Save Sheamus From His Stones!
Donation protected
In May of 2018, Sheamus was out for a routine potty walk when we noticed that he was straining to urinate. I contacted our veterinarian and was told to bring him in ASAP. After an evaluation, ultrasound, and some x-rays, it was clear that Sheamus had developed a blockage in his urethra and had several stones in his bladder. He had to be rushed into emergency surgery in order to prevent his bladder from rupturing.
Pictured above: One of the stones removed in May 2018.
The stones were sent out for analysis and were determined to be comprised of 100% cysteine (an amino acid found in many animal and plant proteins). This type of stone is incredibly rare, and is caused by a genetic disease called Cystinuria. His kidneys aren't able to absorb or utilize cysteine, so crystals build up in his bladder. If there is a high concentration of crystals in his urine, they will bind together to form stones. The stones are very dangerous to pass because they often get stuck in the urethra, causing pain, blockage, infections, and in some cases, a ruptured bladder.
Pictured above: Sheamus recovering after his surgery in May 2018.
Since his surgery in May, Sheamus has been on a very strict prescription diet with the hope that this would control stone development. This week we were out for a walk and he was clearly straining to urinate again. An urgent visit to the vet confirmed that he has developed more stones.
In an effort to prevent another costly bladder surgery, his vet would like to try a medication which is supposed to lower the concentration of cysteine in the urine and dissolve the stones. It is very expensive and can have some serious side effects, but this is currently the best option for long-term management of this disease.
In the past few months his medical bills have added up to over $5,000, and I anticipate it will be a few thousand more before we reach the management/prevention stage of his care.
Many people love Sheamus and have offered to help, so I have humbly decided to create this fund. Please consider donating any amount that you can. I am so appreciative of any help with his continued medical care!
100% of the funds received will be used for the treatment and management of Sheamus' disease/stones. In the event that there are any extra funds, I will happily make donations to our local animal shelters, as well as the National Brussels Griffon Rescue.
Sheamus is a happy, outgoing pup who brings so much joy to me and everyone he meets. I look forward to seeing him healthy and stone-free very soon!
Learn More About Canine Cystine Bladder Stones
Pictured above: A happy boy!
Pictured above: Me and my boy!
Pictured above: One of the stones removed in May 2018.The stones were sent out for analysis and were determined to be comprised of 100% cysteine (an amino acid found in many animal and plant proteins). This type of stone is incredibly rare, and is caused by a genetic disease called Cystinuria. His kidneys aren't able to absorb or utilize cysteine, so crystals build up in his bladder. If there is a high concentration of crystals in his urine, they will bind together to form stones. The stones are very dangerous to pass because they often get stuck in the urethra, causing pain, blockage, infections, and in some cases, a ruptured bladder.
Pictured above: Sheamus recovering after his surgery in May 2018.Since his surgery in May, Sheamus has been on a very strict prescription diet with the hope that this would control stone development. This week we were out for a walk and he was clearly straining to urinate again. An urgent visit to the vet confirmed that he has developed more stones.
In an effort to prevent another costly bladder surgery, his vet would like to try a medication which is supposed to lower the concentration of cysteine in the urine and dissolve the stones. It is very expensive and can have some serious side effects, but this is currently the best option for long-term management of this disease.
In the past few months his medical bills have added up to over $5,000, and I anticipate it will be a few thousand more before we reach the management/prevention stage of his care.
Many people love Sheamus and have offered to help, so I have humbly decided to create this fund. Please consider donating any amount that you can. I am so appreciative of any help with his continued medical care!
100% of the funds received will be used for the treatment and management of Sheamus' disease/stones. In the event that there are any extra funds, I will happily make donations to our local animal shelters, as well as the National Brussels Griffon Rescue.
Sheamus is a happy, outgoing pup who brings so much joy to me and everyone he meets. I look forward to seeing him healthy and stone-free very soon!
Learn More About Canine Cystine Bladder Stones
Pictured above: A happy boy!Pictured above: Me and my boy!Organizer
Kristen McMahan
Organizer
Navarro, CA
