PaulaM
Moderator. 
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,548
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Post by PaulaM on Nov 12, 2013 11:26:49 GMT -7
Post to the Forum Nov 12, 2013 on behalf of Bryan dodgerslist.boards.net/user/1380Paula, our 10 year old miniature long haired dachshund rear legs were paralyzed 3 years ago. He made a very nice recovery with steroids, crate rest, and acupuncture. It took him about 3 weeks to be able to walk. Since that time he still demonstrated some weakness in his right leg, however, he could still walk and run although his ability to jump up on things was gone. This was not a bad thing because we understand jumping is not a good idea for this breed. He recently started to show signs that his back was starting to have an issue. He would go for a walk and then stop midway and just sit down. Sure enough he went downhill rapidly and soon was completely paralyzed in his rear end. We have started him on steroids and crate rest as well as acupuncture again. His appetite is good and he has control of his bladder and his bowels. He can wag his tail, but when he cannot use his back legs to walk at all. We about 2 weeks into this episode. I am wondering if the fact that this is his second episode should we be pessimistic about his recovery? I see that waiting 8 weeks of rest is what is recommended. Our vet has indicated that surgery is an option, but would cost $10,000 and have no guarantees. I guess I am looking for your opinion as to what you think we can expect given the history. We are also using some homeopathic supplements and electrical stimulation. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks Bryan
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PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,548
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Post by PaulaM on Nov 12, 2013 11:35:18 GMT -7
Bryan, welcome to Dodgerlist. What is your doxie's name? Still having bladder control and being able to wag his tail means he does have the potential to recover with conservative treatment. The big IF on that is if you are educated to know how critical 100% STRICT rest 24/7 is and committed to it. Education is going to play an instrumental roll in protecting your boy during this episode and in the future. So I can emphasize enough about starting your reading program now. This is our treasure trove of information including the Pink Box on the right on setting up the recovery suite: www.dodgerslist.com/literature.htmLet us know these details so we can better support you. --What is your dog's name? -- What was the date you saw the vet and 100% STRICT crate rest 24/7 for this current disc episode? I have guessed it was Oct 29. -- Is there still currently pain - shivering, trembling, yelping when picked up or moved, reluctant/slow to move head or body, tight hard tummy? that would mean his pain meds are not YET right, the vet needs your feedback. -- What are the exact names of meds currently given, their doses in mg's and frequencies? Pepcid AC (famotidine) 5mg's 30 mins before the steroid needs to be on board to protect the stomach. Ask your vet in this particular way: Is there any health reason my dog may not use Pepcid AC? Read up on Pepcid AC and the other meds your dogs is on: www.marvistavet.com/html/pharmacy_center.html-- Currently can your dog wobbly walk? move the legs at all?The very, very lightest least aggressive range of motion and leg massage is necessary for paralyzed legs during conservative treatment. The information highlighted in PINK pertains to a dog who can't walk once off all pain meds and no more signs of pain. www.dodgerslist.com/literature/massagepassiveexercises.htm-- Eating and drinking OK? -- Poops OK - normal color no dark or bright red blood? -- 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 www.serenityvetacupuncture.com/index.php/faq_/ [one vet's overview/prices] Chiropractic is not recommended for IVDD dogs. |
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StevieLuv
Helpful Member 
Conservative Treatment 3x. It really does work!
Posts: 1,335 
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Post by StevieLuv on Nov 12, 2013 18:37:06 GMT -7
Hi Bryan, my name is Maureen. Just to let you know that my Stevie has had two IVDD epsiodes and was treated conservatively both times. She walks, runs, and gets into mischief just fine!  |
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