PaulaM
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Post by PaulaM on Jun 18, 2015 20:21:58 GMT -7
Meridith if you re-confirm about your observing a sniff and then a pee that you wrote 6/18 this morning "Parker does sniff and pee in his normal place - it is just that I know when he does it is not a full bladder's worth - and then later he will pee in his male wrap", then bladder control may be returning.
Normally the typical order of nerve repair will have a happy tail wag when you do some happy talk. Then the next neuro function to come back would be bladder control. Can Parker do a happy tail wag?
When bladder control starts to return, dogs do not like you to express them. However it is important to let them pee on their own as much as they can. Then to follow up with a quick express check til you are certain they are able to void all the urine on a consistent basis.
Do let us know your vet's assessment about bladder control.
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Post by Meredith & Parker on Jun 19, 2015 10:17:54 GMT -7
The lesson at the vets went well. We ended up going to the animal hospital where his neurologist is just to be safe. Parker was fully expressed there - which made me feel better generally. I had limited success last night and was able to express him once - which I guess is better than nothing. When he is at the vet, Parker totally cooperates and it seems easy. At home, Parker anticipates what is going to happen and will not even let me prop him up on his legs to try. This morning he was shaking on the wee wee pad and flat out refused to cooperate. Parker naturally is a very strong willed and super anxious dog - it is almost like he is humiliated by me trying to express him. The vet mentioned that he could be prescribed Prazosin 1 mg TID. Is anyone familiar with this drug?
I am not giving up though - I will head to a local DVM this afternoon for another lesson and to have his expressed- and every day if I have to do so.
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Peyton
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Post by Peyton on Jun 19, 2015 10:34:32 GMT -7
Meredith, learning to express can be frustrating - and on top of it you have an unwilling pup. Your determination to get through this is great. I'm glad you have good support at your vet's. Our rescue, Millie, had a UTI when we adopted her and I was convinced that I was making it worse. But we got there - and you will too!
This video may be helpful:
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PaulaM
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Post by PaulaM on Jun 19, 2015 12:52:03 GMT -7
Meredith, Parker may be reading your body language at potty time. He sees you are nervous and he becomes tense himself.
Maybe change the location where you have been expressing, so things will be new--- new location, new your acting with confidence and happy talk. You can try a warm bath towel on his tummy to help him relax before you express. Maybe a treat after you press to express to reward him that he is cooperating nicely.
Prazosin decreases internal urethral sphincter tone which could make it easier for you to express. Expressing is a matter of physics. The pressure on the sphincter during expressing needs to be greater than the power of that muscle to remain closed and keep urine in.
It may be the vets hands are stronger than yours. I know when my surgeon, a man, show me how to express I just could not apply the proper pressure in the positionI was shown--- on a table at waist height. I needed to have my dog on the floor so I could be over him. Others have found that it works better for them if the dog lies on its side (prone) and they express better that way. So expressing is just finding the right position that works for you. When the bladder is really fully, it doesn't seem to have any shape as it just fills the tummy area and any slight pressure will cause urine to release. You will need to be to feel for the bladder as it empties especially, you need to feel its shape in order to know you have it trapped by your hands/fingers to apply the proper pressure. Can you feel the bladder as it empties and gets smaller?
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Post by Meredith & Parker on Jun 20, 2015 15:54:26 GMT -7
Hi everyone - here's an update on Parker - after 3 days at home (post surgery 2 and and stint at VCA West LA to be monitored by neurologists) it was clear that I was not able to provide the home care my little man needed. I did not want to risk any additional issues, since I was having such a difficult time expressing him properly. Honestly, it was too much for me in terms of the 24/7 care Parker needs to get better - and I want him to have the best possible change to recover and thrive. I found a wonderful rehab center that has just begun offering post surgical boarding called California Animal Rehabilitation (CARE): www.calanimalrehab.com/Parker checked into the CARE facility yesterday (6/19). I was looking at CARE for Parker's therapy when I discovered they offered post surgical boarding. CARE is currently boarding 2 other IVDD post surgery dogs as well. I think Parker is in the best possible hands right now and am hopeful for his recovery. Parker will receive therapy 6 days a week at CARE (and I do not have to worry about transporting him - he is a wild man in the car - full chihuahua mix anxiety even on valium). Parker still has his sutures until next week and is on full crate rest except for therapy and to be expressed. I can visit him every day, and today I was with him for his first acpuncture session - he was a champ! Thank you for all of your advice and kind words. I will keep you updated on his progress at CARE. |
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Roy & Abbie
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Post by Roy & Abbie on Jun 20, 2015 17:55:16 GMT -7
Thanks for the update Meredith - I have not heard of a doggy rehab before but from what you tell us it sound like a good option for you and Parker.
I see from the website they have four veterinarians, do you know if they have a resident neurologist?
We look forward to hearing 'progress reports' as Parker continues his recovery
Thank you for providing such good care of him
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Post by Meredith & Parker on Jun 20, 2015 19:19:37 GMT -7
Hi Roy and Abbie -
This was the only post surgical boarding place I could find in Los Angeles - I was surprised, because it seems like such a great idea. CARE does not have a resident neurologist (that I am aware of - will confirm tomorrow), but Parker's vet has an IVDD Doxie of her own (who was there at the center today getting laser treatment and water therapy), so I know this is a cause close to her heart. CARE will interface with VCA West LA where the neurologist is - the issue is that Parker's original emergency surgery (and the revision) was at yet another facility - done via a CT by an orthopedic surgeon - which I know now was less than ideal. It was an emergency situation at 10pm on a Saturday - I had never even heard of IVDD. I wish I had had the time to research and find a specialist neurologist and that Parker had an MRI not a CT - everything may have been different - but maybe not. I am just trying to move forward and help Parker any way that I can.
I need to clarify what post op check ups Parker will need to do with a neurologist. I am never going back to the facility that actually did his 2 surgeries (for reasons I will not post here). Is it typical to have a 2 week post op check and a 5 week check up with a surgeon? CARE is capable of taking his sutures out, but I was not sure if I needed to have a neurological check at 2 weeks out when the sutures are removed, but we would be going to a facility (with a neurologist who has seen Parker before) that did not actually perform his surgeries - they just evaluated him post second surgery/revision b/c he had neurological abnormalities. I know this is confusing. Poor little man has been through the wringer.
Basically, should Parker be examined by a neurologist at 2 weeks post op? Or is 5 weeks ok?
Thanks again!
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Post by Pauliana on Jun 20, 2015 19:58:48 GMT -7
Hi Meredith,
Yes it is normal to have a 10 to 14 day check up to remove the sutures and that is when the surgeon does the check up to see the progress Parker is making with his recovery. It takes 2 to 4 weeks for the surgical swelling to go down and that is when improvement generally begins..Then another check up at around 5 to 6 weeks so the Vet can determine if he is ready to ease back into life after crate rest. The Neuro's at VCA could likely check him over and it sounds like CARE is an excellent facility for his rehab and post surgery boarding. Since they are caring for other post surgery IVDD patients, I am certain they will be giving you progress reports as well.
CARE I wish we had one here in Indiana.. nothing even remotely close to that..It's wonderful they do grooming based on their medical problems, as well as Rehab and offer at home services also. What a find!
Thanks for keeping us posted on Parker..
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Roy & Abbie
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Post by Roy & Abbie on Jun 20, 2015 20:09:56 GMT -7
Hi Meredith, after Abbie's second surgery the neurologist was very keen on us updating her on Abbie's progress. For the first week we did this daily by phone, the second week was every second day and at the end of the second week we took her back to the hospital to have her sutures removed and the neurologist assessed her and said she was pleased with the progress. We did not have to take her back again but did call the neurologist or she called us to get regular updates.
Every case is different so it would be best to seek advice from the neurologist re post op checks. If it were my dog I would want a check up at 2 weeks
Did you get any information at discharge that details the procedure? I did and it was required by the insurance company. If you did get procedural information then this would be of benefit to the neurologist you intend to had examine Parker.
I know you feel like Parker has been through the ringer but as has been said before IVDD is a disease of patience. Try to take it one day at a time and live in the moment, as Parker does. Dogs don't regret the past or worry about the future. They live in the now. So enjoy each moment with your boy right now. You're doing a great job in caring for your boy/girl ??
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Post by Ann Brittain on Jun 21, 2015 8:00:42 GMT -7
Expressing is a difficult things to master, but once you get the knack it will feel natural. I suspect, as with our Buster, he had enough bladder control to "resist" our efforts to express him. Once he got used to it, he relaxed and it became much easier. Even though he can relieve himself on his own now, I will once in a while express him so I can check for signs of a UTI, like dark urine or strong smell.
We found that Buster is more comfortable and relaxes better when I do the expressing. He seems to tense up more with my husband. I'm not sure why other than I have longer fingers and always take a minute or so to massage his belly prior to expressing.
Good luck,
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Post by Meredith & Parker on Jun 24, 2015 15:18:34 GMT -7
Hi all,
Parker's suture removal and 2 week post op (from surgery 2 on 6/10) neuro check at VCA West LA went well today. They saw him last week, so there was not much change neurologically, though Parker is able to stand on all 4 legs for a few seconds - each day a little bit longer. Parker is back at CARE relaxing and continuing his therapy. I am hopeful for him - Parker seems to want to walk, and I am going to do whatever I can to help my little man. Parker let me express him once this week - something is better nothing! - and still gives push back to the techs at CARE when expressed. I am hoping he will get used to it - or better yet gain control of his bladder. Now, Parker will remain on crate rest for at least 4 more weeks.
Thanks again for your advice and guidance. I hope to be back soon with some good news on Parker's progress.
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PaulaM
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Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
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Post by PaulaM on Jun 24, 2015 15:42:06 GMT -7
Thank you for the update we look forward to your next one! Where did the neuro place his nerve functions.... confirmed deep pain sensation? Did you get a happy tail wag when Parker saw you? If you continue to find the Care Facility to meet expectations, we like to have a recommendation for our directory: dodgerslist.boards.net/board/10/guidelines-posting vet recommendations: Name of Vet Name of Clinic Street Address City: State or country: Type of vet (general/board certified surgeon, acupuncture, etc.) Comments: You can also help another when having to make decisions about surgery, too We have a directory where you can share surgical costs: dodgerslist.boards.net/board/10/guidelines-posting State: Hospital: Address: Cost: Date of surgery: What was included in cost (MRI?, days stay, ER? PT? meds for home, sling, etc.) Comments: |
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Roy & Abbie
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Post by Roy & Abbie on Jun 24, 2015 17:39:14 GMT -7
Hi Meredith,
So pleased to hear the suture removal & neuro check went well. I think I may have said this before but it's worth repeating - IVDD is a disease of patience. Try to take it one day at a time and live in the moment, as Parker does. Dogs don't regret the past or worry about the future. They live in the now. So enjoy each moment with your boy right now.
You're doing a great job in caring for your boy
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Post by Meredith & Parker on Jun 25, 2015 11:12:29 GMT -7
Hi all,
No happy tail wag from Parker - yet. Parker does have deep pain sensation on both sides, but it is stronger on the right side. Is there a neuro scale on which to place his condition? Parker can stand and bear weigh for approximately 10 seconds.
Thank you all for your kind words and support.
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Roy & Abbie
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Post by Roy & Abbie on Jun 25, 2015 11:22:53 GMT -7
Hi Meredith, you say Parker does have deep pain sensation on both sides, but it is stronger on the right side - was this determined by your vet?
Nerves heal typically in the reverse order of the damage to the spinal cord:
1. Deep Pain Sensation (Only correctly identified by a specialist.)
2. Tail wagging with joy at seeing you or getting a treat or meal.
3. Bladder and bowel control verified with the "sniff and pee" test.
4. Leg Movement, and then ability to move up into a standing position, and then wobbly walking.
5. Being able to walk with more steadiness and properly place the feet.
6. Ability to walk unassisted and perhaps even run.
As has been said before IVDD is a disease of patience. Try to take it one day at a time and live in the moment, as Parker does. Dogs don't regret the past or worry about the future. They live in the now. So enjoy each moment with your boy right now.
You're doing a great job in caring for Parker
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Peyton
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Post by Peyton on Jun 25, 2015 16:14:43 GMT -7
So cool to see a photo of you and Parker, Meredith! He's adorable. It's wonderful that you have such good options for his care. He's a lucky boy to have you! Stay in touch -
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Post by Meredith & Parker on Jul 2, 2015 14:52:47 GMT -7
Outstanding news - Parker stood up in his crate at CARE yesterday (7/1) - all on his own! I am beyond thrilled for him! Apparently, he is standing more often today - even during his acupuncture session - to the point that the Dr. had to make him sit down. I will visit him this evening after work. Parker has gained more motor skills throughout the week (with particular improvement on the left side - which was the weaker of the 2, and the side on which he had lost deep pain on prior to and after surgery 2 - this came back over time), and Parker is able to pee on his own - though this skill is far from perfect. I'll take it!
Parker is 3 weeks post op from his second surgery. What a little fighter! Parker will remain at CARE at least until his crate rest is complete which is 3 more weeks.
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Post by Ann Brittain on Jul 2, 2015 15:15:05 GMT -7
Wonderful for you and Parker! It is such a relief to learn he's doing so well. Please do keep him on the crate rest and consider extending beyond the 3 remaining weeks to allow him to heal from surgery #2. Two thumbs up to you both!!  |
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Roy & Abbie
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Post by Roy & Abbie on Jul 2, 2015 19:49:36 GMT -7
Hi Meredith, so pleased to hear of Parkers progress, he is doing really well.
When Abbie had her second surgery (three weeks after the first one) the neurologist said she wanted 8 week strict crate rest and after the 8 weeks she was allowed out to walk 3-4 minutes 3 times a day, the second week 5-6 minutes 3 times a day and each week after that the duration increased. Eventually we were allowed to take her short walks and now some 4 months on she is back doing her full walks 3-4 times a day.
Please keep us posted on progress
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Post by Meredith & Parker on Jul 9, 2015 21:47:53 GMT -7
Parker update - Parker is 4 weeks post op (surgery 2) and doing well at CARE where he receives therapy and acupuncture 6 days a week. He can stand on his own now, and I saw a tremendous tail wag today! Parker can sniff and pee but only empties his bladder about 50% this way, so he continues to be expressed every 3-4 hours just in case (and to help prevent an infection). Parker remains on crate rest and may be able to try water therapy later this week. He likely will remain on crate rest for quite some time out of caution (more than 6 weeks). His next neuro check is on 7/26 as he is doing well, and his neurologist will be out of town on the exact 6 week date (7/22).
The best new is that Parker is advancing his legs with some stimulation by the therapist - not really walking yet but getting stronger each day. Here's a video of the little man in therapy on 7/7:
Best wishes to all!
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Post by Sylvia & Pio on Jul 9, 2015 23:01:59 GMT -7
Hi Meredith. I'm Sylvia and my dog Sandy had surgery on July 2nd. I am slowly trying to read everyone's story to see how their dogs progress after surgery. Your Parker has really been through the wringer it seems. I loved the therapy video at the end, and it is great to hear how much progress he has made. I hope that he is walking soon.
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Marjorie
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Post by Marjorie on Jul 10, 2015 5:21:09 GMT -7
Thanks for the very encouraging update, Meredith! It's wonderful to hear and see the progress that Parker has made in such a short time. Keep up the good work! |
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Post by Meredith & Parker on Jul 16, 2015 16:58:20 GMT -7
Parker took his first steps on July 14th! The little man continues to improve and seems to be in the wobbly walking stage. Thank you all for your support. I hope to have a more extensive update soon after his 4 week rehab evaluation and his 6 week neuro checkup appt. Here's a video of Parker in action at CARE on 7/16 |
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Roy & Abbie
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Post by Roy & Abbie on Jul 16, 2015 17:03:59 GMT -7
Another encouraging update, Meredith - thank you!!
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Post by Sylvia & Pio on Jul 17, 2015 11:51:42 GMT -7
Yayyyy! That is wonderful news! I'm so glad to see that Parker is doing so well.
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Post by Meredith & Parker on Jul 23, 2015 21:28:17 GMT -7
Amazing news - Parker took his first steps on his own today (7/24)! His 4 week rehab evaluation at CARE went very well, and he will continue to receive PT (with lasers), acupuncture and stretching 6 days a week. He does range of motion exercises twice a day and also is starting the water treadmill and even the land treadmill. I am so happy for him and thrilled for his progress. It has been a long 6 weeks, and today is a day I worried would not come.
Parker has his neuro checkup this weekend. He is taking Gabapentin .8ml 3 times a day, pepcid ac (for another week even though his prednisone is done) and a diazepam in the morning. Parker is my little miracle man! What a fighter! You can tell that the therapists and doctors are surprised at how quickly he has regained motor function. 1 month of intense therapy at CARE seems to have made all of the difference.
Here is Parker walking today:
Thank you again for the support!
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Post by Pauliana on Jul 23, 2015 21:43:43 GMT -7
Meredith, thank you for that incredible video of Parker walking. He is getting such great care and yes indeed it has paid off for him and for you! Delighted for both of you!  |
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Roy & Abbie
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Post by Roy & Abbie on Jul 24, 2015 9:38:47 GMT -7
Really good news Meredith and thanks for the video. From what I have read about the water treadmill exercise in other posts you should see more improvement soon |
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Peyton
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Post by Peyton on Jul 24, 2015 10:31:39 GMT -7
It is so heartwarming to see your video, Meredith! Wow, what a long way he has come already! Keep working hard, Parker!
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