Willow's platelets are low!

Well, she wants me to go speak with her tomorrow to go over the old results--which are scarey close to what Pirates #'s were--even lower at times.  And, she wants me to most likely start her on Prednisone and possibly test for the underlying cause.  But, meanwhile, Willow is on the deck, growling at cats and chasing cookies around the kitchen.  I just don't know what to do. 

She is scaring me a lot though.  DH says we should get another opinion before we do anything. 

I'm afraid of what Prednisone is going to do to her temperment too.

Lori

This is kind of a stupid thought, but has she ever been checked for ulcers?  I've heard of a few Border Collies that have this - it's the craziest thing because it's pretty rare in dogs apparently, but not so rare among nervy dogs like BCs.  This is a totally wild shot in the dark because I have no earthly idea what the actual symptoms are other than inappetence and something off in bloodwork (from loss of blood).

I'm sure that's something the vet will think of.

Meanwhile, on her temperament issues, consider this:  if she's had some ongoing problem that makes her grumpy all the time, the pred may improve that and actually help her feel better! 

brookcove

if she's had some ongoing problem that makes her grumpy all the time,

LOL, yes, and I think that problem is called her breed, ROFL.  Oh, God, I think I'm loosing it. 

Seriously, I will definately bring that up as she's had acid issues the whole time I've had her. 

Hugs, hugs, hugs times a million.

Oh, no you didn't scare me.  I was already worried about the numbers.  No worries.

Thanks!

What Megan said -- I have had ever so much better luck with a vet school (and that's including all the other folks I've suggested that are in other states) but it truly depends ON the vet school (as opposed to a specialty clinic).  Unfortunately many specialty clinics tend to simply work to a figure -- that sounds jaded but I've not had good luck with them. 

 But a 2d opinion is not a bad one.  Pred will react completely different with each individual -- and sometimes you just plain have to take the negative as part of the good it can do.  If pred is warranted it's because it will save her life -- it is used specifically to suppress the immune system, and believe it or not it's the easier of many options (you start getting into cyclosporine and those other drugs and they are SOOOO nasty with side effects and long-term damage). 

The ulcer thot is a darned good one -- I'd make sure you talk about ALL the weirdness that makes up Willow -- because in all that, it likely influences what's going on.  Good luck!

  Oh Lori; I know how worried you are, having been through some rough times with Jessie before her allergies were under control. I'll be praying for you and Willow; {{{{{{{{{{{{{{{hugs}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}.

calliecritturs

If pred is warranted it's because it will save her life -- it is used specifically to suppress the immune system

This is what's making me hesitate.  She is walking, playing, eating.  She's a little quiet and she might be drinking a little more.  But, I don't think she's in dire straights. She just begged for cheese, ya know what I mean?  I am trying to really observe her and not see things the way I hope them to be.  But, honestly, this is all I see.  A little quiet, possibly drinking a little more.  But, eating well--for her. 

I think I'll post her prior counts in a minute--I'd love to hear opinions. 

OK--Here is what I have for levels-

In 2005--248, 000--which is normal

4/21/06-105, 000

5/6/2006-143,000

6/8/06-146,000

12/6/06-120,000

5/2007-150,000

I need to get exact figures from her on the recent ones but I think she's under 100, 000 recently.  What makes me crazy is nobody bothered to tell me that these results are low--for what 3 years!!

Oh Lori.. I'm just reading this thread now...

For god's sake Willow, stop giving everyone heart attacks! I'm really glad she seems to be feeling okay. I don't know anything about platelets (besides the fact that my sister's father-in-law had really low platelets and had to get his spleen removed?? But I dunno why..), but I just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking good thoughts for Cherokee's fluffy twin. Keep us updated.

Thanks, Chelsea and Cherokee and family!

Ugh, I'm having a bad night tonight.  I was looking online and now I've got myself panic'd again.  I'm so scared for her, OMG, sobbing. I know this isn't what she needs, but can't help it.

Lori, please, think positive.......I know it is hard, but many times things turn around and we don't know why.......but, they do........I certainly will pray for you and your special dog "Willow".......

Thank you!

I am really sorry that Willow is not doing well.   For myself, not knowing what I'm dealing with is my worst nightmare.  Here's hoping that you get answers soon so you can focus that energy in a positive way. 

((BIG hugs)) to you and Willow. Hopefully you'll be able to figure out a treatment plan and she'll be on her way to a picture of chowy health in no time.

Hugs for Lori and hope your feeling better scritches for Willow!