From:
AFERRETVET@cs.com
Date: 2001-04-15 20:17:00 UTC
Subject: Re: [Ferret-Health-list] Adrenal surgery vs Lupron therapy
Hi Kim,
I'll also agree with Mike and Dr Williams.
In a 2.5 year old ferret that is in good health
surgery is the best option. A chance to remove
the adrenal gland(s) is my first choice.
Ultrasound is an expensive test with only a
little return. If your vet wants to ultrasound your
ferret's heart because of a heart murmur then it is
the best thing to do. However if the game plan is to
ultrasound the adrenal glands to see which one to
remove then it is a waste of your money. When you
do the surgery you have to check both adrenal glands!
Plus the pancreas, spleen, liver, lymph nodes, etc.
In my opinion Lupron depot is best used on ferrets
that are old or have other problems that would make
surgery and anesthesia too risky. I would simply ask
your vet "why Lupron instead of surgery?". If there is a good
reason for not doing surgery (heart problem, etc) then go with
Lupron; however, if the reason is because your vet does not like
to do adrenal surgery then it is time to find another vet.
Jerry Murray, DVM