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Rex has become a very familiar
face around My Pet's Vet. Rex is a
10-year-old Maltese mix who began coming to our
clinic in September after he moved to Mequon
with his family. Rex had a history of
medical problems that were being treated prior
to his arrival here. Rex was suffering
from an uncommon disease called Autoimmune
Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA). This condition
caused Rex's immune system to think his own red
blood cells were "foreign" and it began
destroying them. Rex was treated at his
previous vet and began seeing us for his
follow-up visits. Unfortunately, Rex had
second episode of AIHA with us.
In the process of curing his
second bout of AIHA, Rex began having other
worrisome health problems. He had
reoccurring anal gland infections, hair loss,
weight loss and was lethargic and listless at
home. By December he looked like a shell
of the former dog that we first met. He
had lost the majority of his hair and had
dropped in weight from 12 lbs to a startling 8
lbs. in a short time. Through blood testing Dr.
Beatty discovered Rex was also suffering from a
more common problem...diabetes mellitus or poor
blood sugar regulation! His prior
condition had further complicated Rex's health.
Rex was on death's door step when the diabetes
was discovered. Dr. Beatty immediately
started him on insulin. Within days Rex
was almost back to his normal, playful self!
We are happy to report that 3
months later Rex is back to 12 lbs, covered in
hair and a spunky, sassy boy again!
His family couldn't be happier! They were
days away from having to say goodbye to their
beloved friend. Now they have gotten a
second chance at life with him. Rex enjoys
life and playing with his brother, Spike,
another Maltese mix. Rex has been a model
patient and has been so tolerant of the constant
blood draws, prodding and examinations.
His diabetes is now well managed. He has
kept his outgoing and lovable personality
through it all. Way-to-go, Rex! We
are so happy for his family and look forward
to many more years of caring for Rex and
Spike.
Update:
Rex had a complication from
his diabetes and developed cataracts in his
eyes and had become
blind. Dr. Beatty advised his family that
there was hope for him to regain his sight and
his freedom once again. Rex just had cataract
surgery at the
Animal Eye Specialists. His surgery went
wonderfully! All Rex's doctors and family are
optimistic about his potential to see again.
His recovery is going well. Best wishes
for a speedy recovery Rex!
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