My Black Labby, Emerson

[Roxyluvsme13]

Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry. (((HUGS)))

[Cookiebaker]

I just wanted to give a little bit of an update -- we got the results from the autopsy on Friday,and there is nothing conclusive, and in many ways we are back where we started. The autopsy showed that he died from massive liver failure, and a lot of protein in his urine.

The question remains as to what sparked the massive liver failure. There are 3 theories at this point:

1. He had what the vet called an "idiocyncratic" reaction to the antibiotic he was on for a UTI. She equated it to someone who reacts to Pennicillin -- its not a "side effect" but in rare occasions it causes a deadly reaction. However there are 2 reasons that this would not be the case. He was taking the drug for 15+/- days prior and showed NO signs or symptoms. Further, he had his last dose of the meds on Saturday morning, and kept going downhill through Monday night. On Monday evening, he was alert enough to soak up some petting and attention from the vet, but within 4-6 hours afterwards, his liver failed. She thinks that the meds would have started to metabolize out of his system, and further damage would not have happened because he was off the drug. It is possible, but she doesn't think it is likely.

2. The second possiblity is that he had liver problems way back in February. Unfortunately with all the tests that they ran, they did not include a liver panel, so they have nothing to compare the final tests with. She ruled liver problems out then because of his age. It is not likely that a 3.5 year old dog would have liver problems. I didn't know this but liver symptoms are sometimes shown in the urinary tract, so it is quite possible.

3. The third theory is that there could have been a combination of 2-3 things that brought about the liver failure. She gave the supposition of a urinary tract infection, a mild reaction to the extended antibiotics, and he ate something that bothered his system -- she gave the example of the straw that broke the camel's back. It wasn't any single one thing that caused the system failure, but rather one thing triggered it, and then the next thing exacerbated it.

She is doing further research this weekend to see if she can get any further clues into his death.

Thank you so much for your kinds words. Thank you so much to those who sent pm's/cards in the mail. I will respond to each of you soon! I miss my boy so much, and it helps to know that others have felt this before too. I think it is especially hard because it was so sudden, so unexpected.

[Sudilar]

Was the drug metronidazole (flagyl)?

I am so very sorry that this happened to Emerson. My heart goes out to you.
I hope they can find a reason for it.

[lizbud]

Thanks for the update. I only wish the tests results could have been
more definative. Emerson was so young. As the Vet said, it likely was a
combination of drugs effects on him.

[jazzcat]

Anna, I'm so saddened and shocked to read about Emerson. I'm so sorry.

Rest in Peace sweet boy.

[cyber-sibes]

I'm so sorry to hear abput Emerson, I just now saw this. That's so hard, it just doesn't seem right to loose a dog so young. He had a wonderful life with you, and quality is what counts.

He's healthy & whole again at the bridge, probably passing out those big kisses - I'm sure my Rosie is standing inline for one.

[anna_66]

Anna I'm sorry to hear the autoposy didn't show the exact cause of his death.
Your still in my thoughts and prayers.
(((HUGS)))
Anna