to face.
Going forward, I know the Spanky Project will be able to benefit from this meeting and others.