Dudley's Story

On Sunday, June, 11 2006, we drove Dudley to the KSU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. The previous year Dudley had been diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease. His medications precipitated an onslaught of side effects causing his adrenal glands to spiral out of control. Dudley had been suffering a while and was running out of treatment options. Holding him in my arms on the way to the emergency unit of KSU…we drifted into hopelessness…clutching to faith…praying for a few more years with this wonderful little guy who was now so ill.

When I visited Dudley the following day, he was wheeled on a gurney to the visiting area. He was heavily sedated. He barley knew I was there. Matt Peuser, a senior veterinary student, kindly reassured me Dudley was not in pain.

On Tuesday I met with Dr. Ken Harkin. He explained a barrage of test results and treatment plans. I tried to absorb every detail but it was difficult to concentrate. I was bracing myself for the bottom line. Finally I asked the dreaded question…the prognosis for Dudley. Dr. Harkin explained that if Dudley could pull through the current crisis, he could possible have “some good years left.” I could not believe it.

Some good years left!

Throughout the week Dudley slowly regained his strength. The ICU team addressed his immediate needs, and Matt kept me well informed and Dr. Harkin stabilized his disease.

Dudley is home now. He is doing well. His innate congenial temperament is in full bloom as is his propensity to snore in wild abandon. He is 10 years old and I believe we will have some very happy years ahead thanks to the attentiveness of Matt and the formidable skill of Dr. Ken Harkin. They saved Dudley.

Thank you again.

Sincerely,
Maggie Techara