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CONNIE KIMBERLEY
Connie is a 7 year old neutered female Irish Setter who joined the practice in May 2007.
Immediately we were concerned about Connie's weight. She weighed in at nearly 40kg almost twice the average weight for a female dog of this breed!! Drastic action was needed and Connie was put on a strict diet.
A small amount of weight was lost over the next few months but by February of this year we became concerned that her failure to lose weight may be pointing to there being an underlying medical condition. There was further evidence of this as Connie's coat and skin were dry and her hair had started to fall out. Her poor tail had become very bald!
Blood tests were taken and Hypothyroidism was confirmed. This condition is due to a reduction in Thyroxine hormone production by the Thyroid gland which is involved in the maintenance of the body's metabolism.
We started Connnie on a life long treatment of a Thyroid hormone supplement and within weeks the weight started to come off. Connie now weighs an impressive 29kg and still has some to lose! She has regained her zest for life and has limitless energy and bounce and her coat is back to its former shiny state. Connie's mum says she is a totally different dog and is thrilled with her progress.
Obesity is becoming an increasing problem with our pets and is usually due to an excessive calorie intake coupled with inadequate exercise. In as small percentage of cases it can be due to an underlying medical condition. If you are concerned about your pet's weight please call to arrange a free nurse weight consultation.
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MOSS PRITCHARD
Moss presented in July 2006 with a small skin growth on the underside of his abdomen and a further small growth on the side of his hind leg. A needle sample was obtained from both sites and sent to the laboratory for analysis. Unfortunately the results confirmed that both sites were tumours and potentially could be malignant.
Moss was referred to a specialist surgeon to have both tumours removed. Due to the difficulties involved in removing the hind limb tumour it was decided to send Moss for radiotherapy at the Animal Health Trust in Newmarket to destroy any tumour cells which may have been left behind.
The story continued in December 2006. Suspicion that the tumour had spread to a local lymph node was confirmed by biopsy and a scan showed other internal lymph nodes had become enlarged.
In January 2007 Moss began a twelve week programme of chemotherapy involving weekly visits for blood tests and medication to control the spread of his disease.
Moss became quite used to coming to the surgery for his treatments as he knew in return he would receive lots of fuss and the odd biscuit or two! He received during his treatment the benefit of the most up to date advances in medicine and surgery coupled with the expertise of specialists in the fields of veterinary surgery and oncology. He also was lucky to have owners who were totally dedicated to his welfare and happiness.
His treatment cost thousands of pounds. Luckily Moss was covered by pet insurance which took care of most of his veterinary fees.
[Moss passed away in October 2009 after a short illness. He was a truly wonderful dog and will be greatly missed.]
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