|
Post by Kellie & Maggie on Aug 31, 2015 15:55:31 GMT -7
That is great news Debbi! I am so glad that Bailey is progressing the way she is supposed to be. Maggie goes for her first water therapy tomorrow since she has been home. I will post an update tomorrow night of what the PT says. I'm hoping it's good news.
|
|
Marjorie
Moderator~
Member since 2011. Surgery & Conservative
Posts: 5,724
|
Post by Marjorie on Sept 1, 2015 4:52:09 GMT -7
I'm glad to hear how well Bailey is doing, Debbi. And I'm glad to hear that you will be careful of her times outside of the crate. Dogs so often do the unexpected or try to do more than they can. We do recommend that all IVDD dogs always be crated when left alone at home, even after crate rest.
Keep up the good work and please keep us updated on her progress. We're proud of your girl, too, and proud of you for the great job you're doing caring for her!
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Sept 1, 2015 9:33:12 GMT -7
Marjorie thank you so much! We had her out with us last night, she did a great job, me however, different story, I worry when she rolls, and stuff. I've got to calm down! So her first trip out was very short lived. I'll get better with it for sure, I just feel it's still to early, for any tricks.
Kellie, thank you, and best of luck today! I can't wait to hear how Maggie did at her visit. I'll be thinking of you both!
|
|
Marjorie
Moderator~
Member since 2011. Surgery & Conservative
Posts: 5,724
|
Post by Marjorie on Sept 1, 2015 16:12:13 GMT -7
Following the type of serious surgery that Bailey had, it's better to be too cautious than not cautious enough. Your worry will lessen over time but I don't think we IVDD dog owners ever completely leave the worry behind. My Jeremy was limping the other day and I completely lost it - oh no, it's his neck, he's favoring his front foot. Of course, I'm staring at him with complete panic so he looks upset, too so I think he has pain. I was ready for a frantic trip to the ER vet when I took a few deep breaths and thought I'd better check his feet first. And sure enough, he winced when I picked up one of them. He had a sore spot in between his toes. A couple of soakings with Epson salts and he was fine. Whew! So as you can see, we're all in the same boat at times with our dogs. As for your little Bailey, yes, it's most definitely too early for any tricks and she does need to take it slowly. And yes, she will handle IVDD better than you will (that's not a personal comment but a general one for all of us as all of our dogs are much better with this than we are.)
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Sept 2, 2015 9:57:30 GMT -7
Oh Majorie, I would of freaked out also! Thanks for sharing that with me. ( no offense taken, I get what you were saying.) thanks again for all the support.
Kellie, I'm worried about you guys, is your Maggie alright?
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Sept 4, 2015 7:00:40 GMT -7
Hi Kellie, I'm so happy for Maggie, she's doing a great job! Baileys hanging in there Monday marks 5 wks, just 3 to go. My heart is breaking for her, she's had it with being in. She can come out for a little, but it makes me to nervous, so her out is not long. Out of habit the other night she wanted to jump up on the sofa, I was like oh no, I've got a problem there! I will start to look into some ramps and blockers in the next couple weeks. I'm getting my class ready for next week, it's the first time I really left her, she seemed to do very well with that, so no worries there. She is walking beautifully, but still bounces when she pees, and falls back when she does number 2. I just try to support her. I hope those muscles strengthen some day. Hope your both well, talk soon
Oh Majorie, I would of freaked out also! Thanks for sharing that with me. ( no offense taken, I get what you were saying.) thanks again for all the support.
Kellie, I'm worried about you guys, is your Maggie alright?
|
|
PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,555
|
Post by PaulaM on Sept 4, 2015 8:29:46 GMT -7
Debbi, has the original 5 weeks of rest now been extended to 8 weeks? If crate rest was extended to 8 weeks what is the reason? If crate rest was not extended to 8 weeks, then it is time for her to graduate and be gradually introduced bacy to normal activities. Now is a good time to be determining how you are going to ease back into more normal activity at graduation. The idea is to gradually give more freedom under controlled conditions. Not free reign of the house and yard immediately! LOL Take a look at our information and then come up with a plan to gradually increase activity over about a month's time following the end of crate rest. Also check out how to teach four paws on the floor! www.dodgerslist.com/literature/AfterCrateRest.htmAnd now is the perfect time if you haven't already to make those home modifications so that you can reduce the stress on her spine in the future. No more stairs, ramps up to furniture, or blocking furniture all together. All those ideas and more are in this link: www.dodgerslist.com/literature/protectback.htm
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Sept 4, 2015 12:53:36 GMT -7
Hi Paula, I don't think she has graduated yet, however, she does have the go ahead for some little activity. Here are his exact notes.
Bailey looks great excercise restriction Over the next 4 weeks, you are going to gradually increase controlled exercise. The first wk, walk her for 5 minutes longer, then I have been.the second wk walk 10 minutes, third wk. 15 minutes, fourth week, 20 minutes. In addition to increased leash walking, Bailey can also be allowed out of crate on the floor when supervised as long as she does not run, jump, or try play with the other dogs. If not supervised please continue to keep in crate. If Bailey handles the activity well after 4 weeks, we will discuss gradually returning her to her regular lifestyle over the next month. However you must always try to avoid jumping on/off furniture, stairs, and playing rough with other dogs
So I assumed she still has to be in, with a little more freedom. She needs no therapy, just practice getting back to life with 4 working legs, and paws. Please tell me what you get from that. Thank you as always
I just read the links you shared, and it sounds like Bailey IS a graduate! I should be so proud of this, instead like the link says, I want to keep her bubble wrapped!!!!!!! I'm a nervous wreck. Bailey is a feisty hot dog, with quite an attitude! How will I ever get her to stop all those things? ( I think we need a support forum, for all crazy Doxiemamas, like me) I need help, not my poor dog, lol I've got to stop, I follow her around going oh no, slow, oh no not that, omg, this is a problem!
Tonight we are leaving for the Hamptons, Bailey is coming! I'm petrified to travel with her. She was given the okay to go, and she will take a dizapam, so I'm hoping she will sleep the entire 4 hr ride, except potty break. ( I'm not leaving her, remember what happen the last time I left her.) any suggestions on the travel
|
|
PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,555
|
Post by PaulaM on Sept 4, 2015 16:18:01 GMT -7
Debbie, it does, indeed, sound like Monday will be graduation day. Then begins the slow re-introduction over a month's time back to physical activity just as your surgeon has written out for you. Get your camera ready for Monday. We want a graduation shot for the calendar! You remember how overwhelming it is to get an IVDD diagnosis? Bailey is good inspiration for those just starting the journey. Write 1-2 sentences for your photo and upload here: dodgerslist.boards.net/thread/2262/put-dodgerslist-photo-gallery-calendar
|
|
|
Post by Kellie & Maggie on Sept 5, 2015 6:04:52 GMT -7
I am so glad to hear this! Bailey is an inspiration to Maggie. I took Maggie out for her potty break this morning. I let her walk without the sling at first. She took a few steps, squatted, urinated and stood back up to take a few more steps. All on her own! She probably could have walked more but I got nervous since she is still unsteady so I used the sling for the rest of the time just for a little support. I was told I can start doing this for one walk a day. She went for water therapy again yesterday and was told she did very well. I will post a video to my wall later on today.
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Sept 5, 2015 8:58:18 GMT -7
Awww Kellie, that's the best news ever! Maggie is doing awesome! I'm so proud of her. Thank you for all your support with Bailey. (Maggie was Bailey's inspiration, and you were mine) What a lesson we learned, in the last weeks. I would of never thought this could happen, and just like that, it did! Quite an eye opener. I'm not going anywhere just yet, ( still have a ways to go, and more to learn) so I'll be checking in on Maggie. Bailey, and I are her cheering squad! Sending you lots of hugs
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Sept 7, 2015 5:04:53 GMT -7
So here I am 5 weeks after my surgery, and today is my Graduation day! I worked very hard to get here, and my mom did also. There were many challenges along the way, but with time, and patience it all went away! I'm not quite sure what I did to hurt my back, all I know is I never want that pain back. I now know I was born with this disease IVDD, and it's not nice. I can't jump around like I'm a kangaroo anymore, nor can I climb all the steps in my house. I'm okay with all that, I don't want that pain back ( Plus I think I like being picked up, instead of the climbing!) I know my mom drove you all crazy for 5 weeks, but she's getting much better! Thank you for all your kind, caring, support. She really needed it, she's madly in love with me! She listened to every piece of knowledge, and advice you gave. She took every word seriously. My mom never told you how seriously, so I will! She kept reading about how IMPORTANT taking the Pepcid was, and at 2 times a day! Well I was prescribed 10 mg a day. My mom took it upon herself to give it twice a day, giving me 20 mg a day. ( she definitely protected me, alright!) Doctor laughed at her, and said I was fine! It wouldn't hurt me that's my crazy mom. Ughhhhh she just loves me! I did have to take a lot of medicine, some made me tired, some made me thirsty, but my mom knew how important it was in my recovery. I have to say Kellie, my mom adores you, thank you for keeping her sane we always talk about Maggie, and maybe we'll meet someday. Thank you The last five weeks, so much has changed, my tail wagged, I had little movement in my right leg, then my left, then I could potty on my own, stand up, and walk a very little bit. 5 weeks later, I completly walk on my own! ( and my mom thought I wouldn't walk again!) I don't walk perfect, I still sway, or stumble sometimes ( a police officer would swear, I was drinking) my mom says the way I walk is just fine! I'm still that funny dog she loves, and, nothing else has changed. I still have lots of work to do, but I survived, and so will you! So anyway my furry friends, we wish you all the best, stay strong, you will all be okay. Get lots of rest, take your medicine, listen to your Doctor, and stay on Dodgerslist! My mom and I can't thank you all enough! Thank you, Bailey & Debbi
|
|
|
Post by Kellie & Maggie on Sept 11, 2015 21:23:11 GMT -7
It is definitely something to celebrate Bailey! You and your mom have been so supportive and have kept me sane as well Doxies have proven to me to be one of the strongest dog breeds out there. Maggie's PT said she did great this week in therapy. She goes for her 6 week check up next week. So I will keep you up to date when I talk to the surgeon.
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Sept 12, 2015 5:24:03 GMT -7
Hey Kellie, I'm so happy Maggie is doing well! Please do let me know, how she does at the Vet on Monday. I'll be excited to hear. Bailey is doing really well, i just feel so bad about, when she goes potty, she kinda bounces. Still has a way to go on strengthening those muscles, and sometimes falls back. I do hold her tail for her, seems to keep her steady, and I hold her hips, that keeps her from falling back. I love her new walk, it's like she's trying to be sneaky, or something, but she gets around really good. It still a guessing game with me, if she's still really fragile, or not. I can't seem to let her just be a dog yet. I'm petrified she's not healed. I'm sure I'll get better in time, but other then that, she's better then me about this. I hate it, wish there wasn't such a thing called IVDD. Best of luck on Monday!!!
|
|
Roy & Abbie
Helpful Member
Sugery: 1/14, 2/7
Posts: 212
|
Post by Roy & Abbie on Sept 12, 2015 8:51:31 GMT -7
Hi Debbie, it's so good to hear how well Bailey is doing - all credit to you for taking such good care of her. Abbie still had balance issues at potty breaks some time after the typical recovery period and was a little wobbly too but progressively got stronger and stronger as the weeks passed and she is now back to her self.
As has been said before IVDD is a disease of patience
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Sept 13, 2015 6:47:18 GMT -7
Dear Roy, thank you for that. It's good to know there is still a chance, she will get steadier. I just have to remember, it's only been 6 weeks Monday, and to look at the amazing progress she has made! I count my blessings everyday, that she can at least go on her own. ( I think that potty nightmare, was one of the hardest parts for me!) thank you.
|
|
|
Post by Kellie & Maggie on Sept 20, 2015 12:37:37 GMT -7
How is sweet Bailey doing? Do you still need to give support when Bailey walks? Or can she walk on her own? Maggie is walking but I need to keep using the sling because of unsteadiness. I posted a video from her water therapy on my blog from last week. She is getting much better. I hope this therapy helps her become more steady as well. She wanted to run outside and play with my other dog today. I feel so bad to tell her no. I just hope one day she will be able to do it again. Well wishes for you and Bailey .
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Sept 21, 2015 15:46:25 GMT -7
Awww Kellie, Maggie looks excellent! I love her videos! Bailey is doing real well, thank you. She does walk completely on her own, with no support. She still sways sometimes, but not to much, the hardest thing for her is going potty, she bounces, breaks my heart, but even that is improving. I'm praying that will go away with time. I talk to her vet again next week, and I'm very curious as to what she will be able to do now. I've been cautious of every move ( the helicopter mom, I am) but believe it or not, I am getting better with that too. I know just how you feel, I still have to Tell Bailey NO with trying to jump up, run, and stuff, she looks at me like, why? Sad, but we have to protect them. Your Maggie is a trooper, and she is going to run with her buddy again someday soon. She looks amazing Kellie, and we're always watching for her updates. Please let us know how she's doing, we are cheering for her.
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Oct 11, 2015 9:34:34 GMT -7
Hi Kellie, so happy Maggie is doing well. Bailey's legs are still wobbly also. She does get around on her own, but you can tell her legs are not strong yet. I'm not sure if her legs will ever work like they used too. She moves around quickly, and she still tries to jump, and run, but I'm like no way am I going through that again, so I really keep a close eye on her. I still put her in the pen when I leave also, and I think I will always have too, she's got a mind of her own! Hope you both are well.
|
|
|
Post by Kellie & Maggie on Oct 12, 2015 15:55:14 GMT -7
We had our check up today. She is able to stay out of the crate when we are home. No climbing, jumping, etc. Got the ok for her to play with our other dog again. I got 3 vets to look into for acupuncture. We are going to try that. The rehab tech adopted a dachshund that she does acupuncture with and has said after 2 sessions she can see a difference. So it's worth a shot. I guess it's time to "puppy" proof everything so she doesn't jump. But I am glad she can be a dog again.
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Oct 18, 2015 19:17:47 GMT -7
Hey Kellie, that is great news. I'm so happy for you both. Maggie's going to be so happy! Let me know about the acupuncture. I wonder if I should look into that for Bailey. I feel like Bailey is starting to get the hang of the no jumping with SOME things, and then others she still out of control. She knows she can't climb steps, she waits for a lift, but she still will try to jump up on furniture. We're all like no you can't do that, then we lift her. She also wants to jump down, so we could never leave her out, and about on her own, unattended which is sad, but I'm glad to still have her, and that's better then nothing. Good to here from you
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Oct 24, 2015 6:39:44 GMT -7
Hello everyone, just a quick question please. Bailey is doing great, she gets from point A to point B. Life is definetly different for her, but as we know dogs live in the moment, so I think, I think more of it then her. I'm still a nervous wreck with her, but I've gotten much better as time is going by. My question is Bails left leg is definetly not as strong as the right. When she's in certain positions it kinda just lays there. She uses it when walking, running looks more like a bucking donkey, but you can see the difference. Right being much stronger. What can I do to help stregthen that leg? Vet didn't give answers, it was left as this might just be Bailey's walk from here on out. I've read enough to know, there is still hope for that leg to become stronger. When she Potty's she still bounces, and falls back. Is there anything I can do with her to strengthen those muscles? Or does this fall in the wait and see, patience category? Sorry to bother you guys, I know your busy.. Hope all are well
|
|
Marjorie
Moderator~
Member since 2011. Surgery & Conservative
Posts: 5,724
|
Post by Marjorie on Oct 24, 2015 7:11:59 GMT -7
Hi, Debbi. The nerve damage to Bailey's left leg may have been worse than the damage to her right. Nerve damage can take a very long time to heal, months, even a year or more. Yes, IVDD is a disease of patience but nerves can heal in time so yes, there is definitely hope that the leg will improve. It took my Jeremy 6 months following surgery before he was able to walk and I continued to see improvement for a year or more. That being said, there are exercises that you can do with that leg to help strengthen it. I found the post-operative exercises on this page to be very helpful, especially the bicycle one since Jeremy's legs were very stiff and this helped loosen them up. www.dodgerslist.com/literature/massagepassiveexercises.htmAlso water therapy can be a great way to exercise. Some of these exercises can be done right in the bathtub or a small wading pool. Or if you live next to any lakes or the ocean, just walking along in shallow water can build up strength and muscle. www.dodgerslist.com/literature/watertherapy.htmWalking on a beach's sand, walking on different textures (tall grass, short grass, the sidewalk, rugs) may help. Walking is the best form of exercise and not only will help strengthen weakened legs but will also help strength the muscles around the spine. Please do keep in touch and please don't apologize for asking any questions at all - that's what we're here for and we'll continue to be here for you and Bailey. All the best to you both.
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Oct 25, 2015 5:41:28 GMT -7
Awwww Marjorie, your the best thank you!
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on Jan 30, 2016 8:39:34 GMT -7
Hello, Just giving an update on my girl. It's been 5 months already, and Bailey is doing very well. She's in great spirits, and moving on in life. She still has her daily struggles, trying to keep up with the other 2 dogs, and still bounces when she goes potty. Bailey has always been a wonderful patient, she knows she's not the same. She waits to be picked up at all stairways, she doesn't even attempt. She waits to be lifted up onto the sofa, but wouldn't think twice about hoping down. ( so I still have to watch for tricks like that) She had to face her first winter snow storm, 25+ inches of snow, it was sad to see her try to maneuver through the snow. My husband used the snow blower and made a huge track for her on the lawn, she was thrilled to be able to get around. As usual I still panic over her, but we manage together. She lost quite a bit of weight during that entire episode, and together we are keeping it off. Other then that I feel blessed at how far she has come, and she just keeps getting better. I still thank all of you, for guiding me through that nightmare, and for all your support. I've given out many flyers to my vet, and the emergency vet, in hopes that someone will find some hope in the info, instead of just being hit with it like we were. Thank you, Debbi
|
|
|
Post by Pauliana on Jan 30, 2016 22:16:41 GMT -7
Hi Debbie,
Great to hear such a wonderful update about dear Bailey! Wow 25 inches of snow! Been hearing about that snow storm.. I am sure Bailey was shocked to see so much snow.. Thank you for being part of our education team by passing out our flyers at your Vet and the ER vet. That is much appreciated! Keep up the great work and be sure to stop by here anytime to inspire the new people just beginning this journey!
|
|
PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,555
|
Post by PaulaM on Jan 31, 2016 13:14:31 GMT -7
Debbi, we love to get updates periodically to know how members of the Dodgerslist family are doing. Five months seems like a long time, but there is still time for even more nerve healing to take place. The important thing is it sounds like Bailey is BACK, back to enjoying all the activities she like to do....even with a bit of help from the snowblower! Thanks for helping to spread the word. How about a photo for our 2016 photo gallery and a sentence or two. The gallery is great inspiration to see how dogs are getting back to life after a disc episode for those owners just starting a scary IVDD journey. LOGIN www.dodgerslist.com/gallery/ : username: Dachsie password: dodgerslist14
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on May 9, 2016 16:18:42 GMT -7
Hi everyone, I'm freaking out a bit. Bailey has been doing terrific, getting better everyday. My son came home from college and she's been runnning around him like a crazy lady. I was just looking at her and my heart sank, she's limpimg. It looks like it's coming from the front legs, not the back. Not displaying any signs of pain, but she was a tough cookie before, so she's hard to judge. I am panicking, I put her right in the crate. My question is do I call the vet, or see what happens. I don't want her to go through all this again! So sad Sorry to have to come back with this kind of news. Debbi
|
|
Marjorie
Moderator~
Member since 2011. Surgery & Conservative
Posts: 5,724
|
Post by Marjorie on May 9, 2016 17:18:07 GMT -7
Good job on getting Bailey right into the crate, Debbi. That's the best way to protect her spine in case this is another IVDD disc episode. It's very important that you have Bailey examined ASAP, the sooner the better, an ER if available. Carry her into the vet - only a very few steps to potty. With the limping in the front legs, it could be a neck injury. Limping IS a sign of pain.
If this is another IVDD episode, it doesn't mean that Bailey will need another surgery. This has been caught very early so at this point, she's a good candidate for conservative care, which is 8 full weeks of very strict 100% 24/7 crate rest, anti-inflammatory to get the swelling down, pain meds to mask the pain and Pepcid AC to protect the tummy.
Please let us know what the vet says after the exam. Praying that this is not another disc episode and possibly just a strain of the leg.
|
|
|
Post by Debbi & Bailey on May 10, 2016 4:48:02 GMT -7
Hello, Marjorie thanks so much for the quick response, I did take your advice brought her to her general vet. They think sprain! They asked that I bring her home give her a Diazapam let her rest quietly, since she is so energetic. I did follow this advice, not before calling her surgeons nurse, and her agreeing on this, and waiting the outcome in the morning. Well it's morning, she seems well rested, with a slight limp still. Not as bad as yesterday, but still present. I put her back in the crate after breakfast and potty. I'm petrified to let her be free, and I thought she can only be seen by a neurologist to be officially diagnosed, so I'm not sure, if I should take her for second opinion with the surgeon. Right now I've taking matters in my own hands, and I'm not taking this lightly. She's back in the crate. The only thing is she would need her meds. Which I still have on hand, but I don't want to do that without knowing for sure. Do you agree with their decision? Sorry to bother you guys, with what might be a sprain, but when Bail graduated so did I, I probably know more then her general vet. Lol thank you once again. I was hoping never to be back under these circumstances only good ones! Debbi
|
|