My dearest Friends
Thank you so much for all your comments, support and openly displayed love. You have no idea how much I appreciate it all at this time amidst the endless tears I have shed over the past couple of days. These hurdles – where we deal with the illnesses of our animals - are always difficult because we have no idea what we are going to face from one day to the next.
Today I feel utterly confused and exhausted!
Today I feel utterly confused and exhausted!
Indeed, I am really not sure how to go about this blogpost, so I am going to start with the facts...
* My vet phoned me a couple of hours ago to give me the results of Max's toxicology report. Quite frankly, I don't understand what he is telling me and what all these results mean. My vet has said that he too is not quite sure about it all and will be researching and consulting in the next 24 hours. He has promised to call me tomorrow with more clarity. Since I am not sure what is going on, I am hoping that there will be some qualified person out there in cyberspace who might be able to shed some light on all this for me...
This is the information my Vet has given me:
* In terms of the toxicology report which he received this morning, there is still NO EVIDENCE OF CANCER in Max's liver and no obvious sign of infection from the 5 slides which he sent in to the lab. (Should I be rejoicing???)
*Max however has this large "SPACE OCCUPYING LESION" - of uncertain origin - in one lobe of his liver" - it is palpable and also clearly visible on the scan. The lesion has lots of fluid with very few cells.
* The toxicology report says that ..."They are "suspicious" of what they call a "LIVER CYST"
Our vet has not seen this condition or heard of this in 25 years of practice and will be researching and consulting in the next 24 hours.
So please, can anyone tell me...
IS MY DOG GOING TO DIE SOON - AS I HAVE BEEN LED TO BELIEVE UP UNTIL NOW?
* My vet phoned me a couple of hours ago to give me the results of Max's toxicology report. Quite frankly, I don't understand what he is telling me and what all these results mean. My vet has said that he too is not quite sure about it all and will be researching and consulting in the next 24 hours. He has promised to call me tomorrow with more clarity. Since I am not sure what is going on, I am hoping that there will be some qualified person out there in cyberspace who might be able to shed some light on all this for me...
This is the information my Vet has given me:
* In terms of the toxicology report which he received this morning, there is still NO EVIDENCE OF CANCER in Max's liver and no obvious sign of infection from the 5 slides which he sent in to the lab. (Should I be rejoicing???)
*Max however has this large "SPACE OCCUPYING LESION" - of uncertain origin - in one lobe of his liver" - it is palpable and also clearly visible on the scan. The lesion has lots of fluid with very few cells.
* The toxicology report says that ..."They are "suspicious" of what they call a "LIVER CYST"
Our vet has not seen this condition or heard of this in 25 years of practice and will be researching and consulting in the next 24 hours.
So please, can anyone tell me...
IS MY DOG GOING TO DIE SOON - AS I HAVE BEEN LED TO BELIEVE UP UNTIL NOW?
HOW SICK IS HE ACTUALLY?
WHAT IS A LIVER CYST?
IS IT TREATABLE...IF SO....HOW IS IT TREATED?
HAS ANYONE HAD ANY EXPERIENCE OF THIS AT ALL???
WHAT IS A LIVER CYST?
IS IT TREATABLE...IF SO....HOW IS IT TREATED?
HAS ANYONE HAD ANY EXPERIENCE OF THIS AT ALL???
Now, my own Max update...
There are moments when I look at Max and think...”I can't believe he's sick!”, because when evening comes he still enjoys his short walks. Then there are other times where his eyes tell it all and he simply slumps to the floor and stays there for hours.
He is still eating (albeit reluctantly) and is not under-weight. His stool is very loose and 'orange looking' (Stool has also been tested) He remains lethargic and uncomfortable.
I have broken through his reluctance of food by cooking up chicken and rice which he really likes. As far as I am concerned, I will cook anything up for him -forever - if it is going to help him.
He's been on Eukaneuba dog food all his life .
I know Max is ailing but what on earth is going on?
You are welcome to leave an extended comment (so that other bloggers can also see) or feel free to email me at maxdoggie@mweb.co.za
Please tell me...
You are welcome to leave an extended comment (so that other bloggers can also see) or feel free to email me at maxdoggie@mweb.co.za
Please tell me...
IS THIS GOOD NEWS OR BAD?
112 comments:
Hi Max and Mom,
Your life is an emotional roller coaster. We are praying for you to find the strength you need, for the Vet to find answers to all the puzzles and for Max to find some comfort. Max is one well loved puppy. How wonderful that he will eat chicken and rice....keep cooking.
Madi and Mom
HI there, Im a follower at Lorenza and there I read about Max, my dear friend first of all, Im a very postive thinking person. and I take death as a positive thing if at all it occurs, a dog is a companion for life, i have had many dogs and they left us due to one problem or the other. But thinking that It will die one day.. doesn't stop me from loving dogs and I still have one.
answers to your confusion :
My dear friend, a thing that is born has to go so plz stay calm in this troubled time, do you know that dogs are highly emotional and it is proven that they can sense that there's a problem over which they show their emotions, at times he's sad because he sees you troubled and worried.. kindly throw that worry somewhere away and share positive vibes with your dog, he will reflect the same..
next, he might be sick because he's not eating properly, but how much sick is he depends on his immunity in fighting that sickness. if he's not loosing weight then he's fighting, he might be weak.thats all.
now you can see this, I know you must have read many things till now but you can read it as well.
http://www.fetchdog.com/Shop?DSP=300600&PCR=1:200:55:601:6100:1112&IID=AR000010164
now about my experience, I gifted my fiance a pure Indian dog, it's pariah breed.we are Indians and live here only.though we have all breeds In India but taking a pariah is free.. my fiance after 6 months [june 2008]got his visa for study abroad and started finding a new home for this dog called Milo. We found by chance a home in America, he came to India and took Milo with him. Milo went to Maine, in July we got news that he was feeling good and adopted to the circumstances well. then we didn't get any news from this American guy. later in November-December 2008 we got an email that said, that doctors couldn't Understand what the problem was with Milo, whether it was kidney failure or liver malfunction, or he was plainly missing my fiance? the result was his death.
We are no experts and clearly you have to hear from your vet however the fact that there is no cancer surely has to be a positive.
We have our paws crossed that a liver cyst is treatable.
In the meantime we are glad he is eating.
Hang on in there.
xxxx
[contd]
Milo was passing his urine through a catheter. the "big" hospitals thought that he carried a problematic infection from India only, but whats that infection called? they did'nt know.
anyways. some thing happened with my dog lucky also when he was a pup .. continuous vomiting and indigestion. i took him to a vet [ he also practiced ayurvedic treatment for dogs-] and taught me a lesson of a lifetime. if you want your dog to be forever healthy then always give him "cooked food} simple food like wheat bread and milk / meat broth with rice/ plain yogurt/2 egg whites[boiled] in a week/ vegetables boiled and mashed in wheat bread. anything of the above. soybeans nuggets etc. and never give your dog " dog foods"..
My dog survived and since then he's doing OK. he's 2 now.
you must see this website .. about dog food and health http://www.5stardog.com/dog-food.asp
love Naqvee
Anything could be causing liver toxicity/lesion. One suggestion I have for you that will not hurt him either way. Feed him totally organic food whether you buy it or make it yourself. Check your home for cleaners he could be exposed to and the yard. You may have already done all of this, but I wanted to share it. My elderly cocker became very ill when she was young. She had liver toxicity with lesions. As it turns out it was caused by raw hides I had given her. They were made in a country where chemicals were put on them. She was very sick and almost died. Thankfully, she pulled through and I was able to eliminate all such items in my home.
Hugs and lots of prayers for Max,
andrea
We came over from the Poupounettes when we read about Max being sick. Might the cyst be from a parasitic worm that got to the "wrong" part of the body? People can get liver cysts from dog tapeworm apparently. We hope it can be treated and Max will get well. Purrs.
I'm no expert, but I am a fan of holistic medicine. Maybe consider adding some liver support, like milk thistle, to his food. I truly hope that he pulls through this, it would be such a shame to lose him so soon after his surgery. What a roller coaster.
I left a comment yesterday, but am not sure it made it to you because of problems with our connection...But I wanted to tell you how very sorry I am about Max. Because we adopt senior goldens (over 12 years old) we have been through this 10 times now, and it never gets any easier...But it always helps when there is support from family and friends.
I don't know what to tell you about your dilemma with the vet, etc. We had a (senior) Golden that passed this past fall that the vets told me would only live a few months, and we had him for 2 years. Needless to say, he was a conundrum...So, my advice to you, is to do what you are doing...Enjoy each day with him. Let Max decide what he wants to do and set the pace--Which is what it sounds like you are doing...I know this may also sound crazy, and I know how very (very) difficult this can be because I've had to do it, but try not to let Max know that you're upset...If he is as sensitive as the Goldens we have (and I'm quite sure he is) they pick up on our emotions, and can mirror them. Let life continue as "normally" as you can on the outside, even though I know all too well, you are falling apart on the inside...We continue to send positive energy, thoughts and prayers in your direction!! Take care, and give Max a hug from all of us!
We unfortunately do not have any veterinary expertise and can offer up no concrete help or information. We are crossing all of our paws that this will turn out to be something that can be treated. In the meantime, we can only guess at what you are all going through. Hang in there. A lot of love is coming to you from all over the world!
Everyone at
The Pouponette
Hello there!
This is our first time to visit. Rocky recommended that we stop by.
We have no vet experience but can sympathize with you. It is the hardest when they are not 100% sure of what the diagnosis is. Once your vet does his research and consulting he will have better answers for you and there are always specialty vets that can help as well. We even went to the extent of going to a veterinary university to help diagnose our pup.
Right now, all we can say is keep his tummy full, keep him out of pain and show him all the love you can every second. (...tears...)
Lots of luv & Kisses
Addie, Lucie and Hailey
Woos Max and family. we have no experiance with liver cysts although my Mum gets cysts all of the time, they say they are not cancer, but she keeps having to got to the dr. to get them checked.
So all we can say we will keep our paws crossed for good results,we know about the roller coaster woo are riding on, we have been though it a lot with my health too. 2 years ago they told my Mum I would not live another 2 months and I shold be put to sleep! Can woo imagine!
So I say, take each day, each moment with a prayer and a blessing... live life and enjoy every moment!
~sending love and puppy kisses~
-Kira The BeaWootiful~
Hi mom and Max,
We're not of knowledge to offer any medical advice to you but we are here with you, eventhough we're worlds apart!Live each day with Max and make each moment count, we're sure that will make Max happy and lift his spirits and yours as well!
Stay positive, we are all praying for his wellness and recovery!
Hugs and luv,
Maxx and family
KB sent us. I'm sorry to hear about not knowing what's making your dear Max sick. I wish for answers, health, and strength for you. Hang in there.
Hi --- I am a friend of Kit at DogDaze and saw her post about you and Max. I can offer nothing except a recommendation that your vet consult with Dr. Paul Donovan at the Alburtis Animal Hospital in Alburtis, Pennyslvania (my vet hero). His website is www.alburtisanimalhospital.com. Also, the Ryan Veterinary Hospital at the University of Pennsylvania is absolute cutting edge in its work with animal health. I don't know exactly how this would all work, but in this day of computers and internet, "talking" to these consultants shouldn't be a problem. They have saved my animals many a time when others would have given up. Sounds a little distant and impossible that they could help being so far away, but as my father always says "It's an automatic no if you don't ask." Good luck and my love and great hope to you and Max.
Janet
I've been thinking of you and feeling sad almost non-stop since yesterday's post. Something about Max's eyes captured my heart the first time I saw his photos. Then, your stories sealed the deal. I love Mr. Max, obviously not like you do, but I'm worried and sad nonetheless.
I don't know about liver cysts but I have a friend who's a vet tech who helps me sometimes when my vet's news confuses me. I'll ask her to read your story and give her opinion.
If no clarity appears by this afternoon, I'll do some web searching for you. I'm have a PhD in physiology so I can understand the veterinary websites a little better than most people.
Most of all, please know that I'm thinking of you, pulling for you, and doing my own unique form of praying for you.
I know Max - he is quietly fighting this thing! He loves his Mom and family so much - so just stay strong for him Caryl. Be positive and just continue loving him as you always have! Margie, Saxy & Obi
http://www.hpblondon.com/liver-cysts-abscesses/
I found this and it has some good info. It looks like the liver cyst can be removed and its a fairly simple procedure.
Max is beautiful - we are cat people but we send big PURRS your way.
Well, none of us here know anything. But, SHE did take the Mr. off his very restricted diet 2 weeks ago and he has been recoverying very well since. In her opinion, it didn't matter how well the surgery went if he croaked from starvation. He had lost 20 lbs and he was slim to start with. She said we can deal with his diet AFTER he recovers. Our opinion, feed Max anything he wants and likes till you get it all sorted. I hope this is good news, it definitely sounds hopefull.
Soft woofie kisses to all of you,
Bonnie and her support staff
We don't know anything about liver issues here but we continue to send lots and lots of healing vibes and AireZen your way, Max! We love you, buddy!
Love ya lots,
Maggie and Mitch
What promising news to start our day -
We anxiously had skhanned our GR to look fur a post -
Once again, the power of The Cirkhle of Furiends has widened to pawmit others to join -
By pooling all resources at paw and hand, it would appear some more answers might be found!
We'll khontinue khrossing paws and fluffing my SibeVibing Tail!
Hugz&Khysses,
Khyra
I wish I could give you some answers to these questions. I can only imagine how awful the wondering must be.
I can give my prayers and positive thoughts, which I offer in abundance.
I hope there are some good answers out there for you.
I agree with a couple of other folks that what is most important right now is listening to Max.
Yup, it would be great to understand medically all that is happening but Max will let you know whether he wants to keep fighting or not.
As our dogs become ill, we humans decided what would be our sign that they were too tired or in too much pain, whether a consistent refusal of a favored toy, not perking up when they see us, whatever. Sure, we worked with the vet at the same time, but is made it easier for us to make that difficult choice when we had already discussed it.
Treasure your time with your wonderful friend.
Mango Momma
Gah, waiting for the vet to call is always horrible! Try to relax and take it easy.
Mom wonders if it's nodular hyperplasia or could be caused by a food alergy? I have no idea what those mean, but mom says that might be something to look into.
Giant hugs and kisses!!!
Well, I don't know much vet stuff but no cancer does sound like good news!!!
I have never heard of the liver cyst, I sure hope that the vet finds good information on it.
Good luck Max! Here's hoping for a recovery.
Just came over from Dog Daze. My prayers are with you all! What a sweet looking lab you are Max!
Hi Caryl,
First off, we are rejoicing that no cancer was found. A (human) friend of ours had a spot on her liver which ended up being a benign cyst, so we're very hopeful that Max's may be as well. I'll ask her how it was treated. I'm also going to forward what your vet said to a friend who has had dozens of dogs and spent much time researching their illnesses, including liver disease. I'll email you as soon as I hear something.
I believe this is good news...
Love,
Jane and Petey
Max
I am vewy hopeful fwom this news! Mommi and I don't know anything about youw condition, but will continoo to pway that it is something the dogtow can figoowe out and fix so you can stay wif youw sweet Family fow a long long time
smoochie kisses
ASTA
Oh dear this is so worrying. We're taking the no cancer sign as really good news. Can only imagine how you must feel after the events of the last three months and now this. Our thoughts go with you.
We are purring for Max and hope you get some clear answers soon.
Tommy (the dog from France) sent us to visit Max.
xoxo
Dear Caryl,
I do not know anything about liver cycst but I certainly hope that it is treatable. We are all sending our positive thoughts your way.
All you can do right now is to keep doing what you do for Maxdog, keep loving him, give him kisses and hugs. It's hard to think about losing our dogs/cats/animals/loved ones but we all know it will come time when they have to leave us and there is really nothing much we can do. So while we can, we'll do what we can do - love them and take care of them and treasure your time with them.
Best wishes,
YD & the girls
dear Maxi, i'm also taking the no cancer sign as good news. i will ENJOY our time together for as long as possible.
sooner or later, we will all cross the bridge but for now, i WILL take it that it's NOT your time yet and i will NOT treat you like you're leaving us soon. if you're in pain or uncomfortable, do inform us and we will take each day as it comes.
for now, cherish each day with your mumster and let the vets worry - it's their job. yours is to stay close to your mumster, take your walks, swim in the pool or just chill out on the porch and eat and sleep well. your mumster will follow suit.
good night and we will chat again tomorrow, my friend.
chikisses
coco
We are so with Mango and Mango Mama and that you need to listen to Max, and what he, your heart and soul tell you he needs while you wait for input from the vet.
We are praying for strength for both you and Max!
Dory's Mama Beth
We just trolled around the internet lookin' too...it does seem there is a connection with tapeworms/intestinal parasites with this...we know many in hoomans some liver cysts have no symptoms...perhaps it's the size of Max's and perhaps they can drain it?
Perhaps Toffee's mom in Boston may have some info...she's a vet....
We'll check with her....
Kisses dear ones...
Mumsie and the terriers
Woof! My family & I are thinking of Max. We are hoping for the best and some kind a miracle.
From my mom: Liver Disease in a dog (such as what's happening with Max) is rare. Basically, what I learned from my vet is that it can be just a infection (bacteria present in Max's Liver). The cysts is definitely interfering with Max's normal functioning ... so taking it out will be a good option. I am learning a lot on how to take care Sugar now that she is a Senior Dog and would like to prolong her Golden life. In regards to food, nothing against Eukaneuba (Sugar had it when she was a puppy) but have to change to a better food. Sugar is currently on Orijen Senior Food. It seems that lots of Goldens have great success on this food brand. Rice n Chicken is always the best alternative. Hope this help (Sugar's mom).
I will continue to send my Golden Healing Thoughts, Woof Sugar
We must say that a cyst sounds much more hopeful than a tumor. Also, we agree that Msx can sense your panic and despair. Try to fool him if you can. It may perk him up to know his Mom feels better.
We are praying for all of you.
Kisses,
Emma Rose and the Duchess
PS Sorry about the typo, you know I meant to type Max, not Msx :) I have clumsy paws sometimes!
Hi Caryl,
Will send you something via FaceBook.
Karen
I think this is hopeful, at least compared to how I interpreted yesterday's post. It seems it went from something certainly fatal to eliminating a few fatal possibilities in favor of the unknown which leaves more room to be hopeful. Being hopeful can lead to a big disappointment so I think you are right to leave it at uncertain.
I am NOT a vet but I have heard about parasites forming cysts in the liver that are fluid filled. I did not read through all the comments but saw at least one other person suggest this. The only thing is I would expect an experienced vet would have seen parasites like that before (I have no idea how common they are though) and he may already have some piece of info that excludes that.
I will continue to be extra positive and send all the vibes I can. I thought of him several times last night and sent some healing each time. Hang in there!
Hugs Moose + Dana
While we are so glad to hear it's not cancer, not knowing exactly what it is (or isn't) is equally tough!
Maybe switching his food to something less processed (more raw?) would be better for him? Especially if he enjoys eating it.
We're sending every positive vibe we can towards you and your family and Max!
Stay strong!
We came over from The Poupounette and just wanted to leave gentle purrs for you. It is terrible not to know what exactly is wrong and therefore wonder on the possible cure too. We keep our paws crossed that the vet will find out more.
Many purrs,
Siena & Chilli
Our thoughts are with you and we hope you can find the answers you need soon.
Caryl, I wish I could help shed some light on the situation, but I have no knowledge in this area. I did send your blog link to a vet tech friend, asking for help.
I am sending comforting thoughts to you and Max...I can't get his beautiful face out of my mind!
Hugs,
Kit
We are also very glad to hear that they found no cancer. I don't know about the liver cyst, but it is odd that there are almost no cells in it, which leads me to speculations that I can only guess at and probably be wrong. I do agree with Mango and others that Max will tell you so much and feel heartbroken for all the confusion you are facing. We hope that some commenters who have great links to those who might know can help sort out some of the mess. Most of all, I hope you can find some peace within each moment that you spend with dear Max. We love you Max - so much.
Big Hugs xo
Sammie
Max and Mom, Even though we are new to your blog, we feel your love and pain and we are sending all of our Therapy vibes and Good Luck that Josie sends to everyone that she visits. Here's to Max getting better really soon. I hope your prayers are answered soon and you find all your answers to your questions. I wish we could help more, but our love is strong. That is one thing I do know. Sending you all the love a Therapy Team can send.
Dear Max and Mom,
Our friends over at the Poupounette told us about what is going on. We're sorry life has been such an emotional roller coaster for you as of late. With the doctor having eliminated the possibility of it being cancer, you're are at least a step (even if only a very small one) closer to figuring out what it is.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The folks at Animal Shelter Volunteer Life
Well, no cancer certainly sounds like a plus to me. I really hope you get to the bottom of this soon - it sure sounds like a real nasty rollercoaster ride. All the while, I'm sure Max is so thankful for your efforts and he will continue to tell you how he's feeling.
Caryl, we would like to think the news is encouraging. We have no medical advice but we are sure some of the commenters above have been able to send you some links to good information. The more you learn, the better armed you will be to deal with the issue. We have our paws crossed and our hearts hopeful that this will have a happy ending.
Woos, Phantom and Thunder And Mom
I can't offer any words of wisdom here, but just to say that we hope you get the answers you are looking for, and that Max will get better soon!! We are thinking of you!
Elizabeth & Luna
It's the first time for me to hear that dogs can have liver cyst, too. I know people can make cyst at liver or lungs because of the parasite's eggs that live on some pet's fur, or in the ground, veggies or fruits. Do you use to gave him once at 3 month the anti-parasites pill? Who knows, maybe one of this parasite managed to escape inside the body, developed and installed himself in the liver (as most of the parasites do). The cyst is actually the body's automatic protection against any strange presence that has nothing to do inside the organism.
There are many treatments against cysts. Good luck! All the best from your Romanian friends.
just be positive and upbeat for Max. he doesn't know the answers and neither do you so be your old self around him as much as possible to keep his stress at a minimum. and enjoy every second you have with him. talk to him, tell him some stories, go for a walk down memory lane with him. just let it be Max and you again. Breath...love..and LIVE!!!
Our dear pal Max is much to young to have his life at an end. He is in my prayers, and my wish is for the very best outcome for him. I am encouraged by the no cancer cells in the liver. Caryl, I will ask for strength for you to see your best pal through this and we will all be right beside you.
With love,
Jo and Stella
We are so sorry to hear about Max and will be praying that you find strength and are guided in the right direction.
We have an amazing hospital in NY, ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER, here is the link: http://www.amcny.org/ . It's as big if not bigger than any hospital for humans, it's also a teaching hospital. Perhaps your vet can contact them for assistance.
For now, our thoughts are with you; we're sure Max is getting lots of love and attention, please pass on some belly rubs from us.
Love
Claudia
Nellie & Calvert
well we must look at the positive
so a happy woof woof to the no cancer news!
we pibbles are definatley no vets but we are sending you our most hearfelt healing vibes your way from houston tx
our mommish says she prayed very hard for you last night and will continue to do so and will anxiously wait for your next post
we are new furryends but we feel deeply for all furbabies especially precious ones such as you max
hopeful pitties in houston
the whole pittie family
Thank you for the update. I'm so thrilled it's not cancer!
I'm hoping that the liver cyst can be removed safely and life can go back to normal for you all.
The good news is that he's still eating, even though he's reluctant.
Will continue to keep you in my prayers.
Max, we think this is good news. We are sending you and your mom lots of love and are praying for a miracle.
Much love,
Cloud and his mom
My heart is breaking but I am hoping the liver cyst can be removed. My Ms. Alpha shares your pain, rage at the unknown, and wants you to know we are sending lots of prayers to Max.
Your new pal,
Fenway
Hi Max and Mama. We also don't know much about liver problems in dogs so we can't advise you. I think your best bet is to wait for the vet to explain the problem to you in layman's terms and to plan a course of treatment.
It always pains us so to see our pets suffer, or to not be themselves. But Max's disinterest in regular food and his fatigue can also be caused by a condition, in this case, it seems, a liver cyst, which may not be serious and is treatable. So please don't go off the deep end, for your sake and for Max's.
Here's a link for you to familiarize yourself with liver cysts.
http://www.mycaninecare.com/2009/07/canine-liver.html
If you Google canine liver cysts, you can arm yourself with lots of information so you'll better understand what the vet tells you and you'll be able to ask informed questions.
Best of luck to you both! Hang in there. Chef sends lots of licks to Max!!
Chef and Linda
Sorry to hear about Max...the news of no cancer is great. Hopefully the vet will have some positive news about the liver. Max is a fighter. Enjoy your sweet pup and give him lots of kisses and hugs.
Sending positive thoughts,
Debra
Dearest Cheryl,
One day, one hour, one minute at a time!
Know that we are ALL there for you in spirit!
Tessa's Mom Blu and Tessa too
Were to start, well you must be on a rollercoaster of emotions. One time despair and one time hope. From a human medical angle. A cyst with lots of fluid and not a lot of cells can be removed wih good results. The liver is also he only organ that can regenerate itself. So if part needed to go it could grow back. I realy think there could be hope there. On a lighter note.. Could the power of paws be doing a little magic.. No cancer is good.. Lets hope.. Hang on in there Max my woofie friend.. Hugs GJ xx
we are so sorry to hear the news of Max.. We are not sure what all this means either but keep your chin up that everything will be ok. Everything happens for a reason even when we do not know what that reason might be.. Big Heeler vibes are going out to you Max..
Big Sloppy Kisses
Gus, Louie and Callie
Oh Max and Mom, we are so sad to read how sick Max is - but at least he is still eating, which is good. Even if it is reluctant, it is good. We haven't heard of this either - and just don't know what to tell you other than keep looking. We are sending lots of healing purrs and prayers for Max - we know it isn't a lot but we hope it helps him a bit to know all the love and support that is out here for him!!
We came to visit from Le Pouponette and want to send our healing purrs. Our mewmie is a vet tech for a cat hospital and they have one kitty who comes in with a liver cyst, so it must be pretty rare, but here are some links to help you learn more...
http://www.hpblondon.com/liver-cysts-abscesses/
http://www.vetmanual.org/mvm/index.jsp?cfile=htm/bc/23633.htm
http://www.vin.com/VINDBPub/SearchPB/Proceedings/PR05000/PR00113.htm
We don't have any info to give you, but we will send tons of purrs and prayers your way!
Praying for a miracle for Max.. xoxo
Max
What could we do, we didn't know until the NSLM came in from school. His Mom and me had read your post earlier but we don't have any veterinary expertise so we didn't know how to comment!
But Murray came home from school and told us that he had told his 'whole school' and believe me - that means his whole school about you - so they are are praying for you and in particular to St Francis of Assisi (patron saint of animals) for you!
Sorry, I know we go on about Saints a lot but you know, Saints are rather popular here! Anyway, the NSLM then insisted we go up to our local church, which is just up the road to light a candle for you Max. While we were in the church, Fr John, our local priest came in, the NSLM told him all about you, he took two candles from the altar, one for you and one for us! So, we are sending you over a special candle blessed here by Fr John. We will light our candle when you get your candle.
After telling Fr John all about you, we had your giraffe and a laminated photo of you, Max, we went down to our local convent to get a St Francis of Assisi prayer card for you. But they had no St Francis cards but we got talking to the nun there and then the chaplain from Murray's school arrived in and she told us she has a special St Francis statue that she will give to Murray tomorrow - so we can send it on to you.
So, Max, we're doing our best - we hope all our prayers and good wishes help you and your family just a little bit and St Francis has certainly had his ear burnt with good intentions this evening.
love from Clive and Murray
Hi Max,
Any news from the vet???
We are thinking of you and sending positive sibes to you from Italy! We love you and tell your mummy not to cry. We are here for you!
Lots of love,
Homer
Hi Max and Mom! We came over after reading about Max over at The Pouponette. We don't have any experience with this but we wanted to let you know that we are sending Max healing purrs and hope the vets can figure out what's going on with him. We also send you comforting purrs because we know how stressful this all can be.
Hi Max and family,
We are shocked to read the news, the vet seems to be extremely confused . Hopefully he is wrong.
Keep cooking for Max, whatever it is. If he enjoys it, he will feel much better as Goldens love good food.
We will keep Max and you in our thoughts and hope soon you will find out what is wrong with him so you can address a proper treatment.
Big hugs
Could it be something surgical(like a towel) left inside of him when he had it 2 months ago? I hope not cos only heard it in tv drama.
Praying for you Max.
No cancer cells found is definitely GREAT NEWS!! As many others commented above me, liver cysts are generally not an extremely serious complication, although they can be caused by something else. It is good your vet is doing research and consulting others to come up with the right answer instead of just telling you something he's not sure about that may be wrong. Just be patient and stay hopeful. I'll pray for Max to feel better soon!
Oh, dear, there is so much uncertainty in medicine, isn't there! We have no idea what any of that means, but we do hope Max will be okay!
I've seen about you on many many blogs and wanted to come over to tell you I have my paws crossed for your beautiful boy Max. I just read the comment from Clive. How wonderful. The care and love throughout DWB is something truly special isn't it. Be thinking of you and Max.
Take care. Eric and his Mom
It's great news that it isn't cancer. the person who said to feed your dog cooked foods and included wheat and soy is incorrect. cooked foods are fine, as long as they aren't bones.
and I would NOT feed wheat. dogs never ate grains in the wild, why should they now?
I lost 2 dogs to liver issues. the first was "liver disease" . he was a 6 year old yellow lab. too young to die from that. i still don't fully understand the disease but i do know he was pre-disposed to it genetically.
the 2nd was my dingo to liver cancer. when she was diagnosed, she was given 6 months to live and what i did next gave her 3.5 more quality years. i took her to holistic vet. he did several things. first he put her on worm wood -- a chineese herb that slows down cancer. next he put her on milk thistle. this is for the liver health alone. you could go to the store and just buy it and give it to Max any amount. it is AMAZING stuff for the liver. you could NOT over dose on this. it's so good for the liver. i would dose it by what the bottle says for humans and body weight. like if it says 4 tablets per day, figure in max's weight compared to the human dose and give that. i may even double it for a long time. its impossible to overdose on Milk Thistle.
next he educated me on feeding. basically he said to me: if YOU wouldn't eat it, why would you give it to your best friend? i was feeding really bad dog food. i didn't know any better. I switched her to a grain free no-by-products and no-meal, kibble and mixed in HUMAN food. chicken, beef, pork, fish and vegetables. but i cooked it. i didn't feed it raw as she was older and refused raw. She loved it and lived 3.5 quality years. she had cancer. we couldn't reverse it. but we slowed it and she walked and had adventures every day.
since this isn't cancer, i wouldn't worry about that, but there is no harm in giving max milk thistle. lots of dogs use this for liver.
I learned a valuable lesson on feeding dogs. today i feed raw. no grains (except a bite of toast or pizza crust). i feed raw bones 1-2x week for the teeth. all my vets love that i do this. both my dog's teeth are very clean.
still regardless we had some health issues with Juno my sibe. to this day we don't know if it was autoimmune or a bacterial infection. so even with the best diet things happen.
the stuff about infections from parasites that others wrote about is very true, however i haven't heard of it in the liver. but i do know you can get severe infections from a parasite.
remember what the liver is: it's a toxic cleaning organ. so the more toxins put into a doggie (via diet or something else) the harder it works and the more weakened it becomes.
i don't mean to blab off all this advice so curtly and coldly. I am in total love with Max and his face. i wish nothing but the best for him and I'm so happy they don't see cancer.
i say, take it day by day. keep cooking chicken and rice. or even beef! human food is what dogs had 80 years ago before our silly FDA policies and marketing gurus that tell us our dogs need a "balanced meal". Let me ask you, are every single one of your meals perfectly balanced? i'd bet not. but over the day and week, i'd bet they are varied and balanced enough. that's why I love the BARF diet (Biologically Apprpriate Raw Foods or Bones and raw foods). it doesn't fuss over a perfectly balanced meal but balance over days and weeks. And it doesn't put any pressure on the liver to detoxify. i swear by it. i truly do.
hugs and wags to you and Max.
wild dingo, Loki and juno
Hi!
We are new here and came over from Amy and the House of Cats. We are praying with all our heart he would get better. The best advice we have is to cherish every day you have with Max and to keep him as comfortable as possible.
Danielle and her human
We have been thinking about you a lot! Sweet Max!
We are hoping your vet will receive some definitives on the mysterious lesion. And, quite possibly, Max's body is trying to deal with that area by shutting down other areas at times, however, his big love for family and home shines through at times with that spark of enjoyment! This has been our experience.
His love and devotion and spirit are high! Oh sweet Max.
Hugs and snaggle-tooth kisses,
Sierra Rose
Dear Mr Max and mom,
We wish you both lots of strength and just wanted to let you know, we are thinking of you. And although we have only just come across you know (BTW, Hi it's Inky and Molly here, nice to meet you!) we are moved by the news like everybloggies else.
All the best!
Good luck, Max...I will keep you in my prayers.
dear Max
We read your blog all the time but have never posted
I wanted to let you know that we are praying for you and think about you all the time.
Please feel better soon
Grandma Golden
I'm sorry, we just don't know about those things. I just wanted to tell you that my sisters and I are sending sweet Max our best loving purrs and we will be having all of our paws crossed for your sweetie! Always think positive thoughts, Max will pick up on that!
We just wanted to stop by and give Max lots and lots of healing purrs. We are so sorry he is sick. Lots of comforting vibes to you too. (((hugs)))
I am sending lots of prayers for Max and u.
We will be thinking of you and Max during this time. It is so hard to ride an emotional roller coaster. When Max gives you the look, that it is okay..you will know.
Benny & Lily
Oh no :( How worrisome :(
I am sending a million hugs to handsome Max and to his mom! What scary news :(
I did want to say that our little boy The Bunny was diagnosed with liver cancer over a year ago...we had surgery for him and after recovering from surgery he did great. He was doing fantastic in terms of his liver an entire year later. In fact, if his spine hadn't been so messed up he would have lived to a ripe old age (he was at least 12 but I felt that he should have had at least a few more years). Hoping that you get some good news from your vet soon. Thinking of you and sending lots and lots of good thoughts.
Love and lots of hugs,
Sue and the crew
Have they tested Max for the Tick Disease. My girlfriend's dog got this a couple of years ago. We live in the South. The doctor said this disease has traveled from the Texas area to the South. Her dog had all kinds of problems from this disease liver,Kidney etc.They finally tested the dog for the Tick disease and it came back positive. Please ask your doctor about this disease.They get it from eating a tick and then parasites start attacking the body. Muscles included. Please test your dog for this.Her dog was at deaths door until they found out what was going on.It took a lot of treatment.Expensive too.But worth ever penny.Her dog is now well.Please let me know how Max is doing.I will pray for him and your family.
What a confusing and tumultous roller coaster ride! You are in our thoughts as we send positive healing energy and strength your way. Have faith that this is good news and believe in Max. Feel our paws around you (along with so many others)...you are not alone.
I feel bad I have no answers for you but I really hope your Vet finds them soon!
We made a prayer walk for you today.
Take care
Kisses and hugs
Lorenza
Hi,
I'm calling my niece tomorrow, her husband is a vet. in Kentucky and maybe, just maybe he can help Max and you!
xxoo
Deborah
I wish I could answer your questions and put your mind at ease but unfortunately I cannot. I know you must be so confused and anxious, but at least you have your beautiful boy with you and it sounds as if he is doing OK. We continue to pray for Max that he heals, and we continue to send positive healing thoughts his way. I think it is wonderful that you are feeding him healthy, fresh, organic foods. Food from Nature is the best healer there is. Good luck!
K and Suka
Dear Max,
Feel the love, coming to you and your family from all over the world!
We're with you!!
C-pup
Colorado
P.S. The Bumpass Hounds showed us the way to your blog.
I can't interpret the scientific gibberish, but I'll hold my breath for the next set of new: the good news. I'm staying positive here.
What I can do however, is volunteer to cook for Max forever too. I want to.
Hang in there!
Twinkie
I'm so sorry to hear about what you are going through. I don't have any experience or knowledge of liver problems, but we will be purring and praying for Max.
Oh - what an awful time for you! The "not-knowing" is just the most horrible thing there is, I think.
I'm afraid I don't have any vet experience either - although my husband is a doctor so I will ask him his thoughts when he comes home tonight (but bear in mind, he is a "human vet"!) - but I think I do agree with a lot of what Wild Dingo says. As you may know, we also feed Honey the raw / BARF diet - not because she has any specific issues but just because I did a lot of research and like the philosophy behind it. I undestand that raw is not for everyone and I'm not trying to convert you or anything but I do agree that the liver is a cleansing organ in the body therefore, it seems to make sense that - if the tests show it is NOT an infection or disease and thereforenot caused by a specific pathogen - then perhaps it is the actual things the liver has to deal with that is causing these problems/lesions/toxicity. So it may be possible that what the dog puts into its body (mainly in terms of food) is responsible for these changes.
I personally don't like any of these big brand dry dog foods, despite their vet endorsements and marketing promises - whatever they say, it is still extruded, mashed-up grain flavoured with some meat, processed in a factory with preservatives and additives. (I used to work in advertising in London and one of my accounts was a dog food brand and I got a tour of the factory...not a pretty sight!) I know lots of dogs eat them fine but I guess it's different for each dog - and also how long a dog can continue coping with a certain diet.
I also agree with Wild Dingo about the myth behind "complete & balanced meals" - which is used to scare pet owners - it is not the way we feed our own children or ourselves, otherwise we'd only be eating specially-formulated complete&balanced cereal bars made in a factory for every meal! :-) Instead, for health, we are told to aim for as big a variety of fresh, quality ingredients as as possible, over the course of several days - and I believe this is also a good way to feed dogs.
Anyway, as I say, nobody knows if diet is the source of Max's liver problem but I don't think it would hurt to perhaps reconsider his diet - they say good health comes from within and a good, healthy diet is what fuels the immune system - and no matter how many vitaims & supplements they add to processed food, I just don't think it can really be as good as natural, fresh ingredients.
Another thing to possibly think about is 'vaccinosis' - I did an article on this a couple of years ago and there are a lot of examples of dogs who suffer vaccine reactions (sometimes cumulative over years) which manifests in all sorts of symptoms, usually auto-immune. Again, am not saying this is the cause but perhaps something worth thinking about. It is a constant dilemma as you obviously want to protect your dog but there is a lot of research now showing that yearly boosters are over "over-vaccinating" our dogs and causing more harm than good. Some dogs cope fine but others develop problems.
Thinking of you and hoping for good news (or at least some clarification) from the vet soon!
Hsin-Yi
Dear Max and mom.
Oh dear, I had no idea Max was still having health issues. I am so sorry you have to go through this again.
I wish I had some useful information to give you but all I can give you now are my prayers.
We love you and Max and pray that you will receive accurate news shortly and that whatever the problem is, it is treatable if not curable.
Love,
Riley and Star and Stephanie.
Hi Max and Maxdog Mom,
We keep our paws crossed that the V-E-T can bring more good news to you. We could not help much on the medical aspect as we know little about it and tend to depend on our V-E-T for proper care. We see there are so many wonderful people lending a hand and we hope it can help with Maxdog Mom's confusion.
Hang in there, dear Max. You have touched our lives and we care a lot about you. We continue to pray for you and your family.
-Fudgie, Princess, Frappie, Mocha, Sugar, Scrappy & Bullet
We're praying for you, Max.
Dearest MaxDog and Caryl
Mummy and I are thinking of you both at this time. We truly pray for a good prognoses and devine healing to come your way.
Do not give up. We all love and care for you, Special Friend.
Woof
Paxton and Shirley
We dearly wish we have an answer to your questions and can totally feel your frustrations at the big 'unknown'.
Hopefully the vet will come back with some good news and a better idea of that that cyst is... till then, hang in there and know that you have all our love.
I am cheered at the no cancer, though I understand the frustration in not knowing. What I really like, though, is a vet who is confident enough to admit what they do not know and reaching out to to other experts. Our own vet is like that and it comforts me that she does not feel a need to have to know all the answers (who of us ever does).
I looked for and saw Wild Dingo's post because I know of her own experiences with liver issues in her dogs.
We continue to cheer for you Max (and loved NSLM's St Francis post).
We don't understand medical stuff ~ BUT we do understand that Max needs our purrs and prayers to help him get better. So we're sending them his way.
((((((HUGS)))))) for yoo too.
We are purring for Max to get better.
I heard about Max on Khyra's blog and wanted to come over to offer my support. Having just gone through this with my dog Ziggy, my heart goes out to you. Ziggy's test results and xrays were unclear also but he was finally diagnosed after having an ultrasound of his upper and lower abdomin. Unfortunately, there was nothing that could be done to help my boy - 2 tumors in his spleen, 1 in his liver and a huge one inside his heart. If Max hasn't had an ultrasound, I'd highly recommend it. It could clear alot of things up and hopefully rule out anything bad. I hope Max is feeling better today and that you receive only good news! Our best to you and Max.
Rachel & Pedro
Hey Max and C!!!!!
We sent you an email to explain something about liver cyst!!!!
Our vet told us they can be due to a bad food (dry food is very very bad for dogs!!!)....or due to a bacterical infection.....or due to a worms proliferations....or cancer...but he told us if you remove the liver damaged part Max could be feel good soon!!!!!!!!!!!
I don't want fool yourself....but maybe your Vet could be a biopsy very very soon before it's too late!!!!!!!!!!!!!
READ MY MAIL!!!!!!!!!
We'll keep you in our prayers evry day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WE LOVE YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!
GOOOOOOOOOOOOO MAXXXXXXXXXXXX!!!!!!
So sorry that Max is going through this. I hope he will get better and make a complete recovery.
I am so sorry. I will say a prayer for Max. Don't give up hope. Maybe after your Doctor researches this, there will be a course of treatment.
Max is a beautiful dog.
From
Boo-Bahs Little Sunshines
I'm so happy that there is no sign of cancer! I wish I could give you some advice, but I don't have any experience with this. I see that a lot of our furiends had some great advice to offer. Paws crossed for you Max!
Love,
Mochi
w00fs, came back to c if u heard anything else, still thinkin of u and wishing max the best...
b safe,
~rocky~
We are sorry to hear Max is not doing well. During these most difficult times all we can do is take life day by day and hope for the best. We will keep our paws crossed for you!
Bijou, Banjo and Mom
We have come from everyone else's blogs (Honey,KB,TTH,OP Pack and numerous others) to wish you luck and send many prayers your way...Hope it all comes back as good news.
It is wonderful to see so many good thoughts, advice and prayers for you.
Paws and Kisses
Aria & MadMax
We are sending you strength and hope and positive thoughts for good news! HUGS!
I pray for you MAX.....
Sorry we are late MY Mommy had not much bloggging the last days SORRY
We will think positive
((HUGS))) for our sweet Max...
Kareltje =^.^=
Anya
Max!!! We are praying for you and your mommy! Feel better soon!!! We just love you so much!!! Hugs Valerie Joey and Kealani
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