paveleck@ihldt.UUCP (Bob Paveleck) (04/09/84)
I need some help from anyone who might know how to handle this situation. Our 2-year-old German Shepherd/Collie has an infection on one of her paws, which she had been licking continuously. We took her to the vet last week and he gave her a shot of some type of steroid (I'm not sure what kind) to relieve the itching. This injection has caused her to drink copious amounts of water (which, of course, results in her having to urinate very frequently) and to become somewhat restless. We took her back to the vet last weekend, and he claims that the shot's effects are expected to last 10-14 days (so we should just wait for it to wear off). The injection was given along with an anti-bacterial salve and some erythromycin pills for the infection. I'd like to know if there's any way to combat her reactions to this shot or if anyone else's dog has had similar reactions. The vet says that such a reaction is normal, but it seems strange that the dog has gotten so "spaced out" on this shot (and that it should last such a long time). There haven't been any bad reactions to the other medicines (no change in her appetite, vomiting or severe diarrhea) given to her. I guess I'm getting a little tired of watching her like she was still a 6-week-old puppy. Thanks, Bob Paveleck ihldt!paveleck
halle1@houxz.UUCP (J.HALLE) (04/09/84)
Having subjected my dog to steroids a few times, I feel qualified to reply. The steroid is probably prednizone, the usual one vets (and MDs) give. The reaction you observed is somewhat more severe than normal, but really nothing out of the ordinary. There is probably no way to counteract the reaction now. However, if you need steroids again, and you will, have the vet try a different one. Our dog got rammy after prednizone, but did OK after whatever he gave her the next time. Just like people, if there is a problem with the medication, try another. It might be better, or the side effects less severe.