‍Henry's decline appeared as sharp downs, mild ups. As he recovered, he followed more of a ‘wave’ pattern. Henry went from eating from his bowl, to lying on the floor to eat, to lying on his side and scooping his food off of the floor, to being spoon fed. True to his function, he would recover energy to stand to finish eating.

‍As Henry was having difficulty eating and needed less calories, there were food and supplement adjustments. Home-prepared food was stopped as I could not be certain he would eat enough to ingest the added supplements. Currently he is dining on Weruva “Jammin’ Salmon” canned food, alternated with Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diet, Cardio Care Kibble as desired.

‍Supplements:

‍Beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) 1 scoop twice daily

‍Taurine one scoop daily

‍Omega 3 capsule twice daily

‍Bovine muscle support

‍Alpha-Lipoic Acid one capsule daily

‍B12 daily injection

‍B1 once daily

‍Prebiotic and probiotic daily

‍Ubiquinol three squirts twice daily

‍Henry was re-examined by the Veterinary Neurologist. A chest x-ray ruled out megaesophogus and Henry tested negative for inherited or acquired Myasthenia gravis. Pyridostigmine Bromide (Mestinon), a drug used in MG, was prescribed to prevent breakdown of acetylcholine (neurotransmitter used to communicate between nerves and muscles to effect contraction) and enhance muscle strength; will monitor for adverse reaction or side effects.

‍Henry has regained nearly his normal level of activity, interest, endurance, cardiac and respiratory rates, appetite, and has no regurgitation. He is comfortable, happy, and enjoying life — as shown in this video of him being babysat! 

‍BeBe, a 15-year old Chihuahua hospice foster, has joined our fold. Henry could not be more thrilled with her in the household and she is a great source of entertainment for him.