Welcome to Dodgerslist, Brian. I'm sorry to hear of Lily's difficulties. And I'm very sorry that you weren't given correct advice by your vet. Conservative care consists of a full 8 weeks of crate rest, not six weeks. It takes 8 weeks for the disc to form scar tissue over it to protect it from re-tearing. By allowing Lily to increase her activity level too soon, she appears to have re-torn the disc, resulting in the loss of leg function. Because of the re-injury to the disc, I have changed the date conservative care started to today's date. She will need an additional 8 weeks for the disc to heal. I wish I had better news for you.
I'm glad you're going to be making an appointment with a neurologist. Was Lily ever on any pain meds? NSAIDS are sometimes prescribed instead of a steroid when the symptoms are mild. Has she been on Metacam for the whole 6 weeks without a taper? Usually NSAIDs are given for a certain period and then there is a taper to determine if there is still pain. If no pain, the meds are stopped. And I don't see that you've mentioned her being given anything to protect her GI tract while on the NSAID. It's quite clear from what you've told us that your vet is not comfortable treating IVDD and a trip to the neurologist is very much in order.
Is there still currently pain? Signs of pain are holding the head in an unusual position, shivering/trembling, not wanting to move much or moving gingerly, yelping, tight/tense stomach muscles, just not their usual perky-interested-in-life self.
-- What are the exact names, dose in mg's and frequency of all meds?
-- Pepcid AC should be given to protect your dog from the excess acid produced by the anti-inflammatory. The FDA and manufacturer pkg insert indicate gastrointestinal problems are side effects of using anti-inflammatories. The natural defenses of the stomach to shield against stomach acid is hindered when taking anti-inflammatoriess. Serious gastrointestinal toxicity such as bleeding, ulceration, and perforation, can occur at any time, with or without warning symptoms. Please get your vet's permission to give 5 mg of Pepcid AC (generic is famotidine) 30 minutes before each dose of the anti-inflammatory (not to exceed every 12 hours). Phrase the question to your vet in this particular way: "Is there any medical reason my dog may not take Pepcid AC?" If your vet says your dog has no health issues such as liver, heart, etc to keep her from taking Pepcid AC, then do get it on board.
-- Can your dog sniff and squat and then release urine or do you find wet bedding or leaks on you when lifted up?
-- Eating and drinking OK?
-- Poops OK - normal color, firmness, no dark or bright red blood?
-- Dogs with IVDD must be carried with their spines horizontal, carrying both ends. Here's a video showing how to properly lift and carry:
-- If there is pain or neuro diminishment, dogs can benefit greatly with acupuncture or laser light therapy. These therapies can be be started right away to help relieve pain and to also to kick start energy production in nerve cells to sprout. So if this therapy is in your budget, seek out a holistic vet.
ahvma.org/Widgets/FindVet.html
The best way for you to help your dog is by learning about his disease. Here are some links to get you started. Please click on all of them to get a good background of understanding.
www.dodgerslist.com/healingindex.htmwww.dodgerslist.com/literature.htmDodgerslist has an excellent DVD available for only $3 including shipping. It's great to have on hand to show to family/friends/petsitters so they will know what they can and cannot do with your dog and how they can help:
www.dodgerslist.com/store/DVDorder.htm Please let us know what the neurologists at UC Davis say and exactly what they prescribe for Lily. I'm sure this is very upsetting to have such a setback but she can heal again and we'll help you through this.
Blessings to you and Lily.
