Originally posted by JMM@Jul 7 2005, 05:09 PM
In dogs, just a T4 isn't an accurate picture of thyroid function. I would ask for a full thyroid panel. I prefer to see them sent to MSU's Animal Health Diagnostic Lab.
As was already said, some dogs do become more aggressive when mildly sedated. I'd give him some time to recover (a week) and if the vet rx'd valium, it would be worth a try to see if he does any better with that. We use Torbugesic to sedate Mikey as he tolerates that best and occasionally needs to be sedated when he is extremely uncomfortable or his tremors become too severe.
Have you ever tried a basket muzzle where he could still open his mouth? Another suggestion would be a hard plastic e-collar so you could do his body and back end without being bitten.
If he's having quality of life issues, I would be inclined to test for Cushings.
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He did have the full thyroid panel after the T4 was borderline. Still borderline.
I'm glad to know to wait a week before trying anything else. It sure took a long time for the ACE to wear off. He wasn't normal by bedtime, which was 13 hrs. He seems normal today, but I don't want to push things. I'll mention the Torbugesic to the vet, I know they'll do the valium.
I haven't used a basket muzzle. Mine is the black fabric type. I've been looking for one in the local stores, but probably will have to order it. The collar sounds like a great idea! Don't know why I didn't think of that!
His issues aren't really what I'd think of as quality of life issues. They effect our quality of life! The hair-trigger on biting, not being able to groom him any more, keeping us up at night (sleeps during the day), scared to death in the car (and he used to love to go), total personality change. The physical stuff is all borderline--low thyroid, thinning hair on back and tail, drinks only a little more water, seems hungry all the time but doesn't gain weight. The blood tests show elevated liver enzymes, but not really high.