Dooley still challenged

[John Popp]

The doctor has told us the allergy testing for Dooley isn't likely to be very useful. However what I am hoping to find is a kit and a reputable lab so I can get some testing done on our temporary home.

As for rehoming Dooley, that is an interim solution until our fire damaged home is completed. The date for that looks to be the end of August, and my sister is less than a mile away and Dooley is more than welcome there. In fact, we've always thought he seemed to care for my sister more than us.


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[DChap]

I'm glad to hear your sister is able to take him in until your home is ready. Allergies can be tricky diagnosing for sure. We took our dog to an animal dermatologist who did extensive testing and her allergies are barely in control with medication, diet, and environmental cautions but her symptoms are not breathing issues. I'm still praying they can get to the bottom of Dooley's issues and figure out a solution whether it be allergies or something else. Sorry but I know nothing about home testing although it sounds like a great idea.

 

[Rafiki]

How far away is your real home from your temporary housing?
The issue with the rental could be something having to do with the house itself, with the environment it is in or both. I am hoping that your home is far enough away to eliminate the immediate environment....?

 

[John Popp]

Its not that far away, although the build quality of our home will be much better and far less porous to outdoor allergens. All the walls were insulated with closed cell foam and there was a 2" layer of poly iso board taped at the seams on the outside of our home beneath the siding. Our windows are also much better quality than the vinyl windows at the rental property.

Most of all, with the age of these homes they are made with balloon construction, meaning from the foundation to the roof there aren't any stops between floors on the outside walls. In the rental, I'm doubtful there is any insulation and again in our home there is the closed foam and fire stops between floors. We have taken lots of care to do everything as best we could afford, and making sure it was going to be a fun and safe place for our cats.

 

[John Popp]

Dooley has been released from the hospital and is staying at my sisters. He's a little wobbly but doing better with some diet changes and medication. He can jump up on counter height things with ease, just a little uncertain about getting down.

The allergy tests came back negative, not even testing positive for dust mites which I guess is one of the more common allergens.

We also had a home environmental inspection company come to our temporary home to do some testing. The initial tests were negative for molds with some small pen like tester they had. No standing water anywhere nor any place that appeared to be consistently moist. We are going to have a larger follow up test done and a vent plate installed to assure good airflow in one area that may be suspect.

In all, there seems to be a very delicate balance in treating him for his asthma and processing the medication. So for now he,ll have a safe zone at my sisters house, she also suffers from asthma, and some dietary changes. Basically doing everything we can to reduce stresses on his system until he is more stable and feeling better.

 

[Rafiki]

I have to admit....I have been checking this site quite often looking for an update on Dooley and have been quite worried when there was no news. I am relieved to hear that he is doing a bit better. Hopefully he can regain his strength quickly at your sister's place. It is so frustrating to not be able to find that smoking gun that is causing the issues.

 

[Carykd7kau]

Glad to hear Dooley is regining his strength. I shall continue to pray for this situation. I know it will be a bit stressful on Dooley being at your sister's, but at least they are friends and get along. I hope you and Trish handle it ok.

 

[Patti]

Fingers crossed that Dooley continues to improve and starts to thrive in his new environment. Frustrating that a cause still can't be found, but hopefully the meds and his new digs will keep his symptoms in check.

 

[John Popp]

Dooley is having a great night and finally getting comfortable at my sisters. More stable, more animated and better groomed. First night he'll stay in his room alone over night, as I really need some rest as well as Dino needing a buddy.

 

[Carykd7kau]

John, every time I get a notification of a new post from you, I hold my breath.

I am very pleased to hear Dooley is doing well tonight. A night alone will probaby do him good. It will do you good. And DIno.... Keeping the energy coming....