Please Rev up your prayer powers!!!

[Cataholic]

This probably does belong in Dog General, BUT, I wanted to bring it to as many people's attention as I could....

Binx's letters went out today to 137 people across the US and Canada, explaining his condition, including a set of photos. I need prayers that SOMEONE will know something, have some idea where to go from here, etc. This is our last hope.

So, will you all utilize your MP3s skills? (M(aximum) P(et talk)
P(rayer) P(ower)).

We both really appreciate it!!

Binx and Johanna

[popcornbird]

*raises hand*

I'll be praying for him! :D

[ramanth]

Oh Binx!!! I love ya boy and I'm hoping and praying that someone out there knows how to help you. *HUGS*

[Logan]

Johanna, I will definitely use every prayer I have on Binx's behalf.

Would you please send one more letter or email me with a copy? I'd love for my vet to have a chance to see and respond. Here's his info, just in case:

Robinson Walter C Ms III DVM
550 Old Howell Road, Greenville, SC 29615
(864) 268-6312

[slick]

**stands up on chair and cheers**

What a lot of hard work Johanna. I just know something will come of it. Hugs to you and prayers on the way.

[Kater]

I'm praying that one or more of these letters will reach kind hearted souls with the veterinary skills to help Mr. Binx!

Did you send any to University Teaching Hospitals? They often have wonderful specialists in different areas and if UW-Madison Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital is any indication are willing to help a lot with shelters and various rescue efforts. Just an idea.

[robinh]

Lots of prayers going out for Binx!!

Another place to try - Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine:


They've helped friends of mine whose pets could not be diagnosed or treated elsewhere. Don't know if they can help, but it would be worth a try.

[shais_mom]

**Jumps up and down to be seen**
I will pray for you too!!!
{{Hugs to you along the way!}}

[Cataholic]

Originally posted by Logan
Johanna, I will definitely use every prayer I have on Binx's behalf.

Would you please send one more letter or email me with a copy? I'd love for my vet to have a chance to see and respond. Here's his info, just in case:

Robinson Walter C Ms III DVM
550 Old Howell Road, Greenville, SC 29615
(864) 268-6312


Logan,
I would be HAPPY to! Do you want me to send it to you or the just the doctor? I can email you a photo and letter, and you can print it out, BUT, you need a colorr printer to appreciate the photos. I am happy to send a copy of both, to both of you...just let me know!!!
Thanks.
Johanna

[Cataholic]

Originally posted by Kater
I'm praying that one or more of these letters will reach kind hearted souls with the veterinary skills to help Mr. Binx!

Did you send any to University Teaching Hospitals? They often have wonderful specialists in different areas and if UW-Madison Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital is any indication are willing to help a lot with shelters and various rescue efforts. Just an idea.



Kater, I didn't!!! So, I will get their information, and send it. Thanks for pointing it out. I did get it to other teaching hospitals/vets...but, not to UW-Madison. Thanks!!!

[Logan]

Send it straight to him, Johanna. You can tell him that I suggested that you send it along (his #1 paying customer, Logan Bagley), and I'll be glad to follow up with him. Just let me know when you send it. I'll be seeing him soon, I'm sure!!! :p

[Kater]

Here is a link : http://vmthpub.vetmed.wisc.edu/sa_services/

[Cataholic]

Originally posted by robinh
Lots of prayers going out for Binx!!

Another place to try - Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine:


They've helped friends of mine whose pets could not be diagnosed or treated elsewhere. Don't know if they can help, but it would be worth a try.

I didn't do IA State, but, did IA University-dental, for people. I will send one out to IA State.

What I did for the vet schools was send out ONLY to schools/vets that were members of a oral/dental organization. I am not saying that a 'normal' vet wouldn't know anything, but, with what has gone on so far, no 'normal' vet has known anything. So, the focus was on diplomats of the oral/dental association, oral pahtologists, and periodontists. But, leave no stone unturned, right? I am already in this to win it, so, I am willing to try nearly anything!!! Thanks for your suggestions and prayers.

[Cataholic]

Originally posted by Logan
Send it straight to him, Johanna. You can tell him that I suggested that you send it along (his #1 paying customer, Logan Bagley), and I'll be glad to follow up with him. Just let me know when you send it. I'll be seeing him soon, I'm sure!!! :p


It will be in this evenings mail! Thanks Logan!!!

[Cataholic]

Originally posted by robinh
Lots of prayers going out for Binx!!

Another place to try - Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine:






IA-State doesn't have a dental/oral vet specialist :( That has been the case with many places, sadly. While it is a growing field, it isn't that prevelant, yet. Thanks, though, Robin, for the suggestion!!

[Cataholic]

Kater- I checked out Madison-WI site. They were the 4th in the nation to have a oral/dental program, WOW! And, of the three they had on board, one has left- W. Gengler. He is now at Verona. AND, he was on my list. So, I am trusting that we have WI covered. Thanks!!!

Any other suggestions, even long shots, please let me know!!! Thanks.

[Barbara]

Of course we are sending our best thoughts and cross our paws/fingers but being a stupid cat person: What is it with Binx? I am sure there must be a thread but I didn't find it?

Sorry.

[PayItForward]

Originally posted by Barbara
Of course we are sending our best thoughts and cross our paws/fingers but being a stupid cat person: What is it with Binx? I am sure there must be a thread but I didn't find it?

Sorry.
Ditto.

Sending prayers to help Binx get well soon.

[Kater]

There are 28 vet schools in the U.S. They probably do not all have teaching hospitals but if you forgot UW-Madison I'm thinking you may have missed a few others. Since the oral specialists are few and far between we can't risk forgetting any of them!

Here's a list: http://aavmc.org/schools/schools.htm

[Cataholic]

Barbara,
Binx has a chronic mouth issue (deformity) called Gingival Hyperplasia. It means excess gum. Binx's case is VERY extreme. His teeth are COMPLETELY covered by large amounts of gum growth. It looks disgusting. People stop me all the time, "What is wrong with your dog's mouth?". (I mentally slap them). His teeth are in there, but, covered, in some parts, by 4 inches of gum. While he can eat, it is very difficult. My dental vet is out of suggestions, having never seen this. My dental vet is VERY respected, and knowledgeable, having been one of the first dental vets in the US. We have been to another dental vet, that travels world wide, and he isn't sure what to do. We have seen human periodontists, etc. So, this was a last ditch effort to find someone with the knowledge to help with Binx.

[Kater]

How about Stephen Riback, DVM of the Animal Medical Center in New York City?
link: http://www.amcny.org/directory/DirectoryDefault.htm

[Cataholic]

Kater,
I am going to take that link and have my secretary put it into an excel sheet, and send out to those we didn't hit. I recognize alot of them, from the diplomats book...but, what is strange is that the site hasn't been updated in two years! For instance, one of the three professors isn't even with them anymore. I wonder why. But, regardless, I am going to send material to them! Thanks!!! And, tons of hugs for going the extra mile for me.

[Cataholic]

Originally posted by Kater
How about Stephen Riback, DVM of the Animal Medical Center in New York City?
link: http://www.amcny.org/directory/DirectoryDefault.htm

I am sending it the facility, c/o Dr. Carmicheal...either he is the chair now, OR, he is the diplomat member. Thanks!

[Barbara]

Oh that sounds horrible. All the best for Binxie!

[Kater]

Or how about William Rosenblad, DVM of Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston?
http://www.angell.org/for_vets4.html#dentistry

I'm going to ask at the VMTH today about all specialists in the area. We'll see if they can give me any more names. :)

[momoffuzzyfaces]

Prayers on the way from me too and the cats all have their paws crossed for Binx! I told them I didn't think Binx would mind that they were cats.

[Cinder & Smoke]

<picks up Prayer Line> <dials God>

Hi God; an Happie Holidays!

Kuld we ask fur a Speshul Christmas Wish this year?
We'll not ask fur a lotta *stuff* -
iffin You wuld grant This Wish...

We *Wish* that You could guide the Letter sent by Miz Johanna to
a Doc that kan really Help our Big Bud - Mr Binx.

He's such a Gud Lil (well, OK - BIG) Trooper -
nebber fussez or komplainz bout his tooferz not werkin rite;
an iz alluz a Happie Pup...
Luvz :) his Mawmee anna Kat Herd, too!

An kuz he's not da type to ask fur favurz -
We thunk we'd ask You...

PaLeez, Dear God - Help Mr Binx.
May the Christmas *Star* Shine on those Letters.

An God ~
Why doncha tell Sandy Pawz to send our *stuff* to summa da Dawggies
who dont have Luvin Fambliez?
We dont really *need* nuffin - we got Dad...
He's enuff to make our Christmas *GREAT*!

So datz our Christmas Wish, God ~
Iffin You kan send sum Help for Mr Binx,
You'll make us verrie Happie this Christmas.

And paleeze dont overlook Killian -
he kan alluz uze a nice {{{GodsHug}}}, too!

Thanks, God!
Hope You and Jesus have a Blessed Christmas!

/s/ the Prayer Pups

[tatsxxx11]

Kater just posted my suggestion, Dr. Riback of the Animal Medical Center in NYC and Dr. Rosenblad at Angell Memorial. I have used both facilities, when I lived in NY and now that I live in Mass. They are the largest animal medical centers in the country and are incredible facilities. Prayers are being sent to dear Binxie and all fingers and paws crossed that this dear, beautiful boy can find some help:( It breaks my heart to read of the cruel comments made by such ignorant people. Mental slap them for me too!!!:mad: We love you Binx and with Cinder and Smokey on the case, you've just got to get better. Love, Sandra, Cody and Star

Great work Kater. You're the best:)

[Cataholic]

Thanks Prayer Pups! I know God will look down on Binx. He already has.

I am going to wait a day or so, and then compile all the suggested names/facilities, and send another batch of mail out on Thursday.

Thanks for standing behind us!


Binx and Johanna

[lovemyshiba]

I'm sorry I don't have any suggestions for you, but I will be keeping my fingers crossed and Binx will be in my prayers!!!

Binx sure is one lucky boy to have such a dedicated mommy!!!!!!

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Originally posted by lovemyshiba
Binx sure is one lucky boy to have such a dedicated mommy!!!!!!

Ditto!

As you know, I don't get to the dog side that often, so I didn't know the Binxie boy was still have such problems, but you also know I'll be praying the letters find someone that can help!

Good luck Binx, we're pulling for ya, and with the official PT Prayer Pups on the job, I'm confident someone will be able to help you!

[lynnestankard]

Johanna I'm so sorry to hear that poor Mr Binx is having such an awful time wiff his toofy pegs. It really sounds dreadful and of course I'm keeping him in my thoughts and prayers xxx
Seeing as you've got the 'prayer pups' on their special hot line I'm sure good news must be coming soon.
{{{{Hugs}}} across the miles xxxx

Lynne

[ChrisH]

Johanna, I found this...

Scottish Veterinary Dental Partnership (http://www.scottishvetdental.co.uk/)

...and this list of links. Vetgate - Dentistry (http://vetgate.ac.uk/browse/cabi/detail/e73a256a1ab359aff860132a0369c2a2.html)

Sending prayers and positive thoughts for sweet Mr Binks to find the help he needs.

Hugs
Chris

[Miss Meow]

All paws and fingers crossed that someone who reads your letter is the right person, or knows the right person, to help.

There must be someone out there who has treated a similar case and hopefully the universe or god or whoever can help your letter find this person :)

You're such a good dog mummy :)

[jenluckenbach]

NO helpful info, but LOTS AND LOTS of prayers for Binx. (and for you)

[gini]

Johanna, as you may or may not know, I have had a "thing" for Binx from the day that you got him. I have followed your heroic efforts on his behalf.

I have been going to the same vet in Los Angeles for over 25 years and he has a lot of experience in all areas of vet care.

You just never know..........so please feel free to email me the information and the photo and I would be happy to take it to him.
His name is Dr. Ciganek and his business is Larchmont Animal Clinic.

Best of luck to you - such a labor of love!!

[rg_girlca]

Prayers and positive thoughts on the way for Binx, that he will soon find the help that he needs.
Also (((((hugs))))) to you Johanna for being such a dedicated and devoted mommy.

[Cincy'sMom]

Prayers and postive thoughts for you and poor Binx. He sure deserves to have something go his way. He's such a sweet and loving boy :)

[Tonya]

Cataholic, Binx is so blessed to have you as a mommy. You are awesome. That is wonderful that you are so persistant. I will surely be praying for him.

[dukedogsmom]

I sent you a pm. Also, this is supposed to be one of the best vet. schools around. They might be able to help. Horse had to go there a while back with a rare case of teeth growing every which way.
http://www.vetmed.ufl.edu/
Please contact them.

[KYS]

My heart goes out to you and all that you have done.
I certainly will be sending oodles and oodles of prayers that
someone will have an cure for our Binx.(I am sure you
have done this already, send
letters to all the vet universities)

[Nomilynn]

Did you send a letter to the hospital Bassett went to? We all know from first hand experience that they are great :) Here is their link:

http://www.accg.com/

good luck, and I will keep Binx in my prayers!

[Aspen and Misty]

Prayers on the way!!! I hope someone replys and knows what to do ::hugs:: You truly are Binx's Angel!


Ashley

[RobiLee]

Lots of prayers going out for Binx.

Please!!!! Someone be able to help this sweet pup!

Keep us posted Johanna.

Robin

[anna_66]

We know you'd do anything you could to get Binxy Boys problem solved, I just hope with all the letters and emails that someone will be able to help him, he soooo deserves to be a happy go lucky normal dog with teeth:D
So with that said, we'll be keeping both him & you in our prayers daily until this issue gets resolved!
{{{HUGS}}}
Anna

[Kater]

Have you heard back from anyone yet?

[Vio&Juni]

We keep our fingers, paws and tails crossed for Binxy Boy! There must be someone that can solve the problem!

[lynnestankard]

Any news Johanna? Keeping Mr Binx in thoughts and prayers.

{{{{Hugs}}}}

Lynne

[Sudilar]

Prayers on their way!!!!!!!!!!!

[Russian Blue]

Just seeing this now! Hope you do get some feedback soon from someone knowledgable about this topic Johanna.

[Cataholic]

To date, (remembering that the letters went out 12/2), I have had two phone calls- one from Kentucky, and Washington State, and about 4 emails. No one knows much more than Dr. Auvil, at this point, and the news is slightly discouraging. BUT, we aren't defeated yet!!!

So, keep on praying, keep on with the suggestions, feel free to email or pm me with info, requests for photos/letter, etc. I don't intend to quit until I know there is NOTHING that can be done!

Thanks for your continued support!!!
Johanna and Binx

[ramanth]

Thanks for the update and big fluffy hugs to Binx!

[Logan]

Johanna, should I call Dr. Robinson for a follow up to your letter? I would just like to know that you sent it on Thursday, and let him know that I asked you to include him before I call him.

Logan

[Felicia's Mom]

My prayers go out to Binx.

[Cataholic]

Originally posted by Logan
Johanna, should I call Dr. Robinson for a follow up to your letter? I would just like to know that you sent it on Thursday, and let him know that I asked you to include him before I call him.

Logan


Please, Logan, if you would. I did include a handwritten note in Dr. Robinson's letter that I sent it on your advice. It never hurts, right? I sent the letter the day I said I would, which means it went out on 12/3- Wednesday of last week. So, I am quite certain it reached him-since I have communications from both sides of the country already. Thanks!

[emily_the_spoiled]

I know that you have sent letters out to vet schools in the USA, but have you thought about sending them to Canadian vet schools?

http://www.ovc.uoguelph.ca/

http://www.medvet.umontreal.ca/
(although this is in French, there is probably someone at the school who speaks some English)

http://www.upei.ca/~avc/

http://www.usask.ca/wcvm/

[Desert Arabian]

Originally posted by Cataholic
This probably does belong in Dog General, BUT, I wanted to bring it to as many people's attention as I could....

Binx's letters went out today to 137 people across the US and Canada, explaining his condition, including a set of photos. I need prayers that SOMEONE will know something, have some idea where to go from here, etc. This is our last hope.

So, will you all utilize your MP3s skills? (M(aximum) P(et talk)
P(rayer) P(ower)).

We both really appreciate it!!

Binx and Johanna

Please excuse me for I did not read the entire thread before posting this....

Johanna, if you would like to, if you send copies of the letters and photos to me, I can go to all the vets in my area and see if they know what it is. There are many good vets in this area. Also, I suggest that you send a letter to the University of Madison, if you haven't already, because they have one of the best vet programs in the United States- maybe someone there might know.

Anyways, I will be praying for Binxy boy! Oh how do I love him! I am so greatful that I got to meet him!!

[GoldenRetrLuver]

Fingers and paws crossed here!! I'll be keeping him in my thoughts and prayers.

{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}} to you both. :)

[krazyaboutkatz]

Johanna, prayers and positive thoughts are being sent your way. You sure are a great dog mom. Please keep us updated.

[popcornbird]

While I don't have any advice, I'm continuing my prayers for Binxie boy! Good luck to you both, and may someone out there be able to provide help in finding a solution!

[dukedogsmom]

If you haven't talked to my vet yet, you want to just send me the letters and I can take them to him? Just pm me and let me know.

[Cataholic]

A little update....ok, a doctor in Cambridge, Massachusetts has expressed a **real**interest in taking on Binx's case, from a research perspective. So, I am getting some pathology slides sent to her, either by locating his old slides, or by scheduling a biospy, which I prefer not to do to Binxie.

I have NOT yet sent a second set of letters out to people's suggested places. I would like to explain that abit, if I might. Binx's condition is incredibly, incredibly rare and severe. I have confirmed this through not only my own vet (who is one of the most learned individuals in animal dentistry), but also from several top periodontists and oral pathologists in this country. While it is **possible** someone that is not a periodontist, oral pathologist, or vet dental specialist might know something, it is pretty dern unlikely. Though a vet school might be the best in this country, unless it has a dental program, it is not going to be of assistance (unless by some fluke chance).

What I am trying to do is concentrate my energies (and resources) on those individuals that have the greatest likelihood of superior knowledge. These 'top' people **should**know other top people (that I might have missed) to forward the information on to them. In fact, several have responded with "I don't know, but Dr. So and So might, can I send it on"?

So, at this point, I am trying to remain focused on the original 150 that I have sent out, and where that might take us. If I have offended anyone, please accept my sincere apologies. It isn't that I don't appreciate the suggestions, or need them, but, right now, I want to stay focused on my 'best shots'.

Sincerely,
Johanna and Binx.

[slick]

Thanks for the update Johanna. I agree with you on focussing issue. Still keeping you and Binx in my prayers that something happens soon.

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Yes, thanks for the uppydate. I really hope the doc from MA can help.

Good luck Binxie boy! :)

[gini]

Johanna, I clearly understand. Thanks for taking the time to explain your position so clearly and kindly.

I will concentrate on our prayer powers for Binx and for you.

[captain]

Johanna,

Prayers and hugs (as always) for you and the darling Binxy Boy.

I have had a chat to the University of Melbourne Vet Clinic located up the road from me.

They have a Doc. there who is a specialist Dental "something" (long name with a "cian" on the end :rolleyes: ).

When you are ready, I will be more than happy to give you their name and address ......

You never know, maybe we Aussies can help you??!!:)

[Cataholic]

The NIH? The NIH? OMG! One of the doctors I sent the material to contacted an associate of his at the NIH, and then called Dr. Auvil! Can you believe it? This guy at the NIH studies human gingival fibromatosis! He wants some of Binx's blood/tissue to examine for a link between Binx and human gingival fibromatosis!

I have had several, several intersting and informative emails, from these three doctors-non vets, but, very much animal lovers, I can tell.

I am just on cloud nine...against my better judgment. But, who knows? Right? I will keep you all updated. Thanks for being so understanding.

[captain]

Johanna,

We must have cross-posted .............. I am so "tentatively" happy for you.!!!!! :D

Fingers, paws and toes crossed!

Love
Michelle

[dukedogsmom]

I hope a diagnosis and a cure can be found! I love Binx and haven't even seen him! One day, we must all meet.

[Cinder & Smoke]

Originally posted by Cataholic
... contacted an associate of his at the NIH...

This guy at the NIH studies human gingival fibromatosis!

Johanna ~

"NIH" as in "National Institutes of Health"
(US Dept of Health)??

If so - go to:
http://www.nih.gov/ (http://www.nih.gov/)

In the UPPER RIGHT corner of the HIH Home Page is a
Search Block...

Enter in [ "Gingival Hyperplasia" ] USE the Quotes;
and/or [ "gingival fibromatosis" ]
EACH term will give you 30+ HITS on the NIH site.

Happy Reading!!

{{{HUGGS}}} to You and the Binxster!! :D

[Cataholic]

I checked out the NIH site. Reading the 7th article, under Fibromatosis, WOW! To think that they are researching ways to turn off the gene that produces this condition. WOW! I hope the authors of this study are the same as the doctor Dr. Auvil will be in touch with. How exciting!

Thanks so much Phred!

[Cinder & Smoke]

Originally posted by Cataholic
WOW!
To think that they are researching ways to
turn off the gene that produces this condition.
WOW! How exciting!

;) :D

There's Always Hope!

And... we got God Werkin on it, too! :)

[KYS]

I am so glad you are keeping us updated.
I also hope that the authors are the same
ones. So humans and dogs both get
this.
My fingers and toes crossed for Binxie and you.

[popcornbird]

Originally posted by Cataholic
I checked out the NIH site. Reading the 7th article, under Fibromatosis, WOW! To think that they are researching ways to turn off the gene that produces this condition. WOW! I hope the authors of this study are the same as the doctor Dr. Auvil will be in touch with. How exciting!

Thanks so much Phred!

Ohhhhhh I can see a ray of HOPE now! :D Keeping the prayers up, and hoping they can find a way to help Binx! There's ALWAYS hope! Good luck!

Ps. Does this mean this condition can possibly exist in human beings too? :confused:

[gini]

Johanna, what strikes me is that due to your letters and Binx' condition, you will be educating a whole group of veterinarians at the same time. As each confer with each other - perhaps each will learn more about this condition.

I am so happy that you are already getting feedback......and good links here from Phred and others.

Continued prayers for that very special boy and hugs for you.

[Kater]

Originally posted by popcornbird
Ps. Does this mean this condition can possibly exist in human beings too? :confused:
That's what I got out of it. (the NIH site)

[delidog]

Oh Yes, Of Course we Are Praying for Dear Mr.Binx......
All Paws,fingers ,toes,and eyes are crossed....

Hoping this finds Binx Healthy and Happy

[lbaker]

NIH is about 2 miles from my home. If they should want to see the lad in person, you and he are welcome to stay with me. I have plenty of room and a huge fenced yard. The cats would just shrug at another dog and my dogs love everyone, two leggers & four leggers :D
Laurie

[Cataholic]

Originally posted by lbaker
NIH is about 2 miles from my home. If they should want to see the lad in person, you and he are welcome to stay with me. I have plenty of room and a huge fenced yard. The cats would just shrug at another dog and my dogs love everyone, two leggers & four leggers :D
Laurie


Laurie,
What an INCREDIBLY sweet gesture. I will take you up on it, if NIH wants to see my little pony.
Thank you so much!
Johanna

[Cataholic]

Originally posted by popcornbird
Ps. Does this mean this condition can possibly exist in human beings too? :confused:

Definetly! This is a human disease. What the NIH is interested in discovering is if this is the SAME disease, Binx's and the humans. Most of the research available is on hoomans. And, most of this condition is drug induced- certain drugs used to treat some conditions CAUSES this gingival growth. In hoomans, the 'cure' is to stop the medication, and to do gingivectomies (remove the gum). Binx's is not drug induced, his is an ideoptathic (of unknown origin) congenital, disorder. Hoomans get this, too, but, it is more rare than the drug induced kind.

[Cinder & Smoke]

Originally posted by Cataholic
... Binx's is not drug induced,
his is an ideoptathic (of unknown origin)
congenital, disorder.

Hey Johanna ~

I never tought about it, but...
Do you know anything about Binster's Parents
and/or sibling brothers & sisters????

Wondering if any OTHER Dogs in his Family Line suffer from
the same problem??

Might be interesting/informative to Trace his Family Tree!??

Just a thought...

/s/ Phred

[lynnestankard]

Wow Johanna - things seem to be moving onwards - I'm so pleased for you and Mr Binx - keeping the prayers flowing and the good vibes flying! {{{Hugs}}} to you both xxxx

Lynne

[ramanth]

Wowee! What a revelation! I hope the NIH can help! :D

[emily_the_spoiled]

Johanna,

If you and Binx decide to fly out here the closest airport is Baltimore. I would be happy to pick the two of you up and take you to Laurie's place.

Cheryl

[popcornbird]

Originally posted by Cataholic
Definetly! This is a human disease. What the NIH is interested in discovering is if this is the SAME disease, Binx's and the humans. Most of the research available is on hoomans. And, most of this condition is drug induced- certain drugs used to treat some conditions CAUSES this gingival growth. In hoomans, the 'cure' is to stop the medication, and to do gingivectomies (remove the gum). Binx's is not drug induced, his is an ideoptathic (of unknown origin) congenital, disorder. Hoomans get this, too, but, it is more rare than the drug induced kind.

WOW! I didn't know that. That is quite scary actually, that there are also humans with this problem. It must be awfully rare though, as it is in dogs too, right? I hope the NIH can find a way to help, and hopefully they'll learn more about this condition and how to treat it too! While it seems difficult, there is always hope. Let's all keep the prayers up and hope that God will guide someone out there in finding a cure for our Binxie!

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Wow! The NIH!!! I'm impressed and soooo happy for you and the Binxster, Johanna!

Good thoughts and prayers still coming your way that this progresses into something that can actually help "your little pony." :D

And Laurie and Cheryl, what incredibly generous offers. Aren't PT'ers the best! :D

[Cincy'sMom]

Awesome news Johanna!! I really hope NIH can help!!!

What may really work in your favor is the amount of funding NIH gets to do research. We currently have two NIH supported grants at work, and from what my boss has said, that is one division of goernment that's funding almost never gets cut. Now in our case he is talking about their small business grants, but I can't image that medical research would be suffereing either.

I really hope this is the answer you and Binx have been looking for!!!!

[dukedogsmom]

It's been a while so I was wondering if you'd heard any news?

[lbaker]

I have been thinking about Binx reallllllly hard the last few days myself (do we share the same brain DDM? :eek: ;) )
Laurie