When Hank quit running to his auto feeder, we suspected something was wrong, assuming he had an upset stomach, or a potential dental issue. Within nine days of noticing he wasn’t acting himself and having had two visits at his primary vet, Hank began experiencing labored breathing, and we took him to RRAEH. He was diagnosed with Pericarditis with Pericardial Effusion (inflamed heart sac, with abnormal accumulation of fluid) which had reached life threatening pericardial tamponade where his heart couldn’t pump enough blood, and had fluid backing up into his chest cavity. It was drained via needle from around his heart and chest, only to need to address a small tumor found in his stomach. This diagnosis and circumstances were pointing to a likely unfavorable outcome, but we decided to dive in faith first and put our trust in his wonderful team!
In an effort to give Hank every chance at a miracle, we went through the process of elimination to figure out what could be wrong. We first tested the fluid and stomach mass for cancer cells and found nothing. The stomach mass was sampled and it was determined to be a benign fat necrosis. Next step, a CT scan: No cancer found.
On September 13th Hank had a Pericardiectomy to remove the lining around his heart. This was both diagnostic and therapeutic because it would tell us what exactly was wrong with his pericardium; this also means no more fluid could build up around his heart! At the very least, it would give us more time, and he would be comfortable. Prior to the surgery Hank needed a blood transfusion due to low red blood cell count; to all of the donor families out there, thank you. Your donation played a key role in a successful surgery and we are so grateful! The surgery took three hours, and there were no complications. Post surgery, Hank met every marker as they’d hoped, and he came home that next evening.
On September 24th we got the call with a diagnosis of Idiopathic Pericarditis, no cancer and no other illness to be found. These cases in the literature are not well documented, and are considered rare. We had a checkup to remove stitches and do follow up bloodwork, and he remains completely healthy.
Between the talented team at RRAEH, and many prayers, Hank will get to spend another Halloween doing what he loves: Sneaking out the front door to give love to every kiddo that will have him. 💕
