Welcome to Dodgerslist Conrad, I am so sorry to hear that Dooley has lost the use of her back legs. Here is some info on both surgery and conservative treatment so you can make an informed decision.
www.dodgerslist.com/literature/healingsurgery.htmKeep in mind Conservative treatment is successful also.. It involves 24/7 crate rest for 8 weeks and medications. The article above explains both treatments.
Here is a link on what to look for in an IVDD Vet and this also has a search engine for locating a Neuro or Ortho vet in your area. Both of these specialize in surgery and treatment of IVDD and they see more cases of it than a general vet does.
www.dodgerslist.com/literature/VetchkList.htmI did a search for you in Houston but feel free to use the search engine yourself.. and also check the forum for Vet recommendations here:
dodgerslist.boards.net/board/10/guidelines-postingGulf Coast Veterinary Neurology and Neurosurgery in Houston. This is their webpage with all their info:
www.gcvnn.com/ Similar name but different clinic: Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists 1111 West Loop S Ste 160 Houston, TX 77027-9018 Phone:(713) 693-1122
Animal Surgery Center 8220 Jones Rd Ste 600,Houston, TX 77065-5378 (713) 937-3625
Veterinary Surgical Group 12855 Gulf Fwy Houston, TX 77034-4807 (281) 464-3554
Get ready to fight this disease now and in the future by knowing all things IVDD. There is no better place to start than on our main web page with "Overview: the essentials" and then read all you can as soon as possible. Here's the link
www.dodgerslist.com/healingindex.htmIn order to help you more, could you please answer these questions?
100% STRICT crate rest means 24/7 only 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)?
-- Is there still currently pain - shivering, shaking, crying when picked up or moved?
-- What are the exact names of meds currently given, their doses in mgs and frequencies? Please include the all important stomach protector such as Pepcid AC.
-- Can your dog move the legs at all or wag the tail due when you do some happy talk?
-- Can your dog sniff and squat and then release urine or do you find wet bedding or leaks on you when lifted up? Helpful videos with tips on expressing both urine and poop:
www.dodgerslist.com/literature/Expressing.htm-- Eating and drinking OK?
-- Poops OK - normal color and firmness no dark or bright red blood?
We have had thousands of dogs on Dodgerslist recover walking and even some that don't are perfectly happy on wheels. Your dog can still have a great quality of life!
www.dodgerslist.com/index/SDUNCANquality.htm
