Adding Supplements to Mia's Regimen

Mia has had a rough few days. It really felt like she was fading away. She went into awful coughing fits, and her abdomen was a little distended. So I got back on the Internet and did more research. Then, after my sister recommended marine phytoplankton. I went to the Vitamin Shoppe two days ago and picked up a bottle. While there, I ran into my friends Harriet and Al Needleman. Al, a pharmacist and naturopathic inventor (the real deal), recommended flaxseed oil as well. I'm alternating Omega 3 and the flaxseed -- every-other day -- so that I don't overload Mia's system. Tonight is the first night in a few days where Mia is breathing easier. When she starts coughing, it turns into an asthma attack. But not tonight. It's such a relief to see her comfortable again. Thank goodness it mostly happens in the morning and at night. It scares her when it does, and she just wants to be held. Hopefully, this stretch is behind us for now. It reminds me of early October when she went through something similar. We got past that and she returned to the level she was at earlier. So, it looks like once again that's what's happening. Tonight, I also for the first time gave her Kombucha tea (administered using an eye dropper). It's loaded with enzymes that are good for her, so we'll see if that helps too. I looked it up to double check that it's okay to give to dogs (it is). I worry about excess fluids in Mia's system, because of her distended abdomen, which could interfere with her breathing. Her tummy is smaller tonight, so that's a good sign too. Mia has an appointment in early January for a sonogram, radiographs, blood work-up and an exam. Hopefully there won't be any surprises. I was asked by a friend if I was going to put Mia on blood pressure and water pills as her symptoms become more acute. The possible side effects are profound, including kidney failure. especially for a small dog. I can't bring myself to do that to her; it's just not a risk I'm willing to take. Also, I would imagine renal failure causes discomfort in the lower back. For now, Mia is stabilizing once again, so she should have smooth sailing at least for the next couple of months. Right now, Mia is stretched out next to me, sleeping peacefully -- no coughing tonight! Photo of Lois Lane, left, and Mia by Troy Snow.