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Post by specialtygal on Nov 5, 2013 10:17:31 GMT -7
On 10/29 my son was petting Bella [doxie] and she screeched out in pain. We saw some swelling on her lower back and that was all I needed. Rushed her over the the vet. Took xrays said she had some calcification and swelling. He immediately put her on inflammatory meds, antibiotics and pain meds. She was there for 3 days and I was able to take her home. She wasn't eating over there because she was terrified. Once home, she ate and fell asleep. I have her on her meds but she is still in pain. She's able to walk but very slowly. Is this IVDD?
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Marjorie
Moderator~ 
Member since 2011. Surgery & Conservative
Posts: 5,724 
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Post by Marjorie on Nov 5, 2013 11:35:00 GMT -7
Welcome to Dodgerslist. My name's Marjorie - what's yours? IVDD is diagnosed mostly by symptoms and since Bella is a dachshund, which is the breed most inclined to have IVDD, and with the symptoms she is exhibiting, IVDD is suspected. Any time IVDD is suspected, the dog must be treated as though they have IVDD. MRIs and CT scans are the only definitive way of diagnosing IVDD. Did the vet give you any type of diagnosis? Based on the fact that she can still walk, she makes a good candidate for conservative care. The first thing that needs to be addressed is Bella's pain. Have no patience with pain. It hinders healing and there should be no sign of pain from one dose of pain med to the next. Signs of pain are shivering/trembling, not wanting to move much or moving gingerly, yelping, tight/tense stomach muscles, just not their usual perky-interested-in-life self. Your vet needs to be immediately contacted and advised of Bella's pain so her meds can be adjusted. 100% STRICT crate rest 24/7 only out to potty for a full 8 weeks is the SINGLE most important thing you can do to help your dog-- it is the hallmark component of conservative treatment. Carried in and out to potty. No laps, no couch, no sleeping in bed with you, no meandering, scooting or dragging around during potty times. No baths, no chiro (aka VOM). In other words do everything you can to limit the vertebrae in the back from moving and putting pressure on the bad disc. Can you give us a bit more in essential information about your dog: -- Are you as of today doing the all important 100% STRICT crate rest 24/7? -- What are the exact names, dose in mg's and frequency of all meds? What is Bella's weight? -- 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? 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.htmOnce we have your responses to the questions above, we'll be better able to support you. Know that you are not alone in this - we're here for you and Bella and will help you each step of the way. All the best to both of you. |
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