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Friday, March 29, 2024
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When Change Can Be Deadly

Dear Source:
I am the owner of "Beau" a wonderful fifteen (15) year old Lab mix that I have had since he was eleven (11) days old. He has been my constant companion and guardian for all of that time. As he has gotten older, he has experienced most of the common problems that the senior dogs go through. During each of these situations he has been treated "progressively" by Dr. Kasey Canton and his knowledgeable and caring staff, particularly "Annie" at Progressive Veterinary hospital in La Grande Princess. I have always seen remarkable results in very short periods of time.
A catastrophic and almost deadly event occurred for my dog on November 5. As a result of his regular dog food not being available because of Hurricane Omar, I had switched him to a different premium brand. Within hours of ingesting this new food he began to bloat and go into shock. I took him to Dr. Canton who said his prognosis was grave. He immediately began aggressive measures to save his life. These measures included pumping his stomach twice, a barium enema, two (2) IV's, lab work, x-rays and steroids. At one point Beau collapsed from the weakness and shock. It appeared that emergency surgery was going to be the only option. The chances of him surviving the surgery were slim. Throughout this nightmare Dr.Canton stayed with him and due to his tremendous clinical skills, was able to get him stabilized and surgery was not necessary.
I have had dogs all of my life, many of whom lived to be quite old. I never knew that changing an old dog's food suddenly could literally kill them quickly and in a very painful manner. If you are going to change food, it must be done in a gradual manner.
Beau is now back to his normal, comedic self. He gives the crazy, lopsided Lab grin many times a day and is diligent in his guard duties when he isn't sleeping.
Saying a simple "thanks" to Dr. Canton and his staff seems woefully inadequate. The care and compassion they gave to my seriously ill dog speaks volumes about the character of Dr. Canton and his amazing staff and we are all better because of them. If Beau could speak he would be the first to say "thank you Dr. Canton, you're a real lifesaver."
Susan Miller
St. Croix

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