[Gpdd] Health - the Sniffles

[Jennifer Caldwell]

Hi, I am the proud slave of 2 precious and precocious girls by the name of 
Matilda Spikey Pig and Penelope Pig (PennyPig).  Here is my query:  I 
received Matilda as a gift from a pet store along with a cage mate who 
sadly, yet not surprisingly, passed away 3 days later.  I had an appointment 
at a trusted veterinarian for both but "sick pig" did not make it.  Matilda 
had all the signs of an upper respiratory infection and was treated with 
antibiotics for 20 days.  However, the sneezing and snotiness were still 
there ~ so the doctor thought she might have bordetella (Kennel Cough in 
dogs) so we treated with medication for that  .  .  . sneezing didn't stop ~ 
tried 2 other medications, didn't stop (she was on medication for almost 3 
months straight.)  During this time I adopted Penelope from the Humane 
Society.  I kept them in separate rooms and did not allow any contact 
(washing hands and such before handling so PennyPig wouldn't get ill.)  
Long(er) story short, Penny and Matilda are now avid playmates, although 
they do not share the same cage (tried it - they almost killed each other!)  
Matilda still sneezes and is snotty but PennyPig has never "caught" it.  I 
stopped using pine shavings with Matilda and have switched to the recycled 
newspaper "bedding."  Has anyone ever been a slave to a wheeker with 
allergies?  Her sneezing gets worse when it is about time to clean her cage 
(which I am diligent about.)  Her vet and I have literally tried every 
medication on the market for URI and bordetella - short of steroids.  She is 
a perky ball of energy and eats and drinks like a little elephant so I know 
she is okay in that regard.  I'm just worried for my little wee pig.  Any 
suggestions would be much appreciated.  Sincerely, Jennifer: slave to 
Matilda and PennyPig

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