From juwles at bigpond.com Tue Sep 1 07:50:21 2009 From: juwles at bigpond.com (Julie Juwles Johnson) Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 21:50:21 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] CONDOLENCES: Tribble and Aeryn Message-ID: Dear Jan I am deeply saddened for you, losing two your of lovely furry babies, and so close together. That is indeed a very cruel blow, and I hope you are finding strength to endure during your very sad time. My thoughts, my prayers, and my love is with you, Julie, Donald & her 9 other boys Happy moments, praise God Difficult moments, seek God Quiet moments, worship God Painful moments, trust God Every moment, thank God From juwles at bigpond.com Tue Sep 1 08:15:22 2009 From: juwles at bigpond.com (Julie Juwles Johnson) Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 22:15:22 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Update on Donald and his teeth problems Message-ID: <09CD98D5CBF4417FBD907D7C3CFC1370@JuliePC> Hi all my lovely GPDD friends, Firstly, I want to say the biggest thank you for all your emails of support, advice, love and comfort. I have been overwhelmed by your concern, and humbled by your love. I'm going to give an update on the situation re Donald, it might be a bit disjointed, but I guess all the info might be relevant or helpful to others. Friday, 26th August 2009 I took him back to my local vet (who doesn't know much about piggies but is learning from me!), and she x-rayed his teeth/jaws today without anaesthetic - and filed a bit more off the molars (even though it's not yet a week since that other vet put him under anaesthetic & filed them back - not too impressed there because it cost just under $200!). Then today, Debbie, my vet, sat there and fed him a strawberry. She broke it into little bits and he took it from her finger and ate. Still with problems, and still slowly, but he did eat it. I brought him home, tried the same with cucumber, but he wouldn't even try. Maybe he's playing up for his mummy? Anyway, my vet did email a copy of the x-ray of his teeth to Vedra at Cambridge Cavy Trust, and she's tried to ring her as well to see if there's anything else that can be done. Debbie found no sign of fractures, the mouth hygiene was perfect - no infection at all. Ann Evans from GPDD Tampa emailed me with some wonderful advice, so I sent that on to Debbie the vet, as well as some photos I have of guinea pig teeth views from front on and side view. She desperately wants to help me - she doesn't want me going through what I did with Archie - she looked after Archie where I had to take him weekly or bi-weekly, to have the teeth trimmed - which went on for 7 months before Archie died at only 400 grams. Tonight, I put the veges in his bed, he showed interest, tried to pick up some tomato, and just dropped it. He really wants to eat. One good thing, he hasn't lost any weight - he's still 1.1kg, so the vet was very proud of me - she said that his non-weight-loss was not because of good luck, it was because of good management on my part. At his last feed for the night, I managed to get 25 x 2ml syringes of food into him. I had 3 containers - one pure Critical Care, one baby food, and the other his favourite veges blended down to mush. I wanted to keep the CC up because that will help his bowels and hopefully he won't get diarrhoea as well. Monday 31 August 2009 Unfortunately, no change. Yesterday, I'd given up all hope because he wasn't keeping any syringe food down, it just kept dribbling out. I was just sitting there at the table bawling my eyes out, cuddling Donald, thinking I'm going to have to euthanase eventually. Then my sister came along and got hold of those rasps and filed both sides of his back teeth, which she said were pointy. The little darling just sat on the table whilst my sister filed those teeth, and was so good, he never struggled nor made a sound. After that Kathy said go away, cause you are crying and he'll feel your emotion, and she proceeded to finish feeding him about another 30 x 1 ml syringe fulls of food. On Tuesday, after a very emotional night, I tried again - and that morning he had 50 x 1 ml vials; that afternoon I gave him another 62 x 1 ml vials; that night I gave him 25 x 2 ml vials, and I got up at 3am to give him another feed to keep him going to the morning. I hadn't seen him doing any poos those past few days, although his kidneys are working causing he's doing wees. I read notes kindly emailed to me from Ann Evans about corrective dentistry for rodents, and it says that it might be necessary to file the points of teeth back every 3 days. I do not intend to give up on my boy. So, I've put him on to Daktarin oral gel, as well as Nilstat oral drops (all for fungal infections). I'm assuming it must be because he's in pain that he can't eat - and he still very much wants to. But I can see sadness in him too, because he doesn't understand what is going on. Tuesday, 1 September 2009 I took Donald back to the vet today, because he's started to slobber and his incisors are showing when I lift his little face (normally only his little mouthie is showing). So, I virtually "gave up" today - just went back to bed, hid under the covers, tried to sleep, couldn't, let my darling mother get all of the other 9 pigs out of their night cages for their daytime romps, let my darling mother feed Donald, let my darling mother do the washing of piggy towels, hanging them up, washing up their vege bowels, until it was time to go to the vet. By then I was a bawling idiot! Anyway, as things stand, my vet (Debbie) has not been able to make contact with Vedra (she's emailed the x-rays, etc.), so after lots of investigative work, 2 days of phone calls, etc. she's found who she says is the top rodentologist in Australia! This lady (Vanessa Gray her name is) is not a dentist (cause I don't trust straight out dentists), but strictly an expert in rodents and exotic pets. She and Debbie the vet talked ages about food they should eat, how much I should be syringe feeding him, how often, discussed his weight (still 1kg), said it still sounded like tooth problem (probably I've fed them too much veges or green grass and not enough roughage); then Debbie the vet sent x-ray of Donald's teeth to Vanessa, who was going to examine them and ring Deb back. Apparently Vanessa worked for years in theUK, so maybe she even trained under Vedra? The outcome is that tomorrow (2 Sept) I will take Donald back to Debbie, she will put him under isofluorane (I've been talking about euthanasing, so isofluorane would be safer!), and really examine his teeth, cut them back, grind them, and great news - that vet practice has finally bought a scope so she will be able to look down Donald's throat to see if there is anything wrong a bit further down. Donald has finally done some quite good pellets, which I was thrilled to find in his bed. So Debbie said at least his gut is working. She said not to overfeed - only 40-50ml per day because he might become dependent; and another good thing is the rodentologist said to try him on an old human medication called cimetidine (no longer made now, but used to be fantastic for people with peptic ulcers). The owner of the vet practice's wife is a chemist, and she might (we are hoping) be able to compound the medicine together, and then we can give Donald the medicine to soothe any upset in his tummy and to stimulate his appetite. I'm still giving him Daktarin gel, just in case - it can't hurt can it? Oh, and the vet said we'll up his painkilling medication to twice a day, because if pain is stopping him the only way to help is to relieve the pain. Wednesday 2 September 2009 To be continued........... Thank you so much for your emails and thoughts and caring, I am so humbled by all the advice I've received, and love and prayers, from members of our wonderful group. I'm not ready to say goodbye to Donald yet - so, tonight I've scraped myself off the floor and am back in fighting mode! The final outcome of all this will be that my local vet Debbie will end up an expert in guinea pigs won't she?!! Hugs and sincerest thanks to you all, Julie & Donald & my other lovely boys xx Happy moments, praise God Difficult moments, seek God Quiet moments, worship God Painful moments, trust God Every moment, thank God From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Tue Sep 1 11:45:22 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 08:45:22 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] misc: still in AZ Message-ID: <693498.84694.qm@web80205.mail.mud.yahoo.com> hello everyone, Well I got my piggie fix here in AZ. Enough to hold me till? I get home:)? My son took me? Pet Smart and they had several boy piggies. And when I looked in a hut there was a piggie that looked just like beloved Lazarus! So asked to hold him. And I told the worker where I was from and why I wanted to hold a piggie. He? told me he was a foster home for the piggie pooh rescue. And we both agreed it was best I just held the guineas there in the pet store... because I would want to take a piggie home from the rescue if I held those, and the airplane ride would be to much for a piggie. The young man was very nice and let me hold the piggie for a long as I wanted. Which of course still wasnt long enough.. But I think I can make it now.. I sure miss my furbabies. My daughter keeps texting me pics of? my babies having fun with her. missing my babies, jean(misfits) From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Tue Sep 1 11:47:21 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 08:47:21 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] misc: Tumbleweed Message-ID: <138351.66057.qm@web80207.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Cindy, Congratulations to LIttle Old? Tumbleweed on his adoption day! Hope he and you celebrated with fun treats!? Happy Day! Jean & Andy From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Tue Sep 1 11:53:51 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 08:53:51 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] rainbow bridge: Tribble & Aeryn Message-ID: <779953.81944.qm@web80207.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Jan, So very sorry to read of the passing of your beloved Tribble and Aeryn. Please accept our deepest sympathies. It hurts so much to lose our beloved furbabies. May it give you some peace to know they are running without pain together over the rainbow bridge keeping each other company meeting up with new friends as well as the old friends. jean and andy (misfits) From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Tue Sep 1 12:43:28 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 09:43:28 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] misc: Donald Message-ID: <538589.42785.qm@web80201.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Julie, We are praying so hard for Little Donald. We are praying for strength for you also.It is so emotionally draining when our little love bugs need extra care and and we don't know what to do to make them better. Praying hard for you all. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers, jean and andy From ann.evans at hintlink.com Tue Sep 1 14:24:25 2009 From: ann.evans at hintlink.com (Ann Evans) Date: Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:24:25 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [HEALTH] Donald and his teeth problems Message-ID: <4A9D66D9.8030501@hintlink.com> Dear Julie and the GPDD family, I was afraid to write to you because I thought that you might of decided to euthanize Donald and did not want to tell the GPDD community about your decision. Only you can make the right decision for Donald. He has two things going for him....You and his healthy weight. You are the best cavy mom in the world. Your dedication is an inspiration to us all. Donald would not be alive today if it was not for your around the clock care and sacrifices that you make for him. He is at a good weight because of your devotion to feeding him and getting him the best of veterinary care. However, there are two other things that are on my mind. Has Donald been routinely wormed every 3 months with ivermectin 1.0% solution 0.1 ml given orally plus 2.5% Panacur or Valbazen suspension 0.4 ml orally? This is referred to as worming but treats both ectoparasites and endoparasites. Worming is stared at 3 months of age and every 3 months for life. If he has never been wormed then you would give him the ivermectin on day 1 and 7 and the Panacur or Valbazen 0.4 ml for 5 days in a row. Then in three months he would only get one dose of 0.1 ml ivermectin and one dose of 0.4 ml of Panacur or Valbazen. Cavies eat the same food as sheep have very similar digestive systems to sheep and get the same parasites as sheep. Parasites tend to burrow into their favorite organ be it the liver, kidney or lungs or pancreas or gut. When the cavy gets ill is when they start to multiply and can do damage not only to the organ that they are living in but then spread out throughout the body. They also produce toxins that damage tissue and the natural gut flora of the cavy. In addition, if Donald went off of food for longer than 24 hours before you caught that he had teeth problems he may have developed fatty liver infiltration. I am sure you are aware that cavies always hide the fact that they are sick, so please do not blame yourself for his natural behavior. There is no way to determine if liver damaged has occurred without doing a urinalysis using a reagent strip such as Multistix 10 SG Reagent Strips for Urinalysis. Multistix 10 SG Reagent Strips for Urinalysis may be used to test urine for Glucose, Bilirubin, Ketone, Specific Gravity, Blood, pH, Protein, Urobilinogen, Nitrite and Leucocytes. Urinalysis strips are used to determine if further investigation needs to be done such as a blood chemistry test. I rarely do blood analysis since a urinalysis often gives me all the information I need. If blood collection is needed this can be achieved by over clipping a hind nail and allowing blood to flow into an uncapped vacutainer vial that contains the correct anticoagulant for a blood chemistry profile. A cavy only has approximately 7.0 ml of blood / 100 g of body weight. Therefore, the maximum amount of blood that can be taken is 0.5 ml of blood / 100 g of body weight. This amount of blood can be taken from a healthy non-dehydrated non-anemic cavy. I have never taken more than 3.0 ml of blood from a 1.0 kg cavy. Blood collection is never done using anesthesia. Venipuncture of the lateral saphenous veins is another site that can be used. A tuberculin syringe with a small 25 to 27 gauge needle to prevent collapse of the vein should be used. I do not suspect that Donald has major liver damage since he is not continuing to loose weight. That does not mean that he does not have damage. What you described for Archie is the scenario of a cavy that possibly had fatty liver infiltration. One of the advantages of using Panacure is that it not only kills parasites but it also tends to kill off foreign gut bacteria that can lead to bloat and stomach upset. I am not a vet nor should any of my advice take the place of competent veterinary care. My suggestions are to worm Donald, do a urinalysis and keep up the good work, devotion and love that you have been giving him. I always look forward to your posts and personal emails. Cheers, Ann and the Rescued Piggys of Piggyville, Tampa Florida USA. From piggyfriends at tesco.net Tue Sep 1 17:11:56 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 22:11:56 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC Catching Up Message-ID: <92C78B2258C740C1BE75B09A880C90F5@inspiron1150> We have had trouble with our server here at Piggyfriends and I need to catch up. Firstly. Thank you to Tiffany for sharing the lovely pigtures. Such sweet piggies. Secondly. Congratulations to Tumbleweed on your fifth Adoption Day. I am sure that you celebrated with loads of treats and cuddles. What a special day. Joanie. We are all so pleased that Hershey seems to have recovered from her strange behaviour. They do like to keep us on our toes, don't they? Congratulations to everyone that had their piggies featured in the Critters Magazine. I believe that the Winking Cavy online store has had that mag for sale in previous years. It is not there at the moment but maybe next year it will be available here in the UK. Well done everyone. Last but not least, I am so very sorry to read about Julie's Donald's problems. I have been there, done that and still do not know why some piggies will not eat. I have the most wonderful Rodentologists but sometimes even they are mystified. They trim their teeth perfectly and there seems no reason why the piggy is still unable to eat for him/herself but it does happen. Piggies' teeth overgrow so very quickly and I am sure that there is some underlying cause why they will not eat. Before this cause can be identified and the piggy is being kept alive on syringe feeds, the teeth have overgrown again. It is a vicious circle and one that cannot always be broken. When I see my Rodentologists again I will ask if they know Vanessa Gray. They have worked at and run the CCT so if Vanessa worked there they will know of her. I do not know what else to suggest but send my very best wishes to you, Julie, and to Donald and will be thinking of you on September 2nd. The Daktarin gel will not harm Donald even if he does not need it. Paws crossed. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From piggyfriends at tesco.net Tue Sep 1 17:22:12 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 22:22:12 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE Tribble and Aeryn Message-ID: <74BC577587EE45198A85BD92CF98F7C5@inspiron1150> Jan, I am so very sad to read of the loss of Tribble and Aeryn. I am never sure whether it hurts more to lose a piggy that has been with me for years or one that I have hardly got to know. There is probably no difference. It is unbearable either way and I know how desolate you will be feeling after the loss of two of your precious babes in such a short time. Tribble was a wonderful piggy and you will have so many happy memories of her long life to comfort you. Poor little Aeryn. After she had finally found a loving home, she had to undergo surgery, which we all know is so dangerous for our little friends. We all send our deepest sympathy and love to you all and can imagine Aeryn having fun with Tribble and Lokai at the Rainbow Bridge. Hugs for Zathras and Leela. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From Guineapigfilms at aol.com Tue Sep 1 13:42:29 2009 From: Guineapigfilms at aol.com (Guineapigfilms at aol.com) Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 13:42:29 EDT Subject: [Gpdd] [Misc] Re: Critters Annual Message-ID: Thanks so much, Janna! I'll keep looking! Congrats again to the piggies and their people who grace the pages!!! Love and WHEEEEEEEPS, Nancy (& Alyssa & the guinea pig movie stars) http://www.carrotwars.com In a message dated 8/31/09 10:39:17 PM, janna at thehoskincentre.com writes: > It's the 2010 Issue, and the stories appear on pages 98-101. > > -Janna > > "Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be > normal." Albert Camus > "I want to remake the world; anything less is not worth the trouble." > Karen Cushman > > > On Mon, Aug 31, 2009 at 8:22 PM, wrote: > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > The GPDD moderators frequently reject messages that do not follow > these guidelines: > A lack of a Topic label is the most common reason for message rejection. > Please use a Topic Label (HEALTH, CARE, ANNOUNCEMENT, BEHAVIOR, RESCUE, > BREEDING, SILLY, PIGLETS, MISC. ?or VIRTUAL) and descriptive subject. More > information on Topic use, post restrictions and permissions can be found at > http://www.gpdd.org/topics.html > > Postings to the digest must conform to the rules stated at > http://www.gpdd.org/guidelines.html > > Please consult the GPDD FAQ at http://www.gpdd.org/faq.html for > a list of commonly asked questions. > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > Other GPDD-affiliated sites: > > The Guinea Pigs' Rainbow Bridge, dedicated to the memories of piggies past > http://www.guineapigsrainbow.org > --------------------------------------- > Piggie bladderstone informational resources and mailing list: > http://www.gpigs-database.org > --------------------------------------- > All material posted is copyright The Guinea Pigs' Daily Digest, and may > not be reproduced in whole or in part in any media - printed or electronic - > without written permission of the administrators. > Where have you all been finding the new Critters USA? Wheeee looked at our > local Borders and at PetCo today, with no luck. PetCo had the 2009 > version, > but I looked all through it and didn't see any of the GPDD stories or > pics. > > Is it the 2010 version that we should be looking for? Has anyone spotted > it > on eBay? > > Anyway, congrats to all you guinea pig stars and proud "parents"! Wheeeee > can't wait to get our hands on a copy, and will keep trying! > > Love and WHEEEEEEEEEPS, > > Nancy & Alyssa & the guinea pig "movie stars" > http://www.carrotwars.com > > _______________________________________________ > Gpdd mailing list > Gpdd at gpdd.org > http://gpdd.org/mailman/listinfo/gpdd_gpdd.org > > > > From juwles at bigpond.com Wed Sep 2 09:24:08 2009 From: juwles at bigpond.com (Julie Juwles Johnson) Date: Wed, 2 Sep 2009 23:24:08 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Update on Donald Message-ID: <9C7C3DF9D36B4A2392BF74133AF4151F@JuliePC> Hi all, Another (quicker) update re Donald. ........ after a couple of emails from very caring members, I cancelled Donald's appointment today to have his teeth trimmed under anaesthetic. I'm taking him tomorrow to have them trimmed without anaesthetic, just using the bucchal pad separators and rasps and bone rongeurs - Vedra sent me the bucchal pad separators & rasps 2 years ago when I went through this with Archie, and I bought the bone rongeurs on eBay for the whopping price of $US9.99!!! (My local vet was very impressed with the quality of the rongeurs and said for him to buy from the supplier would cost $120AUD at least!) So, when I visit the vet I take my own equipment with me (including $10 head lamp)! Tonight Donald had his nose up his cage mate's backside, so I took some of the pellets from Hamish, mashed them into the Critical Care, and added probiotics, vitamin B and vitamin C. He obviously knows there's something lacking in his diet. I'm persisting with Daktarin Oral Gel also. Carole has texted Vedra and Vedra now knows there's an urgent email with x-ray photos to look at, so I'm praying and hoping Vedra can come up with something. Maybe I just need to stick with Daktarin, continue to have his teeth trimmed every few days without anaesthetic, get him on to painkillers twice a day, and just be patient? Also, Ann had a great idea about worming and gave me info on the gut parasites that a piggy gets, and how they create havoc especially when the piggy is sick. So, she had wonderful advice, which I'm taking too. Not only will my vet be guinea pig savvy at the end of all this - but I think I might end up quite knowledgeable after all the info you wonderful friends have been sending me!! Love and God Bless you all! Julie & Donald & all the rest xx From elmga at hotmail.com Thu Sep 3 04:14:14 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Wed, 2 Sep 2009 22:14:14 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] animal prayer Message-ID: Hi everyone and everypig, I am sorry not to be up to date on the Gpdd. i will catch up when my job slows down. I will be making some vegan "cavy delight" gourmet guinea pig salads in a few minutes, and doing some piggie cage-cleaning, but wanted to send this nice poem/prayer by Albert Schweitzer, a prayer for animals. As you can see, anyone who loves the animals will find it quite touching, and the beauty of it is it is a very good stream of thoughts... >From Ellen an piggies 10 A Prayer for Animals Here our humble prayer, O God, for our friends the animals, Especially for animals who are suffering; for any that are hunted or lost or deserted or frightened or hungry, for all that must be put to death. We entreat for them all thy mercy and pity, and for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion and gentle hands and kindly words. Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals, And so share the blessings of the Merciful. ~Albert Schweitzer _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live: Make it easier for your friends to see what you?re up to on Facebook. http://windowslive.com/Campaign/SocialNetworking?ocid=PID23285::T:WLMTAGL:ON:WL:en-US:SI_SB_facebook:082009 From jocelynm at umich.edu Thu Sep 3 08:44:29 2009 From: jocelynm at umich.edu (Anderson, Jocelyn M) Date: Thu, 3 Sep 2009 08:44:29 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] Tumbleweed's adoption day Message-ID: <3AF9B038A6B07641B36C799ED4EBB0D70471C0B255@ITCS-ECLS-1-VS3.adsroot.itcs.umich.edu> A happy belated adoption day to Tumbleweed! What a lucky piggy to have good piggy friends and a great home. Jocelyn, Edgeworth, Flashbang Fatbottom, and Benito From jocelynm at umich.edu Thu Sep 3 08:56:46 2009 From: jocelynm at umich.edu (Anderson, Jocelyn M) Date: Thu, 3 Sep 2009 08:56:46 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] A Green Pepper Mystery Message-ID: <3AF9B038A6B07641B36C799ED4EBB0D70471C0B256@ITCS-ECLS-1-VS3.adsroot.itcs.umich.edu> Hello All, Every night I give a variety of veggies to my three piggies. I usually include some green pepper since that is Flashbang's favorite. Flashbang will grab the piece of green pepper and hightail it to a pigloo where he can eat undisturbed. A couple of days ago, after I gave the piggies their nighty snack, I sat down for a bit of TV. When I later checked on the piggies, I saw this: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3536/3884334108_538d0f9471_b.jpg (that's him in the pigloo.) I have no idea how he got that green pepper up there! I got the green pepper down for him and then he was happily munching away. He's the smartest piggy out of the three, so maybe he was saving it up there for later. :) Jocelyn, Edgeworth, Flashbang Fatbottom, and Benito From calliope at geeksnet.com Thu Sep 3 22:29:20 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Thu, 03 Sep 2009 22:29:20 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCE: Critters Magazine Message-ID: <4AA07B80.7070909@geeksnet.com> We'd like to send congrats to Jaime, Leah, and Julie for having stories about their piggies Mimi and Albert (Jaime), Bertie and Princess Snowflake (Leah), and Muppet (Julie) in Critters Magazine. Wonderful news! Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From mfug at live.co.uk Fri Sep 4 12:11:39 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M) Date: Fri, 4 Sep 2009 17:11:39 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] silly; Green Pepper Message-ID: Flashbang we love the mystery green pepper photo it made us laugh here, what a good place to hide it. Fugly loves red pepper but Spooky doesnt seem to like any. M, Fugly and Spooky From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Fri Sep 4 13:20:07 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Fri, 4 Sep 2009 10:20:07 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] MISC.: Animal Prayer Message-ID: <450032.29879.qm@web81302.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Thanks for sharing that wonderful prayer. As soon as I get my printer working, I'm going to print it out and tuck it into my poor, old, battered Bible so I can add it to my daily prayers. What a remarkable man he must've been! And what a welcome he must've had at the Bridge. Joanie From rzm.2 at verizon.net Sat Sep 5 23:28:57 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Sat, 05 Sep 2009 20:28:57 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- test e-mail Message-ID: <4B9E8645AC1840C282D9682AB2A2B180@chirpyPC> This is a test e-mail to see if I fixed my e-mail problem. Thanks. From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Sun Sep 6 00:46:34 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Sat, 5 Sep 2009 21:46:34 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey needs to gain weight! Message-ID: <158475.92494.qm@web81304.mail.mud.yahoo.com> On her vet exam last week,?Dr.?Stewart,?found Hershey to be underweight. I'll be talking with her next week (the vet, not Hershey) about possible causes, including parasites, and ways to help her become more of a LAPS piggie. I also need tips on restoring gut flora in a palatable way (if possible). Any suggestions?? Hershey thinks Critical Care is disgusting, unfortuately. Hershey's mom, Joanie From rzm.2 at verizon.net Sun Sep 6 04:18:27 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Sun, 06 Sep 2009 01:18:27 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- just checking e-mail again Message-ID: <24C38AA8310E467B916E5D57459CA1EB@chirpyPC> Hey everyone! Sorry I haven't been around but when we got this new e-mail service it wouldn't let my posts show up on the digest. Hopefully this is fixed. Hope everyone & everypiggie are doing well. My condolences to anyone who lost a furry friend that I may not have been able to get in touch with. Hope to be posting again now! Take care! ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From warmbreath at comcast.net Sun Sep 6 07:21:03 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Sun, 6 Sep 2009 04:21:03 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey needs to gain weight! References: <158475.92494.qm@web81304.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Two things I know of can be done to restore gut flora, although I would advise first 2 things 1. treat for mites and internal parasites with 2 doses of Ivermectin or Revolution. There are lots of parasites, including mites, (there are 5 kinds) that you will not find in tests 2. Do do a fecal float to check for obvious worms and such, its a simple test cant be done while you are there, skip any scrape tests for burrowing mites, it hurts the piggie, and it wont find the other 4 kinds, just treat as above then no worries. Wash down his living area real good at the same time he is treated and bathed, use vinegar or bleach and really hot water. Vacuum his area with vacuum that has a single moth ball in the bag, then discard the bag or contents of the no bag canister right away outside, wash it or install a new bag, I dont recommend leaving moth balls in vacuum bags although they are great for disposing of dust mites, unless your vacuum is kept in a separate room kept closed off from normal activities, like a laundry room or garage After his the 2 things you can do is go to a respected health food store or Whole Foods like grocery and check out their probiotics, usually refrigerated. Look for a product with many different kinds of bacteria as piggies dont need the kind that make yogurt, they come in capsules you can sprinkle on his favorite greens. Make sure he is eating his own cecal poops, the ones he reaches down and snatches as they come out and has gobbled before his head is back to the full and upright position. In extreme case or if he lives with other pigs you can feed him one from another pig by smashing it with a little warm water. The trick is finding one. Hopefully this would be from a pig who has had the ivermectin or Revolution in the previous month so nobody is being exposed to new parasites lastly always make sure he is clean and not impacted down below either from his rectum (clean with a q-tip and nose plugs (for you) or the penis (slightly different subject) make sure it extrudes all the way and isn't gummed up so it wont extrude or pass urine, clean with vegetable oil and then a quick bath Hope these measures help Sandy and Shipwreck Sam who graced me with a rare visit from his pirating adventures and took a bite out of one of my computer keys and then gave me that "gee mom, it doesn't taste good look" as if it was my fault From piggyfriends at tesco.net Sun Sep 6 12:49:18 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Sun, 6 Sep 2009 17:49:18 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH Hershey Message-ID: Joanie, Has Hershey been on antibiotics? When any of the Piggyfriends have had a course of these, I restore their gut flora with Acidophilus. I don't know if this is available elsewhere than England, where I can buy a bottle of capsules from a local health food store as this is marketed for humans but is very safe for piggies. The capsules are easily opened and contain a powder. Empty a third of the contents into a small container and put the capsule back together again. Mix the powder with about 1.5ml of water and syringe it in. On the second day, divide the remaining powder in half and give it in the same way, leaving the last third for a third day. Continue this for a few days and keep the bottle in the fridge. You can use the rest yourself if you need antibiotics at any time. Your vet may well sell you something like Protexin Bio-Lapis at an exhorbitant price. This comes ( in England ) as a strip of five sachets of powder which is used in the same way, by mixing the powder with a little water. I am a great believer in preventative medicine and to this end, all of the Piggyfriends are wormed every three months. Ann posted about this in a message to Julie and you may well have read this already so I will not go into details here. You need Valbazen or Panacur, which is a liquid sheep wormer. You do NOT want the one for dogs. O.4ml of this, via syringe, will keep the nasty internal parasites at bay. At the same time, my herd all get a dose of Ivermectin. Hugs for Hershey, Penny and the Piggyfriends. From dinahnow2003 at yahoo.co.uk Sun Sep 6 14:56:20 2009 From: dinahnow2003 at yahoo.co.uk (dinah) Date: Sun, 6 Sep 2009 11:56:20 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey needs to gain weigh In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <370239.43422.qm@web27203.mail.ukl.yahoo.com> We have had an underweight g.pig and an underweight rabbit, after each had recovered from different health problems.? We found both absolutely loved the green pumpkin seeds that you can get in healthfood stores, and by supplementing their ordinary foods with these they have both regained their lost weight.? Both continue to get a handful or so of these seeds every day, with no ill effects whatsoever. --- On Sun, 6/9/09, gpdd-request at gpdd.org wrote: From: gpdd-request at gpdd.org Subject: Gpdd Digest, Vol 8, Issue 281 To: gpdd at gpdd.org Date: Sunday, 6 September, 2009, 5:00 PM Send Gpdd mailing list submissions to ??? gpdd at gpdd.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit ??? http://gpdd.org/mailman/listinfo/gpdd_gpdd.org or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to ??? gpdd-request at gpdd.org You can reach the person managing the list at ??? gpdd-owner at gpdd.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of Gpdd digest..." ---------------------------------------------------------------------- The GPDD moderators frequently reject messages that do not follow these guidelines: A lack of a Topic label is the most common reason for message rejection. Please use a Topic Label (HEALTH, CARE, ANNOUNCEMENT, RAINBOW BRIDGE, BEHAVIOR,PETER GURNEY, RESCUE, BREEDING, SILLY, PIGLETS, MISC.? or VIRTUAL) and DESCRIPTIVE SUBJECT. More information on Topic use, post restrictions and permissions can be found at http://www.gpdd.org/topics.html Postings to the digest must conform to the rules stated at http://www.gpdd.org/guidelines.html Please consult the GPDD FAQ at http://www.gpdd.org/faq.html for a list of commonly asked questions. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Other GPDD-affiliated sites: The Guinea Pigs' Rainbow Bridge, dedicated to the memories of piggies past http://www.guineapigsrainbow.org --------------------------------------- Piggie bladderstone informational resources and mailing list: http://www.gpigs-database.org --------------------------------------- All material posted and archived is copyright The Guinea Pigs' Daily Digest, and may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any media - printed or electronic - without written permission of the administrators. Today's Topics: ???1. MISC- test e-mail (Ronald Zimmerman) ???2. HEALTH: Hershey needs to gain weight! (GARY HESS) ???3. MISC- just checking e-mail again (Ronald Zimmerman) ???4. Re: HEALTH: Hershey needs to gain weight! (warmbreath) _______________________________________________ Gpdd mailing list Gpdd at gpdd.org http://gpdd.org/mailman/listinfo/gpdd_gpdd.org From calliope at geeksnet.com Sun Sep 6 15:53:37 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Sun, 06 Sep 2009 15:53:37 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE: very belated condolences, Molly Message-ID: <4AA41341.6040308@geeksnet.com> Deb, Emma, Winnie, and Lily, please accept our very belated condolences on Molly's passing. How tragic that she probably developed liver damage from getting too much anesthesia during teeth trims and other procedures. It was very shocking to read that the vet was trimming her teeth, yet her incisors were very overgrown. It is also so sad that she had a series of strokes. We are so very sorry that this happened to your sweet girl. Please don't say you were stupid to listen to your previous vet. You were doing your best with what you knew at the time; that's all any of us can do. Thank you for relating your difficult story so that other piggies can be helped. We are so glad that you found Ann Evans so close to you and that she was able to trim Molly's incisors, help you find a great vet, and give you lots of helpful piggie info. It was with much sadness that we read that Molly had to be put to sleep, but we know she knew how much you loved her, and we are glad that she was surrounded by her family and friends as she made her final journey. We are sure that her experiences will save other piggies and that is a wonderful tribute to her. Our thoughts and prayers are with all sick piggies and their families. Sadly, Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From calliope at geeksnet.com Sun Sep 6 15:58:03 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Sun, 06 Sep 2009 15:58:03 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE: very belated condolences, Becky Message-ID: <4AA4144B.6010006@geeksnet.com> Joanne, it was with much sadness that we read of the passing of your Boston Terrier, Becky. We are so very sorry for your loss. We know it must be so difficult to say goodbye after sixteen years, but we hope you will find comfort in knowing what a wonderful home you gave her. Becky enjoyed all of her days with you and certainly knew how much she was loved. Please accept our very belated condolences. Sadly, Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From calliope at geeksnet.com Sun Sep 6 16:03:21 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Sun, 06 Sep 2009 16:03:21 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE: very belated condolences, Karen's piggie Message-ID: <4AA41589.5060407@geeksnet.com> Karen, we are so very sorry that one of your piggies passed away this spring after having her teeth trimmed. Your theory that she might have contracted pneumonia makes sense. Unfortunately, though, we don't have any information about piggies passing away almost overnight due to a URI. Maybe others will know more. Sometimes piggie passings seem to be a mystery. However, as we all learn more, we can hope that these mysteries will be solved. Please know that your piggie understood how much you loved her, and please accept our very belated condolences on her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all sick piggies and their families. Sadly, Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From warmbreath at comcast.net Sun Sep 6 22:16:02 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Sun, 6 Sep 2009 19:16:02 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey needs to gain weight! References: <364271.77052.qm@web81305.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <608309F3607149BAA7B9561317C81A73@SNADY> Dear Joanie I see a mistake in my writing I wrote wrongly that the fecal float test cant be done while you wait, it can, I made a typo From warmbreath at comcast.net Sun Sep 6 22:35:34 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Sun, 6 Sep 2009 19:35:34 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey needs to gain weight! References: <364271.77052.qm@web81305.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <414E237B28EA4CF7AAF5E8CA49A3CDB3@SNADY> Another way I found to get piggies to gain weight is to invite them to have breakfast (or any other meal with me)I block off an area of the table so he cant sprint off the end, and then I wake a plate of various goodies, 2 or 3 kinds of fruit, 2 or 3 kinds of greens and a few little pieces of vegetables. It seems They like a varied meal as much as we do, and while he will try a few things on his own, if a few more are waved around under his nose he will perk up and eat more than if he was all alone. I would be very careful of seeds, if they are salted wash it off, and I wouldn't give a handful, just a few and shelled of course. Sometimes a thin old fashioned oatmeal gruel with no sugar, or some canned pumpkin, both offered from a spoon or the little tiny bowls chefs use works well. If he is on pain meds give them before the meal so he has the benefit of pain relief during the meal. To set him up for it I take a big bath towel or bath sheet and roll it up leaving the last foot or so free, then curve it into a semicircle and he and his meal all go on the flat part and the big curved roll prevents him from escape. It doesn't hurt that my table sits against a wall. If he is too skittish then I would just do it picnic style on the floor. I did this with piggies who were recovering for a month or so and it worked great and we ended up with a closer bond. I found I was eating allot more salads and fresh veggies too! Good luck Sandy and Shipwreck Sammy, off to the pirate ship again seems he prefers his fianc?'s company to mine, fancy that! From dganley at tampabay.rr.com Sun Sep 6 23:31:25 2009 From: dganley at tampabay.rr.com (deb ganley) Date: Sun, 6 Sep 2009 23:31:25 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE: very belated condolences, Molly References: <4AA41341.6040308@geeksnet.com> Message-ID: <68E5AFFB5BA440AB9432B75671641A37@deb> Thanks so much for your condolences, Cindy--it's greatly appreciated. Molly went thru hell at the hands of two vets, unnecessarily. My friend, Eleanor, said it best--I didn't do anything wrong, the vets did, but that doesn't help the guilt I still feel. Molly was a wonderful girl, personality-plus, & a fantastic mom to my other girls. She didn't deserve what happened to her. We miss her terribly. Ann is incredible & we're so blessed to have her in our backyard & on our side, along with the vet that she works with. We're going thru issues with Emma now--she's the most lipoma-ridden pig Ann has ever seen, probably due to inbreeding, & is getting HCG shots to try to reduce the lipomas. My old vet's solution was to remove them surgically (more anesthesia, as usual) & he finally told me a few years ago that it "wasn't in Emma's best interests to have any more surgery"--basically told me to take her home to die. She's still here & doing well--but if she had started the HCG shots 4 years ago, her lipomas would not have progressed to this point. She's not a chronic stone pig, but has one now since the large lipomas kinked her urethra into an S-shape & that's what caused the stone to form. We have Emma on 0.3ml of Vit C & 0.4ml of Hydrangea Extract once a day in the hopes that it'll prevent the stone from getting larger--plus we're syringing as much bottled water & cranberry juice (not cranberry cocktail, the real stuff) as we can every day. Hopefully that'll flush the small stone out of her urethra--it's pretty far down, so we're hopeful that we'll be able to avoid surgery. Thanks again, Cindy, Tumbleweed & Friday--I hope this info is helpful to all on the GPDD & can avoid anyone else from going thru our heartbreak. Deb, Emma, Winnie & Lily (& Molly & Potter, always with us) ----- Original Message ----- From: "Cindy" To: Cc: "deb ganley" Sent: Sunday, September 06, 2009 3:53 PM Subject: RAINBOW BRIDGE: very belated condolences, Molly Deb, Emma, Winnie, and Lily, please accept our very belated condolences on Molly's passing. How tragic that she probably developed liver damage from getting too much anesthesia during teeth trims and other procedures. It was very shocking to read that the vet was trimming her teeth, yet her incisors were very overgrown. It is also so sad that she had a series of strokes. We are so very sorry that this happened to your sweet girl. Please don't say you were stupid to listen to your previous vet. You were doing your best with what you knew at the time; that's all any of us can do. Thank you for relating your difficult story so that other piggies can be helped. We are so glad that you found Ann Evans so close to you and that she was able to trim Molly's incisors, help you find a great vet, and give you lots of helpful piggie info. It was with much sadness that we read that Molly had to be put to sleep, but we know she knew how much you loved her, and we are glad that she was surrounded by her family and friends as she made her final journey. We are sure that her experiences will save other piggies and that is a wonderful tribute to her. Our thoughts and prayers are with all sick piggies and their families. Sadly, Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.409 / Virus Database: 270.13.80/2349 - Release Date: 09/06/09 05:51:00 From dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com Mon Sep 7 12:45:45 2009 From: dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com (dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com) Date: Mon, 7 Sep 2009 09:45:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Rainbow Bridge: BECKY, my dog Message-ID: <590923.87225.qm@web33107.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Thank you so much Cindy for your condolences on the passing of my Boston Terrier, Becky. I really appreciate your kind words and thoughtfulness. I should be getting her ashes back tomorrow...it'll be very sad, but she will be "home" once again. I truly thank you! Hugs, Joanne, Doggies, Kitties, Piggies, Bunny & Edward the Beta When you adopt from a shelter remember you are saving TWO lives; the one you adopted and the one you have made room for. From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Mon Sep 7 14:11:07 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Mon, 7 Sep 2009 11:11:07 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey Message-ID: <809625.41513.qm@web81308.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Thanks so much, everyone, for such helpful advice regarding Hershey. Her droppings have become very small, light in color, and rounded with a normal consistency. I've put a call with a message in to her vet, as their office is closed for Labor Day. I'm considering discontinuing her antibiotics (any suggestions?) until I hear back from the vet. Meanwhile, I'll be syringing probiotics. How often, do you think? She seems healthy in every way except she's not as excited about hay as she usually is. Her attitude is so much more lively. She's even started playing with her three bells that hang over her hay manger. It's SO cute! She grabs one by the rim or the chain that hangs it, backs up, and lets it go, watching and listening as the bells hit one another and make their music. Please keep her in your prayers and loving thoughts. I need to know what the right thing to do about the antibiotics until I can at least speak with her vet. Joanie From tmacallister at musician.org Mon Sep 7 13:55:19 2009 From: tmacallister at musician.org (Tiffany MacAllister) Date: Mon, 7 Sep 2009 12:55:19 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] [Health] Vets near Boston Message-ID: <20090907175519.C4642606865@ws1-4.us4.outblaze.com> Hi Friends! ?I was wondering if anyone can suggest a good pig savvy vet in the Boston (MA) area. I do have a vet that treats small animals and he was always very good with my rats, but if there is someone around who is specifically trained in Guinea Pigs, I would rather go there. No one is sick, but I would like to take them for a check up soon now that I'm making enough money for it. Also, does nayone have any suggestions for tests or anything that I should ask the vet to do and an estimate of how much extra they might cost? ?Any help is appreciated ?Tiffy, S'mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, and Tortoise -- An Excellent Credit Score is 750 See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! From warmbreath at comcast.net Mon Sep 7 15:54:55 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Mon, 7 Sep 2009 12:54:55 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey needs to gain weight! References: <613883.72509.qm@web81301.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <1B6F0F4731B14E738ADCC03F2E008AAC@SNADY> Little flakes of uncooked oatmeal are ok in small amounts for sick piggies who need to gain weight. However, oatmeal needs loads of water as it absorbs so much otherwise due to its high amount of soluble fiber (which is what makes it so good) it will swell in the gut. Make sure he gets at least 4 times as much water as oatmeal, that's why I cook it to a thin gruel, unsweetened, that way I know there's enough water. As for sugary fruit, feed it in small amounts in comparison with the other foods in your pignic, and discontinue at the slightest hint of diarrhea. try to choose Vit C fruits like strawberries, kiwis, and oranges, I even trained one to eat lemons. Any other fruit should be the ones you know to be highly healthful like unsweetened cranberries, grapes, blueberries, etc. The way you train your piggy is to eat the same thing then offer him some, piggies learn what to eat from their mothers and herd mates. Dont forget herbs like parsley, flat or Italian parsley, cilantro, various basils, sage, thyme etc. Growing this stuff in your yard, even the flower beds will yield benefits to piggies and people palates and health alike. By grain I think the oatmeal is enough, you have to be very careful not to eat to much, and the prospect of an unwatered dough ball in the digestive system is not good or fun. As you pignik see if he will take the oatmeal and liquids by spoon, also try friendly applications by syringe Not where you hold him, but what ever his favorite is try offering it by syringe in a friendly casual way. My philosophy has always been to teach your piggies how to eat by spoon syringe in a way that becomes second nature. I have refined it to the point that with some pigs I could stick a syringe through the bars in the cage and they would run up to get their syringe full. Pigniks are fun and build closeness, to the point many of my piggies will wheek to their cage if they get sick, and they want to be held and ministered to, feed and kept warm. This takes an unbelievable amount of stress out of piggie illness, for you and the sick one, and that leads to a better chance of a good outcome. Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From warmbreath at comcast.net Mon Sep 7 15:58:33 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Mon, 7 Sep 2009 12:58:33 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] [Health] Vets near Boston References: <20090907175519.C4642606865@ws1-4.us4.outblaze.com> Message-ID: <4D38DBEB4F0E430880C0134B14BF14D9@SNADY> try using the extensive rabbit network to find a vet that's good at pigs too. Try www.rabbit.org they have a list as does each State chapter of the House Rabbit Society. Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From warmbreath at comcast.net Mon Sep 7 16:18:00 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Mon, 7 Sep 2009 13:18:00 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey References: <809625.41513.qm@web81308.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <6F8BDF341B984ECBA936D0CFDA56BF32@SNADY> Antibiotics are likely to cause diarrhea not small poops and light color, that's from eating small amounts of different foods instead of the usual dark green of pellets and hay. Is he eating hay, if so push it all day long. go to Oxbow online and get one of their boutique mixes of exotic hays to tempt his appetite. Feed him one strand at a time frequently. As for the antibiotics first there's no diarrhea and second you dont say which one he is one, how long he's been on it, what the dosage is and what his diagnosis was. In general its a bad idea to discontinue, piggies tend to need them longer than people not shorter. Jaw abscesses and ear infections and various abscesses around the body, urinary tract infections etc., sometimes require months of treatment not shorter. Sometimes a vet will add another rather than drop one, or he will do a culture and sensitivity to make sure the bug your guy has is being specifically targeted. Let us know the details and try the pignics, and weigh him every day to track his progress. Expect light colored poos with a changed diet, I think you said baby food. Remember the best foods for a piggies are hay and quality pellets. Sprinkle the critical Care on his favorite wet green, and make sure to syringe extra water. That's the best recipe for success esp if done by hand several times a day. Dont take the antibiotics away yet fill in the details, he's just not getting enough food and water. good luck Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From angela at lunaclick.net Mon Sep 7 16:29:33 2009 From: angela at lunaclick.net (Angela Taylor) Date: Mon, 7 Sep 2009 16:29:33 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [Health] Vets near Boston In-Reply-To: <20090907175519.C4642606865@ws1-4.us4.outblaze.com> References: <20090907175519.C4642606865@ws1-4.us4.outblaze.com> Message-ID: I'm not sure if you're actually in Boston or just outside it; I'm in Marlborough (Metro West area), and we take our girls to Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Foster Hospital for Small Animals: http://www.tufts.edu/vet/sah/ http://www.tufts.edu/vet/directions.html It's a little bit of a drive, but we've tried other vets in the area with no luck in finding one that really "knows" guinea pigs. They have an exotics department and have always taken incredible care of us. The students and interns are keen and the department head, Dr. Meyer, is compassionate and thorough. They're great with the girls, and I'll never forget when we brought Mimi along on one of Isis' visits...she got herself comfy (flopped down on the table) right away and busied herself with getting to know the intern (mostly through saying hello to her lab coat and tasting her name badge). We still joke about "Mimi's day at the spa." :) ~*~ Angela, Peter, and the Guinea Goddesses: Isis, Mimi, and Mona From elmga at hotmail.com Tue Sep 8 08:16:27 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Tue, 8 Sep 2009 02:16:27 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] FW: Gpdd: [HEALTH] Hygiene and Adhesions In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: From: elmga at hotmail.com To: chieftaingp at webtv.net; gpdd at gpdd.org Subject: RE: Hi Date: Tue, 8 Sep 2009 02:13:43 -1000 Hi everybody and everypig, Tomorrow i take Rufie to the vet for a follow up from the sebaceous cyst surgery. I was concerned he lost weight. He seems ok now. Now i am concerned about one of the other ones, Kaloey...I came home from work and he had a dry pigloo (unusual), checked him and noticed he needed some assistance. He seemed 'bloated'; I checked his penis which i hardly ever do and it looked as if there was a sore on it; maybe from an adhesion? this was after i had given him a bath...also it needed cleaning so i rinsed him off under the warm tap again... i got the spray bottle of hydrogen peroxide and the "kiss my face" calendula lotion (i could not find calendula oil in the stores here, which Peter Gurney said to use), got him to 'sit' while i held him while i sat on the toilet seat and sprayed a tiny bit of the peroxide then doused a q-tip with the lotion and applied it to his exposed penis. i sat him in the towel and dried him off (he has lotsa black hair going every which way) and then while still holding him in a dry towel, went to the kitchen where i crushed a 500 mg. non-acidic ester-C tablet in the mortar and pestal and added water, and syringe-fed him that about one third or so, then offered a tiny bit of banana. While still holding him, I created a nice cage area with clean towels in a cleaned spare cage. cleaned his bowl with bleach and wiped his sipper tube mouthpiece off after disinfecting (i change their water at least every other day; with 7 cages, it is sometimes easier to just use and wash towels instead of using the carefresh bedding, which is messy, or the crown bedding, which is heavy, although i like to use a combination of clean newpapers, toweling, on one side of the cage, and the bedding on the other). Got some hay and set him up on the bed with girly Cheyenie next door. i noticed he did pee, that should clean the urethra naturally...and he pooped too so he did not have diarrhea (i was concerned) so he seems happy and will keep my eyes out for anything unusual. the non-acidic ester-C seems like a charm. Get back to school stuff for them and cashback for you. Try Bing now. _________________________________________________________________ Get back to school stuff for them and cashback for you. http://www.bing.com/cashback?form=MSHYCB&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MSHYCB_BackToSchool_Cashback_BTSCashback_1x1 From warmbreath at comcast.net Tue Sep 8 13:06:02 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Tue, 8 Sep 2009 10:06:02 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] FW: Gpdd: [HEALTH] Hygiene and Adhesions References: Message-ID: <67D1F489EF76422680D0FE2384DBD48D@SNADY> Wow! seems like you jumped in and caught a situation that could go bad quickly and turned it around. I would continue to syringe extra water now that you are sure he can pass fluid. As for hydrogen peroxide, Please! dont use it again, ever for anything. It's action is to actually eat into damaged tissue and make the sore bigger, in some cases it can kill. I learned this while studying on the etherbun list for a couple years, they have vets who contribute. I suggest also that instead of lotions that have lots of chemicals in them just use olive or vegetable oil, it lubricates and cleans, and wont taste bad he if he does a little self grooming. (For info on these chemicals I read the current book "Toxic Beauty" by Samuel S Epstein, totally amazing info meant for humans)Also remember piggies snack on cecals straight from the source so you dont want anything to discourage that taste wise. Were you able to extrude the penis all the way? Except the final piece, a clear barb ended piece shouldn't be extruded. Just use oily finger tips and put it into his regular maintenance schedule, at least monthly along with cleaning out the "slot" between his testicular sacks with a Q-tip or similar, all that rumblestrutting allows them to pick up everything except the kitchen sink in there. Its very smelly, some boars pick up little detritus, others regularly get enough to cause blockages so every boar should have these 2 jobs done at least monthly. I usually finish with a quick bath and blow dry, they learn to love that warm air. I know I write about this allot but I cant stress enough how important this bit of hygiene is and so many new folks come along. Best wheeks, Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From rzm.2 at verizon.net Tue Sep 8 17:03:49 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Tue, 08 Sep 2009 14:03:49 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT- Mimi's adoption day! Message-ID: <9D83910FD6E743C0A93BA205D42D30AB@chirpyPC> I just wanted to announce that tommorrow (the 9th) is Mimi's 2 year adoption day! I can't believe she's been with us 2 years already. It doesn't really seem that long. I'm so happy for her. There will be much hay & lettuce flowing in her honor! ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Tue Sep 8 14:44:40 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Tue, 8 Sep 2009 11:44:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's vet appointment Message-ID: <745013.92064.qm@web81304.mail.mud.yahoo.com> She'll be seeing her vet this afternoon. Any questions I should ask besides the possibility of parasites and the weight loss and weird droppings? Joanie From warmbreath at comcast.net Tue Sep 8 14:50:58 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Tue, 8 Sep 2009 11:50:58 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT- Mimi's adoption day! References: <9D83910FD6E743C0A93BA205D42D30AB@chirpyPC> Message-ID: <835E32ACCA9140D09A797973995360A5@SNADY> Congrats on Mimi's very successful 2 year anniversary and may there be many many more. Sammy and I will toast her pirate style tonight Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From piggyfriends at tesco.net Tue Sep 8 18:06:20 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Tue, 8 Sep 2009 23:06:20 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT - Mimi's adoption day! Message-ID: <12166ED90725422CA3B38F55D96BB15E@inspiron1150> Congratulations to the lovely Mimi on her 2nd. adoption day! Love and hugs from Penny and the Piggyfriends, raising glasses of carrot wine in her honour. From matildalucet at earthlink.net Tue Sep 8 18:13:07 2009 From: matildalucet at earthlink.net (Ginger Fitzsimmons) Date: Tue, 8 Sep 2009 18:13:07 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [Health] Vets near Boston Message-ID: We're just north of Boston. Our boys go to VCA Wakefield Animal Hospital. Their main vet is Dr. Astrid Kruse. When she is not available, they see Dr. Linda Siperstein. They seem to know their stuff and aren't afraid to consult the guinea pig specialist down at Angell Memorial for advice. Dr. Kruse is open to hearing whatever wisdom we glean from gpdd. She's a bun person at home and is thinking when her human baby gets old enough, they'll have a guinea pig of their own. :-) -ginger co-slave with Steve to Bumper, Brownie, and Cuddles remembering Niles, Clover, Butterscotch, and Mike always From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Tue Sep 8 20:57:41 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Tue, 8 Sep 2009 17:57:41 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's latest appointment. Message-ID: <694229.43922.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Hershey was thoroughly palpated again, about which she grumbled but never whined. Her teeth were checked thoroughly, and her ears cleaned. Gut noises were much improved--back to normal. We obtained fresh fecal samples for floating. She received fluids, and will be getting benebac as soon as it becomes available (it should arrive any day now). There is no palpable evidence of an ovarian cyst or stones, but that doesn't rule it out, as?they could be pressing on the intestines, causing the small droppings. So we're prepared for xrays if the probiotics don't help by the end of the week. We're to avoid changing her diet right now, but she has gained 50 grams!!! Because of her dramatic improvement within one day of antibiotics we're both thinking there was a simmering infection that had crept in and gradually built in strength. She'll be on ciprofloxine until Friday, and hasn't needed the anti-pain/inflammatory for days. Overall, she's eating, she's enthusiastic about life, and I wouldn't think anything was or had been wrong, except for some small droppings. Hershey's attitude has been great. She even ate her hay in the doctor's office! Dr. Stewart and I have talked about the possibility of surgery should the need arise, and she said she's had very good results. One sow had an enormous amount of scar tissue to the point where it was hard to visualize the ovary, and she's happy and healthy a year and a half post op. And, yes, they use isoflurane. So I feel prepared for the worst while hoping for the best. Joanie From warmbreath at comcast.net Wed Sep 9 05:57:24 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Wed, 9 Sep 2009 02:57:24 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's latest appointment. References: <694229.43922.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: sounds very hopeful, if that hormone keeps working then surgery can be put off, a spay is serious business, if your vet has done many on pigs and buns that's a really good sign. If she has surgery using the drug Reglan before and 2 weeks after surgery keeps down nausea and esp. gas which helps keep the stitches from itching, if the stitches dont itch she is much less likely to scratch and bite at the stitches, so keep down all gassy food for at least a month after surgery. Make sure the surgeon doesn't use staples, glue, or steri strips, 2 layers of stitches are best See if your surgeon agrees if this eventuality comes about. In the meantime do everything you can to keep her well hydrated, wet greens and veggies, slowly teach the syringe is a friend and give her treats of water or slurry from it. Just keep at it very gently still she does see it as a friend. If its hard use one to drink from yourself at the same time, she will learn from that Continued good fortune, and do have breakfast with her, even its her usual foods. By alternately offering foods she will eat more than if the food is left in her cage for her to eat. Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Wed Sep 9 14:57:53 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Wed, 9 Sep 2009 11:57:53 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] BEHAVIOR: Getting a piggie to trust you Message-ID: <684927.61991.qm@web81308.mail.mud.yahoo.com> We had a newcomer to the digest some time ago, and they asked how to make friends with their piggie. I deferred to the more knowledgeable amongst us, and no one made any contributions. I can't recall your name, but I apologize for dropping the ball. I'm hoping others will contribute more info as they read this. When Hershey came to live with us, she was very small and extremely shy. I gradually won her over with words of encouragement as I stood by her cage, moving slowly and offering yummies such as small bits of romaine lettuce, parsley, carrots, bitty bites of apple and other fruits. Rather than give her one big serving, I'd give her a wee bit every time I passed her cage, along with more loving words. Also, I tried to keep her at eye level, so I wasn't looming over her. Eventually, I was able to put my hand in the cage while?holding food. She was too skittish and wiggly to catch and still is, so I use her sleeping bag to get her out of the cage, putting food in the farthest corner and waiting until she's safely inside to lift her out, still in the bag. She freaked out whenever I'd touch her; she'd cringe or bolt. It felt awful for both of us. Then I got the idea of asking if I could pet her, so she'd see it coming and prepare for it. It took about a?month of me asking, "Can I pet you?" then gently touching her before she became comfortable with being petted. If you start out with a fraidy pig, don't be surprised if it takes awhile for them to enjoy your company, Don't give up, and don't be afraid to ask for help. This time we'll be listening! We're really looking forward to hearing about your new furkid, and I'm sorry I wasn't here for you earlier. Joanie From Guineapigfilms at aol.com Wed Sep 9 15:08:37 2009 From: Guineapigfilms at aol.com (Guineapigfilms at aol.com) Date: Wed, 9 Sep 2009 15:08:37 EDT Subject: [Gpdd] Rainbow Bridge: Re: Becky my dog (Joanne) Message-ID: Joanne, We have two of our Yorkies' ashes in special containers on the kitchen windowsill, where we can see them every day. We didn't want to bury them in a place that we might move from someday. After awhile, you still feel a lot of pain and loss, but you also gain a sense of peace. For us, it is comforting to have the ashes so close at hand. I wish that I'd done the same with my Cairn terrier years ago, but I'm not sure it was an option with the vet we had back then, and we also allowed the vet to do an autopsy on the Cairn terrier, and that may have precluded cremation. Alyssa and I are so sorry for your loss. Nancy (Alyssa's mom) http://www.carrotwars.com From Guineapigfilms at aol.com Wed Sep 9 15:11:42 2009 From: Guineapigfilms at aol.com (Guineapigfilms at aol.com) Date: Wed, 9 Sep 2009 15:11:42 EDT Subject: [Gpdd] Announcement-Re: Mimi's Adoption Day Message-ID: Happy Adoption Day, little Mimi! We will give Otto an extra baby carrot in your honor! Love and WHEEEEEEPS, Nancy & Alyssa http://www.carrotwars.com From warmbreath at comcast.net Wed Sep 9 19:51:10 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Wed, 9 Sep 2009 16:51:10 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] Fw: BEHAVIOR: Getting a piggie to trust you Message-ID: <6E5D729DC3934E4BB92D63F4295EA7A0@SNADY> > Joanie!! Good Catch I have a couple suggestions > put your piggies cage on a table so you dont loom 5 to 6 over her, also > talk to her, making eye contact whenever you are in the room, its best to > pick a moderately bust room, every should speak to her, using her name. if > she can see you go into the kitchen ask her if she's hungry, by name, and > go to the fridge making the noises she will learn to anticipate joyfully > later. > > Also I avoid a box or pigloo, except when its cold. I took a cuddle cup > tunnel style that was too long and cut it in half and hand stitched the > raw edge on each half, I was left with 2 tunnels about 3/4 length on the > pig. That way the butt hangs out and no more pee in the tunnel, plus the > head isn't totally hidden but Sammy has the feeling of being protected but > without being able to hide away for hours on end > > The last thing is to read to your pig, rabbit people do this allot if you > have kids bring them in too! Talk on the phone around them, soon they > will be very accustomed to you and of course you will often be offering a > treat of cilantro or parsley or such and so piggy will come out her shell > sooner than if left to hide away. > > Good luck all newbies Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From mfug at live.co.uk Thu Sep 10 08:48:57 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M) Date: Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:48:57 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] Announcement; Mimi Message-ID: A very happy 2nd adoption day to Mimi our lovely agouti friend. We hope you were very spoiled by your slave (we know you were) Heres to many more to come M, Fugly and Spooky From piggyfriends at tesco.net Thu Sep 10 04:51:01 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:51:01 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] BEHAVIOUR Getting a piggy to trust you. Message-ID: I missed the original post about this. That's the downside of having the posts delivered individually. One does not now if any are missing. Having always had a herd of piggies, gaining the trust of one is never a problem. A new boar will be paired up with another and a new sow or already neutered boar can go into an existing group, where the newcomer rapidly learns from the other/s that the person bearing veggies is to be trusted. Within a matter of days, sometimes sooner, the new one will be at the front of the pen shouting for food along with the other residents and quickly realises that being picked up means a cuddle or an extra treat. Herd behaviour is a lot different to the single piggy and I hope that more GPDDers with single piggies will offer help here. Can I remember having only one piggy? I started with just one back in the sixties. He lived in my bedroom and was my contant companion, being carried around everywhere and enjoying runs in the garden with my tortoises. How did I gain his trust? I believe that it was innate, his mother being the much loved pet of the lady who ran our local petshop, back when petshops were just that - not vast hangers full of pet products and a lot of uncaring staff. He was picked up and loved from day one and continued in that vein for all of his seven years. I visited him every day until he was weaned and came home. It was not long before he was joined by another boar, who, initially, was scared, having come from a home where he was generally ignored but he soon learned what it was to be loved and became as friendly as my original piggy. The numbers just grew after that and it has always been the case of adding another to the herd. Bless you Scobie and Digger, who started me on the road to Piggyfriends all those years ago. Good luck to all new piggy slaves. Remember that two is always better than one and three is even better and maybe four.......................if you have the room. They are herd animals and love company. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Thu Sep 10 14:27:12 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:27:12 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT: I've tracked down our overlooked newcomer. Message-ID: <859912.65066.qm@web81307.mail.mud.yahoo.com> That archives listing sure is useful. Now I see why headings are so important! I've emailed them and hope they will join/rejoin us! I can't wait to hear whether they've found a piggie yet. Joanie From suzy at dunser.com Thu Sep 10 16:01:53 2009 From: suzy at dunser.com (=?ISO-8859-1?Q?Suzy_D=FCnser?=) Date: Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:01:53 +1200 Subject: [Gpdd] BEHAVIOUR Getting a piggy to trust you. Message-ID: <384B7151-1C60-4C5B-9900-2248CFC27D8C@dunser.com> I think the main ingredient in getting Rocky to trust me was food. He still doesn't like being caught, but once I have him, he's fine - I can pet him anywhere without causing shaking or cringing. He will also let me pet him in his cage under the following circumstances: usually just after I've given him food (breaking the rule to let an animal eat undisturbed), but sometimes also just if he's in the mood, I put my hand in front of him, low down, and the first thing I do is stroke him along the jaw from underneath. He loves this, so after a bit I can rub the top of his head, and then he sometimes even lets me pet him on his whole body. Key to the operation at any time is not to surprise him! I'm not sure how I finally got to this point with him, but it was probably just catching him (in the beginning with his cuddle bag) and feeding him on my lap. Quite soon he started eating while on my lap, and eventually would continue to eat while I pet him. Persevere... eventually they do come around! Cheers and wheeks from Suzy and Rocky and Cocoa in our hearts From tmacallister at musician.org Thu Sep 10 14:06:46 2009 From: tmacallister at musician.org (Tiffany MacAllister) Date: Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:06:46 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] [BEHAVIOR] Getting a piggie to trust you Message-ID: <20090910180646.F352F11581F@ws1-7.us4.outblaze.com> I must have missed that one too. When I first got S'mores, I was definitely afraid that he would never take to me, because for some reason small rodent pets usually don't. But guinea pigs are very different. I left him alone for the whole first day, except for occasionally sitting near his pen and talking to him softly while he hid in his box, then every day after that I took him out to play on my bed (covered with towels of course!) and I would only feed him his beggies when he was out with me. That way he associated me with delicious fresh foods. I would keep him out until he peed on my bed, then put him back. This routine taught him two things: 1. Human contact is good and 2. having an accident means you go back in your cage. He eventually got to where he is now, he will wheek for me to pick him up and cuddle him or let him sit on my lap, and he no longer has accidents because he starts squeaking and getting antsy to show me that he needs to go back into his cage to relieve himself. He still does not like the being picked up aspect of it all, but once he's being held securely against me or in my lap, he is perfectly fine. ?Tiffy, S'mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, Tortoise -- An Excellent Credit Score is 750 See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! From tmacallister at musician.org Thu Sep 10 14:10:41 2009 From: tmacallister at musician.org (Tiffany MacAllister) Date: Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:10:41 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] [Health] Vets Message-ID: <20090910181042.0A0C41CE833@ws1-6.us4.outblaze.com> Thank you for all the wonderful replies. I think I will try the VCA Wakefield, as it may be easier for me to get to. Are there any specific tests I should ask the vet to do, this being my piggies first check up? Also, would it be better to bring them both for one check up, or have two different check ups, one each (or does it not matter?) Lastly, on average, how much do you think I should be prepared to spend? Usually to bring my rats for a check up it was $22 for the visit and then another $20 if they needed to be sent home with meds or anything. Would it be similar, or more or less? Sorry for all these questions, I just want to be prepared and get the best care for my boys. ?Tiffy, S'mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, Tortoise -- An Excellent Credit Score is 750 See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! From cazza177 at ntlworld.com Thu Sep 10 19:42:35 2009 From: cazza177 at ntlworld.com (Cazza177) Date: Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:42:35 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT - BG has died In-Reply-To: <12166ED90725422CA3B38F55D96BB15E@inspiron1150> Message-ID: Dear all I am totally devastated to tell you that my darling golden boy BG passed away on Wednesday evening. He had been having problems since about the middle of May with his lungs. He was just over six and a half years old. He is now back with his best pal and brother, Artie, who died at the end of June. For the last 4 weeks, he had been staying with some rodentologists, (who were superb), for extra care and medical attention which I could not get elsewhere. Each week I would travel to see him (it was a 9-10 hour round trip on the train). I could not wait to see him, and was riddled with guilt all the way home. I will feel bad for the rest of my life at not taking care of him myself in those last days. I have owned lots of cats in my life and nursed nearly all of them to the end, but losing BG and Artie has hurt in a way I never knew possible. They are buried next to each other in their back garden. BG died on 9/9/09 at 9pm. We buried him at dusk today. As darkness fell and we were nearly finished, six Canada geese flew over-head and church bells began ringing from across the park. He was a very special guinea pig. Carole From rzm.2 at verizon.net Thu Sep 10 20:51:17 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:51:17 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- shy piggies Message-ID: <606D48A7E5F54926B761077DD251C8E2@chirpyPC> To the person who asked about shy piggies, sorry I missed your post. As someone who fosters alot of piggies for our local Humane League, I am used to having piggies that are skittish. I find talking to them before you come in the room helps so they are not so surprised. Also, don't chase them around the cage trying to catch them. Talk softly to them & try petting them for a minute before scooping them up & hold them securely against you so they feel safe. It can take alot of time with some piggies. My first piggie Albert took a *long* time to come around, but eventually we were inseperable. Food helps alot too! ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From Glynis at garnay.com.au Fri Sep 11 00:14:58 2009 From: Glynis at garnay.com.au (Glynis Robson) Date: Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:14:58 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] [ANNOUNCE] Mimi's 2nd Adoption Day Message-ID: <1E79BEF045F13847938D188011CBF923220F8E@GARNAYSBS.garnayindustries.local> WOOOOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Happy Adoption Day Mimi xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx The girls and myself send you loads of little kisses and gentle cuddles XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Whee know you were spoilt! Oh Jaime what a precious little bundle i remember when she arrived, no it doesn't seem like 2 years at all! What joy she has bought to your lives :o) Love Glynis, Velvet and Onyx (in mem Sully and Duke) xxxx From Glynis at garnay.com.au Fri Sep 11 00:18:58 2009 From: Glynis at garnay.com.au (Glynis Robson) Date: Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:18:58 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] [HEALTH] Hershey Message-ID: <1E79BEF045F13847938D188011CBF923220F8F@GARNAYSBS.garnayindustries.local> Sending loads of loves and mini kisses from us all for dear Hershey XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Whee hope that she munches more on her hay and veggies over the weekend and then whee get to read that she's feeling just about back to her lovely self again! Love Glynis, Velvet and Onyx (in mem Sully and Duke) xxxx From Glynis at garnay.com.au Fri Sep 11 00:21:12 2009 From: Glynis at garnay.com.au (Glynis Robson) Date: Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:21:12 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] [ANNOUNCE] Condolences for BG Message-ID: <1E79BEF045F13847938D188011CBF923220F90@GARNAYSBS.garnayindustries.local> Oh Carole i'm just gutted for you love i know how much you adored your little man BG :o( RIP BG run free at the bridge, now again playing with your mate Artie and popcorning thru the green meadows together, you'll be so sadly missed but NEVER ever forgotten xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))))) ))))))))))))))))))))))))))))) and very special loves from us all xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Another little star now twinkling in the sky ............... :o( Love Glynis, Velvet and Onyx (in mem Sully and Duke) xxxx From muncheemom at gmail.com Fri Sep 11 02:10:22 2009 From: muncheemom at gmail.com (Kacee Conklin) Date: Fri, 11 Sep 2009 01:10:22 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] BEHAVIOR: Piggy trust Message-ID: <7ce1d4910909102310h5bdaaf03i16456736c17465d5@mail.gmail.com> Here's my two cents. All piggies are different. Some will always run from you no matter how long you have them and some won't . Even though I don't spend as much time as I should with Kit, Knight and Karlos el Bandito (a/k/a Bandito), Knight and Bandito have no problem letting me pet them in their cage. Kit is getting better. There father/brother (oh the therapy about that one) is also getting better about letting me pet him. He likes for me to hand him his morning carrot. Krickette runs into her hideaway about half the time while other times she stands on her cage and lets me pick her up for a cuddle. Kismet will run but is fine once I pick her up. Jimmee and Kia both run but are fine when I pick them up for a cuddle particularly if there are treats involved in the case of Jimmee. When he and Kia have floor time, Jimmee comes near my feet and moves his mouth in a chewing motion waiting for treats. Kia mostly likes to wander around during this time. Then there's my sweet Kiki ... she will stand still when I approach and pretty much let me pick her up any time. Of course, she knows there's either veggies or a veggy puff soon to come. My sweet Kramer (RIP) was also good about not running for the hills. He loved to run up my chest and sit on my shoulder. Bottom line, I guess, is don't take it personally if your piggy never seems to totally "trust" you. You are, after all, trying to overcome thousands of years of natural instinct. Always remember: they are prey animals in the wild and those instincts are more difficult for some to overcome than others no matter how much we try and how much we love them. Kacee and the Munchees From piggyfriends at tesco.net Fri Sep 11 09:04:26 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:04:26 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC Condolences for BG Message-ID: Carole, I am so very sorry that BG has left for the Rainbow Bridge. I had just read your Digest post this morning, when Chris phoned me to tell me the sad news. She read me your text message and broke down in tears when she reached the part about BG's burial. All of the patients are, as you know, treated as their own piggies. I saw BG twice only last week, once when I took Bramley over there to have a benign cyst removed and again when I collected him two days later. Both times I went and had a chat and a cuddle with BG, the last time telling him that I would see him soon, when I returned to collect my shampoo order. He looked so contented snuggled in his hay nibbling on his veggies. I know that you wanted to nurse him at home but I am sure that in your heart you know that he was better off at the Rodentologists, where he had instant access to any meds that he may have needed. Imagine how dreadful it would have been if he had taken a sudden turn for the worse when you live so far away from help. Nothing that any of us can say will ease the pain of losing such a wonderful companion but his last few weeks at the rodentologists were filled with love and cuddles and I am sure that he will have enjoyed your visits, when he was able to sit in the garden with you. Both Artie and BG lived to be venerable old gentlemen, something that we would all wish for our little friends. I hope that circumstances might allow you to have piggies in your life at some time in the future but, in the meantime, please accept my most sincere condolences. R.I.P. BG. Reunited with best friend Artie, always loved and remembered. With out utmost sympathy. Take care. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From Guineapigfilms at aol.com Fri Sep 11 16:50:29 2009 From: Guineapigfilms at aol.com (Guineapigfilms at aol.com) Date: Fri, 11 Sep 2009 16:50:29 EDT Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: Condolences for BG Message-ID: Carole, I'm so sorry for your loss. I know that BG was a very special piggy in many ways, but the most important way he was special is because you had so much love for him Remember the words from Antonine de Saint-Exupery's "Little Prince"--"It is the time that you have spent on your rose that makes your rose so important." And I think that every single person on the listserv has very, very special piggies. Love and WHEEEEEEEEEPS, Nancy (Alyssa's mom) http://www.carrotwars.com From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Fri Sep 11 17:49:34 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:49:34 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] misc: rainbow bridge BG Message-ID: <449017.28248.qm@web80205.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Carole, Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your dear BG. I am sure Artie was waiting for BG at the entrance of the meadows over the rainbow bridge. together again they will be enjoying all the Meadows of peace have to offer. I know there are no words to help with the pain of the loss as these little bundles of fur attach to our hearts so strongly, but I do want you to know that we feel your pain here in misfitville. jean & andy (misfits) From rzm.2 at verizon.net Fri Sep 11 19:26:39 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Fri, 11 Sep 2009 16:26:39 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- condolences Message-ID: <5E839E440A4A4DEE85EF280F1203E401@chirpyPC> Carole- I'm very sorry to hear about BG. He was a very special piggie & will be missed here on the digest. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From mfug at live.co.uk Sat Sep 12 03:12:11 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M) Date: Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:12:11 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] Rainbow bridge; BG Message-ID: Carole, we are sorry your beloved BG has left you for the bridge. Dont feel guilty about leaving him with the rodentologists, you made the best decision for him in his time of need and thats all you can do. Our hearts go out to you Run free BG reunited with your brother Artie and hundreds of friends old and new M, Fugly and Spooky From juwles at bigpond.com Sat Sep 12 06:29:25 2009 From: juwles at bigpond.com (Julie Juwles Johnson) Date: Sat, 12 Sep 2009 20:29:25 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] CONDOLENCES - BG In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <8EA7537990874472A6695F53242A10AA@JuliePC> Dearest Carole I wanted to again pass on my sincerest, and deeply felt, condolences, on the passing of your beloved piggy, BG. You are such a trooper, so strong and loving and thoughtful, and you placing him in professional care sounded the best way to go to give little BG another chance. I would do the same as you, if I had such an opportunity. You can be so very proud that he lives to 6 1/2 years of age - to me that is a lifetime well spent being loved by you! Now he and Artie are together again, surely they're having heaps of fun and lots of rumbly giggles in paradise. I want to send even more and deeper condolences and sympathy and hugs and love Carole - during all this (of which I was unaware), you have been such a good friend to me, helping me with Donald. You have been the go-between between Vedra, yourself, myself and ultimately my vets. You have spent so much time typing information on how to cut teeth, on how to feed, on what to look for if a piggy goes off its food, trying to find out names of Rodentologists in Australia, giving me details of a NZ rodentologist, sending me diagrams of how a piggy's teeth should look and how they should be cut......... the list goes on and on. You've written so many A4 pages of information in your emails to you (that doesn't include all the attachments), that I could fill a folder with all the info you have imparted. Even after BG's passing, you still send me heaps of info and long emails. You are a great woman, a wonderful piggy slave, and a very valuable member of the GPDD, and a very important part of *my* life. And........ you have done all this whilst your beloved BG has been away from you, and not feeling well himself. You kept all that secret from me whilst helping me - I am praying so hard for your comfort and may God Bless you and keep you cosseted in his wonderful, big, comforting arms, and I pray you can feel the love coming to you from across so many thousands of miles from so many people and piggies - particularly me. I wish I could be there to just "be there" if you want for you at this sad time. My shoulder is always here if you want to cry on it Carole. I will do as you say Carole, and will not (yet) give up on Donald - if only for your sake - you certainly deserve that much. You are a true "angel" Carole, and a much beloved member of this group, and indeed much loved by myself! I'm going out now to give Donald another feed of critical care and will take him back to the vet on Tuesday with all the information you have sent me. RIP darling little BG - say a big hi to Artie, and to my Archie, Muppet, Teddy, Dougall & Brandy, gone before you. God Bless you Carole, Julie, Donald & the rest xxxxxx From dukejan1 at aol.com Sat Sep 12 09:36:33 2009 From: dukejan1 at aol.com (dukejan1 at aol.com) Date: Sat, 12 Sep 2009 09:36:33 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] Announcement: Mimi's adoption day anniversary Message-ID: <8CC01C52DA6077B-820-3B775@webmail-d033.sysops.aol.com> Mimi, Lily, Isabel, and Luke send along their best wheeks for a very happy adoption day.? Extra spoiling is in order, but of course we all know you'll get that. Have a great one! Janet From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Sat Sep 12 13:18:40 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Sat, 12 Sep 2009 10:18:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE: BG Message-ID: <549057.7113.qm@web81302.mail.mud.yahoo.com> I'm so sorry to hear of BG's departure. What a special piggie, master, and friend. I wish you comfort in this difficult time. Don't be afraid to share your pain. We're right behind you. Joanie From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Sat Sep 12 13:27:30 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Sat, 12 Sep 2009 10:27:30 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Treat suggestions Message-ID: <284686.18063.qm@web81304.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Hello, newcomer. I hope you've returned to us! You'd asked about what kind of treats to give you soon-to-be piggie. One thing I do is use another brand of pelleted food (not one with chunks of corn or seeds mixed in) as a treat. If your little one likes it, you can give lots of treats without feeling guilty about giving them junk food. Romaine lettuce (not the round heads of iceburg lettuce, which are harmful) is a favorite, along with baby carrots (I quarter?one lengthwise and dole it out all day), celery tops, and small slices of zuchini or yellow squash. The main thing is don't overdo it, especially as the piggie's tummy is adapting to new foods. And if you give little bits all day when you're home instead of dumping it all in the cage at once, your cute little pet will have that more positive interactions with you. I hope this helps! And I hope you're reading this. I'm sure the other members will have even more suggestions. Joanie From ellie.cabbit at gmail.com Sat Sep 12 13:35:36 2009 From: ellie.cabbit at gmail.com (Elisabeth Haithcock) Date: Sat, 12 Sep 2009 13:35:36 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT: My 2 joined by 2 more Message-ID: Last night, my fearless leaders Molly Flanders and Winkerton Phillip were joined by Pumpkin and Bennett. There was much wheeking from separate cages (Winkie isn't fixed, Molly's 6.5 years old and a bit of a solitary curmudgeon) that continued well into the night. And I do mean well into the night. o.o Pumpkin and Bennett come to me from a wonderful and kind lady named Jen who no longer had space after a rather sudden move. Winkie and Bennett have been introduced and got on well, and Winkie and Pumpkin snuffled noses through the bars. Molly? She wheeked a couple times and then went back to ignoring me AND the others; she's still peeved that I ran out of blueberries yesterday morning and haven't been back to the store. Poor dear will just have to suffer with carrots for treats until tomorrow. ~E, Molly, Winkie, Pumpkin & Bennett -- I saw what I saw when I saw it, but I'm not sure I saw what I think I saw when I thought I saw what I saw when I saw it... see? "These words are designed to kill advertisements" From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Sat Sep 12 17:19:02 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Sat, 12 Sep 2009 14:19:02 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Emergency! Hershey is hospitalized. Message-ID: <185927.53641.qm@web81301.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Hershey and I had a wonderful time together last night. I'm grateful for that. Hershey's tummy was distended and painful this morning, so I rushed her to the vet. They're keeping her over the weekend, administering the injection equivalents of morphine, antibiotics, motility drugs, fluids,?and anti-gas drugs every so many hours. They'll also be doing x-rays. I'm afraid something's ruptured as her droppings are very black, which could mean bleeding. Please, those of you who pray, ask that she will be comfortable and unafraid in the strange surroundings with all those nasty needles. And for those of you who aren't pray-ers, please send her lots of healing love. I'll keep you updated. Thanks! Joanie From piggyfriends at tesco.net Sat Sep 12 18:28:36 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Sat, 12 Sep 2009 23:28:36 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC More capybaras Message-ID: <11B736CF807847CB982FBA57B1FCD8F5@inspiron1150> Take a look at these sweet little capybara babes. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cornwall/8252414.stm I visited this zoo last year and their parents live in a beautiful enclosure. Penny and the Piggyfriends, who want to grow into capybaras. From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Sat Sep 12 21:59:06 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Sat, 12 Sep 2009 18:59:06 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: The risk of a ruptured caecum Message-ID: <709239.83242.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Just talked with Hershey's vet. X-rays showed that Hershey's gut is very distended, but the caecum in particular is at risk of rupture. Dark droppings are probably due to the mucosal lining being overstretched. Pain meds are helping somewhat, and she's eaten a little hay. Droppings are few and small. She did offer the option of surgery if it should rupture, but advised me that there's an eighty to ninety percent failure rate. I won't put my little one through that much trauma, not when the alternative is the beautiful Rainbow Bridge. It's going to be a long night. Keep on praying. Thanks, Joanie From warmbreath at comcast.net Sun Sep 13 07:10:19 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Sun, 13 Sep 2009 04:10:19 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: The risk of a ruptured caecum References: <709239.83242.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <70E1335DAD0C443A921CCC05DD242BA7@SNADY> Hi Joanie. You know I'm not a vet so the following suggestion is from a lay point of view. I did watch an active bunny medical list for a couple years and they had vets advising, bit that's not to say they would advise as I am now. I know that the tissue of a piggies stomach is very friable so its difficult to sew up once surgery is complete and I have never heard of a cecum being impacted or operated on. Having said that I have heard of successful surgeries done before rupture on the stomach. If you wait till rupture the chance is very small, more likely she would die quickly and not well. Looking back at her history we know she swallowed a cherry pit in August and has had problems since, I dont know if it passed or if its relevant, but its part of her history. If you wish to consider surgery I would think it would have to be done before rupture and I have heard of a few positive outcomes for stomach surgery esp. after rupture. The biggest hint I can give is to put some wet not damp, critical care into the stomach before its sewed, as one of the biggest problems with surgery is getting the gut to work again afterward. I dont know if a cecum can be opened but perhaps once in your surgeon can break up the mass from the outside by massaging it directly, again risky because its already impacted. I dont know if she can give a small enema to lubricate just prior to the surgery. If you chose not to go into surgery, which is a very understandable option, I would go for euthanasia as soon as possible. Otherwise you are waiting for the rupture which would be painful and very likely fatal, if not immediately, certainly soon after from infection. If you ask for euthanasia I would ask the vet for a strong shot of narcotic painkillers first as I think many times the procedure is painful if brief. If you bring her home ask the vet for the necessary meds in case of rupture to PTS yourself. Your vet can advise you of her method, which you will want to know even if she stays in the hospital. If you opt for surgery I would instruct her to immediately euthanize, right there on the table, if it goes badly, first the painkiller IV and turn up the isoflurethane. These are extreme solutions but I think you are asking for our true feelings and these are mine, at all costs avoid the pain. I am so very sorry this has turned out so badly and I know you are in very great pain yourself, please remember that you stayed on top of this, taken her to the vet and been a good piggy mom, and I am so very sorry. The last piece of advice would be to see if she can consult with a University vet school for additional hints. I wish I could offer more. To sum up, I advise not to wait for a rupture, make a decision to treat or PTS first so as to maximize any chance for success, and minimize Hershey's pain. You both will be in my heart and prayers. Thank God for the loving times you have shared, its what makes a life, even if cur short so very precious. And your vet can advise you if she thinks my advise is bad, in any case its well intended, I wish I knew more. Sincerely Sandy From tmacallister at musician.org Sun Sep 13 12:54:18 2009 From: tmacallister at musician.org (Tiffany MacAllister) Date: Sun, 13 Sep 2009 11:54:18 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] [Misc] Capybara babies Message-ID: <20090913165418.96B22606865@ws1-4.us4.outblaze.com> So cute! We have one at our zoo, but I have to say I don't like it's enclosure. ?It is indoor and pretty much made out of stone with a small moat to swim in. ?I think it should have an outdoor enclosure (in the grass!) with a nice filtered pond. ?Tiffy, S'mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, and Tortoise -- An Excellent Credit Score is 750 See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! From ann.evans at hintlink.com Sun Sep 13 15:03:30 2009 From: ann.evans at hintlink.com (Ann Evans) Date: Sun, 13 Sep 2009 15:03:30 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [HEALTH] Emergency! Hershey is hospitalized. Message-ID: <4AAD4202.6060707@hintlink.com> Dear Joanie, We at Piggyville are praying for you and your family and Hershey. You are doing the best thing for her to keep her in the hospital. There they can put an I.V. into the saphenous vein of her front leg and give most of the medication through a port in the I. V.. The remainder of the medication can be given orally. It is very important that Hershey remain pain free. I totally agree with you that if her ceacum ruptures that she should be helped over the Rainbow Bridge. I have done hundreds of necrospsies. The pathologists and vets have not always been able to find the cause of an illness or obstruction. Even Vedra Stanley-Spatcher and Peter Gurney told me many years ago that we can not save every piggy nor find out the cause of every illness. We can only do our best. Hershey is certainly in the best of hands because her mommy is by her side and loves her dearly. My heart aches for you. Sincerely, Ann and the Rescued Piggys of Piggyville, Tampa Florida USA. From Guineapigfilms at aol.com Sun Sep 13 15:14:43 2009 From: Guineapigfilms at aol.com (Guineapigfilms at aol.com) Date: Sun, 13 Sep 2009 15:14:43 EDT Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: Re: More capybaras Message-ID: Dear Penny, Thanks so much for sending that link. I love capybaras! Has anyone else read CAPYBOPPY (children's book) by Bill Peet, the true story of a capybara who lived with the Peet family? Does anyone else also like the Patagonian cavy? I think they look a lot like guinea pigs, and are very cute, too! Accoridng to something I read on the Internet, they are closely related to guinea pigs, chinchillas, degus, and capybaras. Love and WHEEEEEEEEEPS, Nancy (Alyssa's mom) http://www.carrotwars.com From rzm.2 at verizon.net Sun Sep 13 22:49:33 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Sun, 13 Sep 2009 19:49:33 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH- Hershey Message-ID: <5167F2D52D204F04AC252A49A541DFB2@chirpyPC> Joanie- I'm so sorry to hear Hershey has been hospitalized. I had to do this with my Molly & I was a crying, horrible wreck the whole time she was in there. They let me visit her everyday, but I couldn't eat, sleep...it was so hard. I know what you are going thru & I will send up prayers for both of you. Please keep us informed & hugs to you. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From bunsnpigs at aol.com Sun Sep 13 21:37:36 2009 From: bunsnpigs at aol.com (bunsnpigs at aol.com) Date: Sun, 13 Sep 2009 21:37:36 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC: Washington/Baltimore Area Pignic Sunday September 27th Message-ID: <8CC02F312B01088-677C-1FD0E@webmail-d078.sysops.aol.com> Annual MGPR Fall Pignic Sunday, September 27, 2009 Our PIGSTRAVAGANZA "Pignic" will held on Sunday, September 27. The pignic will be held from noon to 4 o'clock. Drop-in at any time and stay as long as you want. The pignic will be hosted at a NEW location this year at Sandymount Park pavilion in Carroll County, MD. Sandymount Park pavilion 2222 Old Westminster Pike Finksburg, MD 21048 For more information, please email us or the pignic committee at: events at mgpr.org Bringing your pigs?? The park lawn is treated, so piggies will not be allowed direct contact with the lawn. Be sure to bring a blanket to place under your piggies' pen Unlike past years, it is decided for everyone to keep their cavies in a separate pens to avoid spreading disease and to prevent fighting. For this reason, please bring your own pen/cage as there will be no spare cages. The "cubes" used for C&C cages make great temporary cages for this type of environment. Contact us for more info on how to do this. Bring plenty of water-rich veggies for your pigs. You may also need to bring a cavy water bottle. Complimentary orchard grass hay and Oxbow pellets will be available for your pigs to "snack", if desired. Bringing human companions?? Friends and family are welcome! Bring as many people as you'd like! You may want to bring a lunch and snacks for yourself and your human buddies as food and drinks are NOT provided. MGPR will be sponsoring a bake sale for both the humans and pigs attending. Water and soda will also be available for purchase. Other pignic stuff: If you have any cavy related items to sell, bring them along! You have an audience of cavy lovers awaiting. MGPR will be selling some supplies such as bedding, hay, cozy, tunnels, etc., but "selling" isn't the purpose of this picnic. There will be a raffle of "pig stuff" and other give-aways throughout the day. However, this is NOT intended as a fundraising event. The purpose of the pignic is pure "Cavy Fun"! Please note this is not an MGPR-adoption event. While we will have some of our foster pigs at the pignic, no adoptions will take place. The event will only be held "weather permitting". Please check http://www.mgpr.org for weather updates. From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Sun Sep 13 22:03:30 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Sun, 13 Sep 2009 19:03:30 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's saga continues Message-ID: <127.85502.qm@web81302.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Thank you all so much for your words of advice and encouragement. Hershey and I are overwhelmingly loved by all our friends the world over, and I sure do appreciate each and every one of you!!! The vet tech called this morning to tell me that Hershey had generated some big poops over the night and had eaten a little lettuce. The little squealer also fought the tech's attempts to bathe her little hiney, which had gotten soiled. Shows the level of care she's receiving, and that Hershey's got some fight left in her. The vet called this afternoon. The droppings are tapering off again. She and I will talk tomorrow morning. I'm afraid I'll be making THE decision then. Oh, please pray I'll make a decision I won't regret. I hate being a grown up some days. We've already invested over six hundred dollars in her hospitalization. My husband's been with me up to this point, but I know he'll be drawing the line soon. He does have the rest of us to look out for, after all. I don't want to make a decision based on monetary concerns,?even though?these are tough times. Perhaps if the prognosis looked reasonable, he might be comfortable with another day in the hospital?? The main thing is I don't want Hershey to suffer if it's unlikely that she survive. But how to know that likelihood, I can only count on the vet's prognosis and my maternal intuition. Pray. Thanks ever so much. We know we are covered with your love. It helps. ? Joanie From warmbreath at comcast.net Mon Sep 14 02:15:34 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Sun, 13 Sep 2009 23:15:34 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's saga continues References: <127.85502.qm@web81302.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <94C201DCBF93431BA66416CD5B3E4388@SNADY> If I understand it correctly if she is pooping the cecum and gut is working. This is hopeful. Did the vet say if there was pain involved in pooping? Let me ask you, you were considering feeding her grain to add weight, did you do this? If so it may have impacted her. Presumably the vet is not feeding her that and her normal gut function may be taking over. In order for her to continue pooping she needs hay and critical care which have the normal long string fiber. If food doesn't go in food wont come out, therefore lettuce is not enough, since she has pooped and that means the gut is moving she must be fed, force-feed with Critical Care several times a day, to continue that action. No fiber in no fiber out, she eats or her gut wont work. If its possible she can flush the impacted grain (if that's what it is) and perhaps recover. There are 3 drugs that promote gut motility, Propulsid, Reglan, and Cisapride, They can be very dangerous,and there is allot of controversy in the rabbit community that they can cause a rupture, but they should be considered. Each one of these drugs acts differently, discus with your vet if one of these is appropriate. I have used Reglan successfully before, but its main action is to reduce nausea and keep gas down less than affect gut motility per se, so it may not be the best. Again consultation with the University or other authority may be wise. Making a gut move is dangerous if the gut is distended so it's a fine line between helpful and dangerous treatments. Perhaps on Monday or Tues if pooping has continued you can retake x-rays to see if there has been improvement, if so perhaps sticking to a simple pellet and hay and LOTS of water given orally will finish clearing her out in time. Make sure she gets no narcotics except for end of life issues at it represses gut function, for pain relief an NSAID Metacam which is much less harmful to the gut although its much better/safer given with food would be used for pain relief. I would remain prepared to help her over the rainbow bridge very quickly in case rupture does occur. I would try to find out what your vet feels is the best way to hydrate and lubricate the gut might be. And finally of course what does the vet recommend after the weekend. Please consider that I have made some assumptions with this advice, if my facts are wrong, the advice may not be valid so your vet remains the best person for advice. I think the poops are enough to buy her another day, and if she hasn't eaten hay or Critical Care in large enough amounts to stimulate her gut then that should not count against her if she hasn't continued pooping. Even a night feeding or 2 might be considered. Oral water must be given frequently, impaction occurs when not water for the given solid foods was taken in, see my message back when you asked for diet advice. The real decision is to decide if the gut is working or not, if not can it be made to with proper food and water and possibly a drug, or is she still critically impacted facing rupture and possible surgery, which is the case Finally remember that the grain was given because she was already in trouble, so considerable thought should be given as to why that occurred in the first place and if it can be resolved. Perhaps it was but the grain impacted her, but its impossible for me to know, I only wish to promote your thinking process. I know its very expensive, guinea pigs are just as expensive to treat as dogs and cats and its part of keeping them although the price is very painful. Good luck and healing wheeks to little Hershey, Sandy From mfug at live.co.uk Mon Sep 14 02:39:48 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 07:39:48 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] health; Hershey Message-ID: All of us here are sending healing thoughts for our special beautiful and shy friend Hershey, we are wishing for her to be pain free. Joanie you are being very strong and if the pain for your little girl is too much, the best thing for her is to join all those piggies already at the bridge who would welcome a new friend, only you can make the choice (assuming Hershey doesnt make it for you) and we know you are already thinking about the best thing for your baby. We really hope Hershey pulls through and enjoys years more love, but if she cant, dont blame yourself she will be in a better place. Please keep us updated, Hershey has a special place in our hearts here in the UK Love M, Fugly + Spooky From piggyfriends at tesco.net Mon Sep 14 04:27:03 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 09:27:03 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC Patagonian Cavy Message-ID: <75983E97492E4786BE1FEC6D57F60811@inspiron1150> Hi Alyssa, I love Patagonian Cavies too, in fact I love to see any creature in the guinea pig family. Last week I visited a cider farm in Kent, England, called Badger's Hill. They also sell farm produce, garden ornaments and water features, which they make from the cider barrels but best of all, in the fields behind the farm shop they have a few animals. One can walk around the fields, which were ancient orchards, and visit the animals, among which are a group of Patagonian Cavies, also called Maras. This time, there were two little babies! Like our piggies, they are up and eating grass from day one and these two were following their mothers around, occasionally suckling milk but mostly trying out the grass. They were gorgeous. Quite off topic but this farm also has a wonderful and amiable Vietnamese Pot Bellied Pig ( I adore real pigs as well as the guinea variety ). On a previous visit, it was a very hot day and this pig, which is free range, joined us in the queue for ice creams. So sweet! Penny and the Piggyfriends. From piggyfriends at tesco.net Mon Sep 14 04:33:03 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 09:33:03 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH Hershey Message-ID: <857F790D71814FE5B37DA5CDB7021E6C@inspiron1150> Joanie, That sounded more hopeful, Hershey producing a few good poops. Maybe the gas meds will do the trick. We have had some sadness here at Piggyfriends, about which I have not yet felt able to post and I know all too well what you are going through. Whatever decision you have to make, you know that it will be with Hershey's wellbeing at heart. Sapphire sends her love. Fervently hoping that Hershey pulls through. Take care. Paws crossed. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From piggyfriends at tesco.net Mon Sep 14 07:17:57 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:17:57 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC Animal Rescue Site Message-ID: <48373186D0C3415EBA1585AEB448555F@inspiron1150> I see that the Animal Rescue Site is once again offering prizes to rescuers in the US. http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=3 Suggestions needed please for someone worthy for whom to vote for those of us overseas. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From juwles at bigpond.com Mon Sep 14 07:48:04 2009 From: juwles at bigpond.com (Julie Juwles Johnson) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:48:04 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Emergency! Hershey is hospitalized. In-Reply-To: <185927.53641.qm@web81301.mail.mud.yahoo.com> References: <185927.53641.qm@web81301.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <6CDDD2FA96B2463EAD4C5F11591E6F74@JuliePC> Dear Joanie I'm so sorry to hear of little Hershey's troubles. I am sending you and her heaps of prayers to help her through this painful time, and I pray those needles don't hurt the little thing too much. I definitely will keep you in my prayers and thoughts, God Bless Julie xx From dfhakes at aol.com Mon Sep 14 08:20:14 2009 From: dfhakes at aol.com (Dana Felice) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 08:20:14 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [CARE] Dandelion greens Message-ID: <002b01ca3535$b734a560$259df020$@com> Occasionally I shop at Fresh Market, carefully, since it's so expensive. There was a huge, lovely bunch of dandelion greens for $3.99 so I grabbed it. Two of the bunnies turned their noses up. Dasha, who eats everything, finished hers. The four girl piggies inhaled theirs. Penny tried to pull a huge leaf from the pile and Mina put a paw on it, as if to say, that's MY leaf. Dandelion greens are hard to find here and not sold in common stores like Publix. What makes them so tasty to piggies? Dana From piggyfriends at tesco.net Mon Sep 14 08:25:20 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 13:25:20 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC Piggy Pirates Message-ID: <22D54AFDF7EA4BF797597D6DC2006013@inspiron1150> I hope that none of our piggy pirates have a paw in this escapade. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/glasgow_and_west/8254295.stm Has anyone heard from Alge lately? It has been quite a while since we had a post from the piggy pirates. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From leah.mcneil at wachovia.com Mon Sep 14 09:39:28 2009 From: leah.mcneil at wachovia.com (leah.mcneil at wachovia.com) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 09:39:28 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] Annouce: HAPPY ADOPTION DAY, Bertie Pig!!! Message-ID: Hello Piggies & Slaves! Please join me in wishing my Bertie Pig a Very HAPPY 1st ADOPTION DAY Anniversary!!! One year ago today, my Darlin' Bertie Pig chose me and Princess Snowflake to be his new Family and wheeeee have been Super Duper Happy since. I am so glad that Judi (of MGPR) saved him from the West VA shelter (as they were going to put him down...yikes!) and fostered him until wheee could bring him home to North Carolina. He is an AWESOME young chap and although his age to be guestimated at about 3 yrs/5 months, wheee don't know for sure how old he really is. But, he is still very active and he popcorns even though he is Big Boy--he is a LAPS piggie ya know. And he full of Personality! Princess Snowflake and him are BFFs and although they bicker a little bit sometimes (as siblings do), they Love each other very much. Also, Bertie Pig got Engaged to Sweetie (Prince Teddy's sister), so he has been walking on Cloud 9 since...and they are set to marry on Valentine's Day 2010 (Feb 14, 2010)...Woooo Hoooooo! I LOVE YOU sooooo much my Big Bertie Boy and I am so Glad that you chose us...Wheeeeeek! HAPPY 1 Year ADOPTION DAY, Bertie Pig!!! :D Love 'n Wheeeeeeeeeeps, Leah...Slave to Princess Snowflake and Bertie Pig, the Birthday Pig :-) From whit88 at carolina.rr.com Mon Sep 14 09:53:30 2009 From: whit88 at carolina.rr.com (Whitney) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 09:53:30 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [HEALTH] Message-ID: Does anyone know anything about twisted neck syndrome??? In need of despersate help and advice. Thanks From warmbreath at comcast.net Mon Sep 14 13:26:27 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 10:26:27 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] (Virtual) Piggy Pirates References: <22D54AFDF7EA4BF797597D6DC2006013@inspiron1150> Message-ID: Hi Penny, and all. The Piggy Pirates are still spending huge amounts of time on their ship the Black Pearl, Alge's pigs and my Shipwreck Sam and his lady love Jodie take turns captaining the ship so each crew can get some home time. Alge and I both have had a rough summer health and energy wise and we have not been able to report on the Piggy Memorial Service that would honor departed human and piggy loves but it remains on top of our in-baskets. The main problem was that my printer was down for the month the pirate adventure started so I didn't have a list of the piggies on board. I do have a list of the piggies to be honored but it probably needs to updated due to the lateness of the ceremony itself and additional trips to the Rainbow Bridge. My Sammy loves this sailing life so much I have to beg him to check in so he condescends to visit me frequently and sneaks off when I sleep. He is determined to continue sailing working on his ocean and sea life activism projects with his lady Jodie and her sister Pegleg Peaches. The three are a virulent force for good but they call on Agents Fugly and Igor when they require professional help and the Captain Jack and Barnacle Bill pitch in when even more muscle is needed and they can get an alternate to Captain the ship. And that's how the summer has gone, piggies coming and going constantly as they can get away, thanks to PigAir's upgraded service which now includes helicopter and balloon service right to the ship. Many pigs come on and off for a single watch and are back home before their parent slaves miss them. I think this alternate lifestyle is very healthy for them, in fact I'm kind of jealous, and I encourage anyone who does get to hear their piggie's stories to go ahead and do a quick write up and let us know what's up on the Pearl. I'm concerned for them as they have dodged several hurricanes and tropical storms as they criss-cross the Caribbean, they may get caught in one, but at least by now they are all an experienced well oiled team and can run that ship expertly. So the Pearl will sail on indefinitely and even plans its ports-of-call based on the crew requests. Sam is determined to remain until he and Jodie receive her parents blessing for marriage, but even after that the Pearl would most likely be thier matrimonial home as neither wants to leave their parents home permanently That's our story and we are sticking with it, Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Mon Sep 14 13:50:45 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 10:50:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey may be coming home at last Message-ID: <156920.50925.qm@web81304.mail.mud.yahoo.com> The vet said she might be able to release my little girl to my care late this afternoon. I'm as nervous as a new mama, full of "what if's," but am thrilled at the prospect of her cute little face peering from her cage at me again. Don't worry, I won't be feeding her grain or seeds or sweets or anything that might overferment in her gut. I'll be getting instructions, but I'm pretty sure it'll be timothy, critical care, and lots of water and damp romaine, the latter of which sustained her when she wasn't eating or drinking much. Thanks for your prayers. Keep 'em coming! From gapeachge at yahoo.com Mon Sep 14 13:57:35 2009 From: gapeachge at yahoo.com (Glenda English) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 10:57:35 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE: BG (Carole) Message-ID: <554233.25157.qm@web58006.mail.re3.yahoo.com> Carole, So sorry to hear about your beloved BG. Hugs to you from me and the girls (Tessa, Ruby, Cookie, Ginger and Dorie). Hang in there. We lost Callie almost a year ago, and DD and I both get all tearful thinking about her. These little animals are so sweet and loving and touch our lives in wonderful ways. Know we're all thinking about you. Hugs. Glenda From joedee1986 at verizon.net Mon Sep 14 18:33:28 2009 From: joedee1986 at verizon.net (Dee and Joe) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:33:28 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] PIGNIC: Boston area Message-ID: <804571.9492.qm@web84004.mail.mud.yahoo.com> BOSTON AREA PIGNIC DATE : Sunday, 27 September Coordinator Tammy Rao (CavyMadness), and Sally Hurley location Wellesley Town Hall lawn ("the bowl"), Wellesley MA. Parking is in the Town Hall parking lot, directly across the street from the Library. (The town of Wellesley does not treat their grass. This link explains the town's policies on pesticides and treatments.) time 12 PM to 4 PM rain plans NO RAIN DATE. activities/ bring: Come and meet your pig-loving neighbors! No alcohol allowed, and restrooms are at a nearby Peet's Coffee. Bring your own pen if you do not wish to put your pig(s) in the large community pens. Bring blankets and chairs, and keep in mind we have some new rules for our growing Pignic: you must check in with one of the Experts to make sure your pig(s) are free of lice or mites, and please refrain from picking up pigs without speaking with their owner first. directions 525 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482 we are in the grassy area next to the Town Hall building in Wellesley. There is parking right next to the building, and the commuter rail is next to us as well. Coffeeshops and pizza places are nearby. via T: Commuter Rail to Wellesley Square. Head toward the post office, and the Town Hall is a large pink-stone building to your left. We will gather in the shady area with a large depression (its called "the bowl"). Its hard to miss... via car: Directions are available at the Wellesley City Website. Parking is available. From Route 16 west, turn into the Town Hall drive, and park on the far side of Town Hall. Directly in front of you will be a large grassy area, with a huge bowl formation. Dee From Guineapigfilms at aol.com Mon Sep 14 16:34:59 2009 From: Guineapigfilms at aol.com (Guineapigfilms at aol.com) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 16:34:59 EDT Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: Re: More capybaras Message-ID: Bill Peet is indeed an excellent writer! That's so wonderful, that you collect children's literature! Do you also write for children? Or teach? I have secretly wanted a capybara ever since I read CAPYBOPPY (a long, long time ago). I would also like a Patagonian cavy!? ;-) Otto is now wheeping furiously from his cage to let me know that I'd better settle for a cavy that is just his size...although, at the rate he devours his grub and his baby carrots, he may just get to the size of a capybara!!!!!! Love and WHEEEEEEEEEPS, Nancy (Alyssa's mom) http://www.carrotwars.com From jez_84 at hotmail.com Mon Sep 14 16:37:25 2009 From: jez_84 at hotmail.com (John Zimmer) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:37:25 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] health; Hershey Message-ID: Dear Joanie, You and your precious baby, Hersey, are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope and pray for the best possible outcome for you both. I just wanted to share my own personal belief from my own experiences of loss... I believe - I KNOW - that every living thing, be it people, pets, wild animals, plants, even insects!, go to Heaven/Paradise when they pass from this glorious though sad earthly existence. I believe - I KNOW - this because, quite simply, it would not be Heaven/Paradise, if - when it is our own time to go - we are not reunited with every living being/thing (plant) we loved and held dear here in this life that has gone before us. If that was the case, how could it be Heaven/Paradise? I hope this thought, belief, knowledge on my part, gives comfort to everyone. God's peace, mercy, love and blessings be with you all everyday, forever and always. John, Precious, Poppy, Honey and Mia, and all my precious pets past and future From dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com Mon Sep 14 17:17:45 2009 From: dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com (dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 14:17:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Health: Hershey Message-ID: <527082.2125.qm@web33103.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Joan: I am thinking of you today after reading that you will know more this morning. What a difficult time for you, and I keep hoping & praying that the outcome will be good for you all. Please know that I'm thinking of you and look forward to some happy, encouraging news. Give Hershey a special kiss for me. Joanne Spicy, Merri, Macie, Teddy, Baci, Sweetie "Folk will know how large your soul is, by the way you treat a dog." - Charles F. Doran From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Mon Sep 14 22:35:14 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 19:35:14 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey is home at last!! Message-ID: <159643.55357.qm@web81301.mail.mud.yahoo.com> When I got to the vet's she looked?unresponsive in her carrier and was stiff, cold and motionless, and her eyes were bulging. I was wondering if I should take her home at first, but the moment she got in her cage, she was transformed! I can't remember her ever being more vocal or voracious. I think she's as glad to be home as I am to have her home, and, yes, it feels like home again. She's napping a great deal, but begging for greens almost every time I walk by. She's supposed to eat a generous cupful a day. I'm wondering if collards, bell peppers,?and cukes would be too gassy and if carrots and fresh grass might be sweet enough to cause the dreaded fermentation. I raided the produce aisle, then I figured I'd poll my GPDD friends for suggestion later. I'll be giving her simethecone, flagyl, and cisapride (for motility) for a couple weeks, and benebac (probiotic) once a week for the rest of her life. My hope is reborn! Now if she can keep eating, drinking, and pooping,?life should be great again. I was so afraid she'd go back to being really skittish after having so many shots twice a day, but she's friendlier than ever! Now medication time might be another story. At least it's not injections. Thanks for all your love and concern. Keep up the prayers; we're not out of the woods just yet! Joanie From tmacallister at musician.org Mon Sep 14 22:42:42 2009 From: tmacallister at musician.org (Tiffany MacAllister) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:42:42 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] [Health] Hershey and Joanie Message-ID: <20090915024242.28829BE407E@ws1-9.us4.outblaze.com> I missed the one where you said she was in the hospital, I'm so sorry to hear! But the fact that she was pooping today is great news! I had to put my kitten down last year, and it was a very hard decision. He was so young and more loving than any cat I'd ever met. He would have been 6 months old if he had lived a week longer (almost two if he was alive today). But even though I still miss him terribly (and wear a dog tag with his name, birth and death dates around my neck) I still don't regret the decision. He was in pain and there was no way I could afford to get him treated ($3,000 to diagnose, 3,000 to treat...). The vet also said even if I could afford it, the treatment had a high chance of failing. It was better to spare him the suffering. Even in a situation like that, my mom was crying and refused to let the vet discuss euthanizing him. In the end I had to be the "adult" and make the choice to send my best friend to the Rainbow Bridge. I hope that's not what it comes down to in your case, but if it is, just do what's best for Hershey. Our animal friends can't make these decisions for themselves (or if they can, they can't communicate the answers to us!) so it really is up to us to know them and imagine what they might want. I hope this helps. We'll be thinking of you and Hershey. ?Tiffy, S;mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, and Tortoise -- An Excellent Credit Score is 750 See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! From dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com Mon Sep 14 23:12:59 2009 From: dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com (dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 20:12:59 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: BP's Adoption Day Message-ID: <112870.93487.qm@web33103.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Congratulations to our wonderful little Bertie Pig! He and PS are "our" family and we are thrilled. Sweetie is totally in love with him and excited about the upcoming wedding! It's hard to believe it's only been a year; it seems like that little guy has been a GPDD favorite forever! Hope Leah, Princess Snowflake & Bertie Pig had lots of fun celebrating! With licks n wheeks, Joanne, Spicy, Merri, Macie, Teddy, Baci and BP's own Sweetie "Folk will know how large your soul is, by the way you treat a dog." - Charles F. Doran From dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com Mon Sep 14 23:15:07 2009 From: dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com (dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 20:15:07 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: Penny & the Piggy Friends Message-ID: <613554.60639.qm@web33101.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Penny: I'm sorry for the sadness you've had yourself recently. Whenever you need to talk, we're all here for you. I hope you can feel my giant hug surrounding you during this time. Thinking of you, Joanne and her herd "Folk will know how large your soul is, by the way you treat a dog." - Charles F. Doran From Glynis at garnay.com.au Mon Sep 14 23:28:28 2009 From: Glynis at garnay.com.au (Glynis Robson) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 13:28:28 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] [HEALTH] Hershe's HOME! Message-ID: <1E79BEF045F13847938D188011CBF923220FBB@GARNAYSBS.garnayindustries.local> WOW this is just fantastic news!!!!!!! No wonder she perked up, finally getting her own cage back and being with her special mummy slave again XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX WHee will have our paws crossed that the meds help her and that she continues to munch and gain some weight real soon, LOADS OF HUGS AND WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKS from us all Love Glynis, Velvet and Onyx (in mem Sully and Duke) xxxx From Glynis at garnay.com.au Mon Sep 14 23:26:49 2009 From: Glynis at garnay.com.au (Glynis Robson) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 13:26:49 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] [ANNOUNCE] Bertie Pig's 1st Adoption Day Message-ID: <1E79BEF045F13847938D188011CBF923220FBA@GARNAYSBS.garnayindustries.local> HAPPY ADOPTION DAY TO YOUUUUUUUUUUU HAPPY ADOPTION DAY TO YOUUUUUUUUUUUU HAPPY ADOPTION DAY DEAR BERTIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE HAPPY ADOPTION DAY TO YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK whee so happy for you, whee know how much you love your mummy slave and sister Princess Snowflake and of course your beloved Sweetie xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Many more Adoption Days to follow BP XXXXXXXXXX Oh Leah i can't believe it's already 1yr since BP came into your lives awwwwwwwww what a lucky boy he is to have you and his forever home xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Love Glynis, Velvet and Onyx (in mem Sully and Duke) xxxx From ann.evans at hintlink.com Mon Sep 14 23:32:49 2009 From: ann.evans at hintlink.com (Ann Evans) Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2009 23:32:49 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [CARE] Dandelion greens Message-ID: <4AAF0AE1.2040800@hintlink.com> Dear Dana, I do not know why my piggys love dandelion greens. There is a produce stand near my house on Sheldon road and West Norfolk street that sells large bunches of dandelion leaves. I also grow dandelions. I bought the seeds from seedrack.com. Dandelion leaves not only have vitamin C but are very good for the urinary tract. In fact in French they are known as the herb that makes you wet the bed because of their strong diuretic properties. They have been used medicinally as a herbal remedy as far back as the 7th century for diabetes, disorders of the liver and as a laxative, tonic, appetite stimulant and aid in digestion. My area of pharmaceutical science is natural products biochemistry. Dandelion leaves today are used primarily in salads, cooked like spinach and made into wine. The leaves themselves are bitter and cavies are known to have a low sugar tolerance. Possibly cavies like them for the taste and they help them digest their high fiber diet. They yellow flowers are also high in carotenoid pigments, especially lutein. I did my dissertation on the antioxidant properties of carotenoids. I am sure you have heard that lutein in good for your eyes and especially for people who suffer from night blindness. It is possible that cavies have learned that these delicious plants are good for them and that is why they eat them. Just an educated guess. Cheers, Ann and the Rescued Piggys of Piggyville, Tampa Florida USA. From tmacallister at musician.org Tue Sep 15 01:07:57 2009 From: tmacallister at musician.org (Tiffany MacAllister) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:07:57 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] [Health[ Hershey is Home Message-ID: <20090915050757.5D200478088@ws1-5.us4.outblaze.com> Hooray! I just posted about her being sick then read this message. I'm so glad she's better! I told my boys about her and we were worrying for you during bath time. This is a very happy day! ?Tiffy, S'mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, and Tortoise -- An Excellent Credit Score is 750 See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! From jocelynm at umich.edu Tue Sep 15 08:47:47 2009 From: jocelynm at umich.edu (Anderson, Jocelyn M) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 08:47:47 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] Bertie Pig Message-ID: <3AF9B038A6B07641B36C799ED4EBB0D704C9D2E99A@ITCS-ECLS-1-VS3.adsroot.itcs.umich.edu> Happy Adoption Day to Bertie Pig! That piggy won the piggy lottery in getting saved by Leah. May Bertie Pig have many future years of popcorning! Jocelyn, Edgeworth, Flashbang Fatbottom, and Benito From cazza177 at ntlworld.com Tue Sep 15 09:14:32 2009 From: cazza177 at ntlworld.com (Cazza177) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 13:14:32 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] [GPDD] MISC: THANK YOU from BG Message-ID: Dear all I want to say a very humble thank you to all of you who sent their condolences after BG passed away last Wednesday. Around 20 of you sent messages. It's been over-whelming and I've been in floods of tears reading your kind words. I don't feel able to give a whole story about BG and his brother Artie just yet. But here is one little piece that happened so much between them, they were such close buddies: BG used to have this affectionate way of nuzzling in Artie's ear and cleaning it, and then, because he always maintained a tough guy image (he was definietly boss), he would finish by nipping Artie on the ear and legging it. He couldn't be seen to be looking soft (but he adored Artie). I will miss them both for the rest of my life. I want something positive to come out of their lives, so I am thinking about training to learn to cut a guinea pigs teeth, so I can help other piggies in need. It's not much to contribute, but it seems to be such a common problem and vets here in the UK just won't do it without the general aneaesthic. Thank you again. I am deeply moved to have such good friends. Carole From jocelynm at umich.edu Tue Sep 15 09:15:48 2009 From: jocelynm at umich.edu (Anderson, Jocelyn M) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 09:15:48 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [CARE] Bedding Message-ID: <3AF9B038A6B07641B36C799ED4EBB0D704C9D2E99C@ITCS-ECLS-1-VS3.adsroot.itcs.umich.edu> Hello All, I'm looking at expanding the piggy arena (Benito launched himself at Edgeworth and now the piggy arena is split in two) but a little worried about bedding costs. It's $21 for a bag of CareFresh here and it takes a bag and a half to cover the piggy arena, which is cleaned out once week. I found out that Kaytee makes a similar paper product called "Kaytee Total Comfort Bedding" that's a little cheaper: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=16590 . Anyone tried this bedding? Jocelyn, Edgeworth, Flashbang Fatbottom, and Benito From cazza177 at ntlworld.com Tue Sep 15 12:21:26 2009 From: cazza177 at ntlworld.com (Cazza177) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:21:26 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] [CARE] Bedding References: <3AF9B038A6B07641B36C799ED4EBB0D704C9D2E99C@ITCS-ECLS-1-VS3.adsroot.itcs.umich.edu> Message-ID: <696BC677C5DF470FA337889C3C704A6B@DelBoy> Dear Jocelyn I haven't tried the "Kaytee Total Comfort Bedding" but I did recently read that guinea pigs are allergic to the cedar oil in cedar shavings. Over time they will develop health problems in their internal organs. Some can immediately get skin rashes. Also it has apparently been proven that pine bedding can not only bring about liver damage, its also a home for mtes. Hope the above is of use. Kind regards Carole From cuttlefisharts at comcast.net Tue Sep 15 12:42:45 2009 From: cuttlefisharts at comcast.net (Cuttlefish Arts) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:42:45 -0600 Subject: [Gpdd] (CARE) Bedding Message-ID: > "Anderson, Jocelyn M" > Hello All, > > > I'm looking at expanding the piggy arena (Benito launched himself at Edgeworth > and now the piggy arena is split in two) but a little worried about bedding > costs. It's $21 for a bag of CareFresh here and it takes a bag and a half to > cover the piggy arena, which is cleaned out once week. I found out that Kaytee > makes a similar paper product called "Kaytee Total Comfort Bedding" that's a > little cheaper: > http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=16590 . Anyone > tried this bedding? > > Jocelyn, Edgeworth, Flashbang Fatbottom, and Benito > > > Is there a particular reason you need to use carefresh or a paper based bedding? One substrate I have found that is relatively economical and extremely good at controlling moisture and odor is something called ?SANI-CHIPS?. (manufacturer: http://www.harlan.com/ ) It was developed for lab animals, but I found it when my usual aspen chips became unavailable. It is heat treated hard wood (no phenols) and a very small size, kind of like fine cob, and heavy; it packs like cob. It is available in feed stores or you can buy in bulk from Harlan Teklad. I?ve kept guinea pigs for 20 years and this is the BEST thing I?ve ever found, bar none, in terms of cost, health for the gps (NO dust or phenols, very little odor). If you want to keep using paper, Harlan sells that as well ---if you put in a big order I understand that carefresh (or the equivalent) is pretty reasonable . NB, feed stores are usually far more reasonable in price than big box pet stores. You need to use google or something to track them down, but you?d be surprised at how many of them there are even in urban areas; they just don?t have a high profile. AND they have alternative products in large quantities because people are typically buying for larger animals. My local feed store carries manna pro GP food repackaged in 5 lb bags for $3. I mix it with bit of bulk organic grains and seeds from my local health food store and have a very high quality feed for a very low price. A 2.2 cu ft bag of Sani Chips is about $13. A 5 lb bag of timothy hay blocks is $1.50. I?ve completely stopped shopping at Pet Smart. From mfug at live.co.uk Tue Sep 15 14:39:02 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:39:02 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] Announcement; Bertie Pig Message-ID: Happy Adoption day Bertie Pig we know you will have been spoiled rotten. Mummy says when can we see the party pigtures we know there must be some. Fugly + Spooky (M as well) From mfug at live.co.uk Tue Sep 15 14:41:10 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:41:10 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] Health; Hershey Message-ID: We are all very glad to hear that Hershey is home again, she did give us all a scare. Fugly sends friendly nose rubs and hiding behind his big brother and blushing Spooky says please send her a get well kiss from him (hides his head) Everyone here knows how overjoyed you must be Joanie M + The Boys From mfug at live.co.uk Tue Sep 15 14:47:01 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:47:01 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] misc; Bedding Message-ID: Hi Jocelyn, I have my boys on towel and fleece the start up cost can be expensive depending what towels/ fleece you buy but once you are set up it is cost effective. You have a fleece layer on top as this lets the urine soak away and then towel layer underneath as this absorbs the urine and stops it coming back up again (nice) We were worried about the boys getting under the fleece so my wonderful Ma in Law sewed the fleece onto the towels round the edges we have 2 squares that together cover the whole cage, this means each night I can change one half totally the other half I just shake the poops off and change the paper underneath. Once a week (Saturday I have no social life lol) I change the cage totally hoover out stray poops and clean with antibac cleaner. The only problem is you need to to hoover the mats before putting them in the washing machine it can be time consuming. Just another option for you M From tmacallister at musician.org Tue Sep 15 15:24:01 2009 From: tmacallister at musician.org (Tiffany MacAllister) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 14:24:01 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] [Care] Bedding Message-ID: <20090915192401.F003C10612@ws1-3.us4.outblaze.com> If you're spending that much on bedding weekly, I would really look into using fleece, ?especially where you want to give them an upgrade in space. You would cover the entire bottom with fleece and towels then put in a "litter box" with carefresh and their food dishes and hay, to keep the mess mostly contained to that box. As long as most of the hay stays off the fleece it's easily cleaned. If you have a JoAnne fabric where you live, they are having a sale on fleece right now I got a few sets for only $4.00 a yard. ?Tiffy, S'mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, Tortoise -- An Excellent Credit Score is 750 See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! From rzm.2 at verizon.net Tue Sep 15 22:24:33 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:24:33 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT- adoption day Message-ID: Happy adoption day Bertie!!! That's awesome & we hope you have many, many more!!! Hugs to you... ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From rzm.2 at verizon.net Tue Sep 15 22:26:15 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:26:15 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- Alge Message-ID: <56437A46A6554D14A5EFC7454E4850B2@chirpyPC> Penny- I heard from Alge once, briefly, maybe a month or more ago & have heard nothing since. I e-mailed her to see if she was doing ok, but heard nothing back. =( ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From rzm.2 at verizon.net Tue Sep 15 22:27:24 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:27:24 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH- twisted neck syndrome Message-ID: <7495F4D5DFD64CA2A884EA0B77A46BF4@chirpyPC> Whitney- I have never heard of that. What is wrong with your piggie? ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From rzm.2 at verizon.net Tue Sep 15 22:32:41 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:32:41 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- Hershey Message-ID: <10FFAC86851E4857BE281E91EB31DEC6@chirpyPC> Joanie- I'm so happy for you & Hershey! You both have been in my constant prayers. Keep us updated & give her a big kiss on her little piggie nose from us... ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From rzm.2 at verizon.net Tue Sep 15 22:38:18 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:38:18 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- banana peppers Message-ID: <8AD60AF8110B43578B2E1B9BB4388495@chirpyPC> Does anyone know if piggies can eat yellow banana peppers? I am growing them in my garden & wondered if Mimi might like to try them, but want to know they are safe to give her. Thanks. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From piggyfriends at tesco.net Wed Sep 16 07:44:09 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:44:09 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH Twisted neck syndrome Message-ID: Whitney, I do not know of anything by that name but there is a condition which, in England, is known as wry neck but may well be called by another name elsewhere in the world. Some piggies are born with wry neck, in which the piggy holds its head to one side and often walks in circles. Can we have more information about your piggy and, between us all, we might be able to help. Penny and the Piggyfriends ( piggy sanctuary in England ). From piggyfriends at tesco.net Wed Sep 16 07:47:30 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:47:30 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT Welcome new piggies Message-ID: We would all like to extend several paws in greetings to new piggies, Pumpkin and Bennett. Well done for offering them a home when their owner was forced to part with them. Lucky piggies. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From piggyfriends at tesco.net Wed Sep 16 08:05:01 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:05:01 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] CARE Dandelions Message-ID: <46849C1B5958448EBA1D04D0FF084AB2@inspiron1150> All of the Piggyfriends were horrified to discover that some slaves have to BUY dandelions. I told them that they should consider themselves lucky that I only have to step outside the door to gather some for their delight. My lawn is never ever treated, except by the addition of many piggy poos during the summer as their pens are moved around the grass, so there are always dandelions to pick. I also grow them in the vegetable patch, along with their other favourites, chickweed and sow thistle. I have never seen them for sale in England but maybe, with all the rain that we get, they are seldom in short supply for those with pets to feed. I also collect them for a friend who makes wine. I do not know why they love dandelions so as I find them to be bitter but maybe that is the attraction. They love the stalks and flowers too. They are a wonderful natural diuretic and my dear old Halloween, who is on meds for a heart condition is first in line for the best leaves every morning. Dandelions are high in potassium and help to replace that lost due to his meds. For anyone who does not know, the laxative qualities of dandelions can make for soft poos, so don't overdo the leaves and always pick the freshest, greenest ones. Here, in damp old England, they begin to attract mildew as the summer draws to a close. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From piggyfriends at tesco.net Wed Sep 16 08:06:55 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:06:55 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT Happy Adoption Day Message-ID: <49CAE60BECA743BE875FBF93017F3DC9@inspiron1150> Happy Adoption Day Bertie Pig. We know that you will have had a wonderful day with Princess Snowflake and we hope that there will be pigtures to share. Hugs from Penny and the Piggyfriends. From piggyfriends at tesco.net Wed Sep 16 09:39:20 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:39:20 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC Pet of the Day Message-ID: Is that Jan's Leela on Pet of the Day today? http://petoftheday.com/ And with a cage mate by the name of Zathras? It has got to be her. Congratulations! Penny and the Piggyfriends. From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Wed Sep 16 13:45:45 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:45:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] CARE: fleece bedding Message-ID: <427973.3516.qm@web81305.mail.mud.yahoo.com> What works really well to remove poop and hair from the fleece is a rubber pet brush (available through Amazon.com) that has been moistened. Much quicker than the vacuum, and pulls the embedded hair out of the fleece much more easily. I really like the fleece. I wash it in unscented detergent and apple vinegar, and it comes out smelly like grassy apples. I think Hershey likes it, too. It provides a stable walking surface. The other stuff, her feet sink into at first, like running in sand. And, hey, the money I save on bedding can be?dedicated to vet bills. Joanie From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Wed Sep 16 13:54:35 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:54:35 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey Message-ID: <481537.58563.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> It's a roller coaster. One minute she looks fine, the next, not so good. I fed her too much greens yesterday, and found some runny poops. But at least there were poops! I'm backing off feeding her so many. Her tummy, I'm glad to report, is not distended--at least not right now. I'm concerned because she didn't struggle against being syringed her medicines this morning. For every assurance there seems to be an alarm. Augh! Poor little princess. I've come to love her more and more throughout this ordeal, and each moment we share is even more precious. From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Wed Sep 16 13:59:04 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:59:04 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] CARE: Brush for fleece Message-ID: <563554.45604.qm@web81307.mail.mud.yahoo.com> It's called FURemover pet hair removal brush. Works best when wet. I use the large size. Joanie ? From warmbreath at comcast.net Thu Sep 17 00:38:18 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 21:38:18 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH Twisted neck syndrome References: Message-ID: <75C372CD3BD648D7B97ED717A87BB3D8@SNADY> I know of head tilt which is caused by 2 main causes. I ear infection, 2. a very nasty protozoan parasite known as E. cuniculi, very commonly found in rabbits, and are transmissable to guinea pigs. They must be treated with panacur or one of a couple other drugs, its not expensive but hard to test for so that often the animal is treated both for a bacterial infection and the presence of the parasite at the same time esp. time is of the essence in both cases, the protozoa work their way to the brain, optic nerve, spinal column and liver, causing great damage and death. So a vet should be seen asap, hopefully an exotics specialist or University vet School. Info on this disease in rabbits can be found at www.medirabbit.com Hope it's a simple ear infection Sandy nd Shipwreck Sam From elmga at hotmail.com Thu Sep 17 08:21:21 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Thu, 17 Sep 2009 02:21:21 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd [CARE] [Bedding, etc.] Message-ID: Hi Jocelyn, et al, There is something very similar to Carefresh which costs about half as much. It's called Critter Care, and it is almost the same consistency. It is made by Absorption Corp. www.absorptioncorp.com toll-free number: 1-800-242-2287. Wal-Mart in the US sells it. It's states it is earth friendly. Also, I often use something else called Crown Animal Bedding, which is made from recycled natural paper fiber, made into pellets. It comes in a 40 lb. (18.14 Kg.) strong paper bag which is string-sewn at both ends, is sold at farm and feed stores, and is manufactured by Stutzman Environmental products in Canby, Oregon. A bag is apprx. $13.00 US. It lasts longer than the Critter Care. I know that Carefresh has gotten expensive--I used to use that when I had pet mice, then I just started using newspaper. I still use newspaper, too, to line their cages. Also wheee use it as paper plates to serve the guinea pigs their daily 8 oz. each of fresh vegies (usually I try to follow the guidelines of Peter Gurney when it comes to vegies.) I also, (sigh), use clean towels for one side of their cages. Our rule of thumb is: 1) that their cage bases are washed with hot water and dish soap about once a weeeek. 2) Cage tops wiped down if necessary with a hot soapy rag. 3) Cage bases disinfected monthly with hot water and plain bleach. 4) Tops washed with hot water and dish soap and rinsed well. 5) Everything rinsed well. As for the towels, if they are very wet they are changed every day. Otherwise it's every other day. One of my piggies, one of the babies, Hina'u, drinks tons of water so he pees a lot. I am hoping this is not a sign of something like diabetes? Anyway, I know, too, that animals are affected by our vibrations that we emit, so I encourage myself to just relax and trust the process, because all I can do or anyone can do is care for them to the best of our abilities, and whee don't have a long time here with them so whee may as well enjoy it as much as possible, yes? I have also come to the belief that animals do not fret and worry like humans do. They are so talented at just making peace with where they are, and they seem to have come into this life because they enjoy life, which is what life is supposed to be all about, yes? The piggies are such a relief and a comfort to have around. When I wash the towels I try to always use bleach and double rinse. And not overdo it with the laundry soap! >From Ellen and the 10 piggies _________________________________________________________________ Lauren found her dream laptop. Find the PC that?s right for you. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/choosepc/?ocid=ftp_val_wl_290 From elmga at hotmail.com Thu Sep 17 08:36:02 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Thu, 17 Sep 2009 02:36:02 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd [MISC] [Thank you] Message-ID: Hi all, Just wanted to say thank you, very very much for all the emails, cares and concerns that everyone has. Especially to Sandy and Shipwreck Sam; Ann in Piggyville, Florida; Penny and Piggyfriends; Carol; Corrine; Patti; Mieke; and Birdie, and anyone else I didn't recall right now. You are all a big support and encouragement. Thanks for all the kind words and the wise information on guinea pigs. I do think they are the best pets ever! Ellen and piggies _________________________________________________________________ Bing? brings you maps, menus, and reviews organized in one place. Try it now. http://www.bing.com/search?q=restaurants&form=MLOGEN&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MLOGEN_Core_tagline_local_1x1 From elmga at hotmail.com Thu Sep 17 09:05:25 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Thu, 17 Sep 2009 03:05:25 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd [Health] [Rufie the piggy-update] Message-ID: Rufie went to the vet last wheek. His suture sight from the sebaceous cyst removal is fully healed. Vet weighed him, he weighed 2.7 lbs. {Back in July, he weighed 3.0 lbs.} I got some Critical Care just in case. the vet asked a bunch of things. One was what kind of guinea pig food was I giving him. Well, i had changed it a little bit. She said to go back to what he had before, which was the Kaytee Timothy Complete. She said the other piggies may be fine with the mix I have been using, but not him. They will call me in a few wheeeks to see how it goes. The vet did also say that his weight now is a good weight for him. Just to keep it up. So, Rufie is eating the Kaytee Timothy Complete with the Kaytee plain Guinea Pig food. He is also eatin his hay, and starting to eat more like he did before. He was quite a big guinea pig when I got him 3 years ago, when he was about 6 mos. He has just been one hefty gp! He loves his tomatoes, Romaine lettuce, cucumbers. Watermelon is cheap these days and I usually give them the rind with just a little of the pink part. all washed of course. I have to say, when I had my Li'l Guy, I could not imagine him gone. Same with Rufie, I just want to enjoy him as it unfolds. The weird thing about all this is he lost weight after surgery. Oh, and yes he had a fecal parasite test which was negative. Interesting to note that guineas share a common gene with humans and some of the primates. So~~I always thought they are very much like humans in many ways, strange as it may sound...which makes me think, then, do not some people also lose weight after surgery? I see how Rufie is, all energetic now, loves to escape from my arms when i am holding him and run about the room and visit all his piggy friends from the outside, who are all in their own 'bedrooms' (i.e.~~cages)...goes hiding under the two twin beds...visits with Darla the one-ear-up/one-ear-down rabbit, and really, just scoots around so much more quickly now I really think heis enjoying his new, lighter self. He used to do this before but just not so fast on his feet! And he knows his cage and when I say, "Rufie, go back in Rufies' cage" he climbs back in usually when he is ready, and when I keep saying it...I have to think he is healthy and in his JOY. And he came here to enjoy life! From, Ellen and the piggies _________________________________________________________________ Microsoft brings you a new way to search the web. Try Bing? now http://www.bing.com?form=MFEHPG&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MFEHPG_Core_tagline_try bing_1x1 From cazza177 at ntlworld.com Thu Sep 17 10:23:37 2009 From: cazza177 at ntlworld.com (Cazza177) Date: Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:23:37 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC]: Details of rodentologist in Australia In-Reply-To: Message-ID: Dear all in Australia Vedra from Cambridge Cavy Trust kindly gave me the details of a rodentologist in Australia. I hope it may be of help to all of you out there and also to the person on the Digest who is bringing together a list of vets. Vedra said the details had been noted down by someone else and she found certain letters and numbers hard to read, so that is why there are a couple of bits in brackets below: Ann Fawcett (or Fawcatt) 23 Percivil Road Sanmore (or Stanmore?) New South Wales Australia 2048 (or 20Y8 or 2078 or Z048 or 2098) (sorry, she had trouble being sure what this actual number was from the writing) Tel: + 6140 75 76 99 (and then she said it looked like a 'J' but was probably another '5'), so +6140 75 76 995 There's an email address, but again there was one letter that she wasn't sure of: annforcett at optz.com.au (she said it was possible that the 'z' in 'optz' was an 'i'. I am relaying this as Vedra said it to me on the phone, so sorry for the bits which have question marks hanging over them. It maybe that 'Ann' may be 'Anne' (I didn't think to check, sorry), which would have implications for the email address above, but you can always check her address and email details if anyone needs to call her. With kind regards Carole From Guineapigfilms at aol.com Thu Sep 17 14:30:20 2009 From: Guineapigfilms at aol.com (Guineapigfilms at aol.com) Date: Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:30:20 EDT Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT: Happy Adoption Day to Bertie Pig! Message-ID: Wheeeeee would like to wish Bertie Pig a very happy Adoption Day! Bertie, wheeee are sure you know by now that you hit the jackpot when you got Leah as a slave! ;-) Now you know that Princess Snowflake will get super jealous if wheeee keep going on and on about YOU, so wheeee'll just end here! :-) Love and WHEEEEEEEEEEPS, Alyssa & Nancy & the guinea pig movie stars (including the Very Vocal Otto) http://www.carrotwars.com From gracetheface at yahoo.com Thu Sep 17 16:57:44 2009 From: gracetheface at yahoo.com (grace ramp) Date: Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:57:44 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Care (Bedding) In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <846465.62300.qm@web36906.mail.mud.yahoo.com> I recently adopted two more guinea pigs so now I have five and the litter was becoming very expensive. I have always used Carefresh and I love it and so do the piggies. I started shredding paper the past few weeks but yesterday I went on line and Petco is having a HUGE sale. The 60 liter bag was reduced from $22.99 to $14.99. I ordered a ton. For those of you in the States, it is a good buy. The shipping is free on orders over $65. Grace, Gus, Babe, Rusty, Pookie and a baby to be named at a later date (with Oreo and Pork Chop at the Bridge) P.S. - Does anyone have any suggestions for the baby's name? She is a black Abby about three months old. Very cute. I just can't think of a good name for her. Thanks. From piggyfriends at tesco.net Thu Sep 17 14:12:26 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Thu, 17 Sep 2009 19:12:26 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] CARE Bedding Message-ID: <0F380D426D1D441A8398FDA7E467DA3D@inspiron1150> The Piggyfriends do not have cages but live in large pens, lined with newspaper and covered in hay so I do not use the same kind of bedding material that has been discussed. I use VetBed for my invalids or elderly piggies that do not move around much as it draws urine away from the piggy into the newspaper beneath. For my fancy mice, the best bedding that I have found in England is called Back-2-nature, which originated in Australia. The odour suppressing element is outstanding and it is made of 99% recycled material. Even the paper sack that it comes in ends up on my compost heap along with the used bedding. I see from their website http://www.fibrecycle.com/ that it is available internationally but I have no idea of the cost involved. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Thu Sep 17 15:13:00 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:13:00 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey holding her own against stasis Message-ID: <735422.71906.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> The first really reassuring change occurred this morning with Hershey; she was eating her hay and she drank a lot of water. I haven't seen much of these activities in quite awhile, especially the drinking. Of course, I can't say she's out of the woods just yet (especially with her tummy still distended), but I'm taking every ounce of encouragement I can get out of this. It's funny how much joy a cuddle cup full of droppings can bring! My husband Gary might just be a piggie whisperer. He can get Hershey to take her meds, pretty much unrestrained, and he's quite the tummy massage expert. We still have over a wheek of meds, so it'll be great having his help. I was glad to know that simethicone can be taken several times a day. I'll definitely be doing that. Fortunately, the vet left me a few hypodermic needles that I use to pierce the gel capsule of the Gas-Ex. I squeeze the contents into the syringe attached to the needle (held upside down so the fluid will flow into it), remove the needle, and syringe the yummy, mint-flavored fluid into my princess' cute, pink mouth. Keep the advice and prayers coming, and I will keep you informed. Joanie From warmbreath at comcast.net Thu Sep 17 15:15:52 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:15:52 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd [Health] [Rufie the piggy-update] References: Message-ID: <3CEB9BC25EF5405498FD17830D94253F@SNADY> I use Kaytee Timothy Complete myself for Shipwreck Sam, who now is demanding to be called Sammy when he's not on official pirate business, he likes that it goes with Sandy. What is the "mix" your other pigs eat and what is Rufie's diagnosis? Was he just overweight along with the cyst? Having Critical Care at home in the frig for long term freshness is an excellent idea for all piggie parents, longer kept unopened, once opened use fast and order more within a month. One hint, the Timothy complete is Katee's hi end food, and is good for all pigs, esp. in terms of Vit C. They say they use stabilized VitC but since they are not a hi end company so you want to make sure all your pigs are getting fresh pellets they should be used within 6 months of manufacture(well thats a best practice for ant pellet). For instance my new package says best if used by Sep 24, 2010, so thats not a manufacture date like Oxbow has, and that date is a year out, too long for Vit C in my experience. Maybe I just talked myself into going back to Oxbow, Anyway, the point is that an open bag of any food should be used as quick as possible, so it may be better if all your pigs eat from the same bag to turn it over frequently. Plus it says it has 100mg of Vit C per lb of feed, a pound lasts one pig a long time and piggies need 30mg a day, and supplements from Oxbow are 50mg tablets, so I'm thinking Kaytee doesnt have enough Vit C unless you are also feeding a supplement and plenty of fresh Vit C foods. In swiching foods there are 2 methods, one mix the old and the new until they are used to the new one, 2. Feed only the new one and if they are reluctant you can kind of force the issue, by cutting back on other foods. Some piggies will resent this, some really smart ones out there. Sandy and Sammy, not currently shipwrecked. From Glynis at garnay.com.au Fri Sep 18 01:21:23 2009 From: Glynis at garnay.com.au (Glynis Robson) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:21:23 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] [ANNOUNCE] Pet of the Day Message-ID: <1E79BEF045F13847938D188011CBF923220FE4@GARNAYSBS.garnayindustries.local> YES it has to be our Leela xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Oh bless isn't it great pics of her !!!!!! CONGRATS TO YOU ALL xxxxxxxxxxxx Glynis, Velvet and Onyx (in mem Sully and Duke) xxxx From Glynis at garnay.com.au Fri Sep 18 01:23:24 2009 From: Glynis at garnay.com.au (Glynis Robson) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:23:24 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] [SILLY] Pirate Speak Message-ID: <1E79BEF045F13847938D188011CBF923220FE5@GARNAYSBS.garnayindustries.local> Argh me lovelies it's your little mates down south in OZ, whee believe it's Pirate Speak day tomorrow. Whee hope dat all our pirate friends are ok and dat they have a good day!! Whee are waving our cutlasses (don't tell mummy tho) around and will celebrate with the left over carrot juice that was made for us (whee can't have da wine, whee too young yet!) Fair de well Velvet and Onyx xxxxxxxxxxxx From piggyfriends at tesco.net Fri Sep 18 08:08:46 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:08:46 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC Welcome new piggies Message-ID: <016F765A778C48C8BA7235B544241F71@inspiron1150> Grace, Welcome to your two new piggies! I always deliberate long and hard over the naming of new piggies. Names are so important. Years ago I had two black Piggyfriend sisters called Magic and Molly. Magic from the box of chocolates called Black Magic and Molly from the tropical fish called Black Mollies. There was also Bramble, which is what we call blackberries in England - I don't know if that is worldwide. She arrived here at bramble picking season with her black and brown sister, whom I called Bracken. Or Blackberry itself of course. I have two black boars called Midnight and Shadow. I like Glenys' name of Onyx for one of her girls and I also like Obsidian but I think that is more for a boar as it is a tough sounding name. My Rodentologists have two black rexes, mother and daughter. Mother is called Aubergine and daughter is Damson. I thought that Aubergine was a clever name to choose as piggies are just the same shape as an aubergine, which I believe is called eggplant in other countries. How about Ebony? Do let us know which name you choose. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From aliciavanmaanen at hotmail.com Fri Sep 18 12:13:38 2009 From: aliciavanmaanen at hotmail.com (Alicia VanMaanen) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 12:13:38 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] Announcenent: Holiday Exchange 2009 In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hey Everyone, I know we are well into September already but I wanted to let everyone know that it's not too early to start thinking bout wanting to participate in our annual digest holiday gift exchange for Christmas. I would be more than happy to once again work on this as I love too do that part in it. For those of you that are new to the digest let me explain what this is a little bit. Every year we offer a holiday gift or card exchange with other members of the digest. You can choose to participate in either or both aspects of the exchange. In both you would be given the name of another guinea pig(s) if you wish to do all your piggies together and a slave. If you are participating in the gift exchange you would than get some type of gift for the slave's pig(s) that you were assigned and mail it to them for a christmas gift. YOu are also welcome to include soemthing special in their for the slvae. As for the price of the gift that is up to you as to how much you can honestly afford to spend on a gift. I've had various gifts over the years from handmade gifts/treats for me and my piggies to store bought treats. But the minimum is usualy about $10 from what most people spend on a total gift I'd guess. THis is a fun event and everyone loves to participate adn get gifts in the mail and than post on the digest a thank you afterwards so that everyone knows you received your gift. So if you are interested please feel free to email me at guineapiglover2009 at hotmail.com Please include the following information in your email: Slave NameSlave Mailing AddressSlave EmailPig(s) participating and if more than one piggie are they participating as a group or an individualAny other important information I you might want another slave to be aware of about you or your pig(s) Thanks everyone and look forward to hearing from everyone! Many Wheeks,Alicia slave to Dodger & Beau _________________________________________________________________ Bing? brings you maps, menus, and reviews organized in one place. Try it now. http://www.bing.com/search?q=restaurants&form=MLOGEN&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MLOGEN_Core_tagline_local_1x1 From cuttlefisharts at comcast.net Fri Sep 18 12:33:16 2009 From: cuttlefisharts at comcast.net (Cuttlefish Arts) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:33:16 -0600 Subject: [Gpdd] CARE: Bedding In-Reply-To: Message-ID: Lots of people seem to be fans of fleece bedding. I'd like to hear how many GPs and square footage, how many fleece mats you have on hand, and how often it's changed and how many loads of fleece laundry a week? Just curious. I tried this once, and it was a hideous disaster because the gps I had at the time were both old and passing a lot of urine. It would smell within an hour or two. I have never tried the fleece on the healthy younger pigs I have now, so it might be viable. At the time I tried and failed with fleece, I still had the problem of a very old gp who lived on as a semi invalid for a long time -- and I ended up using towels in their house. It was pretty time consuming and I had to change them a lot, and I had to lay them over a lot of newspaper to absorb wet spots that would occur between changes, but the towels allowed her to more easily get around. I will probably continue to use SANI CHIPS, dust free and baked hardwood -- no phenols. Not soft and fluffy, but clean and dry and it packs into a surface that they can get a grip on. Cheers, Vic From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Fri Sep 18 13:14:40 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:14:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] misc: Happy Adoption day Bertie! Message-ID: <288812.6148.qm@web80203.mail.mud.yahoo.com> A big congratulations on celebrating your adoption day? Bertie Pig from all of us here in misfit ville:)? Our mommie and daddie have been very very busy... as? they keep talking about something called a "grand baby?"? It was a very exciting day here on Sept 16Th as mommie and daddie?kept calling people to talk about this "grand baby"? I do believe its their first as they are soo excited !!? and? they keep looking at pics they took of this "grand baby?"I have heard his name is Ezekiel Leigh!? Well anyway I am on top of things here when mommie is busy like she is right now and I am on her computer... she knows I am the smart one!! and lets me do things like this.. so Happy Day to you Bertie !!! Lazarus (the spokesmen for Misfit ville piggies) ? From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Fri Sep 18 13:15:56 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:15:56 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: Ruffie Message-ID: <447406.26599.qm@web80205.mail.mud.yahoo.com> We are so happy to hear that Ruffie is doing better! Keep up the good work buddie! Food is good! Lazarus (the spokes piggie from misfit ville) From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Fri Sep 18 13:20:28 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:20:28 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: Hershy Message-ID: <229670.8624.qm@web80207.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Little Hershy, Sure hope? you keep feeling better each day... You sound like one strong willed little gal! Hey if your ever interested when your feeling all?the way better?... I am? a fine, smart, handsome,?single piggie with alot of pigsonality indeed:) :) hehe? Stay on that path of good health... its very scary for your mommie and daddie when you dont feel well. I know that as when ever one of us here in mistfit ville is not well.. they worrie them selves sick... so stay well little sweet gal. Lazarus (the spokes piggie for misfitville) ? From janettejr at gmail.com Fri Sep 18 15:11:55 2009 From: janettejr at gmail.com (janettejr at gmail.com) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 19:11:55 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCE: Leela and Boomer Message-ID: <533277475-1253301033-cardhu_decombobulator_blackberry.rim.net-380484505-@bda933.bisx.prod.on.blackberry> My last e-mail confirmed it. I can,t e-mail the from work. Yes, that was my Leela who was pet of the day I took Zathras and Leela to pick out a new sibling from the recsue pigs being housed at Pet Emporium. They have a new sister named Boomer. I will tell more when I don' have to type on the Blackberry. Jan Mom to Zathras, Leela, and Boomer Tribble, Lokai, and Aeryn in my heart Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry From calliope at geeksnet.com Fri Sep 18 15:35:47 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:35:47 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT: adoption day wishes, Mimi Message-ID: <4AB3E113.8060804@geeksnet.com> We would like to wish Mimi a very Happy 2nd Adoption Day! Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From calliope at geeksnet.com Fri Sep 18 15:37:02 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:37:02 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT: adoption day wishes, Bertie Pig Message-ID: <4AB3E15E.1000909@geeksnet.com> We would like to wish Bertie Pig a very Happy 1st Adoption Day anniversary! Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From MZarbock at bowtieinc.com Fri Sep 18 18:38:06 2009 From: MZarbock at bowtieinc.com (Zarbock, Marylou) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:38:06 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] rodentologist in Australia Message-ID: <6FD3E234E1EE2B4ABB385BBE1955773384819CA3A9@BOWTIEMAIL.FANCY.COM> Hello All! I saw the post about Dr. Anne Fawcett. She's written articles for Critters USA and some of our other titles. She gave me permission to forward contact information for her. She works at Sydney Animal Hospitals Inner West in Australia, which has the phone number (02) 9516 1466 I hope this helps! Marylou From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Fri Sep 18 21:07:40 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:07:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Now Hershey has diarrhea Message-ID: <630249.32133.qm@web81301.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Poor little girl. I had to give her a bottom bath today, and she was sooo good! She's becoming more outgoing and is constantly begging for treats which I can't provide until her tummy settles. I feel as if getting her through this latest difficulty might be the turn around she needs. Any suggestions on treating diarrhea? I'll call the vet tomorrow and see what she says, but I'd like to be doing something for her in the meanwhile--things to avoid, etc. I have to tell you that every breath she takes is a gift from God for me. I've never loved an animal friend more. Please keep up your prayers and well-wishes. I'm sure that's one reason she's still with us! Thanks, Joanie From mfug at live.co.uk Sat Sep 19 03:39:57 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M) Date: Sat, 19 Sep 2009 08:39:57 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] Health; Rufie Message-ID: We are glad to hear that Rufie is doing well following his surgery. He sounds like one cute piggy. M, Fugly and Spooky From warmbreath at comcast.net Sat Sep 19 03:42:36 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Sat, 19 Sep 2009 00:42:36 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Now Hershey has diarrhea References: <630249.32133.qm@web81301.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <29CA57BBE30247C49A2EF6E63289E203@SNADY> cut down or eliminate the lettuce and all veggies, feed pellets and hay only, dont cut her water. It would be helpful if I had the answers to my previous email I know only a fraction of what the vet said, what all her symptoms were As of now I can guess she is still on medication Cisapride, Flagyl, was there an antibiotic, if so tell me which one, only certain ones are ok for piggies, so if she's on the wrong antibiotic that can cause diarrhea. Also suspect the Cisapride. It could be that her impaction has completely cleared, you have corrected her diet, including removing any grains you may have been giving but haven't told me about, you have said her behavior is back to normal, in other words, she may be so normal now that the Cisapride is no longer needed. Stay on the Benebac Keep in mind I am not a vet, just a medically oriented amateur, I had RN training when I was young, but never worked at it, and I have a long history with many guinea pigs and 2 years on the bunny medical list. That's all I am so I am no replacement for a vet. The only medication that is safe for diarrhea is kaopectate in small amounts, check guinealynx for the dosage do not give Pepto-Bismol or Imodium, very bad, but if its the Cisapride you probably wont need the diarrhea, if its the wrong antibiotic, it is needed, antibiotic induced diarrhea is very serious. One other thing occurs to me, you said your husband was removing the contents of gel tabs of gas-x, is it possible that the content are in oil? if so maybe she's getting too much oil and that's giving her the runs, if so try the infant drops, its a liquid in a dropper, I think it has sorbitol in it so dont overdo that either, it can cause the runs. Do not stop the Benebac, if you dont have it yet go to the health food store and get a product that lists the most different gut bacteria, ones that work on other than milk products, the best ones are usually refrigerated. Do not give yogurt Talk to the vet as soon as possible and keep her butt clean, and keep her well hydrated even if you have to syringe water, if she gets dehydrated she would need sub-Q fluids at the vet. Please give us a full report. best of luck and healing wheeks Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From warmbreath at comcast.net Sat Sep 19 04:09:46 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Sat, 19 Sep 2009 01:09:46 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd [CARE] [Bedding, etc.] References: Message-ID: <291C5BE5CF6C47D2A39372C3B6EB9593@SNADY> Hi Jocelyn and everyone, I am using, and Sammy and I both love, a cheap carefresh alternative that's better than the last Carefresh I used, which was years ago. Its the Kroger house brand or at least its bought at Fred Myers, the western iteration of Kroger. The "curds" of paper are generally larger and brush off his cuddle cups easily and its not messy, its called Healthy Pet and comes in 2 sizes. www.absorbent.com, very much like the website already mentioned by Ellen for a similar products by others but slightly different Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From rzm.2 at verizon.net Sat Sep 19 21:25:26 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Sat, 19 Sep 2009 18:25:26 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- grandbaby Message-ID: <9D4F9DD242D34894A25659F848F95294@chirpyPC> Congratulations on your new grandbaby! And thanks to Lazarus for keeping us updated while his slaves are otherwise occupied! ;) ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From rzm.2 at verizon.net Sat Sep 19 21:27:17 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Sat, 19 Sep 2009 18:27:17 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] ANNOUNCEMENT- welcome Boomer Message-ID: Congratulations to Leela & welcome Boomer to the digest! ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From tmacallister at musician.org Sat Sep 19 18:33:39 2009 From: tmacallister at musician.org (Tiffany MacAllister) Date: Sat, 19 Sep 2009 17:33:39 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] [Care] Bedding Message-ID: <20090919223340.0C4E3606865@ws1-4.us4.outblaze.com> Vic, ?I change the fleece every 2-3 days, sometimes 4 if I'm very busy. It doesn't smell until day 4 if I leave it that long. I use 3-6 layers of towel. Working on making more sets, I have two so far. In theory if I had a set for every day of the week, they could have fresh clean bedding everyday and I'd only need to wash them all once a week. As it is, I am washing them every time I change them. I'm not sure how other people do it, but that's my system so far. Fleece works for some people while for other people, shavings or carefresh are easier. Personally, I use the fleece because it's cheaper in the long run. Tiffy, S'mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, Tortoise -- An Excellent Credit Score is 750 See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! From rzm.2 at verizon.net Sat Sep 19 21:38:07 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Sat, 19 Sep 2009 18:38:07 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH- Hershey Message-ID: <3E66AAAA65434E64911391DF7366C734@chirpyPC> Joanie- I know when I was on Flagyl (also called Metoclopromide) it gave me horrible diarrhea & I ended up in the hospital. It is a drug that just rips apart the stomach. I have talked to many people who have had the same reaction to it. So I can only imagine what it does to a little piggie's stomach. You may want to discuss it with your vet. I didn't even know they put piggies on Flagyl. Give Kaopectate & I use a simethicone that is for babies. It is liquid form that I just syringe. It's called Little Tummies gas relief drops & has no sorbital. Keep heavy on those fluids & no lettuces for now. I do hope she can get better soon. We are praying for you & her everday. Keep us updated & hugs to you both. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From warmbreath at comcast.net Sat Sep 19 19:42:28 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Sat, 19 Sep 2009 16:42:28 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH- Hershey References: <3E66AAAA65434E64911391DF7366C734@chirpyPC> Message-ID: <867BCC032A244DA9B02C10C70B9441E1@SNADY> Hey Ron, good catch, I had no idea about the Flagyl as I haven't had any experience or read the side effects, although thinking on it now I should have suspected it right off. If nothing else, if it kills a bunch of bad gut parasites in the gut they are then dead and gotta come out. I think your advice is right on. and I do still think it possible too, that her blockage is cleared and so the Cisapride may be overdoing it. Hershey's mom said the fecal float test was done but didn't say the results. So I learned something today and that makes it a good day, it's these little bits and pieces when shared in a caring community like ours that real learning and progress is made. And thanks for the tip on Sorbitol free "Little Tummies gas relief drops" if I cant find it on store shelves I will buy it on line. This should always be on hand in our piggy emergency kits. Thanks so much Sandy and Shipwreck Sam ps everyone and every pig stay tuned for an announcement from Captain Jack straight from the Black Pearl From piggyfriends at tesco.net Sun Sep 20 06:34:19 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Sun, 20 Sep 2009 11:34:19 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH Colic drops for gassy pigs Message-ID: I know that the meds that we can buy vary enormously between our respective countries but in England, I always used to give gassy piggies 2 or 3 mls of baby gripe water. Overseas members will probably be saying what the heck is that. It is made using the herb dill and was widely used for babes in England. One of my sons got through bottles of it as a babe but now we have the baby colic drops, I keep one called Infacol in the piggy first aid box. It is based on simeticone ( different spelling to the US ingredient but probably the same thing ). The piggy dose of this remedy is 1ml. and it can be repeated during the day. Roscoe had a nasty tummy upset recently and can testify to its efficacy. Penny and the Piggyfriends, paws still crossed for Hershey. From mfug at live.co.uk Sun Sep 20 13:51:10 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M) Date: Sun, 20 Sep 2009 18:51:10 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] Misc; Bedding Message-ID: I use fleece on top of towels. I have 8 squares 2'X2' for a 4x2 cage. Each square has a layer of fleece sewed onto a layer of towel, I change one square every day and both squares on a Saturday for full cage cleaning. The materials cost me ?30 and I do one wash load a week of all the guinea pig bits. I have only just started using this so dont yet know the longevity of my squares, they have lasted 3 months so far and are showing no signs of wear or tear (touchwood) will let you know when they do wear out. M From cazza177 at ntlworld.com Sun Sep 20 14:07:16 2009 From: cazza177 at ntlworld.com (Cazza177) Date: Sun, 20 Sep 2009 18:07:16 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] Details of rodentologist in New Zealand Message-ID: Dear all Whilst trying to help another Digester, I was given the details of a rodentologist in New Zealand (who has connections with CCT here in the UK). I hope it may be of use to those on the Digest who live there. Peter McLean. At the time of writing, he practices at the Avonhead Veterinary Clinic, 357 Avonhead Road, Christchurch 5, New Zealand, tel: (03) 358 4407. (When I dialled this number from the UK, you drop the 0 at the beginning, whether that's the same for if you dial from within New Zealand, I am not sure.) http://www.avonheadvets.co.nz/Menu/About-Us.php Kind regards Carole From mfug at live.co.uk Mon Sep 21 02:51:55 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M) Date: Mon, 21 Sep 2009 07:51:55 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] Health; Hershey Message-ID: We hope Hershey is recovering from her diarhoea we know how scary that can be especially if she has lost a lot of weight. When Spooky had it the vet gave us Fibreplex which is a pre and probiotic fibre solution to help firm up the poops again, we had to syringe him this 3 times a day. We were also syringe feeding him Science Selective to keep his weight up. We left him dried pellets and hay in the cage but no other food, we also put him on plain newspaper which we were changing about every half hour as it got soiled, and we wiped his feet and butt with unscented baby wipes to keep the dirt down, when he started improving we bathed him. We all have fingers and paws crossed here that Hershey is past the worst and that she gets well real soon. Joanie keep up the good work we are rooting for you both. M, Fugly and Spooky From ebak at ca.inter.net Mon Sep 21 08:34:34 2009 From: ebak at ca.inter.net (Evelyn Baker) Date: Mon, 21 Sep 2009 08:34:34 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [Health] Hershey's Diarrhea Message-ID: <71D4A10E-FCEC-46CA-B513-5FD478F32A14@ca.inter.net> I think Hershey's tummy is trying to find balance. Perhaps it's too many veggies. When my guinea pigs had diarrhea, I removed lettuce from there diet. However, apples and strawberries have pectin in them which is can help. However, because they are high in sugar, only give small amounts. Evelyn From bunsnpigs at aol.com Mon Sep 21 12:53:11 2009 From: bunsnpigs at aol.com (bunsnpigs at aol.com) Date: Mon, 21 Sep 2009 12:53:11 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Colic drops for gassy pigs In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <8CC08F3232A6570-26FC-15451@webmail-d052.sysops.aol.com> Penny, I was so excited to find?Gripe Water?at my health food store! I now use it as well. Peter Gurney was the first one to recommend it, and yes, I always thought it had a weird name! It does appear to work well. I also use the simethicone drops. We get it here in the pharmacy and it is called Baby Mylicon. Judi L. ******************************************************* Penny wrote: I know that the meds that we can buy vary enormously between our respective countries but in England, I always used to give gassy piggies 2 or 3 mls of baby gripe water. Overseas members will probably be saying what the heck is that. It is made using the herb dill and was widely used for babes in England. One of my sons got through bottles of it as a babe but now we have the baby colic drops, I keep one called Infacol in the piggy first aid box. It is based on simeticone ( different spelling to the US ingredient but probably the same thing ). The piggy dose of this remedy is 1ml. and it can be repeated during the day. Roscoe had a nasty tummy upset recently and can testify to its efficacy. Penny and the Piggyfriends, paws still crossed for Hershey. From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Mon Sep 21 18:27:37 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:27:37 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's diarrhea resolving Message-ID: <897254.35147.qm@web81301.mail.mud.yahoo.com> I'm sorry I haven't kept you in touch for the last couple days and have overlooked comments and questions. The last two days have been pivotal as her tummy is settling. She had her greens (thumbnail-sized bits of carrot, romaine, parsley, celery tops) for the first time yesterday, and her droppings remain normal. She is very hungry and demanding, but I'm not going to overdo on anything but hay and water, which she should have available anyway. Boy, has she missed her treats! Yesterday was the first time she ate pellets in wheeks. As for the obstruction, the current opinion is that it was trapped gas that was causing the distress. No mention was made of anything obstructing as x-rays showed no evidence of it. I don't feed grains except for the insignificant amount of them in?her steady diet of timothy-based?Oxbow pellets and Kay Tee Exact pellets which I use, broken into bits,?only for treats, as, unlike the Oxbows,?they contain artificial colors and flavors. Yeah, I admit it. Junk food! Every human I've known who's taken flagyl was quite miserable during course of treatment. I've used it in birds to treat protozoan infection (like girardia lamblia) with no ill effects. Since Hershey's improved dramatically, I'm hoping that her medication is not harming her. I've been treating her with BeneBac probiotic every couple days and simethecone twice a day, which really helps. She's also still on a motility drug, ciproside. There have been a couple unexpected benefits to all this trauma. Hershey now loves my husband, Gary. She waits for him at the cage door, lets him pick her up, and stands, unrestrained, for syringing. She'll sit on the couch on her waterproof mattress pad, and Gary and I will sit on the floor at eye level, and pet her and laugh at her antics. She's become so much braver! She likes to explore now. The piggies on the pirating adventure will corroborate my observation as to her initial timidity, and how she progressed on her adventure. Well, she's made a huge popcorn forward! Again, I'm sorry for not responding individually. She's taken every bit of my attention. I so appreciate you all accompanying me on this journey. I'm hoping it will soon lead to total wellness. Joanie From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Mon Sep 21 21:12:12 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:12:12 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's latest crisis Message-ID: <744260.17096.qm@web81308.mail.mud.yahoo.com> We were enjoying cuddle time together, when she laid on her side and kind of wiggled as if preparing for a nap. I was delighted to have attained that level of trust. It soon became apparent though that she couldn't stand upright. Her limbs are strong but uncoordinated. She was making frustrated noises and struggling to get control of her legs. I put her lower body in lukewarm water, fearing heat stroke. It was 85 degrees Farenheit (our air conditoner broke), just hot enough to cause problems, though she's used to around 83 degrees on occasion. I noticed upward beating nystagmus (jerky eye movements, up and down), which would indicate her balance mechanism is malfunctioning. She doesn't seem to?lie on one side or the other. She's scared. I'm scared. Does anyone have any suggestions or hope to offer? Devastatedly, Joanie From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Mon Sep 21 21:24:49 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:24:49 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd Digest, Vol 8, Issue 297 In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <843658.46916.qm@web81304.mail.mud.yahoo.com> We could sure use a blessing right now. Hershey's tummy was doing great, then, while sitting in my lap, she lost her equibrium and has been lying on her side ever since, in between struggles to regain her upright state. We're so tired of all the struggles. It kills me to hear her making frustrated noises as she tries to get around. She's been through so much already. A miracle is needed, and I know you'll be praying. Joanie --- On Mon, 9/21/09, gpdd-request at gpdd.org wrote: From: gpdd-request at gpdd.org Subject: Gpdd Digest, Vol 8, Issue 297 To: gpdd at gpdd.org Date: Monday, September 21, 2009, 9:00 AM Send Gpdd mailing list submissions to ??? gpdd at gpdd.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit ??? http://gpdd.org/mailman/listinfo/gpdd_gpdd.org or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to ??? gpdd-request at gpdd.org You can reach the person managing the list at ??? gpdd-owner at gpdd.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of Gpdd digest..." ---------------------------------------------------------------------- The GPDD moderators frequently reject messages that do not follow these guidelines: A lack of a Topic label is the most common reason for message rejection. 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More information on Topic use, post restrictions and permissions can be found at http://www.gpdd.org/topics.html Postings to the digest must conform to the rules stated at http://www.gpdd.org/guidelines.html Please consult the GPDD FAQ at http://www.gpdd.org/faq.html for a list of commonly asked questions. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Other GPDD-affiliated sites: The Guinea Pigs' Rainbow Bridge, dedicated to the memories of piggies past http://www.guineapigsrainbow.org --------------------------------------- Piggie bladderstone informational resources and mailing list: http://www.gpigs-database.org --------------------------------------- All material posted and archived is copyright The Guinea Pigs' Daily Digest, and may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any media - printed or electronic - without written permission of the administrators. Today's Topics: ???1. HEALTH Colic drops for gassy pigs (Penny? Charlesworth) ???2. Misc; Bedding (M) ???3. [MISC] Details of rodentologist in New Zealand (Cazza177) ???4. Health; Hershey (M) ???5. [Health] Hershey's Diarrhea (Evelyn Baker) _______________________________________________ Gpdd mailing list Gpdd at gpdd.org http://gpdd.org/mailman/listinfo/gpdd_gpdd.org From warmbreath at comcast.net Tue Sep 22 01:01:45 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Mon, 21 Sep 2009 22:01:45 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's latest crisis References: <744260.17096.qm@web81308.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <5C9B722BECED4D0AB8CD543D6A47EDD7@SNADY> First I'm glad to hear her droppings are back to normal. You say she is on the same 3 meds still, I cant think of why any of the 3 would cause the symptoms of hind-end paresis, and nystagmus, there are 2 causes as I write as follows. Take these seriously, the e.cuniculi which I wrote about on an earlier article about a question about wry neck or head tilt but I dont think that was you. I'm sure everyone on the list wants to know that Hershey's dropping are back to normal (which since you are still giving the 3 meds, may have been a flushing of parasites the flagyl killed) Please, Joanie, what has the vet said, you will have to talk to her about these current symptoms, dont wait till the next crisis comes, write us a couple lines every time something happens, including positive changes, OK? I suspect Vit C deficiency, it often first appears as trouble with back legs, I asked if you are supplementing her, I suspect that all her dietary problems have not allowed her to get enough, the vet can give a shot or shots, they aren't expensive, I use chewable vit c tablets and teach to eat by nibbling one yourself, also you can put a piece in her mouth far enough back that she doesn't spit it out but she doesn't choke on it. Also you could smash it up, dissolve in a bit of water, syringe it up and feed it to her that way. Vit C deficiencies are quickly cured and the piggy returns to health in a week or so, any one else chime in here with your own experiences. Give some everyday for life. The biggest worry, and the one that accounts for both symptoms, would be the protozoan parasite e cuniculi which I warned about in a previous email, Flagyl will not kill it, use the link to www.medirabbit.com go to neurological conditions, and medicines, also do a search on medirabbit to bring up more articles. It can effect the spinal column, eyes and brain and can easily be fatal, there are 2 or 3 meds that treat it and will knock it back enough to become not apparent, its not completely curable as it pops up when immunity is compromised or old age sets in. I sincerely hope its not e.c. The vet can do what's called a titre test, the results are an answer on a scale, where the lower end indicates lower exposure, the upper end indicates higher exposure, so its not definitive unless its very low (no exposure) or very high, pretty much a confirmation. It takes 2 or three weeks to get the results so most vets treat while waiting for the result to be safe as the parasite can kill her in that amount of time. The medicine is not expensive and it will most likely save her life if she has e.c. Both conditions can be treated together and at once, both cannot be left to see if they can sort out themselves, also I attached an article by rabbit expert Dana Krempels PhD who is also the list owner for etherbun, and excellent listserve group for rabbit owners with medical and behavioral issues, its very large so they dont allow the social content we have here, and they cant address guinea pigs, you can reach Dana on www.allexperts.com See this article http://www.bio.miami.edu/hare/tilt.html it addresses the causes and treatment of head tilt, including the nystagmus and e. cuniculi if its e.c., the fact of her earlier illness could have lowered her resistance enough for the parasites to "wake up" and become active. e.c is very common in rabbits, and most rabbits get it at birth from their mothers. Then the parasite will either become active or become dormant and can strike later in life and esp. old age when immunity is lowered. It is much less common in g.p.'s but I've heard its possible, has she every been with a rabbit, do you know her whole history, was she ever at a shelter or bought at a pet store, where maybe the breeder had he with a bunny or she stayed with one at a shelter, or are their wild buns in the yard? That would be the most likely route of infection. Wrapping up, get Vit C into her tonight, and twice a day of 50mg. Read the article by Dr. Krempels, an talk to the vet tomorrow about both symptoms, take my email with you to the vet if you go. Finally 80 to 85 deg F is too high a heat but I dont know that it can cause these symptoms, if she is a long hair type it's much worse than if she's a short hair, keep her well hydrated as always and provide a wrapped bottle of frozen bottle at one end of the cage, if she spends her time close to the bottle you know she is too hot. I know money is tight and winter is near, but she needs to kept in the 70's. Best regards and healing wheeks, Sandy and Shipwreck Sam who hopes she recovers and joins him and the other pirates on the Black Pearl when she's well. Good luck Sandy From warmbreath at comcast.net Tue Sep 22 03:25:17 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:25:17 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's latest crisis References: <535992.39394.qm@web81304.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <23F68748776945FDB395359F55B47B1B@SNADY> Yes I did my prev. reply to the GPDD, Ear gunk is an important clue. It's either ear mites or an in ear infection, if she has an inner ear infection then the ear drum has broken, but it can be just an outer ear infection, although an inner ear infection accounts for disruption of the sense of balance, which brings on dizziness, head tilt and possibly nystigmus. But the e.c. is still a real possibility. Check guinea lynx for a list of permissible antibiotics in cases the vet doesn't know that some antibiotics will kill a g.p. , she can be treated for all three conditions at once, an ear infection would use up her tiny reservoir of Vit C (remember you said she wasn't eating many pellets, plus she's off veggies) so she's certainly short on Vit C, has an ear infection, and may have e.c. All three are survivable, but need meds. Keep syringing water, and encouraging her eating pellets, hay and Critical Care. If she gets dizzy and quits eating she could end up in stasis again. You may be learning now how all these symptoms and conditions hang together, one occurs and cause another to pop up. Its troublesome to fight a cascade of conditions, but treatable. Stasis usually occurs AS THE RESULT of another condition that causes her to quit eating, which causes the gut to shut down, ferment ensues causing gas, then pain, less eating etc., causes stasis, no eating causes Vit C deficiency, may cause a dormant infestation of e.c. to pop up and so it goes. So you just now may be getting to the core cause of why she had stasis in the first place. Please remember I said there were 3 motility drugs, and one was Reglan???? Well Reglan is given to reduce nausea also so it may be a better drug for her now, because the gut is working much better, but the ear infection causes a feeling of unbalance, the head may drop to one side, dizziness is worse, nystigmus may occur, so controlling nausea is a good option. Ask the vet or pharmacist if she has to be off Cisapride before she goes on Reglan, I have no clue but there may need to be a gap, safer to check. That's what I can think of tonight. I'm not happy she has an ear condition, but it helps to get to the bottom of things, why certain things happened. Good luck Sandy and Shipwreck Sam Joanie said My husband noticed that her left ear is gunked up. That would've slipped past me. That's the ear she tends to keep to the ground. She's going to the vet as soon as the office opens, poor darling. Your email has given me a lot of hope! Joanie From oreochockc at yahoo.com Tue Sep 22 03:51:00 2009 From: oreochockc at yahoo.com (corrine sakumoto) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:51:00 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] MISC: Snowy Bear and me Message-ID: <132386.57847.qm@web112610.mail.gq1.yahoo.com> Hello everyone and everypig.? Two months EXACTLY after losing my precious Snowy Bear, my husband called an ambulance for me in the early morning hours.? I couldn't stand up, I couldn't walk, I would fall right over.? When the paramedics came they said my heart rate was 160, my blood sugar was 300, my blood pressure was extremely low.? I had been feeling 'tired' for a few days.? After being in the ER for about twelve hours, and having numerous tests done on me, I asked if I could go home.? But then people started to rush all around me.? I was puzzled but they told me, we're prepping you for surgery.? Of course I was terrified.? The nurse said you're sicker than you think.? Long story short, the surgeon told me that if I had gone into the ER just a few hours later, I wouldn't be here today.? I had a kidney stone blockage so the surgery was to put a stent into my bladder and kidney so that my kidney could empty.? It had backed things up into my blood and poisoned my blood.? So I was bombarded with antibiotics and blood pressure medicines and treated for diabetes and a whole bunch of other stuffs.? I was in the ICU for awhile, then moved to the hospital.? I was happy when I could come home.? Then three weeks later, I had to go back into surgery to have the blocking kidney stone removed (it had been embedded) from my ureter and also the stent. The ironic part is that Snowy Bear had something similar.? Except it was a bladder stone in his urethra.? He couldn't pee but I could pee.? While in the ER and they're sticking me with all sorts of things, one part that made me smile is when they were trying to poke me and one nurse said, you have thick skin.? Made me remember this vet saying that guinea pigs have thick skin.? And to have a condition similar to Snowy Bear's was uncanny.? I figured my little boy suffered so much, I shouldn't even whimper for all the things I'm going through.? I really wish I could have taken his pain. For my recent surgery, my parents stayed with us to take care of me and they did an excellent job. I'm still weak and have a long road to recovery but all I can say is, I really really needed my little huggie piggie, my little Snowy Bear.? So it's made it a bit more difficult to recuperate but I know he's looking after me and I love him for that.? I always will. I love you Snowy Bear!!!! Love, mommy Corrine From oreochockc at yahoo.com Tue Sep 22 03:47:37 2009 From: oreochockc at yahoo.com (corrine sakumoto) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:47:37 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] MISC: vet's letter Message-ID: <425604.10800.qm@web112609.mail.gq1.yahoo.com> Just wanted to say that our little boy's vet wrote a letter to us about a month ago.? (I'll explain in another post why it's taken me so long to say this.)? We had written to her, asking her to reduce our bill for the 'cutting off of our boy's penis' since we did NOT approve of that and we never would have.? Her letter was a bit nasty as she accused us of blaming her for something that wasn't her fault.? She said she had two choices, put him to sleep or cut off his penis.? Well, long story short, we know there were other options, but not to hear her tell it.? We learned the hard way, the worst way possible, that she is NOT a good vet with gp's.? Receiving that letter, especially after being still so heartbroken, was of course, horrible in itself.? She refused to lower the bill so we just paid it in full in order to get this in our past.? Understandably, her attitude and treatment of us took its toll on me. Thanks to everyone for their support during this trying time. Corrine __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From cazza177 at ntlworld.com Tue Sep 22 12:35:08 2009 From: cazza177 at ntlworld.com (Cazza177) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:35:08 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's latest crisis In-Reply-To: <744260.17096.qm@web81308.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Hi Joanie I hadn't seen this email when I replied to your earlier email. In people this rapid eye movement issue is usually called labrinytis (spelt wrong, sorry) and I have had this. It's usually caused by an inner ear problem. In my case, it was caused by a reaction to a very strong prescription pain killer I was given by my doctor. It wreaked my balalnce for a while. My advice is pretty much as before, if it is an inner ear infection -- which is does sound like -- you need to get to a vet for treatment asap. If the test for E. Cuniculi is non-invasive and easy to perform, you might want to ask you vet to check for that as well, seeing as you indicated nystagmus and head tilt (which can be connected with E. Cuniculi, and is more serious). I did not want to move at all when I had labrinytis, as all movement I did for a while caused the rapid eye movement, and it is scary. You just want to keep still for a time until the effects wear off. It makes you feel sick as well, so don;t be surprised if Hershey can't or won't eat for a time -- although you will need to get food and fluids in her if she does stop eating. Try not to be too scared. If it is an ear infection only, it's not life-threatening, but you must get to a vet. Thinking of you Carole From tmacallister at musician.org Tue Sep 22 13:21:49 2009 From: tmacallister at musician.org (Tiffany MacAllister) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:21:49 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] [Misc] Vet's Letter Message-ID: <20090922172149.D8516BE407E@ws1-9.us4.outblaze.com> Corrinne, ?I know you want this behind you (and rightly so!), but if you can, I would go onto a review website like Yelp or something similar, find that vet's page and give a review, letting everyone know exactly what happened. That way the same fate doesn't befall anyone else who may be searching for piggie vets in your area. Any good vet would have either given you a small reduction in price, or listened to the other options she could have performed so she knew better next time. I hope your health gets better! ?Tiffy, S'mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, and Tortoise -- An Excellent Credit Score is 750 See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! From tmacallister at musician.org Tue Sep 22 13:16:19 2009 From: tmacallister at musician.org (Tiffany MacAllister) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:16:19 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] [Health] Hershey's Newest Crisis Message-ID: <20090922171619.3E97A10612@ws1-3.us4.outblaze.com> Joanie, ?I don't have any medical advice, because I am relatively new to piggies myself, but I can tell you to keep your head up and stay strong for Hershey. Our animal friends feed off of our emotions, so if you stay optimistic, Hershey will too, and that will help her fight off whatever is ailing her. As always, You, Hershey, and your family will be in our thoughts over here in Boston. ?Tiffy, S'mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, Tortoise -- An Excellent Credit Score is 750 See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! From daimajin2k4 at yahoo.com Tue Sep 22 12:07:28 2009 From: daimajin2k4 at yahoo.com (rodney barrick) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 09:07:28 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] G-force Message-ID: <161814.14833.qm@web54204.mail.re2.yahoo.com> ?I FINALLY got to see G-force in the theatre, and I liked it so much, I saw it again. Does anyone know when it's coming out on DVD? I am definitely getting a copy. From warmbreath at comcast.net Tue Sep 22 11:09:27 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 08:09:27 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC: Snowy Bear and Corrines letter References: <132386.57847.qm@web112610.mail.gq1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Dear Corrine, All that is so very ironic, in a way its like Snowy Bear prepared the way for you with his illness, you knew lots more about it and no doubt were more prepared for your surgery and recovery (when you had more time to think about it). Fortunately you had much better medical care than Snowy Bear did, we are all grateful for that. That said, I'm so terribly sorry either one of you had to go though it and I am eternally grateful you are recovering well. I know you are still weak physically and missing your little Bear so much, and I know you want to put it behind you but I wonder if it would actually do you some good if you could locate a local Veterinary Assoc. or even the Better Business Bureau and find a way to lodge a complaint. It is unlikely that your vet's actions would stand up to peer review and it would be good for your psyche to know that you did something to warn off others by making your story known. I dont mean to push you into something you are not ready for and truthfully I dont know right now how to pursue such a complaint. Does anyone on this list know how to do it. It could be a variety of approaches, not necessarily legal. There is even a TV commercial in my area going on frequently that offers people a way to comment on local business's, then other people can look up under vets, for instance, and find your story. When doing this the tone has to be basically the telling of your story rather than saying things like bad vet, killed my piggy, stay away, a retelling of your story avoids doing something that the vet could file a complaint against you for interfering with her business, or telling untruths that harm her. This is avoided by a first person telling of a story that avoids judgments, but allows others to draw their own conclusions about whether to use this vet or not. Maybe one of us has this experience or maybe one of us or you know of a lawyer who could give you quick advise or pre read a letter to see that it doesn't put you in legal jeopardy. I do not propose some huge action or lawsuit, just filling a report where it my do some good for you and for your neighbors with pets, this vet not only doesn't know how to care for piggies, she will do a surgery that she doesn't know how to do, and avoided telling you the truth and perpetrated a cover-up, so even a cat or dog owner would do well to avoid her. Please GPDDers, if there is a known way to do this, or knowledge of what not to do, or if any one wants to volunteer to help Corrine do this in order to keep a load off her while she recovers. We want to remove stress rather than cause it, although it might be a bit stressy in the beginning. Also Corrine, I would not think less of you if choose, as you have already stated, not to pursue it. I would just like to facilitate in case down deep you do want to something. I am so very happy to hear from you, to know that you met your own medical challenge and are recovering well. And I am sure snowy Bear is and was there for you, its so strange how events play out. Finally please know that we with the pirate piggies have promised a fine memorial, and that memorial has taken place but the reporting of it, which was primarily my duty, hasn't happened yet, but will, I am subject to bouts of procrastination and I under planned it as well as suffered from a lack of preparedness, as I didn't keep a list of who was on board the Black Pearl when the memorial took place (my printer was broken) and I kept thinking those names were integral to the story. So my partner, Alge, and I have decided to publish the story of the memorial in arrears but the list of piggies helping with it may be very incomplete, however, that doesn't change the actual service that occurred, which Alge, agrees, was quite beautiful and touching. The job of finishing the reporting of the memorial is important to me and Alge to finish, and is why I ask others on the list if they can assist you, if you would like, in filing a complaint or some such action for the horror perpetrated on Snowy Bear. And as I said, without diving into it, I dont know what to do. In this day and age of cell phones there is no reason you could not have been called during surgery and I dont think the vet has given you an explanation of how a piggy with no penis was supposed to live afterwards, and that is integral to good treatment and could justify her choice of treatment. If she could have said "here is your Piggy and I had to do this and this is how you care for him in this condition" she didn't do that and that turns the whole thing into a botched surgery followed by a cover-up. How much kinder for you and Snowy Bear had she helped him to the bridge when she realized she couldn't perform something that would allow him to live and that it was too late to turn back. I hope I haven't stressed you further, its my way to want to help, to fix it, and in this case you have a large body of friends and there may exist the will and talent to pursue this if you want to. If not we all will accept that and we still offer you our continued moral support and share your grief for the loss of little Snowy Bear. most Sincerely, Sandy BTW I use, and recommend to others, that you buy and use frequently, a wrist type blood pressure cuff. They are easy to use, and over time and frequent use, help you understand how your own body works in terms of BP, and even if used only when you feel off, it can give you an indication that something is actually wrong. I would probably not be here with out mine, as I have a schedule of meds from my doc, but as I improve my lifestyle over time, my need for the original amount has declined, and I would have seriously overmedicated myself if I had just charged ahead without question, none of us sees a doc often enough to discern the daily swings of BP, the excursions that are abnormal, and long term changes in need for meds. Any one who want to discus this off line just email me. Sandy From dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com Tue Sep 22 13:58:38 2009 From: dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com (dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 10:58:38 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Health: Corrine Message-ID: <600117.9119.qm@web33103.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Corrine: I can't believe what you've been through! Thank goodness you're on your way to being well again! That must have been such a scary and difficult time for you! Get well! Your angel Snowy Bear is keeping watch. Joanne and her herd "Folk will know how large your soul is, by the way you treat a dog." - Charles F. Doran From dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com Tue Sep 22 14:04:40 2009 From: dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com (dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 11:04:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] MISC: Off Topic: My Foster Bunny Message-ID: <13218.47252.qm@web33107.mail.mud.yahoo.com> My beautiful "foster" bunny, BELLA, died this morning. I'm so shocked. At 1am I checked on her and the piggies and all was fine. Bella had full roam of the pet room so she came up to me and wanted to play. At 7am I went in and she laid dying on the floor! I called my vet and got in as an emergency. Dr. K. didn't think she'd make it and had NO idea what happened. Bella looked just as shiny and perfect as always. I had agreed to xrays, IVs, tests, etc., but Bella died right there. I am heartbroken. I gave permission to the vet to take x-rays and do an autopsy to learn the WHY of this if she wanted and she did. I just got a call: Bella was perfect in every single way except one: a small part of her intestines appeared diseased/inflamed. The vet believes that bacteria/toxins entered her blood stream and put Bella into shock. She speculates that maybe her intestines twisted and then untwisted, damaging them. She couldn't tell me anything more. Please say a little prayer for Bella. She was only 2 years old. I loved her so much and my heart hurts so badly...this comes just 6 weeks after losing my dog, Becky. Thanks for listening, Joanne and her NY herd of 6 "Folk will know how large your soul is, by the way you treat a dog." - Charles F. Doran From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Tue Sep 22 15:02:56 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:02:56 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's imbalance Message-ID: <290017.7679.qm@web81308.mail.mud.yahoo.com> We made it in to the vet's early today. Hershey's head tilt is less severe than yesterday. She can walk now with her head off to the side, and shakily take food from us with?undimmed enthusiasm. Last night Gary noticed her left ear was occluded with black stuff. Her head leans to the left. The vet took a sample and checked it under the microscope and stained it, only to find no pathogens. His efforts to examine the canal or drum were impeded, as the goo is quite solid and impacted. I understand his reluctance to administer antibiotics that may not be necessary or are of the wrong kind, as she's still somewhat bloated, and has passed pretty normal droppings for only a couple days. So she's staying in the hospital for saline ear flushes until he can visualize the eardrum. She's receiving an antibiotic injection, which shouldn't jeopardize her gut, along with fluids. Another day without my Hershey Girl. I couldn't believe how much I cried yesterday, which is a breakthrough for me, as I tend to be rather closed to such emotions. When I pick her up, I can ask about the EC parasite. If it's a protozoan, wouldn't flagyl treat it? Also, she's on cisapride, not the weird-sounding drug my brain somehow manufactured. My heart and mind are weary, and I'm making mistakes. My husband prayed last night that we'd be as big a blessing to Hershey as she's been to us. I'm hoping that'll be answered, "Yes!" On the positive side, the air conditioning repairman is coming today! Whew! It got to be 85 degrees, as I might have mentioned. I even gave Hershey a dunk yesterday (lower body only) and some distance from a fan, just in case the heat was affecting her. Keep the love coming! We need it. Joanie From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Tue Sep 22 15:32:06 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:32:06 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: More about Hershey Message-ID: <436137.37105.qm@web81308.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Sorry I'm monopolizing the emails. Sandy brought up some good questions I'd like to address. Hershey's legs weren't paralyzed, in fact they were very strong. The just didn't know what to do to get her upright. She's been on 50 mg Oxbow vitamin C tablets, which she's adored even when little else appealed to her. I'm afraid to give more because, at least in humans, too much can trigger our old friend, diarrhea. The article she suggested gave me a lot of hope, which I was having a deficiency of, and I strongly recommended it to all. Hershey's cage is above our bunny's cage, but there's no urine or dropping exchange, plus our last piggie lived for several years in the same cage with her, and, for the last of her seven-plus year, in the same spot Hershey's is. They have enjoyed greens from our pasture, which I used to rinse as if I were going to eat them. Now I use natural dishsoap and rinse until the soap's gone. There could be bunnies there, but neither Bun nor Vrie ever showed any symptoms. Hershey's from Petsmart, where piggies were housed, girls and boys in their own glass cages. She was barely weaned when I got her, and incredible scared, nonetheless adoreable. I hope this answered all the questions you've raised. Don't be afraid to ask again, all of you, if I've forgotten anything. Depression makes me forgetful. Joanie From mlwilliams at clear.net Tue Sep 22 13:48:12 2009 From: mlwilliams at clear.net (mlwilliams2) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 13:48:12 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: New address and subscription Message-ID: <2C19A5C5231D48AEACFB5A900CD1FE54@Lynn> Hello y'all, As you know, much as been going on here in GA. Not only with me but with our state as well. We are surrounded by flood waters everywhere we look. We are fortunate in that we are in a bit higher area and so far, the waters have not reached our door. It has, however, turned our front yard into a lake. We lost all of our pepper plants and other stuff I as growing for the girls but thank God our home is not destroyed. There is more rain to come and so please keep our entire area in your prayers. It's good to be back following a rather lengthy row with our service provider. As you can see, I have now changed providers and so far, I am pleased with them. The girls are doing really well. I'm thinking of blowing up a Barbie life raft for them... just so they feel safe, you understand! :) Their cage, as well as our own cage feels damp constantly. Ugh.. MY BED SHEETS FEEL MOIST, EVEN THOUGH THEY Really AREN'T. The saturation level is about 100% in the air right now so we are just trying to wait it out. So far, there have been 8 confirmed deaths due to the flooding, including one little 2 year old boy. So sad. The girls hated to miss the last of the pirating adventure but things got all discombobulated here. (Yes,k that's a southern word). But, hopefully I've gotten re-subscribed now under this address so sh should be able to once again read my GPDD. I apologize to al of you who have probably written to me at the old address but I can't even access that account any more so I fear those e-mails are out in the great black abyss somewhere, along with a bunch of socks that come up missing every time I do laundry around here! I hope you are all well. I'll be in and out until I get all caught up on work and personal e-mails. Take car! Hugs & whisker kisses, Lynn, and a soggy Samantha & Tabitha From rzm.2 at verizon.net Tue Sep 22 20:19:30 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:19:30 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- message to Corrine Message-ID: <530B4E5426C841F8AB60B8E6E19A2737@chirpyPC> Corrine- Wow, you've been thru alot. It's really weird cause I was going to e-mail you today or tommorrow. I read this thing in a magazine article & it made me think of you & what you went thru with Snowy Bear. It was an article about this lady who lost her 3 year old daughter due to a medical error by a nurse & doctors in the hospital. Her counseler gave her the following advice: "It's time for you to make a decision. You can let your grief & anger continue to destroy you. Or you can take that energy & use it to propel yourself forward. Get out there & do something with your anger & your pain." For some reason as soon as I read those words you popped into my head. I know it's easy for me to say, I just hate to see you so depressed. I just wish there was a way to make that vet see what a huge mistake & injustice she made & educate her so it never happens again. I don't know if there is some kind of veterinary association you could write to or what. Maybe others would know. I just thought maybe if you had a way to channel your hurt & pain it would help you. Obviously right now you have alot more to worry about though. I hope you will be ok. I hope you don't think I'm being forward. I think of you alot & wonder how you're doing. Keep up the recovery & keep in touch when you feel better. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From warmbreath at comcast.net Tue Sep 22 22:50:00 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:50:00 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC: Off Topic: My Foster Bunny References: <13218.47252.qm@web33107.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <974A344A501E45E195C119224DA64245@SNADY> I am so very sorry for your shocking loss of Bella, it is so sad. I think you were very wise to have an autopsy done. Unfortunately buns are very susceptible to stasis and this gut or stomach twisting, it is that serious, even a tiny spot, so that result is very much the cause of her death. Have you been following the conversation about Hershey the piggie? She is recovering from stasis just now, her gut didn't twist though, and she has other conditions that probably caused her stasis but aren't sorted out yet. I'm sure Bella is at the bridge and looking over you know, she will always be with you. You are fortunate to know the cause of her death, so you know there was absolutely nothing you or the best vet on earth could have done. Buns and pigs hide their illness' as a defensive mechanism, and the gut twisting comes on very suddenly. May she rest in peace. Sandy From warmbreath at comcast.net Tue Sep 22 23:00:03 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Tue, 22 Sep 2009 20:00:03 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: New address and subscription References: <2C19A5C5231D48AEACFB5A900CD1FE54@Lynn> Message-ID: <82C84F1B53254D2C80F3978565D10FD3@SNADY> best you send the girls off to the Black Pearl so they be safe, it is an ongoing adventure with crew coming in and out at all times. Many piggies are slipping off at night via Pig Air and returning in the morning before you ever miss them. Seriously I hope you and all our southern piggies are safe and dry, global warming is causing foul weather everywhere, or at the least changed weather. Where I live we have more snow than ever each year, we used to get it only once in while, many years without. love and weeks Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From Glynis at garnay.com.au Tue Sep 22 23:30:01 2009 From: Glynis at garnay.com.au (Glynis Robson) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:30:01 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] [HEALTH] simethicone Message-ID: <1E79BEF045F13847938D188011CBF92322101C@GARNAYSBS.garnayindustries.local> Just letting anyone know in OZ that if you need to buy the simethecone it's named as INFACOL 30ml infant gripe drops. I used it for Duke a couple of times, but when he went to the bridge i looked at the date and it was nearly 'out of date' so i disposed of it. One of the first products i bought when i got the girls was the Infacol, it now sits with a few of my on hand drugs in case of need over a weekend. Love Glynis, Velvet and Onyx (in mem Sully and Duke) xxxx From Glynis at garnay.com.au Tue Sep 22 23:36:47 2009 From: Glynis at garnay.com.au (Glynis Robson) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:36:47 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] [HEALTH] Corrine Message-ID: <1E79BEF045F13847938D188011CBF92322101E@GARNAYSBS.garnayindustries.local> Dear Corrine I'm so very sorry to hear how unwell you've been :o( Whee all are sending you healing wheeeeeeeeeks of love and care xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx It is ironic that you suffered from such a similar thing as dear Snowy Bear. I'm sure he was looking over you and sending you healing loves :o) As for your vet..........i'd best not say............. GRRRRRRRRRRRR I do hope you're on your feet and well again really soon, again many hugs and loves from us all xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Love Glynis, Velvet and Onyx (in mem Sully and Duke) xxxx From Glynis at garnay.com.au Tue Sep 22 23:42:56 2009 From: Glynis at garnay.com.au (Glynis Robson) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:42:56 +1000 Subject: [Gpdd] [HEALTH] Hershey Message-ID: <1E79BEF045F13847938D188011CBF92322101F@GARNAYSBS.garnayindustries.local> Oh no this little girl has been thru so much !! Whee send very very big wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeks from the girls and lots of tender loves and kisses from myself. Also some hugs for you both cause it's not easy when you've got an ill piggie or animal...........whee all know how you feel please be comforted to know your gppd friends are thinking of you constantly. Love Glynis, Velvet and Onyx (in mem Sully and Duke) xxxx From cazza177 at ntlworld.com Wed Sep 23 07:10:23 2009 From: cazza177 at ntlworld.com (Cazza177) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:10:23 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] Guinea pig beds Message-ID: Dear all Just sorting through some things and came across a card I kept for a website that makes handmade guinea pig cosies and beds: http://www.cosycavies.co.uk/ I bought a couple for my gp's and they are very good quality. If you have a gp who just loves to hide or one that is perhaps a little elderly or convalesing but isn't generating its own heat too well and needs some extra warmth, they would be good to use. Although based in the UK, there's a PayPal option, so maybe they can consider sending overseas? (Although maybe others on the Digest know and can tell us of places in the US and other countries where similar items can be purchased?) Just thought I'd let everyone know. Kind regards Carole From cazza177 at ntlworld.com Wed Sep 23 07:25:23 2009 From: cazza177 at ntlworld.com (Cazza177) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:25:23 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] Sawdust and wood shavings Message-ID: Dear all I have been in communication with my local Council regarding a pet store and the way they are keeping their gp's. There's a few things they did concede were not ok about where they lived (such as the brackets for the water bottles being so high up on the walls that the gp's couldn't actually reach them). However, the gp's were on sawdust, and I had read in several places that sawdust was not a wise bedding option for gp's. I never used it for BG and Artie because of that, but I am being asked by the man at the Council why sawdust shouldn't be used -- I guess he wants official confirmation on the topic before deciding on if the Council instruct pet stores not to use sawdust anymore. I have read that with cedar shavings gp's are allergic to the cedar oils in it and that over time they will develop problems in their internal organs, and that some immediately develop rashes. Of pine shavings, I have read that it can not only bring about liver damage, it's also a home for mites. Does anyone have any thoughts about sawdust and also know of any good websites that explain clearly the problems/concerns with using such shavings? It would be really helpful to hear thoughts and opinions before I write back to the Council. Many thanks Carole From piggyfriends at tesco.net Wed Sep 23 06:49:11 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:49:11 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC Condolences for Bella Message-ID: Joanne, I was so sorry to read of the loss of your foster bunny, Bella. I lost my piggy, Mayflower, to gastric torsion. It happens so suddenly that there is absolutely nothing that can be done. Our Rodentologists said that it can happen when a piggy popcorns or makes a sudden movement and I guess that the same thing can happen in buns. Mayflower was a SCAMPS piggy but was still energetic and I know how much of a shock that this will have been for you. R.I.P. Bella. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From mfug at live.co.uk Wed Sep 23 07:39:16 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M Fug) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:39:16 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] Rainbow Bridge; Bella Message-ID: Joanne we are sorry you lost Bella so suddenly at least you know she didnt suffer for long. Bella was one lucky bunny to have you as a Mummy, never forget that. You are an angel to all your furry family, all of us here applaud your dedication. M, Fugly + Spooky _________________________________________________________________ Get the best of MSN on your mobile http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/147991039/direct/01/ From mfug at live.co.uk Wed Sep 23 11:46:26 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M Fug) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:46:26 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] Misc; Off Topic Australia Message-ID: We hope all our friends in Australia are not being badly affected by the dust storm. The pictures on the news look pretty spectacular but not something you actually want to live with. Keep safe. M, Fugly + Spooky _________________________________________________________________ MSN straight to your mobile - news, entertainment, videos and more. http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/147991039/direct/01/ From warmbreath at comcast.net Wed Sep 23 13:15:00 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 10:15:00 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] Sawdust and wood shavings References: Message-ID: <8C7715281FBA48A48AED6E50E61E7E25@SNADY> The problem with pine and even more so, cedar and other wood products, is that unprocessed, they still have the aromatic oils in them, that if inhaled closely by anyone, will overtime, produce liver damage, and possibly lung damage. Small animals tend to make nests of these products and sleep in them and on them, so the exposure is quite great. It's those components that give forests their distinctive smells, the aromatic oils are released to a higher degree by being shaved, there are many more surfaces that give off the oils. The more highly refined the wood is the less oils remain, like paper, which is made of wood pulp, which Carefresh and its low cost cousins are made of, have been so highly refined the aromatic oils are gone. These oils are why closets, drawers, and chests (not mine) are lined with cedar, and why eucalyptus forests have no insects. Sandy From basschick23 at hotmail.co.uk Wed Sep 23 14:54:37 2009 From: basschick23 at hotmail.co.uk (Claire King) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 19:54:37 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] (Misc) Hello from Claire & Biscuit In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hello everyone and everypig! Just a short email to say hi and to let you know that we are still here - everything has been a little hectic over the past few months with the arival of another new mini slave, but Biscuit is doing well. We were very worried about him after the loss of Tea, but he seems to have bounced back...not popcorning as much as before, but I guess that is because of Tea. I have been trying to keep up with the digests, but my condolances to all those who have had piggies go over the bridge. And also thank you foe the advice that Infacol and Gripe water will help if Biscuit has a poorly tummy - we have a lot of those medicines in the house, so it is good to know that they will help him too! Take care, Claire & Biscuit _________________________________________________________________ With Windows Live, you can organise, edit, and share your photos. http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/134665338/direct/01/ From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Wed Sep 23 15:49:45 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 12:49:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's last stand Message-ID: <801202.57280.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Sorry I haven't had time to read any emails for the past few days. Hershey's head tilt, nystagmus, and equilibrium have improved, but she's had difficulty eating. Today, I took her to the vet to see if her jaw was dislocated, as her incisors didn't look aligned. The vet pulled out a lot of food from poor Hersh's little mouth. She?has been unable to swallow because, as we find out, she has facial paralysis on the tilted side. Also, her left eye has no reaction to anything, including touch. I'm devasted to say that if she can't swallow we'll have to send her to the Bridge. She'll have an evaluation today of her swallowing ability. I fervently pray she'll be able to swallow, and I hope you will, too. She's been through enough without spending the rest of her life being force-fed Critical Care (which she loathes--both flavors) and having her mouth swabbed clean after every feeding, and the gut and teeth problems such a diet would entail. Here I go, crying again. We'll know the results tonight, but I may not be in any condition to email for a couple days. Where there's life, there's hope, but I'm running out of it. Thanks so much for supporting me. Love to all, Joanie From piggyfriends at tesco.net Wed Sep 23 17:11:37 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 22:11:37 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC Weather in US and Australia Message-ID: <6B8D132B3E354D1EB355299E6472A28C@inspiron1150> Welcome back Lynn. We are very sorry to read that you are surrounded by floods. Your post prompted me to look at the BBC World News and I was horrified to see that many states in the US have tornados, hail and floods. Then I read about the dust storm in Australia with the videos of Sydney covered in red dust. We, in England, really should not complain about not having had summer for three years in a row, although this last one was not as wet as the previous two. We all hope that everyone in affected areas is safe and well. Take care everyone. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From piggyfriends at tesco.net Wed Sep 23 17:31:29 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 22:31:29 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC Get well soon Corrine Message-ID: Corrine, We are very sorry to read that you have been so unwell. What a terrible exprience for you and your family and we are sending our best wishes for your complete recovery. I wish that I knew how to help regarding Snowy Bear. I do not anything about legal matters in the US and I am guessing that things differ from state to state. There must be some authority to whom complaints could be addressed. In England we have the CAB - Citizens' Advice Bureau - who could point you in the right direction. I wonder if there is a similar organisation in the US, to whom you could turn when you are well enough to cope. Here, I think that I would start by contacting the BVA ( British Veterinary Association ). One can also complain to the RCVS ( Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons ) and if a case is subsequently brought it is heard in public. I'd write to my MP ( Member of Parliament ) - I don't know what the US equivalent would be. I'd write letters to anybody who would read and/or print them. Maybe the RSPCA could help. I have always been a campaginer for animal rights so the list of contacts in England is infinite. I hope that, when you are well enough, someone in the US can steer you in the right direction. I have just found this online which may be of help http://www.aspca.org/about-us/faq/veterinarian-complaints.html In the meantime, take it easy and get lots of rest. Take care. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Wed Sep 23 18:08:34 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:08:34 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] misc: Bella Message-ID: <921476.90714.qm@web80207.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Joanne, Our deepest sympathy is sent to you from our little misfitville.? Our hearts go out to you during this difficult time.? many hugs sent in this email to you. jean& misfits From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Wed Sep 23 18:11:12 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:11:12 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] misc: Hershy Message-ID: <262235.8124.qm@web80203.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Oh deer little Hershy we are praying hard for you here in misfitville. So sorry that you are still having so many problems. Your mommie and daddie love you so much and we know they are worried so much. So we are praying for them also. Get well fast little lady Jean &?Andy?and the misfits From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Wed Sep 23 18:13:04 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:13:04 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: Corrine Message-ID: <750220.16427.qm@web80201.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Oh Corrine, So sorry to hear that you have been thru so much sickness lately. We are praying hard for you here in misfit ville. Such a scare indeed. Get rest and know we are praying for you. j&a and the misfits From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Wed Sep 23 18:45:26 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:45:26 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] behavior: confused? Message-ID: <699371.80497.qm@web80203.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Hello Fellow Digest Friends, I have a very strange question as this has totally baffled me. I have a guinea pig named Lazarus that is probably two? years old. He has always been a moma's boy and he and I have this thing we have done since he?was a small guinea:) I talk to him to let him know I will be taking him out by saying Lazzy boy momma is here.. and i put my hand in his cage and tap it three times and turn my hand over and he immediately goes and sits on my palm to lift him out. We have been doing this forever.... and never a problem with?this way of getting him?out of his cage..(several of our guineas come out of there cage this way.?Well last nite after we came home from my daughters house from holding our new grand baby I did my normal routine of tapping the cage and waiting for Laz to come sit on my hand.. well he didn't .. he went to the?other side of his cage and CHATTERED his teeth at me!!!!???I was taken back by his actions.. he has never ever chatted his teeth at me!! I continued to talk softy to him and waited for him to climb on?my hand.. He refused to do this.. I attempted to try several more times.. I even washed my hands again thinking the? baby smell was there and it offended him???? but every attempt by me was a chatter of teeth and no attempt to climb on?my hand... I even tried a favorite treat to bribe him.. but nope it wasn't to be... My husband who couldn't believe my beloved Laz wouldn't come to my hand said he could get him out.. as he has?many times before.. but on is attempt to get him out Lazarus bit him!!!? now?I was totally surprised at this.. so we decided to leave him alone...?for the rest of the nite.. The next morning it was the same... chatter?and it?then opposite?corner glaring at me... so?by? this time I am in tears.. thinking what could of happened to him to change him ??? So I again tried this afternoon.. and he came to my hand at once.. just like old times... and I had been over to?Graces to see the baby again..(my day off I just couldnt not go see that?baby again!)??so the sent of the baby was on me again I am sure. after he was in my hands i lifted him out ever so careful worried he would turn and bite me! but he didn't?. I cked him all over to make sure he was ok. he ate and drank fine. poops?normal.?So I am?wondering has anyone else had a pig turn overnite?? and then turn back to being them old self again?? I am confused?? Jean From rzm.2 at verizon.net Wed Sep 23 19:26:12 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:26:12 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- sawdust bedding Message-ID: Carole- When I first got Albert I was quite clueless about piggies before I started educating myself. I used the bedding the petstore gave me. It was maybe pineshavings? It had a sawdust type consistancy. He started having problems "down there" & I took him to the vet only to discover the sawdust had gunked all up around his penis & also he was impacted with it. So definitely a good reason to not use sawdust. I switched to Carefresh upon my vets advice & he had no more problems. Hope that helps. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From rzm.2 at verizon.net Wed Sep 23 19:33:33 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:33:33 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- condolences Message-ID: Joanne- I'm very sorry to hear about your bunnie Bella. You've been thru alot lately, just remember we are all here for you. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From rzm.2 at verizon.net Wed Sep 23 19:39:53 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:39:53 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- welcome back Lynn Message-ID: Lynn- Glad to have you back & glad you're all ok. I saw all the footage on the news, it's so sad. You are all in our prayers. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From warmbreath at comcast.net Wed Sep 23 21:02:22 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 18:02:22 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] behavior: confused? References: <699371.80497.qm@web80203.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <4587B0217D19409391E0EB8AA962CE1C@SNADY> I have no direct knowledge but I think it was the baby smell, it was still on your clothes, to a piggy you reeked of baby. I dont knot why your piggie doesn't like baby but its pretty clear. Be careful in the future, piggies can remember, otherwise I would advise you repeat it as an experiment. best regards Sandy From warmbreath at comcast.net Wed Sep 23 20:58:39 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:58:39 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's last stand References: <801202.57280.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Joanie Please its not to late Give her the Panacur (Fenbendazole) for e.c. The facial paralysis confirms the diagnosis, she doesn't have to die but the longer you wait the worse it is Please! its not expensive. Now everything points to e.c. If you cant do this please help her to the Bridge. Also Get her some pain meds too, just Meloxicam also called Metacam, and inexpensive NSAID Take these articles to the vet here is an article about Cisapride http://www.medirabbit.com/Safe_medication/GI_stimulation/cisapride.htm, it may interact with the drugs for e.c, and it lists a side effect as diarrhea which Hersh had and about Reglan http://www.medirabbit.com/Safe_medication/GI_stimulation/metoclopramide.htm Show to vet to make sure there is no interaction with the drug for e.c., also they reiterate not to take her off of either of these suddenly, causes her to go back into stasis. your loving friend Sandy From warmbreath at comcast.net Wed Sep 23 20:23:11 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:23:11 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] (Virtual) but real, Cap'n Jack Honors his Mum, Alge, on Talk Like A Pirate Day Message-ID: <31B2AC390D0E4ABEACBF63892D6BDD68@SNADY> Cap'n Jack Honors his Mum, Alge, On Talk Like Pirate Day Setting: Somewhere in da Caribbean aboard da Black Pearl "Hey all you Pirate scum, All hans on deck immejetly, Whee gotta talk! and you out there at home, listen up cause dis pirate got sumpthin to say." (the following text is strong in subject and parents should preview) (no bad swear words though) (followed by thunderings of little feetsies, and big swords clanking as everypig on board shimmies down ropes or skitters up the stairs, others twist gracefully out of their hammocks, much muttering as piggy pirates are torn from their duties or leisure, they haven't figured out if they are mad or glad about the interruption, a few wheeks and whistles ensue as Pegleg Peaches thumps her pegleg on the deck for attention.Captain Jack mutters to himself, takes off his hat, wipes his sweaty brow with a much used towel he tucks it back in his belt, replaces the hat, and takes a swig from a BPA fee water bottle, it bears a black skull and crossbones and contains some miscellaneous rotgut he refuses to discuss. The day is a bit overcast, clouds are piled up on the horizon, it's muggy, a little heat lightning flickers between clouds in the distance. A few dolphins move closer to the Pearl, they want to hear. Peaches pounds again, Cap'n Jack clears his throat and pretends to spit on the deck, he looks dangerous, Barnacle Bill is just behind him, Shipwreck Sam and Jodie Da Pig are fumbling with a tiny hand held recorder. Again Peaches pounds her leg, all is ready, silence happens, looks of attentive expectancy and a bit of fear and worry cross some of the piggy faces, Cap'n Jack doesn't make speeches often, and he is THE Captain. Sam's recorder clicks on, the Captain begins.....) Well Mateys!! Hear now that it be Talk-Like-A-Pirate-Day, therefore dis pirate is gonna talk cause I got sumthin to say and it aint pretty and it aint nice, but whee is pirates, and my mum, Alge, has taught me dat pirates tell it like it is. Dey dont pull no punches. So here it be mates. My dear mum's health has taken a turn for da worse. As many of you know she has been fighting to get on and waiting for a lung transplant. Dis is not an easy ting to do cause dey make even the poorest pay lotsa gold for aftercare, and get home nurses and stuff, and go to anuder city for a 3 months. Dis has been a struggle to deal with and da fight to make her place was not finished when she got some worser news. She went to her doc cause she been bleeding where she shouldn't and dat Doc said he did not like what he saw, so she operated and after waiting and waiting, whee are told she has anal cancer, very rare type, (of course my Mum is a very rare lady) and it was too advanced to take out. So she must now shuffle herself somehows to da big city where dey will give her radiation therapies and 2 short courses of chemo, and all dat wit no anesthesia because it be bad for her lungs. She has been bery brave and she is still hurtin from her surgery so dats why I been away from da Pearl zo much, and leaving you lot in charge. I gotta admit you bin doin pretty good, but I digress.... Besides havin da big C my Mumzi will have to wait a long time extra for her lung transplant cause one's gotta be declared cancer free for 5 years before dey allows you da new lungs, so dat means she might age out to where dey wont give you da new ones cause you be too old. So dis news makes me sad, and sometimes makes me mad, so dats why me and Billy and Sammy been so cranky lately, whee all love her zo much an whee know you all do to, she is a fine lady with a heart as big as dis ocean, an itz just not right an its just not fair dat dis happens to her. But whee have all found out dat life isn't fair and sometimes it sucks, but itz still beats the alternative. My mum has not been up to writing for a while now but she reads all our stories on the GPDD and she wants us to know what's been happening to her. She would love emails but can't promiz to read dem right off, or answer for a bit. She is a strong woman an she is fighting dis ting and she knows whee will all fight hard and wish her well and give her da moral support. When she is a bit better from da surgery she will be writing again on GPDD answering piggy problem questions an writing about our adventures here on da Pearl, but for dat she needs other mums and dads to write der piggy stories too, can she do lots. And me mums jus want eberybody to treat her da same way as always cause her life continues and she is living it, an anybody who wants to talk about it can, and does who dont wanna or get choked up, well whee just want to go on as before. Jus now she be a bit groggy for phone calls but she's gettin bedder, she jokes dat dis surgery be a real pain in de ass. Whee are a community and all it peoples and piggies have der ups an downs and whee all are used to it zo like da singer Eddie Vedder said in da new Pearl Jam album on sale today "I wanna live my life with the volume full" and dats what I tink my mumzi want too. Da new album is named "Backspacer" after dat famous leatherback sea turtle dat won da Great Turtle Race" dat Sandy wrote about on dis GPDD and Sammy and his frins been helpin dem turtles lay der eggs and get dose eggs hatched with nobody stealin dem eggs, bin a great success, dey had a great turtle baby season wit all da extra help. But I digress.... And Mum and Shipwreck Sam's mum want to apologize day dey have not written da story about da memorial service whee had on board for da many bridge piggies and mums and GPDD dear frin Debbie, who went to the bridge! Dey had it set up as a joint project but Sammy's mum didn't get it dat Alge was gettin sicker until much time had passed, and Sandy should just have done it herself, but thought any day tings would be better. Zo dey still are going to write it up cause dey feel strongly about it, but da part of da story dat needed all the names of the on board piggies will be written differently, da ceremony though, is da same, an just as beautiful, I know it brought tears to my eyes dat I had a hard time finishing my speech. So my mum and Sandy apologize an ask for forgiveness. But I digress..... So dats it frins, my mumzi is sick, actually sicker, and I am hopin and praying she gets well an me and Barnacle Bill gonna help her as much as whee can, and whee wish for all your support and love an I just wanna say, give your piggie a hug an your kids, an husbin, wifes, and kiddies cause dey is special and dat love is what makes da world go round. So see I aint zo tough after all, Now you all scums get back to work or whatever, and make lots visits home, da Pearl remains on active voyage, but give your frinz a hug now and especially dont forget Live Like a Pirate and Speak Like a PIRATE, cause Yo Ho! Yo Ho!! Itz a pirates life for me, and my mumzi, an all my frins.(all piggies repeat the refrain, Yo Ho! Yo Ho!! Itz a pirates life for me) The Cap'n shouts "DISS.....MISSED!!" (da piggies are all standing in kind of a stunned silence as Cap'n Jack takes out da towel an dabs at his eyes and brow, he puts his bottle-o-grog to his lips & takes a deep swig sayin "To my wunerful Mumzi" den he passes it to Barnacle Bill who takes his draught sayin "To Mumzi", Agents Igor and Fugly come to their senses first and snap a smart salute to Cap'n Jack, who returns it. The assembly follows suit raggedly, and Barnacle Bill passes the grog to the secret agents who also toast Alge and they pass it to the throng who one-by-one share a kind of communion of friendship and love among themselves, and for Alge. A long rolling clap of thunder rolls over the ship and a drop of rain hits the deck, a small rainbow appears between the clouds so whee know our Bridge frins have been present, surely the Jolly Rodents and Deb among many many others. The dolphins give a great leap in unison, and leave in a "V" formation. Then another thunder clap, rain spatters, Jodie and Peaches take turns with the grog, lifting the bottle high, arms linked, saying together "to Alge" then hug as they pass the bottle to Shipwreck Sam, who whispers "to Alge", he clicks the recorder OFF....) From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Wed Sep 23 23:02:06 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 20:02:06 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey continues to improve! Message-ID: <449912.84830.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Of course, anything I say about her health could be no longer applicable by the time I type it. Rather than euthanize, the vet suggested she keep her for a day and assess her ability to swallow when syringed Critical Care. She was ravenous and, as long as she was fed slowly, swallowed with no problem. So I'll be syringing three times a day (at least) for the next week when we'll assess whether to try hay and pellets. It's SO hard not giving her treats. The vet said a little bit of banana would be okay. Hershey voices protests (loudly) with her doctor's decision. I was sure when I left her off that I'd never see her again. What a thrill to see her bright and wheeking to me with a full tummy! Even if it's for one more day, seeing her happy is worth the trauma we've experienced. She could fade away at any moment. But she's home now, and contented--well, not contented, exactly. She keeps murmuring about romaine and cilantro and carrot and... She's so much more alive than she was this morning and she's a lot more coordinated with barely a tilt to her lovely head. I'll take every moment I can with her as long as it doesn't cost her pain. Gary felt so badly about Hershey that he surprised me with a baby piggie, which we're keeping separated in a different room for obvious reasons. I would've waited until things got calmer, but he knows me pretty well and felt I'd need it. She's a long-coated Abby with a white stick-up crest on her mostly red body. She fits into the palm of my hand. She's scared, of course, and I'm giving her time to settle, which is easy to do with my attention focused on her big sister. I'll keep you updated. Whew! What a day! Joanie From Guineapigfilms at aol.com Wed Sep 23 23:46:14 2009 From: Guineapigfilms at aol.com (Guineapigfilms at aol.com) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:46:14 EDT Subject: [Gpdd] Virtual: Re: Cap'n Jack Honors His Mum, Alge Message-ID: Sandy, It's a beautiful announcement, and you've captured the spirit of Cap'n Jack so wonderfully. I know that Alge will be very pleased. Cap'n Jack, Alyssa and I just love your Mum, Alge. She has been one of Alyssa's biggest supporters from Day One, and I'm pretty sure the Carrot Wars she has is the original videotape from the very first batch we shipped out. She has always been one of Carrot War's biggest promoters. And she is so creative herself! I feel so bad for your mum as it seems so unfair that she's facing this new trial, but Alyssa and I are hoping and praying that her spirit will carry her through with shining colors. We hope that she knows that we'll be thinking about her during this trying time. Now, Cap'n Jack, you know what a strong fighter your mum is, and you know how she doesn't let much get her down. I hope that you'll be able to take long absences from the Black Pearl to keep her company as she beats this latest foe down. (With your help and the assistance of Barnacle Bill, we KNOW that she will!) And, Alge, if you happen to be reading this, please know how much we love you. You're a very special person to everyone on this listserv, and to your little pirate piggies, too. With all of us pulling for you, things should start looking up!!!! Love and WHEEEEEEEEEEEPS, Nancy & Alyssa & the guinea pig "movie stars" http://www.carrotwars.com From warmbreath at comcast.net Wed Sep 23 23:57:05 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 20:57:05 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey continues to improve! References: <449912.84830.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <0BEA231EFA7C4CE4B954D118B0A3B667@SNADY> I'm just finishing another article, I think your vet thinks she has the e.c. covered with flagyl but in a dozen hours I haven't found it used in rodents for e.c just dogs and cats for other parasite, plus 3 drugs are needed to treat e.c. successfully She should be on Baytril and Metacam for infection and inflammation and metacam for pain and inflammation. My full article will follow. Its these 3 drugs together that will save her life plus tapering off Cisapride slowly, otherwise she can easily slip right back into stasis. My article has references. Plus there are 3 related drugs choose one for e.c. plus a separate one that is new for buns, instead of one of the other three Bear with me, I'm trying so hard I dont how you are going to keep the new piggie uninfected except that I think she may be past the point she is infectious, it should be out of her kidney's now, its up to her brain, that's when they stop shedding infection as always Sandy From warmbreath at comcast.net Thu Sep 24 00:28:55 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 21:28:55 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's last stand References: <801202.57280.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <1EAE2250C39C47FB8F51D08E8537E09C@SNADY> Hi Joanie, I am continuing to research, the three drugs that are commonly given for e.c. are (Albendazole( Albenza, Eskazole, and Zentel), Oxibendazole, Fenbendazole (Panacur), which are members of the Benzimidazole family, and one new drug studied in a paper by Esther Van Praag the owner of medirabbit.com called pyrithramine, her article is here http://www.medirabbit.com/EN/Neurology/cuniculi/pyrimethamine.pdf Flagyl ( metronidazole) is in the same family as the ones ending in -zole, but I have never seen it used for e.c. Flagyl would be given in dogs and cats for worms and protozoa, I dont know why it doesn't work or isn't used in buns and go.up.'so. I think your vet thinks she has e.c. covered but she doesn't. The Oxibendazole or Fenbendazole are the ones I see used , I suggest a switch, one of the references thinks the Oxibendazole works best. I did find that e.c is usually treated also with an antibiotic because the parasite munching in her brain causes abscesses which become infected, the cause of death is a type of encephalitis, and there is an inflammatory response which is why baytril is often given together with the anti parasitic drug AND the NSAID metacam which also treats pain, so for e.c she needs 3 different kinds of drugs above including one of the three -zole drugs, plus she has to be slowly weaned off the Cisapride article below Please take the time to read these, hopefully I have been clear enough that you can convince the vet, but I have been reading for hours every day and have not found flagyl used in rodents for e.c The diarrhea was probably caused by the Cisapride, Baytril doesn't commonly cause it, banana is good for giving pills, you hide the pill in a dab and put it in her mouth. Have you watched the vet feed the Critical Care? I watched my vet and she got a lot more in than I did. She held him up in her lap, while I had him more in a normal standing position. http://www.medirabbit.com/EN/Neurology/cuniculi/pyrimethamine.pdf this is an article instructs about e.c. Dont worry Please know that I have no interest in making you more miserable, but I dont think this vet has correctly diagnosed e.c. or treated it properly. For e.c. not only is the ant given, but the Baytril and the NSAID Metacam I mentioned in the previous letter, it not only reduces the pain but reduces inflammation which is a side effect of the parasitic protozoa . As you read these article you will see the specific progression of the infection. First she had the hind end paresis which is typical of the beginning infection, it goes to the kidneys then works its way up the spinal cord to the brain, where the head tilt comes in, the effects to eyes of nystigmus, and she can go blind it can affect her facial nerves. Here is an article written on allexperts by Dana Krempels PhD that will help explain your vets choices, I'm hoping the word guinea pig Can be substituted for rabbit, that is what I have based my advise on, note the article is not about e.c. The stasis link is the same one I gave you last week http://en.allexperts.com/q/Rabbits-703/Sick-bunny.htm please note this article also refers to ileus which is interchangeable with stasis If it were to turn out that she has an ear infection the Baytril and Metacam would be indicated for that , here is a link about antibiotics in guinea pigs: Guinealynx says "They describe the PLACE rule as a rough guideline for antibiotics to avoid. [PLACE -- penicillin, lincomycin, ampicillin, amoxicillin, cephalosporins, clindamycin, erythromycin] See Dangerous Medications for a more complete list of medications that have caused serious problems and sometimes death when used on guinea pigs." Here is the whole link. Between Dana Krempels and Esther van Praag you have the 2 finest rabbit vets and researchers I know of If you have an questions please ask, I have thrown a tone at you Best regards ps i wont be avail Saturday going to a Pearl Jam concert From warmbreath at comcast.net Thu Sep 24 00:44:32 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 21:44:32 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey continues to improve! References: <449912.84830.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <9B7EBEBA08244C1AA6A546A88C59E6F5@SNADY> I forgot to say that its a long slow slog to recover from e.c She is run down nutritionally, and I still insist she get Vit C daily, but she is short of a whole host of micronutrients, plus the -zole drugs work slowly. Once you have her on the all the right drugs plus supportive therapy (nutrition) it will still take time, no doubt you all are exhausted. Reasons I think its e.c. even though e.c. isn't common in piggies, is that fist the symptom progression is classic (note the stasis is a separate condition caused by the e.c. probably, or I should say from the fallout of that infection, plus you have a bun under her at home, she is older, which is a prime time that a dormant infection can come alive. This is a really good case for e.c. It has occurred to me that you have seen the vet again, have you had a serious discussion about e.c with her, what was the result of the ear flushes, you didn't add antibiotics (Baytril) so Hershey continues to be untreated for the 2 most likely disease, this cant go on, the vet collects and collects but little treatments have occurred, just supportive therapies, and those wont cure her, they will help her live while meds take a hold. Please have this discussion. Also do continue the simethicone and Benebac or heath store alternative, that will help her get her gut back in order and be able to get the nutrients she desperately needs from her foods. It's a long list but its what it takes Bye again Sandy From warmbreath at comcast.net Thu Sep 24 02:35:13 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:35:13 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's last stand Message-ID: <8ADA0C38CEA24592B14477FBCB68A602@SNADY> Below are some corrected typos and a link I left out, musta been tired, Sorry all Hi Joanie, I am continuing to research, the three drugs that are commonly given for e.c. are (Albendazole( Albenza, Eskazole, and Zentel), Oxibendazole, and Fenbendazole (Panacur), which are members of the Benzimidazole family, and one new drug studied in a paper by Esther Van Praag, the owner of medirabbit.com called pyrithramine, her article is here http://www.medirabbit.com/EN/Neurology/cuniculi/pyrimethamine.pdf I do not recommend for guinea pigs without finding other studies. I include this in case it has been become standard recently. Flagyl ( metronidazole) is in the same family as the ones ending in -zole, but I have never seen it used for e.c. Flagyl would be given in dogs and cats for worms and protozoa, I dont know why it doesn't work or isn't used in buns and g.p.'s. I think your vet thinks she has e.c. covered but she doesn't. E.c doesn't occur in dogs and cats but other parasites do that can be successfully treated with Flagyl. The Oxibendazole or Fenbendazole are the ones I see used, I suggest a switch, one of the references thinks the Oxibendazole works best. I did find that e.c is treated also with an antibiotic because the parasite munching in her brain causes abscesses which become infected, the cause of death is a type of encephalitis, which is an infection that develops as a result of the parasite's damage and causes an inflammatory response, which is why Baytril is often given together with the anti- parasitic drug AND the NSAID Metacam which also treats pain. So for e.c she needs 3 different kinds of drugs including one of the three -zole drugs, plus Baytril and Metacam, plus she has to be slowly weaned off the Cisapride Please take the time to read these links, hopefully I have been clear enough that you can convince the vet, but I have been reading for hours every day and have not found flagyl used in rodents for e.c. and I haven't found e.c. occurring in dogs and cats The diarrhea was probably caused by the Cisapride, it's listed as a side effect and Baytril doesn't commonly cause it, banana is good for giving pills, you hide the pill in a dab and put it in her mouth. Have you watched the vet feed the Critical Care? I watched my vet and she got a lot more in than I did. She held him up right in her lap, while I had him more in a normal piggy standing position.(all 4's) http://www.medirabbit.com/EN/Neurology/cuniculi/pyrimethamine.pdf this is an article instructs about e.c. Please know that I have no interest in making you more miserable, only in saving Hershey but I dont think this vet has correctly diagnosed e.c. or treated it properly. For e.c. not only is the antibiotic given, but the Baytril and the NSAID Metacam I mentioned in the previous letter, it not only reduces the pain but reduces inflammation which is a side effect of the parasitic protozoa . As you read these articles you will see the specific progression of the infection. First she had the hind end paresis which is typical of the beginning infection, it goes to the kidneys then works its way up the spinal cord to the brain, where the head tilt comes in, the effects to eyes of nystigmus, she can go blind and it can affect her facial nerves. Here is an article written on allexperts.com by Dana Krempels PhD that will help explain your vets choices, I'm hoping the word guinea pig can be substituted for rabbit, that is what I have based my advise on, note the article is not about e.c. Dosages would have to be adjusted for guinea pigs. The stasis link is the same one I gave you last week on Dana Krempels website H.A.R.E. http://en.allexperts.com/q/Rabbits-703/Sick-bunny.htm please note this article also refers to ileus which is interchangeable in meaning with stasis as the disease not e.c. but some of the info may help explain what I'm saying, also makes it clear how to use allexperts.com If it were to turn out that she has an ear infection the Baytril and Metacam would also be indicated for that, here is a link about antibiotics in guinea pigs: http://www.guinealynx.info/dangerous_medications.html in order for you to avoid the ones that piggies cant take, make sure you print this list for the vet. Guinealynx says "They describe the PLACE rule as a rough guideline for antibiotics to avoid. [PLACE -- penicillin, lincomycin, ampicillin, amoxicillin, cephalosporins, clindamycin, erythromycin] Between Dana Krempels and Esther van Praag you have the 2 finest rabbit vets and researchers I know of If you have an questions please ask, I have thrown a ton at you Best regards ps I wont be avail Saturday, going to a Pearl Jam concert From piggyfriends at tesco.net Thu Sep 24 11:17:31 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:17:31 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH E.cuniculi Message-ID: <4F8FB6A68D994CF0B45B9AE74AEF2C6D@inspiron1150> The more that I read up about e.cuniculi, the more relieved that I am that the Piggyfriends all have regular doses of both Panacur and Ivermectin. So much information is orientated towards veterinary and research work but I did find this one that is written in the kind of English that the lay person can understand. http://www.barbibrownsbunnies.com/ecuniculi.htm This is only concerned with rabbits but does concede that e.cuniculi is occasionally seen in guinea pigs. I have never kept rabbits and know very little about them so had never investigated this illness before. Keep reading Sandy! I wish that I had more time for research. Still keeping paws crossed for Hershey. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From elizabethlakin at hotmail.com Thu Sep 24 12:28:34 2009 From: elizabethlakin at hotmail.com (elizabeth lakin) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:28:34 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] Health - E. Cuniculi Message-ID: Hi there Whee have been reading the posts about the dreaded E. Cuniculi with interest. I believe my old Edna showed symptons of this in May when she had a few seizures. She was treated with Panacur (Fenbenazole) but Albenazole was also recommended. I found the Panacur easier to get hold of in the absence of a good vet (whee love the internet). She recieved a 10 day course and the little piggies (who I now believe she must of caught it from) a shorter course of the drug, together with a lot of washing and disinfecting. Yes it took a while for her to recover (she also got mites as she was run down), but she has fully recovered and is now as her old self (and she is 5) so there is hope for any pigs/buns with it. I now know of other buns around where I live that have had it so maybe there is a lot of it around? Good luck Hershey! Elizabeth _________________________________________________________________ With Windows Live, you can organise, edit, and share your photos. http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/134665338/direct/01/ From bunsnpigs at aol.com Thu Sep 24 12:59:37 2009 From: bunsnpigs at aol.com (bunsnpigs at aol.com) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:59:37 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC: Alge Message-ID: <8CC0B4F88BEC949-29D0-21EB4@webmail-m089.sysops.aol.com> I tried sending Alge an email but it bounced. Does anyone know her address (or knows how to get it) and can send it to me privately? Judi Lainer Metropolitan Guinea Pig Rescue http://www.mgpr.org House Rabbit Society Fosterer/Educator MD/DC/NoVA http://www.rabbitsinthehouse.org http://www.rabbit.org From piggyfriends at tesco.net Thu Sep 24 15:02:55 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 20:02:55 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's last stand. Message-ID: <4501B452F15D4E949AED234F605276AF@inspiron1150> Sandy emailed me to say that I should post my comments on e.cuniculi again but on Hershey's thread so that it could be retrieved at a later date by anyone in need. Good idea. She also recommends that everyone should save the link in case of need so here it is again. Sorry about the deja vu. --------------------------------------------------------- The more that I read up about e.cuniculi, the more relieved that I am that the Piggyfriends all have regular doses of both Panacur and Ivermectin. So much information is orientated towards veterinary and research work but I did find this one that is written in the kind of English that the lay person can understand. http://www.barbibrownsbunnies.com/ecuniculi.htm This is only concerned with rabbits but does concede that e.cuniculi is occasionally seen in guinea pigs. I have never kept rabbits and know very little about them so had never investigated this illness before. Keep reading Sandy! I wish that I had more time for research. Still keeping paws crossed for Hershey. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com Thu Sep 24 15:42:29 2009 From: dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com (dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:42:29 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: Thank You, Friends Message-ID: <959717.73156.qm@web33101.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Jean & the Misfits, Thank you for you condolences for my bunny, Bella. I'm really sad! I am cleaning "her" room today and each time I see another little area where she hid her toys or shredded papers, I want to cry! Hugs to you all, Joanne "Folk will know how large your soul is, by the way you treat a dog." - Charles F. Doran From dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com Thu Sep 24 15:44:46 2009 From: dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com (dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:44:46 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: Thank you! Message-ID: <992507.99588.qm@web33103.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Jaime & Mimi, I really appreciate your email. I am super sensitive these days having lost Becky and now Bella. I also pulled a dog that was to be euthanized in another state (13 hours away) and I am helping him to recoup from major injuries, needing surgery. So, I'm on emotional overload! Hugs to you and thank you for thinking of me. Joanne "Folk will know how large your soul is, by the way you treat a dog." - Charles F. Doran From dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com Thu Sep 24 16:14:42 2009 From: dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com (dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:14:42 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: Thank you (RE: Bella) Message-ID: <551094.92232.qm@web33101.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Penny, Thank you so much...I am so shocked, so hurt, that I just want to cry. She was only 2! Do you know if it's painful? My vet seems to think that the bacteria/toxins from her intestines leaked into her bloodstream which caused shock and death. Do you know if the damage in the intestines could have happened THAT night? I can't get it out of my mind that she looked so perfectly beautiful... I truly thank you for helping me to understand this. It's very sad and scary to think it could happen to these little guys. I'm sorry you've experienced this as well. Hugs to you, Joanne "Do something everyday to make life better for animals." From dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com Thu Sep 24 16:18:52 2009 From: dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com (dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:18:52 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Misc: My Thanks to M Message-ID: <5999.57500.qm@web33102.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear M and piggies: Thank you for your sweet, sweet words. Bella's death is very difficult for me. She was unwanted by her former family and I had hoped to give her a long, happy life. She was such a joyful little soul and to know she's gone is painful and sad. It'll be a while before I get used to it, but I'll miss and lover her forever. Thanks so much, M. Hugs to you and the pigs, Joanne "Folk will know how large your soul is, by the way you treat a dog." - Charles F. Doran From dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com Thu Sep 24 17:54:36 2009 From: dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com (dogcatpiggymom at yahoo.com) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:54:36 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] Rainbow Bridge: DEBBIE'S Pigs Message-ID: <713233.89524.qm@web33106.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Friends: Debbie's husband Pete and I keep in touch via email. He asked me to let everyone know that last week, two of Debbie's precious SCAMPS passed on: Soulage & Sable. As you may remember, Soulage was an extra special pig to Debbie and Pete feels that Debbie needed her more than he did. So, they are together again. Days later, Sable died. This is very sad for Pete as Debbie's sweet pigs are another connection to Debbie. I think of Debbie so often and I miss her long, detailed stories of her animals, her sweet compassion to all living things, and her friendship. She will always be my special angel and I hope she has welcomed my Becky and Bella in heaven, as well as all of our recently departed GPDD furbabies. Joanne, Spicy, Merri, Macie, Teddy, Baci and Sweetie "Folk will know how large your soul is, by the way you treat a dog." - Charles F. Doran From warmbreath at comcast.net Thu Sep 24 18:04:28 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:04:28 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey continues to improve! References: <449912.84830.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <69CC77754FFB449EAA3800C76CF55712@SNADY> Hi Joanie I just found something really interesting and urgent from looking up good drugs and bad drugs specific to piggies for Hershey after I got that great article from Penny about e.c. On http://www.guinealynx.info/, I looked at flagyl and followed a link to http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&C=31&A=532&S=0 and it gives the side effect symptoms for Flagyl (which has been the wrong drug all along) and guess what, allot of Hershey's symptoms are exactly the same as side effects of flagyl. Maybe she's getting too much or she is sensitive to it. If I remember right she didn't get these symptoms till she was on the flagyl, if I have the time line correct, be sure the vet looks up the proper gp dose, not the one for rabbits. I think you should read the links above, actually I beg you to, and compare the proper dose of flagyl to the dosage your vet prescribed for her. It would be very ironic if he troubles are due to the flagyl, but I dont know her dosage, so once again print out the info and discuss it with the vet. Again the article from Penney is excellent but many places in it are specific to bunnies only, I know its confusing, but this side effect info could save her life. I dont agree with e.c article where the breeder says she leaves her buns on it all the time, several weeks does it, again though, I'm talking about Panacur or the Oxibendazole as the correct anti parasitic drug so there's 2 issues 1. if she has e.c. she's on the wrong drug now 2. the wrong drug may be causing her symptoms, but its not a given unless you and the vet discover the dose of flagyl is way too large 3. So, this info may muddy whether she has e.c or not, so still I recommend taking her off flagyl and putting her on the proper e.c. protocol meaning a proper antiparasitic, plus Baytril and Metacam and the other supportive therapies. If she has e.c. and she isn't treated properly, survival would be very rare indeed E.C. goes into remission on its own very rarely. Best regards Sandy From piggyfriends at tesco.net Thu Sep 24 18:50:43 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 23:50:43 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] Virtual: Re: Cap'n Jack Honors His Mum, Alge Message-ID: Alge, If you are able to read this, we want you to know that all of us here at Piggyfriends are sending you lots of hugs, love and wheeks to help you through your battle. Cap'n Jack made a wonderful speech aboard the Pearl, telling us all about you. You would have been proud of him. Such a brave piggy pirate. Take care. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From rzm.2 at verizon.net Thu Sep 24 22:24:01 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 19:24:01 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- Hershey Message-ID: <19D9172BF65C4E31B203E0A1643955FA@chirpyPC> Joanie- I'm glad Hershey is home. You're right, you have to take every minute you have with them. Sick piggies have such ups & downs & if you're like me, you tend to go up & down with them. Congrats on your new pigger, although you definitely have your hands full enough with Hershey right now. I know your husband meant well though. You'll have to tell us all about her when things calm down. Give Hershey kisses from us & hugs to you. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From rzm.2 at verizon.net Thu Sep 24 22:45:02 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 19:45:02 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH- e.c.? Message-ID: <6707B7BB0D894170A53A12D01A05073D@chirpyPC> I'm a little slow on the uptake I guess. Maybe I missed something but I don't understand completely what this e.c. is that Hershey has. How do they get it? Is it treatable or is that what is causing Hershey's gut stasis & other problems she was having? Sorry I'm so dense. I just want to fully understand what it is. Is it common in piggies cause I never heard of it all these years. Thanks for any info. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From warmbreath at comcast.net Fri Sep 25 04:11:44 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Fri, 25 Sep 2009 01:11:44 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH- e.c.? References: <6707B7BB0D894170A53A12D01A05073D@chirpyPC> Message-ID: Ronald said "Maybe I missed something but I don't understand completely what this e.c. is that Hershey has. How do they get it? Is it treatable or is that what is causing Hershey's gut stasis & other problems she was having?" Dear Ronald and all, The info on e.c.is all in the links I gave in the tons of messages I wrote on Hershey's illness, I just cant do it again, just read my posts and the one this morning from Penny Charleswoth, actually read hers first but keep in mind its written by a very intelligent breeder of rabbits, and there have been updates in the treatment she proposes, it now looks more like what she outlines in her section called alternate treatments, plus she advises no antibiotics but it has been proven that secondary infections are the rule rather than the exception and the addition of the NSAID Metacam (meloxicam) to treat inflammation. It is now known the poor animal dies often of a type of encephalitis caused secondarily by the action of the parasitic protozoa that are e.c. It is primarily a disease of rabbits, piggers rarely, that's why nobody heard of it. There is lots in that article Penny posted that is the wrong e.c.treatment for buns (in my opinion) and most certainly guinea pigs, partly because newer research has occurred, but there are some extraordinary insights in it, the problem for the casual reader is to know the difference. Bunny medicine is closer than most to piggies but still very different, in my several articles I have repeated the point often, buns do not equal pigs, but up to 80% of buns are born with this disease, which is controllable with the proper treatment, the treatment puts it into remission, doesn't cure it, it can pop up in times of stress esp, very young and very old. It is a parasitic protozoa that starts in the kidneys, then eats it way up the spinal cord to the brain causing first kidney damage, hind end paresis from munching lower spinal nerves, then all kinds of neurological symptoms like head tilt, nystigmus, facial paralysis, and blindness depending on what nerve or nerves they are munching, Sounds horrible and it is although much of the damage can be reversed, some cant like blindness. Anyway, the article Penny posted uses some treatments and drugs that aren't the state of the art and penicillin kills pigs, see http://www.guinealynx.info/ Dangerous Medications. (guinealynx also offers a piggie record book, it's excellent and doesn't cost much. What Penny's article is good for is a clear concise explanation of the disease itself although she misses a couple of points, the 2 most expert vet/ researchers are Dana Krempels PhD who owns the listserve etherbun, a serious yahoo group, for house bun medicine and care, also she answers questions on www.allexperts.com and Esther van Praag, and her alter ego Rami, who own Medirabbit and a research clinic in Switzerland and Israel. Rami has taken me under his wing and tutored me these 2 years and provided me with Rabbit Vet texts, this clinic is manifested on the web at www.medirabbit.com Of these resources only www.allexperts.com will field gp questions but may address questions about buns and pigs living together (which few people recommend). In addition there is the House Rabbit Society at www.rabbit.org, A list of rabbit savvy vets all over the U.S. is kept by the House Rabbit Society, almost always a bun vet knows pigs too. In addition most states have their own chapter of the HRS which can be easily Googled. A compilation of articles in memory of 2 very extraordinary rabbits who died suddenly of poisoning is at http://homepage.mac.com/mattocks/morfz/rabrefs.html#911, both of these have extensive searchable articles, the second one be sure to check the date of each one as it's not kept as current. I wish our precious piggies had these extensive resources, we have guinealynx only, all though it's excellent. These are general resources you ca search for info on e.c. or e. cuniculi. My articles to Joanie and Gary have specific references to e.c. and the treatment I proposed. So see them directly. All the article titles start with Hershey and are listed in the archives. As for stasis or ileus, this is a gut upset also much more frequently in buns than pigs, it is a condition that usually does not develop on its own, it is a result of some other insult to the animals health that has resulted in the animal being too ill or to much in pain to eat enough, the stomach and gut dont have enough food in it to keep it running normally so the food stops moving along and starts to ferment, causing gas, which causes bloat and lots of pain, which further causes the victim to eat less, and so you see a cascade of events that lead to death unless caught. Dana Kremples, mentioned above has written the definitive article on the subject , one simpler for owners, one more detailed for vets. Bunny people are trained on etherbun to print this article out and take it to the vet. It offers the medical and supportive treatments that can usually bring the sufferer back to health, but there's a catch, and this is the case with Hershey. Although it's possible for the problem to start in the stomach from feeding an unusual food or ingesting something they shouldn't, usually stasis occurs because illness or pain else where in the body has caused the victim to stop eating a thus starting the cascade of events that lead to death if not treated properly. Examples of the causative illness are teeth malocclusions or overgrowth, gum abscesses, ear infections, e.c., cancer, any pain that puts the animal off feed. People will often not know the pet is sick until the stasis shows up, they take the animal to the vet, get the stasis treated, but never look for the underlying causes. This results in the reoccurrence of the stasis, and often death either from the stasis, especially if the stomach blows up like a balloon, a condition called bloat, or from the underlying medical condition which is often hard to sort out, just like Hershey. Often when stasis occurs the vet will usually treat for ear infection AND e.c. at the same time (in rabbits) if there is even one symptom of either of those and since the symptoms overlap so much that it's another reason they treat for both, although an x-ray can usually spot an ear infection. In addition the test for e.c is not conclusive and it takes 2 weeks to get the results, an e.c. pig cant wait that long. The 3 drug protocol will treat both although the antiparasitic isn't needed for an ear infection, of course, but we've just identified that we cant easily tell which illness it is. This brings up the very important subject of pain control in buns and pigs. Both pets will often just give up and die when they are in too much pain, remember these guys dont have a future time sense, they cant think "well, I just have to tough it out till my slave gives me meds", they live only in the here and now, and the here and now hurts to much, they die, in huge numbers. The solution to both these conditions is your home treatment kit. You already know to keep Critical Care on hand, and simethicone or baby grip water (a Walgreens product found in the US, thanks to Judith Lanier, see her post this week). Always keep on hand the pain drug of choice, meloxicam generically or Metacam, it is an NSAID, which lowers temp, controls inflammation and pain, and is much less hard on the stomach than ibuprofen or aspirin, which can also be used in proper dosage, but is not nearly as desirable. Meloxicam is a prescription only drug available as an IM injection, tablet, or foul tasting liquid which can be mixed with a favoring compound like cherry or banana. Arrange with your vet to have it hand always because Murphy's rule says you pet will always get sick on a wheekend or holiday when you can't find a vet who knows a guinea pig from a grapefruit. If your vet wont give you the Metacam, literally get a new vet. Feed pills in a pieces of banana. Sprinkle capsules onto wet romaine. The other things needed for your emergency kit are: a copy of the stasis protocol article by Dr. Kremples, found here http://www.bio.miami.edu/hare/rabbithealth.html go down to "Disorders of the Digestive tract", choose "treating intestinal stasis"( further down is an article on e.c. under "treating head tilt or wry neck". Also include in your kit syringes with no needles for feeding the CC, meds, and water, it's so critical to keep the patient hydrated. Kaopectate for diarrhea. Keep all this stuff in an small animal transporter, and put it in a closet near the door or pig, include a bag of fresh hay, rotated often, a hand massager, and something to keep him warm, a heating pad if he doesn't chew. its a good place to keep your medical record book from Guinealynx. I'm sure there are other items I've neglected or someone else knows. Promise yourself to make this kit. The one thing I've learned is you need to organize in advance, when your baby is sick, you cant think straight. Also while I knew that a stressor often brings the parasite out of dormancy, the breeder writer of the e.c article has a volume of experience that allowed her to link it to some stressors I hadn't thought of, namely water bottle accidents, the truth is over the years my pigs have occasionally been subjected to water bottle accidents, that's why I often write that folks should keep 2 bottles in each cage esp. if more than I person is caring for your pigs since one person might not catch a stuck water bottle thinking that the other person just changed it and that's why its full. Anyway, I have noticed that after these accidents, a number of pigs that were seemingly completely saved and returned to normal died suddenly a month later. I have also had a couple pigs that have had a surgery recover beautifully and die suddenly a month later. I have written advice several times over the years that asks people to not let up on their vigilance of pigs who have been sick or had surgery for at least 6 weeks to 2 months. What if that was a case of dormant e.c. brought to life by the stressor of illness or surgery? It would be great if we could afford autopsies on our passed loved ones. and specifically asked that the brain and kidney's be looked at for lesions from the parasite e.c. If anyone does do this, remember to refrigerate, not freeze the body and try to get the autopsy done at a veterinary college or university, rather than your vets. Hate to say ot but vets have butts to cover, and the universities are much better equipped. Your vet can arrange it for you. Maybe there are some ways we can contribute to the vastly needed improvements on guinea pig medicine by organizing our selves to collect and collate our many experiences and even vet records, esp. those of you who are lucky enough a specialist vet. That would be a magical thing. What if there is a lot more e.c. in piggies than we imagined, it doesn't seem to far fetched from where I'm looking from today. Also that disease in female guinea pigs involving hormone imbalances, and deteriorating female organs and often the development of cysts or tumor in the female organs, often the piggy has a V shaped patterned hair loss and a burning thirst, what if we could together learn allot more about that. And also study the safety of hysterectomies in piggies. There are several conditions I'll be could be better identified and studied in a group like ours. I spent 2 years studying buns cause my daughter has one and won't take him to vet and there's no exotic vet in my town anyway. I have had probably 50 piggies in more than 50 years, studying bun medicine and care helped me put together allot of what I had learned hodge podge along the way about pigs. I consider myself a well read and experienced lay person on guinea pigs, and buns but with allot less hands-on but more textbook type learning. also I studied to be an RN in my youth including anatomy and physiology for pre-med students and I have retained my interest in medicine and I read allot, but I'm not an expert, and the limits of my knowledge drive me crazy. So, Gary I said I couldn't write a long article again, jokes on me. I tried hard to keep extraneous page returns and typos out of this one, I hope I succeeded Sandy From piggyfriends at tesco.net Fri Sep 25 10:51:45 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:51:45 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH e.cuniculi Message-ID: Jaime, In a lifetime of piggy care I have never come across e.cuniculi in piggies or, with hindsight, encountered anything that might have been attributable to this illness. After reading Sandy's post about Hershey, I did a little research myself and came across that article on buns that I posted as I hoped that it might be relevant. Various articles intimate that it can happen to piggies although it is most common in buns. I freely admit that I know nothing about buns and hope that one of our bunny experts might shed more light upon this matter. >From the little research that I had time for, Panacur is often mentioned as one of the remedies for buns and it occurred to me that maybe the reason that I have not encountered e.c. is the fact that all of my piggies have a three monthly dose of Panacur without fail. Maybe it is just a coincidence. Maybe very few piggies suffer from e.c. anyway. I draw no conclusions from any of this and I leave that to the experts. I was very interested in the side effects of Flagyl in high doses that Sandy discovered, which also fit Hershey's condition. Did she post this to the group or just to me? Here is the link in case it was not to the group. The section on side effects is half way down the page. http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&C=31&A=532&S=0 If only we knew all the answers. Still the more we all contribute, the more we might learn. Sandy also posts about the contents of our gp first aid kits. Mine is vast and contains meds that are probably only available in the UK ( or have another name elsewhere and with different dosages ) so I am not sure if my list would be of any help to slaves overseas. I am also a great believer in natural remedies which may not sit well with other members. Still keeping paws crossed for Hershey. Penny and the confused Piggyfriends. From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Fri Sep 25 12:47:10 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Fri, 25 Sep 2009 09:47:10 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's clogged Message-ID: <658446.28534.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> This morning Hersh was very noisy, as she was yesterday, but she didn't want to eat. It finally occurred to me that some water might help, which is, indeed what she wanted, and she drank most of the morning. I didn't think she'd need it, as the water in her drinking tubes was lowering, but I suspect she's still not drinking efficiently and that most of it went to waste. She certainly was giving it a try! She sure is efficient with the syringe. I feel terribly for not syringing her yesterday. Now we're back to no droppings. Augh! If only... We had such a fun day yesterday. She learned how to eat through the cage bars, which she did all morning. There was lots of excited squeaking and even some bounding (not popcorning) over her sleeping bag. We were both so happy. If only... I'm waiting for the vet to call. I'm pretty sure we'll be visiting her office again for some subcu fluids. I also need to know if I'm to discontinue the metacam, which can affect the gut. I wish I could give her greens, but I'm waiting an okay for that, too. Her neuro symptoms are barely visible now, but the one time I saw her drink, it was still pretty sloppy. I should've paid more attention. If only... Joanie From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Fri Sep 25 13:19:36 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Fri, 25 Sep 2009 10:19:36 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey and Panacur Message-ID: <862071.81961.qm@web81308.mail.mud.yahoo.com> When the vet calls again, I'll request the specifics on using Panacur or Ivermectin. I'll state that we've nothing to lose and ask her/him to humor this troubled piggie mom. Two vets have told me that E cuniculi was extremely unlikely, but Hershey's symptoms have been exremely confounding, so why not, poor darling! My only concern is what effect these two worming meds will have on her already troubled gut. I'll give them another call now. Thanks for all the research and advice. From warmbreath at comcast.net Fri Sep 25 14:23:26 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Fri, 25 Sep 2009 11:23:26 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's clogged References: <658446.28534.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <7612F6547C8E48C58300822179C721B5@SNADY> Have you been reading the article I sent last night to the list titled e.c.? The Metacam is very necessary and its much less likely to cause stomach problems than any other pain reliever/anti inflammatory. The problem is much more likely she ran low of water not the Metacam hurting her, her brain needs that anti inflammatory effect to fight the damage from the parasite off. I am glad her neurological symptoms are going away, but that's partly the anti-inflammatory work of the Metacam so dont cut it out. Plus she is very sensitive to pain and part of her improvement is due to not being in pain, when she hurts she's less likely to eat and drink, again giving the parasite a chance to rear up again. Penny's article from the breeder links the rise of e.c to being dehydrated, it makes it easier for the parasite to get into cells. So hydration is key to fighting e.c. and keeping her stasis from coming back. Dont beat yourself up for loss of syringe for 1 day, just pick it up again, it just shows you how important it is! Sounds like you have done an excellent job of training her to be a good patient, coming to the cage bars for water syringes, how wonderful!! Also is she still on Cisapride? if not, did you taper her off, if not that would clog her and put her back into stasis? So its not just the loss of some water if she's not on a Cisapride or Reglan or if it's not tapered off when quitting. Remember stasis is a symptom more than a separate disease. Metacam is necessary part of treating stasis because stasis hurts. Have you switched to Reglan? Keep these 2 , clearly still needed. Is she still on flagyl? What is her weight and her dosage? Did you have a chance to read what I wrote about side effects of flagyl? Will your vet switch to Panacur or oxibendazole? She needs to be on an anti parasitic/anti helmetic for several weeks. I still recommend the Baytril as well It's the 3 drugs together that cure her and repair the damage done, plus keep up the Vit C, you can crush a chewable and put it in the syringe water. Repairing the damage is what allows her to bounce back to her old self, sometimes the body's regenerative power just needs a little boost. : )) It's a long hard row to hoe to get over this illness, you will make slip ups, you cant help it, none of us can, just pick up and keep going, your ability to keep going is that extra ingredient that will see her through this. Have you noticed how every day she loves you more? Do whatever it takes to keep her hydrated, if she's not to gassy maybe she should be eating romaine, make sure its dripping wet, that helps.See what the vet says, start out slowly and very wet. Keep up the Gas-X (simethecone) if she is still gassy. Feel her stomach every day, twice a day is better, the gentle tummy massage helps keep the gut working food to the poop chute, same with gas, its a wonderful treatment, also the warmth treatments to her belly, and holding her so her hind end is higher than her front, just as Dana Kremples' article at http://www.bio.miami.edu/hare/ileus.html , it gives many wonderful hints on helping her though this. The sub Q's are a good idea since her poops are small and hard again unless she has so much she feels sloshy, that would mean her kidney's cant handle the volume of water, but the best indicator is the moist poops, that's when she's getting enough water. Sorry these seem to be so long, its just that all her treatments and meds are interconnected, you have to keep going with the whole boat load for a while. You see that as how quickly she slipped back toward stasis, dont discontinue the Metacam, that and the simethicone will be the last to go along with the antiparasitic. Have the vet check her front and back teeth to see if her teeth have overgrown due to eating less hay, this could account for noisy water bottle sounds and why she might be inefficient at drinking. if your vet doesn't know about g.p. teeth we can provide her with that info, but she would need a tool called bucol(sp?) separators to do the treat teeth, make sure she has them. It's wonderful she's still going, its all your fault : ))), : ))) Sandy and Sammy Joanie wrote: " This morning Hersh was very noisy, as she was yesterday, but she didn't want to eat. It finally occurred to me that some water might help, which is, indeed what she wanted, and she drank most of the morning. I didn't think she'd need it, as the water in her drinking tubes was lowering, but I suspect she's still not drinking efficiently and that most of it went to waste. She certainly was giving it a try! She sure is efficient with the syringe. I feel terribly for not syringing her yesterday. Now we're back to no droppings. Augh! If only............. clip........ I also need to know if I'm to discontinue the metacam, which can affect the gut. I wish I could give her greens, but I'm waiting an okay for that, too" From warmbreath at comcast.net Fri Sep 25 15:11:54 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Fri, 25 Sep 2009 12:11:54 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey and Panacur References: <862071.81961.qm@web81308.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <0AB578B03A3942758650C94E8D86894A@SNADY> In rabbits they honestly dont use Ivermectin for e.c., they just use it for mites, Penny's article points out that her Ivermectin bunnies never got e.c., but Hershey either already has it or its side effects from Flagyl, so go with the Panacur or the oxibendazole. I'm not saying Ivermectin cant work, most gp's get Ivermectin maybe that's why gp's rarely manifest it. I have never had a piggy without Ivermectin or with e.c.(that I know of see last nights article I wrote titled e.c. and I've had allot. But she lives next to a Bunny they almost all have been exposed. If you want a more definitive answer get the e.c. titre test, it's not wholly definitive but shows exposure, if exposed an animal could get it. Plus vets usually give it by shots that have to be repeated every 7 to 12 days, do you want that many vet visits? When this is over I would definitely treat her 3 to 4 times a year with ivermectin, meaning 3 or 4 rounds of 2 shots each. That does keep the mites away and perhaps will prevent a reoccurrence. Penny's article does refer to g.ps.'s getting it, the etherbun board I was on talked about occasionally, its rare but it happens and your piggies lives with a bun, strong anecdotal evidence. besides the only other common thing that produces all those neurological symptoms is ear infection, and as far as I know Hershey has not gotten antibiotics, so why would she be cured, plus she had the stiff legs, which is the first symptom of e.c. not ear infection. We have built a good case for e.c.even if its rare, rare things happen all the time. You are paying the vet, she needs to listen to you, read the articles, esp since she's not a specialist, the stuff I' sent is from specialists. Take charge of her!! That's the best thing that's learned from being a member of etherbun, vet management!! Go get em! Sandy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > When the vet calls again, I'll request the specifics on using Panacur or > Ivermectin. I'll state that we've nothing to lose and ask her/him to humor > this troubled piggie mom. Two vets have told me that E cuniculi was > extremely unlikely, but Hershey's symptoms have been exremely confounding, > so why not, poor darling! My only concern is what effect these two worming > meds will have on her already troubled gut. > I'll give them another call now. > Thanks for all the research and advice. From warmbreath at comcast.net Fri Sep 25 22:53:24 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Fri, 25 Sep 2009 19:53:24 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH- e.c.? References: <871403512.26836.1253921607789.JavaMail.root@vms231.mailsrvcs.net> Message-ID: <812064CC3265486F864B26E7FAC633BC@SNADY> Thank you, they are not treated the same though, meds are different, dont ever use Penicillin in a piggie for instance. As far as we know today e.c. is rare in piggies, but those thoughts I had at the end the article lead me think maybe it's not as rare as we thought. Every thing has to be checked against Guinealynx and exotics vets who know piggies. There are some piggie texts out there, expensive. But the same diseases can hit both types, so they have to be dealt with. Also remember there is strong thinking that G.P's are further apart genetically than was believed all these years. Hershey's whole episode shows how important exotics vets are and how important our group is. Sandy and Shipwreck Sam From warmbreath at comcast.net Sat Sep 26 03:05:57 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Sat, 26 Sep 2009 00:05:57 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] (OFF TOPIC) Alge Message-ID: <922443AF1D6A4BF1BB1797C08DF28B5C@SNADY> Sorry for all you who wanted to write to Alge, here's her new email addy. I cc'd her on Cap' Jack's speech not realizing cc's dont show up, thinking you all would see it so you could write. So here it is, she may not answer right off, recent surgery, and many Dr's appt's, all a long way from home. She has been thrilled with the many posts and the private messages and she's doing great! I'm looking forward to her starting to post real soon. Thanks all who asked. DaPiggyPirates at aol.com Sandy and Sammy who's home now demanding fresh hay every couple hours (really) (\__/) (='.'=) (")_(") From warmbreath at comcast.net Sat Sep 26 08:52:32 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Sat, 26 Sep 2009 05:52:32 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] health - e.c. and goup power References: <8EA7537990874472A6695F53242A10AA@JuliePC> Message-ID: Hi Fellow GPDD'ers. Julie's letter of condolences to Carole for BG has got me thinking again, so I share my thoughts with you all. I have been wondering about Donald and happy to hear he is recuperating well. He too is a special pig, it's often the sick ones we come to know and love so much and I'm delighted Carole, with her depth of information was there to help you. You and Donald are lucky as well as loveable, may he continue to thrive. I too, offer my condolence to Carole for her loss of the very special BG. I hope the wonderful memories soon outshine the pain I would like you to know that the subject we have been studying for Hershey, the common bunny parasite, e.c., is often present in animals in a dormant state, it encysts itself, and doesn't become active until another issue compromises the pets immune system. I would really like to find out if it is more common in Piggies than previously known, the advantages to answering this question are huge, and groups as large as ourselves can be a powerful tool for good. You have seen this thought develop in me as we study this case of possible e.c. in Hershey, so if you are interested, read on. My purpose isn't to scare Julie about Donald but to start to use our collective resources to discover if e.c. is more common in piggies than we previously thought, and if so what is the best treatment protocol to force it back into dormancy. E.C. strikes at 3 notable times, just after birth in a weak pet, just after an insult as above, and in old age. Since Donald has 2 of those situations, I encourage you to learn about it and be ready in case it comes along. Things to watch out for. A period of weeks to months after an insult, illness, or compromise, including a water shortage. Watch for stasis, like Hershey had, that was a symptom of an underlying condition causing pain or something that puts her off feed. Of course tooth problems are often the culprit here, or ear infection, abscess, cancer, etc. Another indicator is the hind end paralysis or paresis as vets call it, that's one of the first signs. We usually think of that as a Vit C deficiency and it may be that Vit C, which does play a strong role helping the body to fight off foreign invaders, so we immediately give the Vit C, immunity is restored, paralysis disappears. So what causes the paralysis, just the lack of Vit C or could it be another infection getting a toe hold because Vit C was low or deficient. The paralysis is one of the very first indicators of e.c.so it could be that a restored immune system can knock back the new e.c. bloom. This isn't proven but it's a very possible scenario, and one I think piggy people should look into. Also sudden blindness or eye problems, any neurological problem, most common being head tilt which can also be an ear infection. There is a test that measures the titre, which is really hard to explain, as it doesn't give you a firm result. You are given a number, and whether it be low or high doesn't mean definitively that there is an active outbreak, it measures the bodies immune response to the parasite over time, a high number doesn't mean for sure that an active infection is present, maybe there was one previously, perhaps the most meaningful result is a number close to zero, that may mean the pet has never been exposed or had an outbreak in his life, that could definitely help us. Of course any pig could get a infection later if he plays outside, comes across urine in its infectious state, takes up residence with a bun, or if it is transmitted by contaminated hay as the breeder who wrote the article Penny submitted, but it's thought rare to pick up the infection during life, we think. Buns are believed to get from their mothers at birth, and the rate of infection is very high, but the buns don't usually get an active infection right then, although weak one may. The parasite remains quietly encysted, waiting for a condition conducive to its growth to pop up. Did you know that if your piggy or bun breaks out with a case of mites, it's a similar process, a low number are usually always present but a compromise occurs and the parasite starts to develop and multiply, e.c. is similar in that way. So if your piggie suddenly get mites, its wise to look around for some other problem that may have weakened your piggies immune system that allowed the mites to take advantage of the situation. That might be a time when e.c. also starts to develop or it maybe some other condition was present that caused the immune response to be low enough the other disease or e.c started and that allowed the mites to develop too. Either cause or effect or visa versa. To sum up again, I have no reason to believe Donald has or has had or harbors encysted e.c. I do think Hershey has it, she has all the classic symptoms. I just want to raise awareness in all of us, so we might start to be able to find out if our piggies have this condition more often than previously thought. This fact could be hidden from us as we aren't looking, and there are other explanations, but we do have sudden deaths in piggies, and mysterious deaths. Those of you that can afford to have the e.c. titre test might consider doing that when you have your pigs in to the vet for other reasons, then report the result to GPDD. You might, if affordable, to do necropsies more often, one that include examination of brain and kidney tissue. Slowly we would build a data base a skilled researcher could study,or maybe the answer would be simple enough that even one of us could draw some conclusions. I think we can find an expert through Dana Kremples or Esther van Praag, Vedra Stanley Spatcher, my exotics vet in Portland, or perhaps another great exotics vet, or a University vet school to help us if need be. You all may know someone. I would be thrilled if the answer to any test was no, that e.c. is truly very rare in piggies, or yes, the incidence is much higher than previously thought and owners should be directed to become knowledgeable about the warning signs and unnecessary losses could prevented or at least a happy life prolonged. I will make some enquiries of the experts I know of, maybe a half dozen. Perhaps our group could start a data base of causes of death in guinea pigs and the incidence of each. That way we could direct our resources to help us become knowledgeable on the true diseases and conditions that cause the most illness and deaths in our beloved piggies. I have seen what a highly directed group like etherbun can do for its members, and it's wonderful. They are so large, though, that they dont allow our fun stuff, off topic stuff, and out network of heartfelt condolences except offline. I wouldn't want to see us give that up, it makes us unique and well balanced giving us support when we are sad and ways to play together. But on the other hand, a group of highly motivated parent/slaves could become a potent tool for learning more about the causes of death and disability in our loved ones, and therefore how to avoid it and make for longer happier more pain free lives. The etherbun members also learn how to manage their vets and they keep lists of good ones. GPDD people who want to participate in either side or both would be free to participate at whatever level is good for them, but the accumulated knowledge would benefit all of us. I really don't propose running amok, just doing a better more directed job of making use of the information we have now, and developing ways to learn about things we know little or nothing about now, but that, if exploited could improve the lives of every pig, even if we concentrated on just one of these ideas. A group our size can be very powerful. And I truly hope my hunch about e.c. in pigs being more common is dead wrong but I also hope we take the time and effort to find out. I closing, get better my wonderful friend Alge and be lucky too, and recover little Hershey and Donald, and other sick and recovering piggies. I will light my special piggy candle to help send my good wishes. Good night all, or I guess it's morning. Best regards, Sandy and Shipwreck Sam (Sammy in my heart) From DL1Bossfan at aol.com Sat Sep 26 11:41:11 2009 From: DL1Bossfan at aol.com (DL1Bossfan at aol.com) Date: Sat, 26 Sep 2009 11:41:11 EDT Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] Alge Message-ID: Hi Friends: I tried to post this yesterday from work, but I think it did not go through due to filters and stuff that we have at work. Here it is again -- and I will go ahead and apologize if it is duplicated. I am more of a "lurker" than a "poster." This is a situation that I feel we need to come together as a unit. As many of you now know, one of our own "Alge" (Mom to Captain Jack and Barnacle Bill) is very ill. I was lucky enough to see her and chat with her briefly on line yesterday. She was in very good spirits. She is grateful and very fond of Sandy and all the communication they are having. Alge is a wonderful person that has provided much needed love and care to all of her piggies throughout the years, as well as giving fellow GPDDers many laughs. Sandy has posted Alge's e-mail. If anyone would like to send her a Snail Mail card,etc..., and does not know her address, you can e-mail me privately and I will provide you with my address in which to mail the card to. I will collect them all and send them together on or around Thursday 10-8-09. This will give everyone almost 2 wheeeks. (I run a mail room at work and this will be an easy task for me.) A few kind words, piggy picture(s), etc., does not take long and will help to brighten Alge's day. She will need some sunshine in her life. This illness will be a hard battle, but will be made easier knowing that friends are behind and beside her. Love and Piggy Kisses to ALL! Donna and the SC piggies Thatcher, Big Jim, Aunt Polly, Zion, Houdini, and Striper From elmga at hotmail.com Sat Sep 26 12:07:41 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Sat, 26 Sep 2009 06:07:41 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd: HEALTH-Vets Message-ID: Hi everyone and everypig, especially Corrine and Michael, I am glad you are alright, Corrine. So sorry to hear about the vet not having sympathy. At least you did the right thing to stand up and just say something to her, which seemed logical. I felt 'thrill bumps', 'chicken skin', 'goose bumps' upon hearing about your Snowy Bear watching out for you. i do believe from the non-physical, the animals will sometimes keep an eye out for us. I am sure he is aware of how much you love him, and that he is still alive in SPIRIT. That's a nice thing. Aloha to all, Ellen and the ten _________________________________________________________________ Lauren found her dream laptop. Find the PC that?s right for you. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/choosepc/?ocid=ftp_val_wl_290 From elmga at hotmail.com Sat Sep 26 12:27:30 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Sat, 26 Sep 2009 06:27:30 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd {Rainbow Bridge) [[Bella]] Message-ID: Joanne, So sorry for your loss of little Bella. may she enjoy the loves of everything good and pono* at the Rainbow Bridge. In lovingkindness and sympathy from Ellen and the ten sweetie pigs *"Pono" means what is 'right', i.e. the right course to take...Hawaiian language; "Ho'oponopono" means to 'make right'. A little bit of a lesson on the Hawaiian language _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail? has ever-growing storage! Don?t worry about storage limits. http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/Storage?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_Storage_062009 From elmga at hotmail.com Sat Sep 26 12:53:55 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Sat, 26 Sep 2009 06:53:55 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd: CARE (Guinea Pig Feedings and food) Message-ID: Hi all, Thank you for the letter about the various guinea pig pellets, Sandy. I have been getting hay and pellets from a place in Washington State (Northwest coast in the US) called Kleenmama's Hayloft and it really is good hay and the pellets are either timothy hay-based or alfalfa-based for the younger pigs; both include the vitamin C, which oxidizes fast. Everything is kept in my freezer, until I put it them in airtight containers to dole out each day. I did go a little crazy with the various guinea pig chows/pellets at the pet store. Living on a rather crowded island in the middle of the Pacific it is easy to go to the store and not find what you are looking for in the way of pellets. That is why I tended to buy whatever was there, until I started getting the Kleenmama pellets. But Rufie does not like that type. By the way, the vet did not reach a diagnosis of Rufie's weight loss -- she just said to check and it may be his teeth. I do not think it is his teeth, though and he stil weighs about the same. He likes the Kaytee Timothy Complete pellets and I used ot get Forti- diet (Kaytee) until I noticed the pet store was out of it, then I got the kaytee Exact for treats only. Then I mixed a cheap brand from Wal Mart which I dont want to do again. Also there is the Hartz brand Guinea Pig CLassic pellet. So I have been mixing all of that, without the Timothy Complete, except for the Exact because it is too costly, it is just for treat. But Rufie eats the Timothy Complete mixed with the regular Kaytee Pellet for GP's. If they would get the Forti-Diet again then I would have that, sometimes they just run out. Thge other pigs like the Hartz Classic mixed with the Kleenmama pellet, both alfalfa and timothy types, although I have not settled on one type as it gets a bit overwhelming when the supplier is out and the guineas are picky eaters if it is something new for them. Now I am wondering if the Kaytee Forti-Diet is still being made or if it has been discontinued. Any clues ?? Another type Kaytee makes is Forti-diet Pro Health. The guineas like that but I don't think Rufie does. He alwaysjust liked the regular Forti-diet. Bye for now Ellen and the ten _________________________________________________________________ Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail?. http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_QuickAdd_062009 From elmga at hotmail.com Sat Sep 26 13:12:28 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Sat, 26 Sep 2009 07:12:28 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd (MISC) [Bedding], [England] Message-ID: The piggies I am slave to, sometimes use fleece with towels.. i just use thin fleece baby blankets and sometimes cut them so it is less to wash. Fleece is good as it seems to wick moisture away, hence the towels and newspapers underneath. I use the store-type beddings i mentioned before. Not ever sawdust nor cedar, those are not good for the piggies. I have only had piggies for 5 years, starting with just one. So i do not have a lot of piggie experience nor am I very "cavy savy". Thank you to all of you for the wonderful information. By the way, Penny, where you live it sounds gorgeous. I so want to visit England, but with 10 piggies it's hard to get them in good hands with care taking. There is a good place but I have to drive them there and plus there is the bunny. So we just hang out here in lovely Maui, despite all the traffic, etc. and enjoy our little apartment! There is also a nice pool and the beach which I sometimes go to... Consequently...I do about 15 loads of guinea pig laundry each wheeeek! I tried apple cider vinegar with just nicely scented liquid detergent and double rinsed. I have to use a dryer, so the hair and stuff left in tyhe wash ---most of it gets pulled out. Oh, I have used all types of things for their bedding--clean rags, old blankets, some I even end up throwing away at their demise. I am jumping around but it's hard to remember everything---I am tired, so, farewell for now.... Aoha, Ellen and the ten _________________________________________________________________ Microsoft brings you a new way to search the web. Try Bing? now http://www.bing.com?form=MFEHPG&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MFEHPG_Core_tagline_try bing_1x1 From elmga at hotmail.com Sat Sep 26 13:16:31 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Sat, 26 Sep 2009 07:16:31 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd: (CARE) [[Hershey and Joanie and Gary]] Message-ID: Hello all, Been meaning to get to this part since I am catching up and now so tired, still have more bedding to change...but wanted to take the time to send good thoughts and prayers to Hershey and her slaves. Thank you for keeping us in the loop. Prayers of health, joy and love to you all... Ellen and the ten _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail? has ever-growing storage! Don?t worry about storage limits. http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/Storage?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_Storage_062009 From elmga at hotmail.com Sat Sep 26 13:20:55 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Sat, 26 Sep 2009 07:20:55 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd {Health) [E. Cuniculi] Message-ID: This sounds nasty. Does anyone know if it is a bacteria or a protozoa? My Kaloey has been having discharge from his eyes a lot and so I put him on oral Baytril for 5 days. The vet had mentioned sometimes it is something they can get on with but I forget the term she used... Ellen and the ten guineas _________________________________________________________________ Bing? brings you maps, menus, and reviews organized in one place. Try it now. http://www.bing.com/search?q=restaurants&form=MLOGEN&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MLOGEN_Core_tagline_local_1x1 From cazza177 at ntlworld.com Sat Sep 26 18:19:15 2009 From: cazza177 at ntlworld.com (Cazza177) Date: Sat, 26 Sep 2009 22:19:15 +0000 Subject: [Gpdd] [ANNOUNCEMENT] Lujan Zoo petition In-Reply-To: Message-ID: Dear all Some of you will have read a similar email to this already, but for those who may have missed it, I have recently created a petition on the Care2 petition website for the poor animals of Lujan Zoo. I had wanted to do this when the news first hit a few weeks ago in the UK press, but then my poor Artie became unwell, and everything had to take a back seat while I cared for him (he sadly died). Basically, visitors (including children) are allowed into the animal cages to have their photos taken with them. This includes prediator animals such as lions, tigers and cheetahs. Sooner or later, there's going to be a terrible accident, and it will be the poor animals that pay the ultimate price. There are suggestions they are being repeatedly sedated. Please take a few seconds to sign to ask that an investigation is launched into the zoo, and that the animals receive far greater treatment and respect. PLEASE also tell your friends and family about the petition as well, as I really do need to spread the word. There is the option to do this, once you've signed the petition, when another screen will appear. Thank you for your help! Kind regards Carole http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/Lujan-Zoo-petition From rzm.2 at verizon.net Sat Sep 26 21:42:51 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:42:51 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- To Alge Message-ID: Alge- I'm sorry it has taken me a few days to write, but I'm not really sure what to say. This is such devastating news & I couldn't believe it when I read it. I am very upset & wish there was a way to help you. I look forward to hearing from you on the digest again & of course will keep you in my prayers. Get better. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From DL1Bossfan at aol.com Sun Sep 27 10:53:19 2009 From: DL1Bossfan at aol.com (DL1Bossfan at aol.com) Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 10:53:19 EDT Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] Alge Message-ID: Hi Everyone- I posted yesterday that if you want to send a Snail Mail card to Alge, you can e-mail me privately and I will provide you with my address to send the card in care of. Around 10-8, I will mail all the cards together in a packet. I am posting this again because I did not receive the GPDD that my post was on, so maybe others did not either. With that said, it did go "out there" somewhere because two people have already responded. Thanks. Alge's days will be brightened knowing others care. Love, Donna and the SC piggies Thatcher, Big Jim, Aunt Polly, Zion, Houdini, and Striper From calliope at geeksnet.com Sun Sep 27 15:56:57 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 15:56:57 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE: very belated condolences, Scampi, Mickey, and Scrumpy Message-ID: <4ABFC389.8070300@geeksnet.com> Stefanie and the Surrey Squeakers, we apologize for being so woefully behind in sending condolences on the passings of Scampi, Mickey, and Scrumpy. Yes, if you have many piggies, there are bound to be times when two or three of them leave for the Bridge all at once. We are so very sorry that this happened, although we are glad that you had returned from vacation and were able to say goodbye before they made their final journeys. It is great, too, that they were all older piggies -- amazing that Mickey was more than seven and Scrumpy was somewhere between six and eight; as you said, she probably set a record for a satin, and it is so good to hear that she never had OD. Thank you for sharing some of your memories of them. Scampi was so lucky not only to be one of Peter Gurney's piggies but then to go on to have a wonderful life with your family. How sad that Mickey's family couldn't take him to Australia when they emigrated, but how great that you were able to take him in. So sweet to hear, too, of how lovely Scrumpy's hair looked in the sunshine. Please know that they thoroughly enjoyed every day with you and knew how much you loved them. Our thoughts and prayers are with all sick piggies and their families. Sadly, Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From calliope at geeksnet.com Sun Sep 27 16:06:53 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 16:06:53 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE: very belated condolences, Aeryn and Tribble Message-ID: <4ABFC5DD.50908@geeksnet.com> Jan, Zathras, and Leela, please accept our very belated condolences on the passings of Aeryn and Tribble. We are so very saddened that they passed away within a day of one another. We know what a shock this was, and our hearts go out to you. How sad that Aeryn left so soon after you rescued her, but please know that she enjoyed your love and care before she went to the Bridge. We are very sorry that she had post-surgical complications following her spay. It was so very sad, too, to read that three hours after returning home from her bladder-stone surgery, Tribble passed away. Bladder stones are terrible and difficult to deal with in piggies, but you were doing all your best to help your girl, and we know she knows it. Although piggies are never with us long enough, how great that she was seven and a half. We know exactly what you mean about the Tribble-shaped hole in your heart. She took that part with her to the Bridge, but one day you will be reunited and your heart will be whole. Please know that Aeryn and Tribble were so lucky to be beloved members of your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with all sick piggies and their families. Sadly, Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From calliope at geeksnet.com Sun Sep 27 16:11:20 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 16:11:20 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE: condolences, Tiffany's kitten Message-ID: <4ABFC6E8.6020103@geeksnet.com> Tiffany, S'mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, and Tortoise, we were very sorry to hear about your kitten who had to be helped to the Bridge last year. How sad that he had such difficult medical problems at such a young age, but how brave you were to make the decision to end his suffering. Please accept our condolences on his passing. Sadly, Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From calliope at geeksnet.com Sun Sep 27 16:24:42 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 16:24:42 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE: belated condolences, BG Message-ID: <4ABFCA0A.1000500@geeksnet.com> Carole, it was with much sadness that we read of BG's passing. We are so very sorry that he had lung problems and had to stay with the rodentologists. However, we hope you will not blame yourself that you weren't able to take care of him in his last days. Instead, we hope you will be comforted in knowing that you were getting him the best medical attention possible and that you made a nine to ten hour trip on the train to see him each week. You were doing the best for him, and we have no doubt that he knew it. Thank you for sharing some of your memories of him and Artie; how touching that BG loved Artie so much that he used to nuzzle and clean Artie's ears and then, to keep up his tough-guy image, nip Artie and run off. It sounds as though he missed Artie so much that he had to join him at the Bridge. It was also poignant to read that as he was buried, six Canada geese flew over and church bells rang. BG was a very lucky boy to be part of your family, and we know he felt all of your love and concern. Please accept our belated condolences on his passing. It is also a wonderful tribute to him that you are planning to learn to trim piggie teeth in order to help other piggies in need. Our thoughts and prayers are with all sick piggies and their families. Sadly, Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From warmbreath at comcast.net Sun Sep 27 17:10:47 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 14:10:47 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] [MISC] Alge References: Message-ID: Dear Donna I talked to Alge just now when I saw your post, She says you and Penny and Glynis, Judi, Alyssa, and I (or any one else who already has it) can give out the address to anyone who calls or emails and you know to be from GPDD, no need to collect mail and forward it. The only reason we are not posting it on GPDD is that the GPDD posts are directly searchable by Google (so write back things about your boss on GPDD), so if we put it on the internet anybody could find it. So once the people I named have given out the address those people can pass it on to who ever asks and is a known GPDD'er, just everyone be sure not to post it on GPDD directly. Use the name Alge/ Bev, her last name etc. She has sounded great the last couple days, and has been reading posts. Last night I called her from the Pearl Jam concert I have been so excited about going to the last few weeks, so as to included her in my excitement.. She was energized by the crown noise, as was I by the whole experience, I carpooled the hour and a half with 3 total strangers, and got a fan club ticket in the 8th row from another stranger. We all partied before the concert nearby, Pearl Jam people are the greatest. She reminded me it was great I pushed my self to get out, I dont have a car and have tended to become a home body since my arthritis in my knees was made much worse when I was hit by a car a couple years ago. My injuries were not great, I was only hurt worse in the knees, my lower back aches more and one foot is hard to walk on very long. So even in this time of trial for her she inspires me to get out there and "live my life with volume full" too, I really love this special woman. So anyway she and I are doing well and she will look forward to any cards or letters as we quietly send her address around.to all GPDDers who want it, Donna thank you for your special offer. Sandy and Sammy who flies out tonight for a shift on the Black Pearl.as Shipwreck Sam From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Sun Sep 27 19:37:42 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 16:37:42 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] misc: Alge Message-ID: <119598.24930.qm@web80205.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dearest Alge, You are in our thoughts and prayers here at misfitville. All fifteen sets of those little paws are praying hard for strength for you and your family during his difficult time. If anything at all we can do here in little misfitville please let us know.. Alge your special to all of us here on the digest, and we want you to know how special you are to us all. Praying hard for you, jean and andy and the misfits From rzm.2 at verizon.net Sun Sep 27 19:37:26 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 16:37:26 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH- eye discharge Message-ID: Ellen- Discharge from the eyes or nose or both can indicate a URI (upper respiratory infection). Antibitotics are what a vet would give for that. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Sun Sep 27 20:17:12 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 17:17:12 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Farewell to Hershey and hello to disinfectants Message-ID: <469156.48523.qm@web81304.mail.mud.yahoo.com> I'll write more on her departure when I'm able. Meanwhile, there's an urgent issue: How to protect my baby Puff from the E(vil) cuniculi which probably took Hershey's life. She's in my bedroom, but her hay's in the cabinet?below the bun's cage. I'm thinking I should retire?Hershey's flannel and towels. What should I use to sterilize the cage for future use?? With my birds I used a one to ten ration of chlorox and water, but this?could be?a different kind of thing. Fortunately, Puffy's been in a separate cage, so she has some safety in that. I'll be feeding her from a new bag until I know what's safe for her. She's a cutie, much feistier than her predecessors, and promises to be an adventure. I'd like to have a titre done on the Bun, but then arises the question of what to do with her if she's overwhelmingly positive. Sigh. Tearfully, Joanie From tmacallister at musician.org Sun Sep 27 22:54:05 2009 From: tmacallister at musician.org (Tiffany MacAllister) Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 21:54:05 -0500 Subject: [Gpdd] [Rainbow Bridge] Re: condolences, Tiffany's kitten Message-ID: <20090928025405.2D809BE407F@ws1-9.us4.outblaze.com> Cindy, ?Thank you very much! I was not expecting any kind of response when I posted his story It means a lot to me, so thank you! I still do think of my little Bruce every day. ?Tiffy, S'mores, Zoot, Kitties, Fishies, and Tortoise -- An Excellent Credit Score is 750 See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! From warmbreath at comcast.net Mon Sep 28 04:48:06 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Mon, 28 Sep 2009 01:48:06 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Farewell to Hershey and hello to disinfectants References: <469156.48523.qm@web81304.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: The article Penny posted indicates that bleach is the ONLY thing that sterilizes, reread that article, keeping in mind some of it is outdated, like the treatment and some other parts. Above all that article explains how a breeder manages the common bun disease in a large population. Obviously do not use hay that is under the bunny for the new pig, it is suspected that contaminated hay is a transmission vehicle, and under the bun way ups that possibility. I think that was in Penny's article too, and if not in one of the others. I would not use anything for the new pig that Hershey used, it should not be in the same room. The bunny should go get the e.c. titre test and should be treated with at least ivermectin. 2 courses 7 to 12 days apart. and it should be repeated at least a couple times a year. Dont treat her with Panacur as she doesn't have symptoms. Get the pig ivermectin, she has been exposed (but transmission is rare but take these precautions anyway) besides any new animal coming into the house probably brings mites so the ivermectin will fix that. Don't do a mite scrape test, they hurt, dont always catch the mites, actually they usually dont catch them, esp. cause there are 5 kinds of mites including ear, fur as well as burrowing mites. But dont take both of to the vet at the same time or in the same carrier. Wash yourself with alcohol gel in between bun and pig at home until the first treatments for both have passed, I would guess a month. Handle the pig first then the bun. That article suggests water deprivation accelerates e.c. infection. I have always recommended 2 water bottles per cage, dont give the new pig any of the old water bottles, dont share between bun and pig. Does the bun get floor time? They need it for exercise, and can lose the use of their hind legs if living in a cage full time. One of life's greatest joys is watching a bun run the "bunny 500" through your house close to the speed of sound, but the house has to be bunny proofed, they eat everything in sight. Join etherbun, just type it in Google, read the rules 2 or 3 times before you post, they are very strict as they are very large. You need more bun knowledge, they dont do pigs but will sometimes answer questions about them together, sometimes buns and pigs live together but it's not recommended as bun's hind legs can kill piggies accidently. Once they have both had ivermectin, 2 complete courses, I would let them live side by side for the social contact it gives them in separate cages or with a wall in between. I am basing that on Penny's article, it needs to be confirmed, I may send it to medirabbit in Switzerland for confirmation. Why not ask Dana Krempels the question on allexperts.com. if you find out anything new ot if I or any of the stuff I referenced was wrong, tell us, we need to learn from this seemingly rare occurrence. This death is very hard for us, e.c doesn't have to kill, I brought it up early on and she wasn't treated for it properly unless you haven't told us. She certainly wasn't early enough to save her. Dont blame the bun for Hershey's disease, even though she was most probably the vehicle, almost all buns carry the disease. Blame the vet, she intimidated you and refused to look outside her dog/cat box. She no doubt had to look up every thing she did for a pig, probably old texts, if she didn't she's worse than I thought, and apparently she never read the articles you brought in from world class sources. You need to learn to take charge of a vet, even your own doc, outcomes are best when patient and doc are a team. OH! and get a new vet, one that will promise to read stuff you bring her. Get the pig some vet insurance, and the bun if possible since I believe you said she is aged and e.c. is likely to become active in older pigs. The bun doesn't need an e.c. titre test it wont help you, but at the first sign of any of the e.c symptoms starting with stiff legs, not being able to stand, kidney problem, head tilt off food, stasis, even Hershey's first symptom she was sick was when she wouldn't come out her box. At the FIRST sign of illness in you bun take your insurance and savings account and get thee to a decent exotics vet, obviously if that happens to the new pig do same. Sometimes we miss the first sign, by the second at least. Since finances are tight for you as many if not most of us, I recommend a savings account $10 month at least set aside for vet care plus the insurance, more if you can. A lot of money was wasted here, overnight at the vets for ear flushes!! And no treatments to follow. Please try to find an exotics vet, ask us, look on the lists at the House rabbit society as I recommended before, find a University Vet School with clinic, vets are expensive so the money should be spent on ones that can properly diagnose and heal your animals. When you find one, take the bun and new pig in and explain your history with them and to make sure we have done the right things to avoid the transmission.You must be willing to take charge of your vet,(and your own doc). And just dont leave them at a vets, even a good vet, bunnies' and pigs often never recover if left at a vet, they only live in the here and now and the stress of a new place without their loved ones can kill and often does. If your animal needs sub Q fluids or IV treatment stay their with them, most etherbun people learn to do sub-Q's at home. Remember how Hershey responded when she came home from the vet's? And finally, did you ask for an e.c. titre test at the end for Hershey? She's the one who needs a diagnosis even in death. Did you order a necropsy so we could take a stab at finding out what happened to her for sure. See my recent posts titled e.c. I am devastated over her loss too and unhappy mad enough to kick in the TV set, and I've felt like that only once in my life. I know you are grieving too so please allow me mine. Could you not favor us with at least knowing what Hershey's meds were and how she died. I'm not dismissing your pain. But it is shared with us. In the end YOU are the best defense against the new pig getting e.c. It would have been better if Gary had waited, but I know his heart was in the right place. I dont know, and I never found in all those hours of research how long e.c. can remain in environment, it encysts itself but I dont know if the cysts' can live out side the bun or pig and if so for how long. As a follow up I suggest YOU do that research at etherbun or by contacting Rami at www.medirabbit.com, they are wonderful people, report back to us what you find out. You are in charge I'll sign off. light a candle and cry, the tears are starting now, maybe they will save the TV From piggyfriends at tesco.net Mon Sep 28 11:05:04 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Mon, 28 Sep 2009 16:05:04 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH Hershey Message-ID: <98E38AC1558B444B99175B249347294C@inspiron1150> Joanie, I am so sorry that Hershey has lost her valiant battle for life. You must be devastated. Re cage sterilisation, there is a small portion of the bun e.cuniculi link that I posted devoted to this. Here it is. http://www.barbibrownsbunnies.com/ecuniculi.htm#CAGE%20MAINTENANCE Of course, this article is only one person's opinion but another part of it mentions titres. http://www.barbibrownsbunnies.com/ecuniculi.htm#EARLY%20CASE%20HISTORY -- near the end of the section. I suppose that you need to read the whole thing before you make up your mind whether to have The Bun tested as well as checking all the other info that Sandy found. I would dispose of all of Hershey's stuff, sad though it will be to part with it and thoroughly clean her cage as above. Do you know for certain that Hershey had the dreaded e.cuniculi? If so, I would suggest that Puff does not live in the same room as The Bun, if this feasible and that her hay is always kept separate. None of us know enough about this illness and we need our bun experts to help out. Please accept our most sincere condolences of the loss of dear little Hershey. With our deepest sympathy. Penny and the Piggyfriends. P.S. Welcome to Puff. From mfug at live.co.uk Mon Sep 28 13:38:02 2009 From: mfug at live.co.uk (M) Date: Mon, 28 Sep 2009 18:38:02 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] Rainbow Bridge; Hershey Message-ID: Joanie we are so sorry that little Hershey never recovered from her illness, we know how hard you fought and how upset you must be now. I think everyone furry and not who reads the digest were rooting for your little girl to get through this sadly is was not to be. Run free Hershey make lots of new friends there is no need to be shy anymore. Joanie we wish you and Puffy a long and healthy, happy life together. Love M, Fugly and Spooky From matildalucet at earthlink.net Mon Sep 28 23:29:33 2009 From: matildalucet at earthlink.net (Ginger Fitzsimmons) Date: Mon, 28 Sep 2009 23:29:33 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Farewell to Hershey and hello to disinfectants In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: We were very sorry to hear that Hershey has finally gone to the Bridge; we followed her struggles and all of your efforts to keep her going and get her well, and were, of course, hoping that she would pull through. We cried when she couldn't stand up, and cheered when she ate, and now that she's gone, our hearts go out to you more than ever... Sometimes there just isn't a way, to persuade our little friends to stay with us any longer, when it's their time - what matters is that we do what we can for them, and love them with all our hearts while we have them. Hershey was a good pig, and we can all tell how much you loved her, and that you did everything you possibly could for her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Steve and Ginger co-slaves to Bumper, Brownie, and Cuddles remembering Niles, Clover, Butterscotch, and Mike From angela at lunaclick.net Tue Sep 29 11:27:08 2009 From: angela at lunaclick.net (Angela Taylor) Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:27:08 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Isis needs to gain some weight! Message-ID: ===== Hello all! As many of you know, we've been battling Isis's ovarian cysts for a few years now, and she'll be 5 in December. They caused her digestive distress, and she was up and down there for a few months. We got her to a decent place, and she was there for quite a while, having occasional pain and bouts of soft poop that we were managing with meloxicam and diet. Her problem now is that her poops are always soft, plentiful, and VERY smelly, and she's lost a quite a bit of weight in the last few months (from 2lbs 2oz to 1lb 9oz -- yeah, not good). She still eats like a horse, and is always begging for more food, more food, more food, which she eats like there's no tomorrow. She drinks probably 3 times the water that our other girls do...we refill her water bottle every two or three days. She still begs for scritches and loves getting them, but she's not comfortable being out of her cage for longer than a few minutes. I think it's because she's pooping so much and wants to do it "at home." (Doesn't everyone feel that way when their stomach is upset?) I have to clean her cage twice, sometimes three times a week. After thinking about it, I had a theory: Maybe she stopped eating her cecal poops because of her digestive distress, which made it worse...she didn't have the bacteria necessary to digest her food properly. We've been sprinkling her nightly lettuce with Acidophilus for a week or two now, and I have noticed that her poop is a little less smelly, but there's still lots of it and it's still soft. I haven't seen an increase in her weight like I hoped since we started the Acidophilus. Does anyone have any thoughts or recommendations about what we can do to make her tummy happy and get some meat on this poor girl's bones? ~*~ Angela, Peter, and the Guinea Goddesses Isis, Artemis (Mimi), and Pomona (Mona) ===== From jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net Tue Sep 29 14:36:22 2009 From: jaggs4 at sbcglobal.net (ANDREW SILL) Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:36:22 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] rainbow bridge: Hershey Message-ID: <973987.71712.qm@web80204.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Joanie, So very sorry to read that?your brave sweet shy little Hershey has gone to the bridge. We were so praying hard that she would make it thru this all.?Know that we send?big hugs to you and your husband. This has been a very long and hard battle for you all. rest in peace little Hershey and enjoy the?many friends of all our beloved little furbabies that have gone before you.?Remember the good fun times Joanie that little Hershey has given you. A true little?princess indeed. Saddly missing little Hershey here in the misfitville, Jean and Andy and the misfits ? From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Tue Sep 29 15:00:27 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:00:27 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's vets Message-ID: <123228.5922.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> In their defense, their reasoning was logical and they did the best they could for Hershey. All four were exotics specialists and cared a great deal about us. There were four because most of our visits were on an emergency basis, and we got whoever could fit us in. The progression they saw was that she had a UTI and the antibiotics caused stasis, She showed vestibular symptoms while her ears were completely occluded with hard, black exudate (and it did take all day to get the stuff out--four to six flushings just to visualize her ear drums to look for infection). Then, when she showed lateral weakness, they concurred that it was central nervous system in origin. They helped me to keep her going with supportive care in hopes she might heal and her teeth get back in shape (uneven wear starting, due to unlateral weakness), and those final days they gave us were the most precious moments my husband and I ever shared with any pet. She lost all her fear and became the most outgoing, appreciative, and affectionate creature I've ever met in spite of all the treatments forced on her. Such a grand piggie! I wish you could've seen her waddle up to Gary (whom, along with most people,?she used to fear), stand on her hindlegs with her little forepaws on his arm, and look up into his eyes or play tug of war with? her syringes, her legs braced?like a little dog. He found one of those with her teeth marks on it yesterday, and his eyes filled with tears. They may have misdiagnosed Hershey, but keep in mind that her predecessor, Vrie, lived with her in the same cage for some three years (before I knew any better) and Vrie lived to be over seven years old, even with my unenlightened care. I'm sure the vets took that into account. So I can see the argument either way as to diagnosis. I wish I could've pursued the E cuniculi avenue earlier, but we already had our hands full putting out fires, and it really did seem to all of us as if we were following the right course, as even mild illness can trigger a far-reaching cascade effect. Still, I'd like to use Hershey as an example for the course of this illness and how very easy it is to mistake the symptoms for other causes. Feel free to use any part of her story you like, but, please don't indict my vets or me for doing what we thought was right. I'm hoping to be able to afford a titre for the Bun. Please keep paws crossed that she's definitively free of antibodies so we can eventually move Puff into Hershey's sterilized cage once she's outgrown her present one which just fits on my bedroom dresser. If there's any question, I'm not sure what I'll do just yet. Our living space is only 1000 square feet, and there simply isn't anywhere else to put our little darling once she's grown. Thank you all for all your support and love, Joanie ? From cazza177 at ntlworld.com Tue Sep 29 17:23:24 2009 From: cazza177 at ntlworld.com (Cazza177) Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 22:23:24 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Farewell to Hershey and hello to disinfectants Message-ID: With regard to Joanie and having her new little guinea pig treated with Ivermectin, does anyone know what age a guinea pig needs to be before being treated? I ask as I am guessing that there may be a period in life when a gp may be too young to have certain treatments. I hope someone will know and be able to let Joanie and all of us on the Digest know. Kind regards Carole From warmbreath at comcast.net Tue Sep 29 17:51:36 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:51:36 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Isis needs to gain some weight! References: Message-ID: Hi Angela, Isis' weight loss and hunger and thirst are a symptom of the hormone imbalance she has because of her ovarian cysts. I must ask, are you treating her with hormones, actually it may be HGH, somewhere in the archives is the name of the one she needs. However she has had these cysts for a very long time and there is a distinct possibility is should say probability, that they will grow to the point of putting too much pressure on nearby organs, or they may develop cancer. The best cure is surgery, but she is now much older. It will cure her is she lives through it, and to make this more probable you need to find an expert exotics surgeon, we can help you find one. Even the choice of anesthesia and it's delivery is are critical as is her post-op care, she should be on Reglan before and after surgery to minimize gas, which minimizes bloating and gas, which minimizes the pressure put on the stitches, which prevents itching, which prevents her from wanting to scratch and bite at the stitches. And there must be stitches, not glue, not steristrips, not staples, 2 layers deep of real stitches. The other option is the hormone treatment. If the cysts haven't been treated directly no doubt they have grown, and the hormone imbalance stimulates metabolic imbalance that puts her in high gear, she is quite literally burning up, burning both food and water in a vain attempt to keep up with her new metabolism. Of course dont try to withhold food or water, 2 or more water bottles, etc. I would add some alfalfa to her diet, more calories, unless she prone to stones. Now lets talk about treating her symptoms. The smelly poops. Acidophilus is on the map but the wrong road. Vets use Benebac which has one or 2 more bacteria in it than acidophilus which is only good for digesting milk and piggies dont eat milk. I think it best to go to the health food store and ask the clerk or read labels of the refrigerated products, to find the one that has the most different kinds. I've even heard that Beano helps if she is gassy, but I have never used it. Avoid ones that have sorbitol. a sugar alternative, in it because it causes gas, and in high enough doses, diarrhea. Or. if you know of a healthy pig who has had a couple of doses of Ivermectin in the last few months to make sure no parasites are passed, then you can try to retrieve a healthy cecotrope from that pig, mash it with a bit of water and feed her, or try to get her to take it straight off. This has to be repeated (as does the probiotics) well past the time her gut health is restored. This is a very common disease in female piggies, the best thing to prevent is a spay at a young age, but really there are few vets experienced enough. Because of the growth of the cysts and the metabolic changes, which will continue to escalate, she will eventually die of this, unless surgery is successful, (but she may be too old and unhealthy) or if the hormone treatment works well for her. I would try to find the hormone treatment, but if the cysts have turned cancerous it wont work for long. Cancer in piggies is not usually successfully treated unless its a cancer on a leg that can be amputated in time. These comments are based on guinea pigs, not the rabbit medicine that I had to lean on for the e.c. discussion of the last few weeks. FYI, female house rabbits are routinely spayed by their first year as degenerative changes occur starting very early, often by two years old. Its possible their is a correlation between the two species, I.E. both very commonly suffer this degenerative change. House rabbit and our pigs often live much longer than their sisters and brothers living in household or breeder populations as we get them vet care, and study and develop best practices, so our pets live long enough for these change to show up. Her age now is tribute to your great care. If no treatment is found then I suggest just support her as well as you can as long as she is finding enjoyment in life, there may come a time when a decision about helping her to the bridge is preferable for her. Keep track of her weight, and consult with a great vet if you dont have one, Oh! how I love being wrong esp. when a new treatment has come along that can save her. BTW I did spay a 5 year old sow and it went great till 10 days out when we ran out of Reglan, she was a very gassy piggy and her gas came back, she itched, and then ate through her stitches. I did have a great surgeon he tried to repair her, but she had eaten through her own bowel, he attempted a resection but it was too late. Since then we have discussed inventions of a type of Elizabethan collar on this forum that's not a stiff paper ot plastic cone, but more like a thick scrunchie worn around the neck, it doesn't drive the piggie nuts so is much more successful I do wish you and her good luck and pray you will be able to make her comfortable, (of course keep up the meloxicam)and even find a cure. Enjoy one another while she's here, 5 years is a very respectable age for a piggy of course we cant help but want them around much longer. I hope you will keep in touch with us and share your experiences good and bad so we can learn more for other piggies and we can share what we find. Dear little Isis, bless her. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Angela Taylor" To: Sent: Tuesday, September 29, 2009 8:27 AM > > As many of you know, we've been battling Isis's ovarian cysts for a few > years now, and she'll be 5 in December. They caused her digestive > distress, > and she was up and down there for a few months. We got her to a decent > place, and she was there for quite a while, having occasional pain and > bouts > of soft poop that we were managing with meloxicam and diet. > > Her problem now is that her poops are always soft, plentiful, and VERY > smelly, and she's lost a quite a bit of weight in the last few months > (from > 2lbs 2oz to 1lb 9oz -- yeah, not good). She still eats like a horse, and > is > always begging for more food, more food, more food, which she eats like > there's no tomorrow. She drinks probably 3 times the water that our other > girls do...we refill her water bottle every two or three days. She still > begs for scritches and loves getting them, but she's not comfortable being > out of her cage for longer than a few minutes. I think it's because she's > pooping so much and wants to do it "at home." (Doesn't everyone feel that > way when their stomach is upset?) I have to clean her cage twice, > sometimes > three times a week. > > After thinking about it, I had a theory: Maybe she stopped eating her > cecal > poops because of her digestive distress, which made it worse...she didn't > have the bacteria necessary to digest her food properly. We've been > sprinkling her nightly lettuce with Acidophilus for a week or two now, and > I > have noticed that her poop is a little less smelly, but there's still lots > of it and it's still soft. I haven't seen an increase in her weight like I > hoped since we started the Acidophilus. > > Does anyone have any thoughts or recommendations about what we can do to > make her tummy happy and get some meat on this poor girl's bones? > > ~*~ > Angela, Peter, and the Guinea Goddesses > Isis, Artemis (Mimi), and Pomona (Mona) > > ===== > -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > _______________________________________________ > Gpdd mailing list > Gpdd at gpdd.org > http://gpdd.org/mailman/listinfo/gpdd_gpdd.org > From warmbreath at comcast.net Tue Sep 29 19:17:24 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:17:24 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's vets References: <123228.5922.qm@web81306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Dear Joanie, I actually made a typo when I suggested a titre test for the bun. but I got it right at the bottom of the article. Your bun has no symptoms so a titre is not meaningful I would just watch for the symptoms I listed for you before. I they occur then treat although its possible that your bun is a carrier, ask your vet if that's possible, take the bun for a check up. Keep in mind that if the bun gets some other illness it could cause the e.c. to "wake up". so she could get the symptoms' then, which, just like our little Hershey, could confuse the issue. Keep in mind that buns live longer than piggies on average, 9 to even 14 years, even with dormant e.c. It's just when some disease or condition occurs that weakens the immune system do they become active, one such compromiser is old age but your bun isn't there yet. Actually I have continued to research Hershey's records and back further she had the ovarian cysts. Were they treated and if so how, if not they could cause her eventual death by them selves. So those may have played a role 2 ways. They may have gotten worse and even become cancerous, and or/ they may have been what started on the cascade of events you correctly identify. In fact, her weakened condition is what allowed the e.c. to wake up, as I am almost positive she did have e.c. it just wasn't the first disease, it was part of the cascade.I think we can even see that episode were she wouldn't come out from the back of her cage as a symptom, it may have been warmer back there which helps a hurting tummy, then the stasis. You see how an entire history is helpful. Now that you finally say your vets are exotics vets I am evermore puzzled over their activities. Where I take exception is that they kept treating all the little fires but never treated the big one. She had one or more diseases that could kill her, the stasis was a symptom so were the stiff legs, ear gunk, neurological symptoms, low appetite etc. etc. etc. 1. Ovarian cysts 2. Ear infection or e.c. both never treated, the ear flushes are to visualize ear drums, which is not a definitive test for ear infection, it could have been and inner ear infection, middle ear, it could have broken into the outer ear, but you never told us what was in the ear gunk, either junk from ear infection, or mite excrement (mites have a tendency to pop up when piggy is sick too) or ear wax. You don't say exactly which and still it wouldn't tell us if an inner or middle ear infection was present They said e.c. is rare in pigs, and so it is, we think,(see earlier posts) but yours had all the chances for exposure, everyone of the classic symptoms of e.c. and the antibiotic would have treated both ear infection and e.c. and since you were giving her flagyl you could have given her instead a proper e.c. drug, Panacur isn't expensive. But who knows maybe cancer from the cysts was the real killer. If only you had done a necropsy we could really learn something. I know you spent a fortune in a day when fortunes are uncommon, but that could only help us know for sure (not even 100%) which of the disease were really active and e.c., if present would have shown cysts in her brain. So I understand everything you wrote and I dont disagree with most, I know your heart was in the right place but the worst possible, and underlying causes weren't treated, only the hundred little things the diseases caused by the big gun diseases were treated, but the big guns kept blasting away. So you made her more comfortable, but without attempting a cure, her death was inevitable And I am so unhappy with myself that I wasn't able to motivate the treating of those diseases. I am mourning my failure and her death as I know you are. So I am very empathetic May I ask what was the cause of death for your earlier two pigs, not trying to further indict you or make you more miserable. In your message about them you referred to your ineptitude. Now you have a new pig and your old bun and my main goal is to help you become effective advocates for your pets. You are very brave with this post, and I am proud of you for it, but it seems like you are reaching out when you describe yourself unflatteringly . Let's change your self perception by arming you to become an effective advocate for you pets, spend your dollars wisely, and learn more about their care and disease. I hope you will join etherbun and stay with us every day. When there is a link given here follow it. keep a list of posts that facilitate your learning in an email folder or print them and organize them. We are going to lose pets, we are going to make our own mistakes, I wrote you privately that I thought I had made mistakes with Manny the Boar's care when he died last summer. The only thing we can do is try to learn, keep reaching out, one foot in front of the other, but not mechanically, design our own and your pets future, same as would do for your kids. I too am grieving for Hershey and many of my tears have been for you as well. let's just go forward, our pets need us. Sandy ----- Original Message ----- From: "GARY HESS" To: Sent: Tuesday, September 29, 2009 12:00 PM Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Hershey's vets > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > The GPDD moderators frequently reject messages that do not follow > these guidelines: > A lack of a Topic label is the most common reason for message rejection. > Please use a Topic Label (HEALTH, CARE, ANNOUNCEMENT, BEHAVIOR, RESCUE, > BREEDING, SILLY, PIGLETS, MISC. or VIRTUAL) and descriptive subject. More > information on Topic use, post restrictions and permissions can be found > at http://www.gpdd.org/topics.html > > Postings to the digest must conform to the rules stated at > http://www.gpdd.org/guidelines.html > > Please consult the GPDD FAQ at http://www.gpdd.org/faq.html for > a list of commonly asked questions. > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > Other GPDD-affiliated sites: > > The Guinea Pigs' Rainbow Bridge, dedicated to the memories of piggies past > http://www.guineapigsrainbow.org > --------------------------------------- > Piggie bladderstone informational resources and mailing list: > http://www.gpigs-database.org > --------------------------------------- > All material posted is copyright The Guinea Pigs' Daily Digest, and may > not be reproduced in whole or in part in any media - printed or > electronic - without written permission of the administrators. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In their defense, their reasoning was logical and they did the best they could for Hershey. All four were exotics specialists and cared a great deal about us. There were four because most of our visits were on an emergency basis, and we got whoever could fit us in. The progression they saw was that she had a UTI and the antibiotics caused stasis, She showed vestibular symptoms while her ears were completely occluded with hard, black exudate (and it did take all day to get the stuff out--four to six flushings just to visualize her ear drums to look for infection). Then, when she showed lateral weakness, they concurred that it was central nervous system in origin. They helped me to keep her going with supportive care in hopes she might heal and her teeth get back in shape (uneven wear starting, due to unlateral weakness), and those final days they gave us were the most precious moments my husband and I ever shared with any pet. She lost all her fear and became the most outgoing, appreciative, and affectionate creature I've ever met in spite of all the treatments forced on her. Such a grand piggie! I wish you could've seen her waddle up to Gary (whom, along with most people, she used to fear), stand on her hindlegs with her little forepaws on his arm, and look up into his eyes or play tug of war with her syringes, her legs braced like a little dog. He found one of those with her teeth marks on it yesterday, and his eyes filled with tears. They may have misdiagnosed Hershey, but keep in mind that her predecessor, Vrie, lived with her in the same cage for some three years (before I knew any better) and Vrie lived to be over seven years old, even with my unenlightened care. I'm sure the vets took that into account. So I can see the argument either way as to diagnosis. I wish I could've pursued the E cuniculi avenue earlier, but we already had our hands full putting out fires, and it really did seem to all of us as if we were following the right course, as even mild illness can trigger a far-reaching cascade effect. Still, I'd like to use Hershey as an example for the course of this illness and how very easy it is to mistake the symptoms for other causes. Feel free to use any part of her story you like, but, please don't indict my vets or me for doing what we thought was right. I'm hoping to be able to afford a titre for the Bun. Please keep paws crossed that she's definitively free of antibodies so we can eventually move Puff into Hershey's sterilized cage once she's outgrown her present one which just fits on my bedroom dresser. If there's any question, I'm not sure what I'll do just yet. Our living space is only 1000 square feet, and there simply isn't anywhere else to put our little darling once she's grown. Thank you all for all your support and love, Joanie -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > _______________________________________________ > Gpdd mailing list > Gpdd at gpdd.org > http://gpdd.org/mailman/listinfo/gpdd_gpdd.org > From elmga at hotmail.com Tue Sep 29 19:27:18 2009 From: elmga at hotmail.com (ellen garrison) Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 13:27:18 -1000 Subject: [Gpdd] Gpdd: (MISC) [Quote] Message-ID: This is a quote from Richard Bach, American writer: "Do not be dismayed at goodbyes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or a lifetime, is certain for those who are friends." Have a good day, everyone. Ellen, 10 gp's, 1 bunny, in mem of Li'l Guy and Gin Gin _________________________________________________________________ Microsoft brings you a new way to search the web. Try Bing? now http://www.bing.com?form=MFEHPG&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MFEHPG_Core_tagline_try bing_1x1 From angela at lunaclick.net Tue Sep 29 19:43:33 2009 From: angela at lunaclick.net (Angela Taylor) Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 19:43:33 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Isis needs to gain some weight! In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: ===== Sandy, thank you SO MUCH for all this advice! We do have a great exotics clinic, and I think I'll see if I can make an appointment with them in the next week or two. Her weight has been holding steady for a little while, so I don't think a few more days' wait will harm her. I don't think she could handle surgery at her age and in her condition, and I'm not sure if there is a way we can continue the hormone treatments here at home (which would be preferable, since the clinic is a 45-minute drive away), but I'll be sure to discuss all the options with the vet. She has had HGH and Lupron injections in the past, and they did help, but only for a time. I'll definitely be looking for a different probiotic...I believe there's a GNC at our local mall, and I think most of them have refrigerated cases for stuff like this these days. I give her simethicone (the baby gas relief formula) when she gets gassy, which thankfully she hasn't been lately. Nothing funnier than guinea pig farts! :D ~*~ Angela ===== From warmbreath at comcast.net Tue Sep 29 20:02:01 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:02:01 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Farewell to Hershey and hello to disinfectants References: Message-ID: <4A86DA09C4104FDE8D225E8F03CD4884@SNADY> After weaning I would think. Guinealynx.info recommends after the piggy reaches 12 oz or 340 gm. Remember whee need to give them 2 courses each 7 to 10 days apart. The dose is 0.2mg/kg Be sure its done by an injection by the vet as they are so tiny an overdose could be fatal. With overdose they get cold, lose vision and cant walk. if you see these symptoms wrap in a towel and keep him with you till it passes. If it's bad you will have to feed and water yourself or go to the vet. It will pass if you give supportive treatment long enough. To much of course is fatal. I recommend everyone to get the Cavy Health Record from www.guinealynx.info some at least is downloadable, the hard copy is very cheap. It will be wonderful if we find out that it "immunizes"against e.c. as thought in that e.c. article Penny posted about e.c. in rabbits. I haven't seen that even hinted at anywhere else posted or written. Good luck. Sandy and Sammy From rzm.2 at verizon.net Wed Sep 30 01:04:17 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 22:04:17 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] SILLY- G-force Message-ID: I found on the G-force official website that they have all kinds of games you can play. Just click this link: http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/gforce/?int_cmp=dcom_gfo_gameportal_speckles_234x60_Intl & then click on games up at the top. I love the game with Hurley. They're all cute. I figured we could all use a smile right about now with all the sadness lately. Hope you enjoy! ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From piggyfriends at tesco.net Wed Sep 30 08:15:15 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:15:15 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Isis needs to gain some weight! References: Message-ID: <3550214B4EF942B8970B2D8FADEF21D8@inspiron1150> A very quick reply as our mail server is very flaky today and is likely to go down again at any moment. The hormone treatment for ovarian cysts is called HCG - Human Chorionic Gonadotropin. My Lavender was treated for these cysts with HCG in November last year. The treatment needs to be repeated at least once with a 4 week interval between shots. Lavender had a second in December and a third in January. There is a chance that the cysts will regrow but Lavender had a check up last week and there is no sign of regrowth. If they do come back, I would certainly try the HCG again before considering a spay, even though my little girl is only 2. Quick before the server disappears.. Penny and the Piggyfriends. From piggyfriends at tesco.net Wed Sep 30 08:24:53 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:24:53 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH More about e.cuniculi Message-ID: <0BD71F60CE4046F7B6CC8AB43A0C2BC2@inspiron1150> The damn mail server packed up again just as I tried to send my post about HCG. I hope that it gets there and is not lost in the ether. I found this article about e.cuniculi which might be of interest to bun people. I stress that it is only about buns not piggies. Here is the link. http://www.thebrc.org/health.htm Penny and the Piggyfriends. From angela at lunaclick.net Wed Sep 30 10:03:07 2009 From: angela at lunaclick.net (Angela Taylor) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:03:07 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: Isis needs to gain some weight! In-Reply-To: References: <3550214B4EF942B8970B2D8FADEF21D8@inspiron1150> Message-ID: ===== Thanks, Penny! Isis has had a round of hormone injections...the first when we nearly lost her a year or so ago and they kept her overnight in the clinic for treatment and an ultrasound to confirm the cysts. That one was hCG (darn those confusing abbreviations!). We went back twice for follow-up injections of Lupron, which they implied had a bit more of an "oomph" to try to knock out the cysts once and for all, and she was good there for a while. I know spaying will be our last-ditch effort, but you never know...she's a STUBBORN thing, it's her way or the highway! So she might actually do ok with it, if it comes to that; she's a fighter. :) ~*~ Angela ===== From piggyfriends at tesco.net Wed Sep 30 15:00:33 2009 From: piggyfriends at tesco.net (Penny Charlesworth) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 20:00:33 +0100 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH More about e.cuniculi + Holiday trip. Message-ID: <88E9B1B026CF4A34BFE9CBC96505F141@inspiron1150> I went to see my Rodentologists today as I am boarding Halloween with them while we are away on a trip. He is on diuretics for a heart condition and I decided that he would be safer with them in case he has a relapse. Don't worry about him being parted from the Piggyfriends. It is not like being at the vets as he will be living in their house and have lots of cuddles and treats as well as other piggies with whom to chat and an endless supply of cucumber. One of my sons will be pigsitting the Piggyfriends. He is very good at this and has had years of practice but I thought that he would have enough to do with cleaning out all the pens and gathering food for the herd without worrying about Halloween or having to make a 45 minute dash for help if a problem arose. When I was there I asked them what they knew about e.cuniculi. They only treat piggies ( thousands of them during the time that they have been open ) but had never come across a case that could be attributed to e.cuniculi. They said that when they were working at the CCT ( Guinea pig hospital in England ) e. cuniculi had been discussed and debated but no firm conclusions had been reached. Of course, many of their clients and those of the CCT only have piggies but there are some that keep buns as well. All clients are advised to keep Panacur or Valbazen meds up to date as well as Ivermectin and many take their piggies to have this done by them. They are going to do a little research for me and if there is anything to report, I will post it to the group at a later date. In the meantime, good health to all of our piggies and their slaves. Extra love and piggy kisses to Alge and to Isis and Donald, whom I hope is recovering and any other pigs or people who are under the weather. See you again soon. Take care everyone. Bye for now. Penny and the Piggyfriends, who know how much I hate leaving them but my long suffering husband works very long hours and deserves a holiday. xxx wheek wheek xxx From joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net Wed Sep 30 15:14:44 2009 From: joanhess4 at sbcglobal.net (GARY HESS) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:14:44 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: More Hershey questions Message-ID: <413717.8272.qm@web81301.mail.mud.yahoo.com> In response to Sandy, I'll try to answer your questions while my mind is clear. Keep in mind that I'm prone to depression, which causes forgetfulness when it sets in. ? You made a statement that I hadn't attempted a cure for Hershey. I was attempting with all my heart and resources. If I was misinformed by the professionals I trusted I'll have to live with that, so please don't rub it in. She was, by the way, on albendazole when she died. I know you feel responsible for failing to get through to me, and you needn't. You gave it everything you had, but I couldn't even concentrate on what I was reading anyway. I was (and still am) so distraught, it was so much easier to take the tangible hand the vets offered. ? Now on to the questions: Regarding cysts: X-rays and palpation showed no sign of them, though they could've been tiny. She had been acting hypersexual for a couple weeks. The fact that she reacted positively to the antibiotics tended to indicate that an infection was involved. She started becoming more active and playful the very day after we started the drugs. Sadly, that didn't last as her gut gave out. ? Regarding ears: I'm a retired audiologist. I used to test for vestibular problems. When I saw the nystagmus and dysequilibrium, I ran with it. When I saw the occluded ear canals, and there was no sign of mites under the microscope, It all shouted, "EARS!" to me. In humans at least, visualizing the ear drum can show whether it's retracted or distended, reddened, or ruptured. It was none of the above, which led us to believe we were looking at a nervous system problem. At this point things got really scary, as if it wasn't before. ? Regarding former deaths: Blobby died suddenly. One day she wasn't eating with her usual enthusiasm. The next day she was dead. ? Vrie's body just stopped working. She began wasting away a few months before she died at age 7. She faded until she became too weak and gave up on walking, so I fed her in place and gave her lots of wet greens. Since she appeared to be in no pain and still ate voraciously, I let her reach the Bridge in her own way, in her own time. ? I hope we can lay this thing to rest soon. It's ripping open wounds that have only begun to heal. I know others will benefit from your questions, but I'm weary and depressed, and I have a new little life to be responsible for. ? Hope that takes care of things. Again, thank you for your intense research. ? Joanie ? ? From leah.mcneil at wachovia.com Wed Sep 30 16:22:17 2009 From: leah.mcneil at wachovia.com (leah.mcneil at wachovia.com) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:22:17 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] Announce: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Princess Snowflake!! Message-ID: Hello there, Piggies & Slaves! Please join me in wishing my Princess Snowflake a Very HAPPY 2 Year ADOPTION DAY!!! Yippeee! My Princess came to own me on this day two years ago. She was at the Charlotte-Meck Animal Shelter and had been abandoned in a trailer. Her ex-family moved out and left her and 2 hamsters behind. Luckily, the rental property manager found them and brought them to the shelter. When I first laid eyes on her, I knew that she was the One. I had to have her. So, I brought her home with me and it's been pure Happiness in our home ever since. I don't know her 'real' age, but her Vet, Dr. Griffin guestimated her age to be about 1 year old, so she's approximately 3 years old now. Tonight, wheeee are going to have a Grand 'ole Celebration so please raise your carrots and wheeeek out a Hearty "Hear! Hear!" for my little girl. HAPPY 2 Year ADOPTION DAY, my Little Princess!!! :D P.S. And if you were wondering, the Answer is YES, I'll be putting up a Birthday website for both PS and Bertie Pig since they both had B-Days this month...Yippeeee!! Oh, but if anypig/slave is on Facebook, then you can catch a sneak preview of their B-Day pigtures later this evening. Love 'n Wheeeeeeeeeps, Leah...Slave to the Birthday Girl--Princess Snowflake and my Big 'n Cuddly Bertie Boy :-) From warmbreath at comcast.net Wed Sep 30 18:57:53 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:57:53 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH More about e.cuniculi + Holiday trip. References: <88E9B1B026CF4A34BFE9CBC96505F141@inspiron1150> Message-ID: Dear Penny, Thank you ever so much. I would like to repeat that I hope piggies who die after having that stiff back leg thing or where they cant walk, or head tilt, wry neck, or any neurological symptoms or nystigmus, please try to afford a necropsy of brain and kidney tissue, at least, where sections are done and examined for cysts under the microscope. I think a big group like this is the best chance there is to find a this rare disease. Lets say a disease is found in 1 out 1000 cases. That means 1000 pigs would have to be necropsies to find it, that's why, if it occurs, it would be very hard to catch, the piggy would likely die of the things the parasite causes, like the stasis, or other conditions, and so the e.c. is not suspected. Necropsies are rare and its the ONLY way to know for sure. That's why I think we are the only ones with a shot at ID'ing it we are the only big group. Dont forget, Hershey, God bless her sweet soul, had every classic symptom, lived above a bunny, and their hay was kept under the bun, these are the most favorable possible conditions for catching e.c.(except if they actually lived together), as a very high percentage of buns are born with it, it coming from the mum. I would love to be wrong, I would hate that Hershey had died of an untreated ear infection. But it's horrible she's gone in any case. (I dont blame Joanie for having a bun and pig, happens all the time and how would she know, I recommended to her to join etherbun though as I would to any of you who have both kinds of pets) I had asked Penny to ask her rodentologist their opinion, I am thankful she did, I hope we can use our group power to solve this, as that one article I wrote, about the pigs with weak or stiff legs, which is not that uncommon, and I myself have had some die mysteriously a month or 2 after a water bottle failure, to think these could be e.c. is worrisome. Of course if we can keep it at bay by staying current on Ivermectin shots and those who get Panacur for some other reason, and the fact that allot of us have done this routinely may well keep the protozoa from becoming active so it wouldn't show in the brain, which means any active infection never took place and therefore would never show in a brain section. That's why I think the necropsy should only be done on symptomatic pigs, not just every one that dies. The titre test can show exposure, just not active disease as contrasted to exposure, so if we keep up what we think is preventative, we may never see another active case in our group of piggies. It would be nice however, if our search proved that it should be mentioned, followed, and people like www.guinealynx.info were able to recommend Ivermectin dosages periodically through life as a preventative. Our only shot might be one of those big horrible piggy busts where a hoarder is caught with poorly cared for pigs. Hoarders typically have other animals, so possibly buns, and undertreated their animals, so that's one place where we might find active e.c. cases. We would have to have a study set up in advance to capitalize on an opportunity like that, although I sincerely hope we never have another hoarder case. There are people om this list who do respond to emergencies like that, if you were to ID yourselves maybe we could make a plan, or at least add a note to watch for e.c. in these cases. Fortunately horded pigs when taken into custody, are immediately treated with Ivermectin, which although not a drug used to cure e.c. in buns, according to the breeder's article that Penny found, she showed, anecdotally, that it may be a preventative, from allowing an exposure to blossom into a full blown case. Joanie, if you are reading this, can you tell us if Hershey ever had Ivermectin for mites or Panacur while she lived with you and if so was it repeated very much ? That would at least be our first data point. Ask your vet if they think the bun should be tested, I gave you only my opinion not to unless she shows active symptoms I invite all and any to ask their exotics vets what they know, believe, or if they know if any trials, or cases? In case any of you wonder why I keep after this? Its because I have a son, now a fully functional adult, who had such a rare birth defect, My daughter a totally different but rare one. It proves rare things happen, and when they do occur it can be very bad. I ask you how many people do you know who have a rare condition or disease, from a birth defect to a rare cancer, like our darling Alge, her particular cancer is rare, but not swept under the rug. It would be a change for us to have a subgroup to study this (or any other piggy related thing) so any who are interested let me or the management know. Maybe you think we should avoid this sort of study, if so speak up likewise, our group is what we make it to be. Thank you very much Sandy From calliope at geeksnet.com Wed Sep 30 18:39:23 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:39:23 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] (Virtual) but real, Cap'n Jack Honors his Mum, Alge, , on Talk Like A Pirate Day Message-ID: <4AC3DE1B.6040707@geeksnet.com> Cap'n Jack, thank you for letting us know about your mom, Alge. Please tell her that we are praying for her recovery and sending all of our support, healing wheeks, and best wishes her way. "Brave" and "strong" don't begin to describe her; she is obviously way beyond those adjectives, but they will do for a start. Yes, we are sure, as you said, that all Bridge piggies are watching over her, along with our dearly departed humans: Debbie Jones, Joe Petrillo, and Peter Gurney. It's hard to imagine much better support than that. Alge, we hope you can feel all the love, healing vibes, and good thoughts from GPDDers all around the world. We are pulling for you. Sandy and Shipwreck Sam, we appreciate your helping Cap'n Jack get the word out. And Barnacle Bill, thank you and the Captain for looking out for your mom. Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From rzm.2 at verizon.net Wed Sep 30 22:30:29 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:30:29 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH- Isis Message-ID: <495EED554D8047FCA34F75A57FAB2292@chirpyPC> Angela- I would first cut back on greens some to see if her poos stop being so soft. You're doing the right thing with the acidophilus. Supplement with Critical Care & maybe some canned pumpkin (the plain kind, not the kind with spices added!) & vegetable or fruit baby foods *in addition* to her normal diet to help try to pack on those pounds. Do you have a scale? If you do, weigh her every day & if she keeps eating & not gaining or losing more weight, it's time for a trip to the vets. If you can get cecal poops from a healthy pig, you can mash it up & mix it in some Critical Care & feed it to her (eww- I know!) The fact that she drinks so much could indicate diabetes. These are all just suggestions on my part. I am not an expert & so others may have better advice for you. I hope she feels better soon & it sounds like you are doing all the right things. Keep us updated. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From rzm.2 at verizon.net Wed Sep 30 22:36:14 2009 From: rzm.2 at verizon.net (Ronald Zimmerman) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:36:14 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] MISC- Hershey Message-ID: Joanie- Your story of Hershey coming out of her shell at the end reminds me of all the bonding I've done with sick piggies (& even hamsters) over the years. Long periods of meds & syringe feeding & constant care do seem to bond us even closer with them. I guess if anyone would look for a "silver lining" in all this, that would be it. Hugs to you & Gary both. ~Jaime & Mimi~ ~Missing Albert, Molly, Radar & Daisy~ http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu246/chirpy123/ From warmbreath at comcast.net Wed Sep 30 19:44:49 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:44:49 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] Join our fundraising campaign for Critter Connection References: <29821892.1209081254353059146.JavaMail.SYSTEM@mail.konversation.com> Message-ID: <290A36900F4B4FFF9CE5FE6D0815B2EA@SNADY> can I just send money?? From warmbreath at comcast.net Wed Sep 30 20:36:56 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:36:56 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH: More Hershey questions References: <413717.8272.qm@web81301.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: I'm sorry Joanie, I dont want to rip wounds, I want Hershey's death to be the last of its kind, you are very helpful with your audiology experience. If it wasn't inner ear infection and was neurological, that's a stronger link to e.c. The more you say the more positive I am about her having e.c. Clearly Blobby's death was out of the blue, how can you blame yourself for that? Piggies hide thier failing conditions. Dont blame your care! Vrie most likely had the disease I wrote about at length yesterday about Isis I think. I even mentioned it's called it female piggy wasting disease, read that, its common, and keep it, so it will help you manage your new piggies health. It's more treatable in younger sows. The cysts the e.c. leave are very small and would need slices of brain and kidney prepared on microscope slides, to ID it, e.c. is a minute protozoa, with a voracious appetite, that's why I had hoped for a necropsy, that's how those slides are gotten, post mortem. My fault I didn't ask for it before she died, had hoped she would make it through the weekend. I knew you couldn't afford it, her care was very expensive I know you worked impossibly hard with Hershey, the vets didn't tunnel down to root causes and treat those, she got loads of supportive care and that prolonged her life, but the basic highest probability causes weren't treated. this is the question I asked in the article I just posted, although I made one more ref. to Hershey it wasn't blaming, was about necropsy. The article I wrote just now, in response to Penny's talk with her Rodentologists asks you a couple more questions, let me put them here, in case you would rather not read the whole other thing here it is: "Joanie, if you are reading this, can you tell us if Hershey ever had Ivermectin for mites or Panacur while she lived with you and if so was it repeated very much ? That would at least be our first data point. Ask your vet if they think the bun should be tested, I gave you only my opinion not to unless she shows active symptoms" I too suffer from depression and fibromyalgia I know it's like. I try to keep my mind active as a treatment for both but I know very well what you mean. Yours in Healing, bless Hershey running free at the bridge now where no bad little creatures are allowed, and bless her for loving you so much. Sandy From calliope at geeksnet.com Wed Sep 30 21:48:41 2009 From: calliope at geeksnet.com (Cindy) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 21:48:41 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] RAINBOW BRIDGE: belated condolences, Bella the bunny Message-ID: <4AC40A79.7080207@geeksnet.com> Joanne, please accept our belated condolences on Bella's passing. We remember when you took her in as a foster bunny, and we are so very saddened to hear that she suddenly passed away. Your description of how shiny and perfect she looked when she went to the other side was very touching. How sad to learn that part of her intestines were inflamed or diseased and that bacteria had entered her bloodstream; this unfortunately is one of those tragedies that we just can't prevent or predict. We hope you will find comfort in knowing that you did all your best for her and that she knew how much you loved her. Bella was a lucky bunny. Sadly, Cindy, Tumbleweed, and Friday From ebak at ca.inter.net Wed Sep 30 22:49:13 2009 From: ebak at ca.inter.net (Evelyn Baker) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 22:49:13 -0400 Subject: [Gpdd] [Health] Isis weight loss Message-ID: <488A38BB-4781-484E-98EB-741E293F48B2@ca.inter.net> It sounds like she's showing symptoms of diabetes or kidney disease, one can accompany the other. Take her to the vets. The constant drinking is a symptom. Evelym From warmbreath at comcast.net Wed Sep 30 23:10:12 2009 From: warmbreath at comcast.net (warmbreath at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 30 Sep 2009 20:10:12 -0700 Subject: [Gpdd] HEALTH More about e.cuniculi References: <0BD71F60CE4046F7B6CC8AB43A0C2BC2@inspiron1150> Message-ID: <434EAB6DC04649E88ABF22CFF65300B9@SNADY> Dear Penny This article isn't dated but contains references from the 1970's up to 2004 being the latest, so its an early article, BUT, it shows increasing awareness of the problem over that time. It doesn't really get into a cure except to mention problems with one of the drugs causing failure of bone marrow. the first page mentions piggies, and people, plus dogs etc read this from your article as follows "The first mammalian infections were described in rabbits in the 1920's, and the infection was recognized in humans in the 1950's, with increasing reports during the 1980's related to the AIDS pandemic. Microsporidia are now also thought to be a cause of diarrhoea in children and travellers E.cuniculi may also be found in other mammal species, including rodents, guinea pigs, foxes, monkeys, cats, dogs, sheep, goats, pigs, llamas and snakes in 1979, in 1985, 1993, 2003. " I clipped the references for brevity but left the date, but they are in the main article " It is likely that E. cuniculi infections in rabbits pose a zoonotic risk to immunocompromised humans. Close contact between owners and susceptible pet species could lead to an increase in human exposure to the parasite. Infection in humans is thought to be from the environment following contamination with spores from other infected humans or animals. " This zoonotic effect (Bun to human infection) may be scary to some, but on my 2 years of reading etherbun I never heard this identified or worried about. The main value is it tells how to make the titre test useful by taking 2 tests 4 weeks apart, and of course that a high titre with active symptoms indicates an active infection, it also points out that a bun can be a carrier or may have just been exposed. Also the percentage of rabbits infected over time goes up, and newer articles than this one place it as much as 80% in some populations I was happy /relieved to see on the first run through it didn't contradict anything I said, except with the possibility that 2 titre test may shed more light on whether there is an active or developing infection, which was a learning point for me.The articles on www.medirabbit.com and www.rabbit.info are newer but not so explicit in some areas but in others give more specific details on symptoms and treatments After that first mention of guinea pigs it doesn't talk about them again and its weak on symptomology and current treatment, in buns and nothing about pigs. So again, if it happens with any frequency in piggies it may be us that can find it . I'm sure more will come up on further read, thank you for adding to out knowledge base, well done. Sandy