I am happy to announce the result of the 3rd heart check on our Sphynx boy, Siggy.
On 20 September 2011 Dr. Darlene Blishchok found that Siggy's heart was stable but had a slight defect that did not affect his hear's ability to function.
We went with hope and left with joy.
They had to use Isoflurine on Siggy during his first visit (he is cantankerous) but this visit they were able to do the echocardiogram without the use of any sedation. I am overjoyed about that as well.
To note: This wonderful clinic has also banned Ketamine. As a caring pet owner I believe that it is important to note that knowledgable vets are now prohibiting the use of this dangerous drug.
Showing posts with label ket/val. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ket/val. Show all posts
24 September 2011
18 May 2010
06 April 2010
You would've been five today, my darling boy.
Two years.... have we forgotten, no. Will we forget, no. Has Tupelo Animal Clinic or the vet that killed you shown responsibility (even with a necropsy stating that Gimmie was killed due to the Ketamine given to him during a DENTAL CLEANING)? .... No...
We have three more Sphynx in our lives - four including Gimli's "brother" Bilbo who turned five on 28 Feb. of this year. Rose and Lily are Gimil's nieces from his brother, "DZ", aka GC GODZ My Dadza Mooner. And we added another sweet (but mischievious boy, GoNaked FreudianSlip of RmplSlkSknz, aka, Siggy) boy to our home last November.
We still miss our Gimmie Gims. He, in the three years he lived with us, was our delight. He loved his life and I shall never fully remove the guilt I feel for putting him in the unnecessary peril that led - w/in 20 minutes - to his untimely death.
We miss you, Gimli. You were ours and you were a gift. You, and your story, have saved countless others from the same fate that you suffered. You have no idea how many people - the world over - who write to me about you, who know you, who thank me for sharing your story.
I am selfish. But a small part of my heart rejoices that your death was not in vain... that you have helped others, and shall continue to do so through this blog, and ...hopefully through the slow and encumbered rumblings of news that some companies making and dispensing veterniary Ketamine are now being investigated.
Time will tell, but for now your story.. your life.. and even your death, may help others be spared the sorrow and loss that those that loved you so very much have lived with.
We miss you, darling boy. We will lay another remembrance memorial at your bridge this weekend... you are not forgotten, and never will be.
Love,
Mom and Dad
01 February 2010
Teva Animal Health, Inc. expands nationwide ketamine recall
Date: January 14, 2010
On December 22, 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a nationwide voluntary recall of ketamine hydrochloride injectable (100mg/ml, 10 ml vials) manufactured by Teva Animal Health, Inc. Not all Teva products are affected by the recall. Teva Animal Health also manufactures ketamine hydrochloride products for other companies. These products are sold under various brand names and can include the following:
AmTech Group, Inc. (Ketamine Hydrochloride Injection, USP)
Butler (KetaThesia)
LLOYD Laboratories (VetaKet)
Phoenix (Ketaject)
RXV (Keta-Sthetic)
VEDCO (KetaVed)
Fort Dodge/Pfizer (Ketaset)
Teva Animal Health does not distribute products internationally.
Teva Animal Health is not the only manufacturer of ketamine hydrochloride in the U.S. and not all products sold under the above-listed names listed are affected. Therefore, regardless of the brand name on the product, look at the lot number on all ketamine hydrochloride (100 mg/ml in 10 ml vials) products.
If the lot number is 6 numeric digits, the product is NOT part of the recall
If the lot number is 7 numeric digits, the product should be returned
If the lot number starts with "5401", regardless of the number of digits or the presence of letters in the lot code, the product should be returned
Veterinarians with questions may contact Teva Animal Health at 800-759-3664 from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (CST) Monday through Friday.
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm195118.htm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- December 21, 2009 - Teva Animal Health, Inc. is expanding a nationwide voluntary recall of Ketamine Hydrochloride Injection, USP CIII 100mg/mL in 10mL vials for all lot numbers within their expiration dates to the Veterinary Level. This product had previously been recalled to the distributor level and is being expanded as a result of an increased trend in serious adverse events associated with this product.
Veterinarians who have this product in their possession are instructed to cease using the product immediately and return it to their distributor.
Ketamine Hydrochloride is a rapid acting, non-narcotic, non-barbiturate agent for anesthetic use in cats and for restraint in subhuman primates. This recall is being conducted as a result of an increased trend in serious adverse events associated with this product, including lack of effect, prolonged effect, and death and involves all lot numbers within expiration.
Teva Animal Health, Inc is voluntarily recalling the aforementioned product. The FDA has been apprised of this action.
Consumers with questions may contact 800-759-3664 from 8:00am – 5:00pm CST Monday-Friday.
On December 22, 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a nationwide voluntary recall of ketamine hydrochloride injectable (100mg/ml, 10 ml vials) manufactured by Teva Animal Health, Inc. Not all Teva products are affected by the recall. Teva Animal Health also manufactures ketamine hydrochloride products for other companies. These products are sold under various brand names and can include the following:
AmTech Group, Inc. (Ketamine Hydrochloride Injection, USP)
Butler (KetaThesia)
LLOYD Laboratories (VetaKet)
Phoenix (Ketaject)
RXV (Keta-Sthetic)
VEDCO (KetaVed)
Fort Dodge/Pfizer (Ketaset)
Teva Animal Health does not distribute products internationally.
Teva Animal Health is not the only manufacturer of ketamine hydrochloride in the U.S. and not all products sold under the above-listed names listed are affected. Therefore, regardless of the brand name on the product, look at the lot number on all ketamine hydrochloride (100 mg/ml in 10 ml vials) products.
If the lot number is 6 numeric digits, the product is NOT part of the recall
If the lot number is 7 numeric digits, the product should be returned
If the lot number starts with "5401", regardless of the number of digits or the presence of letters in the lot code, the product should be returned
Veterinarians with questions may contact Teva Animal Health at 800-759-3664 from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (CST) Monday through Friday.
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm195118.htm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- December 21, 2009 - Teva Animal Health, Inc. is expanding a nationwide voluntary recall of Ketamine Hydrochloride Injection, USP CIII 100mg/mL in 10mL vials for all lot numbers within their expiration dates to the Veterinary Level. This product had previously been recalled to the distributor level and is being expanded as a result of an increased trend in serious adverse events associated with this product.
Veterinarians who have this product in their possession are instructed to cease using the product immediately and return it to their distributor.
Ketamine Hydrochloride is a rapid acting, non-narcotic, non-barbiturate agent for anesthetic use in cats and for restraint in subhuman primates. This recall is being conducted as a result of an increased trend in serious adverse events associated with this product, including lack of effect, prolonged effect, and death and involves all lot numbers within expiration.
Teva Animal Health, Inc is voluntarily recalling the aforementioned product. The FDA has been apprised of this action.
Consumers with questions may contact 800-759-3664 from 8:00am – 5:00pm CST Monday-Friday.
08 April 2009
Remembering Gimli on the Anniversary of his Death
I woke up this morning not intending to dwell, but the memories of last year - on this day - came flooding back fresh and raw. As I lay in bed trying to wake up, reflect on my feelings, and try to move past them, Bilbo (Godz Bilbo Bombadil - our 4 year old cream point & white Sphynx boy, and Gimli's litter mate) came bounding upon the bed, pawed me on the head (so I would raise up the cover), climbed inside and into my arms, settled comfortably, and began to purr. He was followed closely by his own little shadow, Rosie (PR Godz Rose of Sharron - our 16 month old dilute calico girl who is Gimli's niece).
Both nestled warmly against me and - unbeknownst to them - gave me exactly the kind of comfort that I needed more than anything in the world. Rose's sister, Lily, (PR Godz Junipurr Lily - our 16 month old red & white girl who is also Gimli's niece) tentatively came to see where Bilbo and Rose had gone and, after allowing me to hug her without squirming away (she's a daddy's girl wholeheartedly) she settled into a warm spot by her two favorite non-humans.
I wondered, this morning, if Gimmie would've liked the girls, especially since Rose is so much like him.
I wonder if he'd be pissy over the way Bilbo now tries to take his place (I'm betting yes on that one). I love these sweet little creatures so very much. They're all different and very loving, but there's a part of my heart that will always be Gimli's - my special boy.
Our loss was not forgotten by friends today or yesterday. In fact, over the last several weeks, and inparticularly right after the SBEN's issue #2 was released - where my story along with an issue dedication to Gimmie offered others a chance to remember with me - I have had numerous emails from all over the States, Europe and Africa. So many kind souls who deeply understand this sort of pain, loss, and love... and some, like myself, who have experienced unnecessary loss through the ignorance or apathy of a trusted vet.
This past weekend my husband and I attended a CFA show where Lily was shown in Open Premiership and Rose, already a Premier, worked on her Grand points. Bilbo was along as their moral support. I was benched by a Sphynx breeder that I know from online and from seeing at shows. He brought two little kittens to show and we had time, during the lulls, to talk about many things "Sphynx". I mentioned today's upcoming "anniversary" and how I was still angry about the use of Ketamine by the vet. He told me that he'd had two Sphynx (whole cats used in his breeding program) that were killed due to Ketamine use. One was pregnant and needed to have a C-section to deliver. She was given Ketamine and it killed her, along with all her kittens. He had her necropsied and the pathologist declined to say the cause was Ketamine although all signs pointed that way. Another of his cats had a medical issue and the same vet needed to put it under and gave it ... guess what... Ketamine. It also died, was necropsied. The pathology report stated that its heart was enlarged (pointing to HCM), but it was enlarged, not from the disease, but from a "chemical". This cat was a particularly beloved cat and we both shared our vivid, unforgetable memories of having to place these loves in our refrigerators and ice chests as we prepared to go, or were enroute, to a pathology lab.
Like us, he also changed vets and banned the use of Ketamine on his cats... and like us, he experienced an apathetic response from his vet in regards to the deaths.
At the show this breeder sold one of the little kittens he had brought to a very nice looking couple. I heard him tell them that he would have the kitten spayed but that he did not use Ket/Val and did not want it to be used on the kitten in future. He said that he included instructions on anesthesias in the adoptive parents Take-Home kit. How I wish the breeder we used had either known, or advised us that way.
I have to hope that these horrible experiences that some of us have shared though the ignorant and unnecessary loss of life will help someone else, some other beloved Sphynx, and most certainly our own. Never again will what happened to Gimli happen to any of my cats. I can be grateful for that, at least.
So, on this sad anniversary date of my Gimmie's death I dedicate my day to happy memories of this incredible, wonderfully loving and beguiling little Sphynx boy.
From my friend, Jeanette, in South Africa:
Just so you know I have never forgotten you, altho I post very very seldom... I have several photos of Gimli, since you started posting them and he is also stuck in my mind. He was a special special baby and I feel your pain....across the ocean! You stay strong!!!!! and know your angel boy is with God..and in God's hands he is safe and loved, and he will be waiting at the gates of heaven, to welcome his mother home!!! He will never be forgotten as far as South Africa.
Thank you to all who have written and remembered my sadness and loss this day, this month, this year. I am proud to be a member of such a loving community, especially proud to be a part of the Sphynx community. Special cats, special people.
07 April 2009
Memories of Things Much Treasured Still
No new spongy balls, no special treats.
No hugs or kisses, no standing on mommy's feet.
No chirping at the birds, no watching down the street.
No happy little boy, so proud, so cute, so sweet.
What's left but memories of things much treasured still.
What's left but fighting to prohibit this drug that kills.
Happy, Would've-Been, 4th Birthday, Gimmie. We miss you sweet boy.
Thank you Dr. Kelly Kirkpatrick for destroying this life so needlessly and with the enormous lack of remorse or ethics that you displayed.
No hugs or kisses, no standing on mommy's feet.
No chirping at the birds, no watching down the street.
No happy little boy, so proud, so cute, so sweet.
What's left but memories of things much treasured still.
What's left but fighting to prohibit this drug that kills.
Happy, Would've-Been, 4th Birthday, Gimmie. We miss you sweet boy.
Thank you Dr. Kelly Kirkpatrick for destroying this life so needlessly and with the enormous lack of remorse or ethics that you displayed.
07 February 2009
A Willingness to Help... A Voice Being Heard
I often wonder if anyone, anywhere has truly been touched by my outcry over Ket/Val and our breed. It is something that I wonder about from time to time and especially as I continue to find myself staying up well into the early morning hours plugging away at this cause.
Just last week a supporter and friend of mine reminded me, quite accurately, that medicine is an art.
She very wisely said that, "Living beings are very complicated and there is no ONE recipe for success. And people are human and mistakes are made. I've learned to accept that over time. And that acceptance came with lots of tears, for sure. But reality is reality. And there is so much we can't prevent no matter how hard we try. Fighting that truth takes up a great deal of energy and the end result doesn't usually change much."
*sigh* Yes. I do agree with that assessment of the medical arts and our hearts; but let me share with you my reply.
"There is certainly much truth in your statement and I know you mean well to share it with me. However I can't let the Ketamine issue drop. I sorely wish I could as my life, my free-time, and my mental health would surely find relief.
My life has gone from being somewhat joyful to somewhat depressed and I find I am uplifted and encouraged as I in push onward with my little quest. I agree and I'm afraid, as you've eloquently stated, that all my efforts will be in vain in the long run ...BUT... if we don't TRY then we have to deal with complacency, apathy, indifference and, ultimately, more loss. I just don't want to do that.
So my plan right now is to continue bashing my head against the forces that be... a lack of vet knowledge, much indifference by the vet community, and a great possibility that I'll never really make a dent. But I'm trying, and at some point in time, perhaps I can stop and say... well, I gave it my best and I feel good about that.
Maybe it is a teeny bit different when we are owners and not breeders. Breeders see a great many babies go in and out of their life. Some share time at other catteries, some go to new homes, and some go to the great beyond. I realize attachments are made with each and every one, but due to the cycle of life and, sometimes death, that breeders witness there may be an adjustment that gives you all a better perspective.
For me and my husband, having two Sphynx was not something we would normally be able to afford but Fate saw a way to put our first two firmly in our hearts. Losing one so quickly and after such a commitment of our time and emotion has been tough and, for me at least, I've not found the solace in another little one that quenches the hurt and the missing.
I do appreciate your words and I know I have support among many here and w/in the Sphynx community. I also know that my intentions may be somewhat naive - but they're honest and I have to honour them."
Another supporter and friend wrote:
"Please don't forget: thanks to you, I (and I am just one or many!) know about the danger of Ketamine, and that means that my vet knows. This means that my Sphynx will not share Gimli's fate (I'm not sure if I am spelling his name correctly, so please let me know), nor will my Devon Rex, another breed that should not be given Ketamine. It also means that my vet has been alerted to this situation and will never give any other Sphynx or Devon Rex Ketamine. I hope he will alert other vets in Basel and even other Swiss vets. I have let Victoria in Austria know, so her Sphynx should also be safe from this scourge. We can also tell the whole Sphynx Friends group, and I think that it is indeed possible for ONE voice to make a huge difference! Look at articles in magazines that feature some person who has changed everything for a whole society or country or whatever! I very much admire you for not giving up on your "quest." Just don't listen to anybody who discourages you.
I also agree that medicine is an art. And, as my dad once pointed out to me: doctors practice medicine! And although practice makes perfect, perfect doesn't exist in art."
This week alone I was contacted by two people - from two different countries, both asking if I would kindly send the information I have on Ket/Val, and Gimli's story, to them. They both wanted to read the infomration and print it out for their vets. That makes me feel purposeful and proud.
As I am now being head-butted by Gimli's brother, Bilbo Bombadil, I must cease my ponderings for today and find something for this boy to nosh on.
Just last week a supporter and friend of mine reminded me, quite accurately, that medicine is an art.
She very wisely said that, "Living beings are very complicated and there is no ONE recipe for success. And people are human and mistakes are made. I've learned to accept that over time. And that acceptance came with lots of tears, for sure. But reality is reality. And there is so much we can't prevent no matter how hard we try. Fighting that truth takes up a great deal of energy and the end result doesn't usually change much."
*sigh* Yes. I do agree with that assessment of the medical arts and our hearts; but let me share with you my reply.
"There is certainly much truth in your statement and I know you mean well to share it with me. However I can't let the Ketamine issue drop. I sorely wish I could as my life, my free-time, and my mental health would surely find relief.
My life has gone from being somewhat joyful to somewhat depressed and I find I am uplifted and encouraged as I in push onward with my little quest. I agree and I'm afraid, as you've eloquently stated, that all my efforts will be in vain in the long run ...BUT... if we don't TRY then we have to deal with complacency, apathy, indifference and, ultimately, more loss. I just don't want to do that.
So my plan right now is to continue bashing my head against the forces that be... a lack of vet knowledge, much indifference by the vet community, and a great possibility that I'll never really make a dent. But I'm trying, and at some point in time, perhaps I can stop and say... well, I gave it my best and I feel good about that.
Maybe it is a teeny bit different when we are owners and not breeders. Breeders see a great many babies go in and out of their life. Some share time at other catteries, some go to new homes, and some go to the great beyond. I realize attachments are made with each and every one, but due to the cycle of life and, sometimes death, that breeders witness there may be an adjustment that gives you all a better perspective.
For me and my husband, having two Sphynx was not something we would normally be able to afford but Fate saw a way to put our first two firmly in our hearts. Losing one so quickly and after such a commitment of our time and emotion has been tough and, for me at least, I've not found the solace in another little one that quenches the hurt and the missing.
I do appreciate your words and I know I have support among many here and w/in the Sphynx community. I also know that my intentions may be somewhat naive - but they're honest and I have to honour them."
Another supporter and friend wrote:
"Please don't forget: thanks to you, I (and I am just one or many!) know about the danger of Ketamine, and that means that my vet knows. This means that my Sphynx will not share Gimli's fate (I'm not sure if I am spelling his name correctly, so please let me know), nor will my Devon Rex, another breed that should not be given Ketamine. It also means that my vet has been alerted to this situation and will never give any other Sphynx or Devon Rex Ketamine. I hope he will alert other vets in Basel and even other Swiss vets. I have let Victoria in Austria know, so her Sphynx should also be safe from this scourge. We can also tell the whole Sphynx Friends group, and I think that it is indeed possible for ONE voice to make a huge difference! Look at articles in magazines that feature some person who has changed everything for a whole society or country or whatever! I very much admire you for not giving up on your "quest." Just don't listen to anybody who discourages you.
I also agree that medicine is an art. And, as my dad once pointed out to me: doctors practice medicine! And although practice makes perfect, perfect doesn't exist in art."
This week alone I was contacted by two people - from two different countries, both asking if I would kindly send the information I have on Ket/Val, and Gimli's story, to them. They both wanted to read the infomration and print it out for their vets. That makes me feel purposeful and proud.
As I am now being head-butted by Gimli's brother, Bilbo Bombadil, I must cease my ponderings for today and find something for this boy to nosh on.
03 October 2008
Humble Pie
Eating humble pie is not as bad as, say, eating a bug or walking into an unseen (and quite large) spider web (as I did today)... but it's, well, humbling.
My ranting last post still has some small measure of validity with an emphasis on *small*.
I just spoke to the vet that made the calls... yes, that's plural... to the number I provided to her for Dr. Michel Houard. No, she didn't update me on the fact that she had tried and was unsuccessful. Had she done that I would have been back on the trail enforce.
However, as a person who doesn't really believe in FATE but who likes to leave her options open on that subject (to some extent), I guess - as with many things - timing is everything.
My timing this past month was extraordinary. I was, shall we say, hell-bent on gaining some ground on my lost time. I posted to a group of Sphynx breeders - a Yahoo based group I help moderate - asking for any more assistance on finding a person willing to make a call to gay old Paree. By luck I was offered help from four kind breeders; one in Tennessee, one in Texas, one in the UK, and one in France.
Here's how it played out and why I am eating this tasty pie.
My UK contact and my Texas contact both put me in touch with the Project Manager International Marketing for Royal Canin Group in France. I contacted her - she is moving to Brazil. She gave me another vet's name that will be taking her place. Both of those outlets were a no-go.
Then I decided to phone the breeder in Texas. While we spoke she found not one, but two more possible French "connections" tucked away in her files. One, a TICA judge and the other, the president of FiFe (Federation Internationale Feline). I wrote first to FiFe president, Annette Sjödin. She responded back within thirty minutes to offer me two more contacts. I wrote to both.
Another scant few minutes passed and then an email came in to me at gimmiesfishes from one of the contacts. She was willing to help and she gave me another contact as well.
... you know what's coming next, I suppose... Yes, I wrote the new contact.
The first contact is a Sphynx breeder in France. She had a new document containing scientific information on a research study conducted by a team of researchers studying Ketamine use in felines. [ see document ]
The second contact took me back once again to the International TICA judge. Her email to me has had me on cloud nine for days. She stated:
As tears streamed down my face I composed myself as well as an email reply to this kind person. Her advice to me was to draft a letter to Dr. Houard (who is apparently not a member of the virtual community) and outline my mission and my reasons for it. She also told me that the telephone number that I have for Dr. Houard was incorrect. One little number was off... umm, now are you following me?
So... that brings me to today and the meal upon which I now feast.
In my letter to Dr. Houard I am including the names of all of my contacts - people who have stated that they clearly want to help. I wanted to include the vet cardiologist who was trying to contact him as she is fluent in spoken and written French... so I phoned her this afternoon to ask if she would allow me to list her as an Alabama contact for Dr. Houard. In our conversation she mentioned to me that she had tried two or three times to phone him with no success -- umm -- no wonder. I told her about my recent streak of good fortune and that my latest contact corrected the incorrect telephone number. "AHHHHhhhhh, she said, so that's why I couldn't connect with him!".
Yes, indeed. *chomp-chomp*
As for being kind enough - and most importantly, interested enough to allow me to list her as a contact for him, she also offered to translate my letter to him from English to French. I most likely will accept that offer even though I have already arranged for the Tennessee breeder to "loan" me her native French brother-in-law.
Always have a backup plan. I've learned that about ten weeks too late but...
Today I am dancing for Gimli.
Gimli looks back at Mom - taken two days before his death.
My ranting last post still has some small measure of validity with an emphasis on *small*.
I just spoke to the vet that made the calls... yes, that's plural... to the number I provided to her for Dr. Michel Houard. No, she didn't update me on the fact that she had tried and was unsuccessful. Had she done that I would have been back on the trail enforce.
However, as a person who doesn't really believe in FATE but who likes to leave her options open on that subject (to some extent), I guess - as with many things - timing is everything.
My timing this past month was extraordinary. I was, shall we say, hell-bent on gaining some ground on my lost time. I posted to a group of Sphynx breeders - a Yahoo based group I help moderate - asking for any more assistance on finding a person willing to make a call to gay old Paree. By luck I was offered help from four kind breeders; one in Tennessee, one in Texas, one in the UK, and one in France.
Here's how it played out and why I am eating this tasty pie.
My UK contact and my Texas contact both put me in touch with the Project Manager International Marketing for Royal Canin Group in France. I contacted her - she is moving to Brazil. She gave me another vet's name that will be taking her place. Both of those outlets were a no-go.
Then I decided to phone the breeder in Texas. While we spoke she found not one, but two more possible French "connections" tucked away in her files. One, a TICA judge and the other, the president of FiFe (Federation Internationale Feline). I wrote first to FiFe president, Annette Sjödin. She responded back within thirty minutes to offer me two more contacts. I wrote to both.
Another scant few minutes passed and then an email came in to me at gimmiesfishes from one of the contacts. She was willing to help and she gave me another contact as well.
... you know what's coming next, I suppose... Yes, I wrote the new contact.
The first contact is a Sphynx breeder in France. She had a new document containing scientific information on a research study conducted by a team of researchers studying Ketamine use in felines. [ see document ]
The second contact took me back once again to the International TICA judge. Her email to me has had me on cloud nine for days. She stated:
"You found the right person. I know well Michel Houard. I worked with him as his vet tech for 22 years. I can translate things for you or bring him material because I go in France every month. Tell me what you need."
As tears streamed down my face I composed myself as well as an email reply to this kind person. Her advice to me was to draft a letter to Dr. Houard (who is apparently not a member of the virtual community) and outline my mission and my reasons for it. She also told me that the telephone number that I have for Dr. Houard was incorrect. One little number was off... umm, now are you following me?
So... that brings me to today and the meal upon which I now feast.
In my letter to Dr. Houard I am including the names of all of my contacts - people who have stated that they clearly want to help. I wanted to include the vet cardiologist who was trying to contact him as she is fluent in spoken and written French... so I phoned her this afternoon to ask if she would allow me to list her as an Alabama contact for Dr. Houard. In our conversation she mentioned to me that she had tried two or three times to phone him with no success -- umm -- no wonder. I told her about my recent streak of good fortune and that my latest contact corrected the incorrect telephone number. "AHHHHhhhhh, she said, so that's why I couldn't connect with him!".
Yes, indeed. *chomp-chomp*
As for being kind enough - and most importantly, interested enough to allow me to list her as a contact for him, she also offered to translate my letter to him from English to French. I most likely will accept that offer even though I have already arranged for the Tennessee breeder to "loan" me her native French brother-in-law.
Always have a backup plan. I've learned that about ten weeks too late but...
"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance..."
Today I am dancing for Gimli.
Gimli looks back at Mom - taken two days before his death.
09 September 2008
One more reason why I prefer pets to people...
For the past ten weeks I have been patiently waiting word from a doctor of veterinary cardiology who agreed to phone Dr. Houard, in Paris, France (to try to validate his research, etc.).
I was asked to be patient and, despite my natural personality type (which includes an impatience gene), I have waited with hopeful expectation of an answer or in anticipation of a new direction to scope out.
I phoned the Drs. office late last month and was told I would get a return call. Didn't happen.
I phoned again the end of last week and was told that I could speak with the doctor on Monday. Monday the doctor was out, so I left a message asking if I could have ten minutes of her time today to discuss her efforts in speaking with Dr. Houard or his associates.
... an answering service called to tell me that the doctor had tried to phone Dr. Houard many weeks back, and did not get a reply.
Now.. one might ask; what is my gripe?
-- Did the doctor fulfil her promise to me? hmmmm... well, I suppose so, if pressed for an answer.
-- Did the doctor follow up with me so I would no longer be kept waiting and wondering? That one's easy. No.
-- Do I appreciate the effort, regardless of the lack of compassion shown to my inquiry and concern?
That's tough... well, tough, I should say, for me to be gracious.
Had I received a courteous (dare I say, even conscientious?) update from the doctor I would not be sitting here feeling like my efforts are unimportant, feeling irritated and anxious, and wondering why such a small courtesy could not have been extended. How long ago she tried to phone him? Was it only one, quick effort?
How many days and weeks have passed by that could have been used searching for someone fluent in French to make that call?
I don't have a clue as to the age of the researcher, Dr. Houard. For all I know he may be young and still very active in his field; but what if he is not? What if there is a window of opportunity to find out the questions I need to verify? These are the notions that so worry me.
Yesterday (08 September) marked the fifth month since Gimli was killed through the use of Ket/Val during a routine dental cleaning. Yes... feelings are still raw and, as the days, weeks, and MONTHS push onward I feel an urgency to press forward and make some progress.
In some ways I feel... haunted. I don't mean to imply that in a spiritual sense or a malicious sense... but rather in an obligatorial sense.
I feel indebted to Gimli for the love and joy he brought into our lives.
I feel indebted to him to make his death meaningful and helpful to others.
Therefore.. all of this is pretty important to me. Such are the things that drive people into action.
Do YOU, kind reader, know of someone who might be willing to help? I'm suffering from a locale problem as well... for, unfortunately, in my area French is not taught in our local schools or local community college, nor anywhere within my immediate vicinity.
If so, please contact me through this blog. I could use some good fortune about now.
So in my pondering and silent debate on Pets vs. People, Pets seem to be winning out.
Final thought today: I feel very much alone in this quest to help our breed.
I was asked to be patient and, despite my natural personality type (which includes an impatience gene), I have waited with hopeful expectation of an answer or in anticipation of a new direction to scope out.
I phoned the Drs. office late last month and was told I would get a return call. Didn't happen.
I phoned again the end of last week and was told that I could speak with the doctor on Monday. Monday the doctor was out, so I left a message asking if I could have ten minutes of her time today to discuss her efforts in speaking with Dr. Houard or his associates.
... an answering service called to tell me that the doctor had tried to phone Dr. Houard many weeks back, and did not get a reply.
Now.. one might ask; what is my gripe?
-- Did the doctor fulfil her promise to me? hmmmm... well, I suppose so, if pressed for an answer.
-- Did the doctor follow up with me so I would no longer be kept waiting and wondering? That one's easy. No.
-- Do I appreciate the effort, regardless of the lack of compassion shown to my inquiry and concern?
That's tough... well, tough, I should say, for me to be gracious.
Had I received a courteous (dare I say, even conscientious?) update from the doctor I would not be sitting here feeling like my efforts are unimportant, feeling irritated and anxious, and wondering why such a small courtesy could not have been extended. How long ago she tried to phone him? Was it only one, quick effort?
How many days and weeks have passed by that could have been used searching for someone fluent in French to make that call?
I don't have a clue as to the age of the researcher, Dr. Houard. For all I know he may be young and still very active in his field; but what if he is not? What if there is a window of opportunity to find out the questions I need to verify? These are the notions that so worry me.
Yesterday (08 September) marked the fifth month since Gimli was killed through the use of Ket/Val during a routine dental cleaning. Yes... feelings are still raw and, as the days, weeks, and MONTHS push onward I feel an urgency to press forward and make some progress.
In some ways I feel... haunted. I don't mean to imply that in a spiritual sense or a malicious sense... but rather in an obligatorial sense.
I feel indebted to Gimli for the love and joy he brought into our lives.
I feel indebted to him to make his death meaningful and helpful to others.
Therefore.. all of this is pretty important to me. Such are the things that drive people into action.
Do YOU, kind reader, know of someone who might be willing to help? I'm suffering from a locale problem as well... for, unfortunately, in my area French is not taught in our local schools or local community college, nor anywhere within my immediate vicinity.
If so, please contact me through this blog. I could use some good fortune about now.
So in my pondering and silent debate on Pets vs. People, Pets seem to be winning out.
Final thought today: I feel very much alone in this quest to help our breed.
14 June 2008
When the heart gets discouraged Fate often intervenes
I've been in what's typically called a "funk" today. As I told a friend of mine, I believe it's a combination of things that includes my sadness for Gimli's loss - and yes, we still miss him terribly - my being behind in my job due to this constant and never-ending distraction, and what seems like a wanning of interest (it's been two months, time to move on, right?).
Not that simple - can't move on; I'm stuck, you see. Even with the enrichment of our two new little Sphynx girls - Lily and Rose - there is a pervasive need (compulsion) to push on in this quest for validation of the Ketamine (or Ket/Val) link with deaths in our breed. I can't stand to think of another family going through the misery we are due to vets being unaware or, uncaring.
and then...
Later this evening I had an email that came in from our breeder (grandmother to our kittens, Bilbo and Gimli) that she kindly forwarded to me. A vet she knows from somewhere in the world (I don't know specifics yet) wrote to her about finding this blog (I'm glad you did!).
She wrote, in part:
"Would you please let his owners know that I am so sorry and that there are veterinary professionals out there who know about the risks involved with ketamine in cats. Our clinic does not give ketamine (or drugs like Telazol with tiletamine) in cats for induction of anesthesia, period. Any breeds. I also read their frustration about not being able to get access to VIN (Veterinary Information Network). I am a member and I cannot give out my login information but I am more than happy to save and send them copies of all the info I can find on the subject.
I spoke to Dr. _____, our medical director & practice owner, about Gimli and she asked me to send her a link to the blog so she can formulate an informative and compassionate response. She wants to help spread the word and be an ally to the rex cat community. If Gimli's people would like to email me, let them know they can. I can't imagine the pain they feel right now but it might help to know there are some of us out there advocating for these little guys and who have adjusted their protocols to provide the very best possible care available. Because as they said, a cat is not just a cat and it's high time *some* vets (not all, because there are a lot of great ones out there) stop performing these 'cookbook' recipe sedations for *routine* procedures. No procedure is routine in the first place. There is always a risk and owners should be informed. It makes me sick they told them there was no alternative."
I can't adequately describe how uplifting this email was for me tonight. I cried when I read it - tears of gratitude for the kindness of strangers, and for the hope that this new "door" may open up more avenues to continue this quest for confirmation on Dr. Houard's article, and on the link between Ket/Val related deaths in our breeds. What this all may ultimately do is save countless felines from death or the advancement of HCM, and save countless pet owners the heartbreak of loss through ignorance or ethical research done on behalf of their patients.
One particular thing that struck me was that this vet's medical director wanted to send us condolences. Neither of these people know us or Gimmie - but they *care*.
We have NEVER YET received any personal note of sympathy or apology from the vet who caused Gimli's death - not one single, solitary word. Of course, we - and many who know us and our story - believe that act alone depicts guilt.
As an aside to this wonderful news I had another email yesterday from a Sphynx owner who had a scheduled dental cleaning for her Sphynx. She printed out the information here and presented it to her vet (who was planning on using Ketamine) and due to that they have opted for the Isoflurane gas as an option. News like that is so bittersweet (although that is selfish to admit). I can't help but wish that someone could have warned ME about it before Gimli had to die.
Really... he was just the most wonderful and marvelous little thing. I wish I could describe him better. He was special, and he is most sincerely missed.
Not that simple - can't move on; I'm stuck, you see. Even with the enrichment of our two new little Sphynx girls - Lily and Rose - there is a pervasive need (compulsion) to push on in this quest for validation of the Ketamine (or Ket/Val) link with deaths in our breed. I can't stand to think of another family going through the misery we are due to vets being unaware or, uncaring.
and then...
Later this evening I had an email that came in from our breeder (grandmother to our kittens, Bilbo and Gimli) that she kindly forwarded to me. A vet she knows from somewhere in the world (I don't know specifics yet) wrote to her about finding this blog (I'm glad you did!).
She wrote, in part:
"Would you please let his owners know that I am so sorry and that there are veterinary professionals out there who know about the risks involved with ketamine in cats. Our clinic does not give ketamine (or drugs like Telazol with tiletamine) in cats for induction of anesthesia, period. Any breeds. I also read their frustration about not being able to get access to VIN (Veterinary Information Network). I am a member and I cannot give out my login information but I am more than happy to save and send them copies of all the info I can find on the subject.
I spoke to Dr. _____, our medical director & practice owner, about Gimli and she asked me to send her a link to the blog so she can formulate an informative and compassionate response. She wants to help spread the word and be an ally to the rex cat community. If Gimli's people would like to email me, let them know they can. I can't imagine the pain they feel right now but it might help to know there are some of us out there advocating for these little guys and who have adjusted their protocols to provide the very best possible care available. Because as they said, a cat is not just a cat and it's high time *some* vets (not all, because there are a lot of great ones out there) stop performing these 'cookbook' recipe sedations for *routine* procedures. No procedure is routine in the first place. There is always a risk and owners should be informed. It makes me sick they told them there was no alternative."
I can't adequately describe how uplifting this email was for me tonight. I cried when I read it - tears of gratitude for the kindness of strangers, and for the hope that this new "door" may open up more avenues to continue this quest for confirmation on Dr. Houard's article, and on the link between Ket/Val related deaths in our breeds. What this all may ultimately do is save countless felines from death or the advancement of HCM, and save countless pet owners the heartbreak of loss through ignorance or ethical research done on behalf of their patients.
One particular thing that struck me was that this vet's medical director wanted to send us condolences. Neither of these people know us or Gimmie - but they *care*.
We have NEVER YET received any personal note of sympathy or apology from the vet who caused Gimli's death - not one single, solitary word. Of course, we - and many who know us and our story - believe that act alone depicts guilt.
As an aside to this wonderful news I had another email yesterday from a Sphynx owner who had a scheduled dental cleaning for her Sphynx. She printed out the information here and presented it to her vet (who was planning on using Ketamine) and due to that they have opted for the Isoflurane gas as an option. News like that is so bittersweet (although that is selfish to admit). I can't help but wish that someone could have warned ME about it before Gimli had to die.
Really... he was just the most wonderful and marvelous little thing. I wish I could describe him better. He was special, and he is most sincerely missed.
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