Golden retriever illness - any words of wisdom?

[ImJustMadAboutSaffron]

A friend's golden retriever who is 6 and a half is unwell. It started off 3 or so weeks ago with one droopy eye looking a bit like a Basset Hound, and then the other one drooping. The vet thought it could be something called Horner's Syndrome OR a brain tumour for which they would do a scan later. The dog, Simba, was eating and acting normally at that stage.

Since then he has gone off food but does still eat (however this could be to do with the heat) and been lethargic, plus had blood in his poop (but this could be unrelated and heat related). My friend is at her wits' end, so I thought I would see if anyone has any comments or has experienced this, at all.

She's had blood tests done and results due tomorrow.

Why hasn't the vet done a scan and blood tests before now?

Good question. They sent her away with antibiotics at first. Blood tests were done earlier this week. She's just messaged me to say he is "really bad, vet at 5, don't think he will come home". No elaboration so I've asked for that. I don't believe it - I am going to have to comfort my friend, and tomorrow is the anniversary of losing my soulmate cat so I am so sad myself.

Oh that's so sad for both of you. I think the vet has been really poor not acting before now.

Big hugs to both of you

Big hugs. If they make it through the night and you want any advice let us know, but sit tight for now.

Got in the vets early Says the two are not related illnesses Injection and tabs to hopefully stop sickness He looks so fed up Bill so far nearly a grand but what can you do Thank heaven he is insured

Latest update, thanks for your concern everyone.

Bless him, hopefully he feels better soon!

Can't help but sending hugs to you/your friend from a fellow goldie owner 💕

Thank you everyone, my friend has told me that Simba looks brighter today and has started eating a bit more.

Unfortunately I have just heard that Simba is to be PTS on Monday as he has a brain tumour. It's really sad I have just had my friend in tears on the phone.

That's so sad, OP. Thinking of Simba and your friend, it's a pain thats totally unique, losing your life buddy. Sending love.

How terribly sad 😞

Oh your poor friend 😞
at least she has you as a good friend to comfort her

Thought I'd give an update. Simba went to the animal hospital yesterday and had a very expensive scan. There's no brain tumour, but he does have Horners Syndrome and an underdeveloped left brain. Taken home and given chicken.

I'm so pleased. He's not your normal dog but loved for his special needs.

Wow that is great news there is no tumour. What a rollacoaster ride for you and your friend. Lets hope they can spend many happy years together.

Thanks for the update. Glad your friend now knows what she is dealing with. Was that something he was born with?

Yes that's what the vet said. My friend said she's always suspected - not very PC - he's a bit simple. !!!