Expert: Melissa Wiser - 11/4/2009

Question
My 6 year old american bulldog developed a runny nose about 6 months ago. Since we have taken him to the same vet who also is an emergency care specialist. She has done blood tests,x-rays and a scope up his nostrils and still can't pinpoint the problem. She has had him on large doses of pred(steroid) as well as antibiotics and antihistamine. This has caused him to loose a large amount of muscle mass in the last 30 days. She now wants to do a CAT scan for 1400.00 and says there are no guarantees that this will pin point the problem either.PLEASE HELP I'm open for any suggestions. Thank you. Eric

Answer
Hello Eric;
I have been tralveling...I think that is your only option, or you will have to decide if you can wait to see what happens.
It does not sound good to me at all.
I would take him off the Prednesone!!!
And, I would let him just live his life however long he lasts...I can tell you from my almost 40 years of raising dogs, if the dog's immune system is gone, the medicines they give only mask the symptoms, but, eventually the dog dies.
Sorry to give you this piece of news.
I would let him be, and enjoy him!
I wish I could give you a better answer.
Best wishes,
Melissa
P.S. Your Vet is better to give you the final answer, and then use your Logical head!!!